Although Shiwa Ng'andu Manor House has recently gained fame through the best-selling book, The Africa House, we've been organising trips here for many years.
It's a magical English manor house overlooking a picturesque lake, complete with redbrick gatehouse, clay-tiled roofs of workers' cottages, a long approach avenue, formal gardens and tremendous style. Inside, stone-slab staircases lead up to panelled corridors hung with old oil paintings and tapestries. It's dotted with historic memorabilia relating to its founder, Sir Stewart Gore-Browne, from sturdy chests to muskets. Shiwa is a stately home in deepest, darkest Africa. It represents the story of one man - his love, his frustration and, above all, his struggle with Africa.
After decades crumbling slowly, Sir Stewart's eldest grandson, Charlie, and his wife, Jo, took over the manor in 2002. They've achieved a remarkable restoration, and in doing so energised the whole estate. You may come here intrigued by the history, but you'll leave enthused for its future, having shared some of Jo and Charlie's vision for the place.
We've yet to send anyone to stay at Shiwa Ng'andu who hasn't been fascinated, so come for at least three days and be prepared to be surprised. Your time here will usually be packed with activities. There are 4WD game drives (notably good for the rare blue duiker), boat trips on the lake, superb bird-watching and magical hill walks. For experienced riders, there's also a stable of well-trained horses.
Everyone enjoys relaxing in the hot springs at Kapisha and delving into the archives (Jo is a trained archaeologist). Shiwa takes only six guests and is proud to produce all of the food that it serves to guests. It's easily visited as a side-trip from the Luangwa Valley, as well as part of a trip to Northern Zambia. It's very special; don't miss it!
Shiwa Ng'andu is also often misspelled as 'Shiwa Ngandu', Shiwa N'gandu' or even Shiwangandu' - but it's the same place! Shiwa can easily be visited as a side-trip before or after a safari with any of the camps in the the Luangwa Valley. It also combines well with the camps in the Kasanka National Park, Wasa Lodge and Luwombwa Lodge, and with Shoebill Island Camp in the Bangweulu Wetlands. << Click on the menu (above left) for more about Wasa , Luwombwa and Shoebill.
Living history at Shiwa Ng'andu
For anyone with an interest in the history of Zambia and the colonial period then a visit to Shiwa N'gandu is a must. It is important to note that this is a much different experience from a safari...
Shiwa Ng'andu review
A wonderful experience in a wonderful place. Charlie, Jo and Emma were extremely hospitable and friendly, with nothing too much trouble. We loved hearing about the history of the estate, particularl...
Click on the links below to read sections from the Bradt guidebook which are related to Shiwa Ng'andu.
Where to stay Put Shiwa Ng'andu into context – read more about it in the Bradt travel guide to Zambia.
Useful links...
We want you to understand more about Shiwa Ng'andu. We're also confident that a trip there with us cost you the same or less than booking it any other way, even directly. So follow the links below.
Shiwa Ng'andu If you're interested in Shiwa's history, then see the archives and pictures on Shiwa's own site.
Where to stay