Reviews of Nkwali
Wildlife sightings and reviews
241 independent comments and wildlife information from our travellers who have visited Nkwali and kindly agreed to share their thoughts. They do not necessarily represent the views of Expert Africa
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"Nkwali review"
The vehicle density in this part of the park is high, especially around the dogs and big cats, although our guide Sebastian Jr, understanding our reluctance to be a part of the sighting frenzy, did his best to keep us away from other vehicles as much as possible.
Our highlight at Nkwali was a large buffalo herd at a watering hole with the sun setting behind them, as well as the large numbers of amazing birds we saw in our two days." See all these reviews: 11n in Zambia
"Nkwali review"
We were delighted that Sebastian (junior) was our guide for our stay of five days. His knowledge of wildlife is impressive and he is always kind, courteous and patient. We were pleased to see lions mating and Pel’s fishing owls in the daylight.
The food was great. We especially enjoyed our brunch in the bush.
Special thanks go to Kiki and Sorel for making our stay so enjoyable. Also praise to the two boatmen, Benson and Samuel, who skillfully negotiated the river crossings each day. And thanks again to Wilson for more great spotting.
We were pleased to meet Rob, the Operations Director, and enjoyed hearing about how RPS develop and train the staff, enabling those who show potential to develop new skills and eventually become guides and managers. We made one important suggestion. We hope it can be properly considered and implemented in the not too distant future." See all these reviews: 13n in Zambia
"Nkwali review"
RPS really go the extra mile for their guests. I was a little disappointed that due to the dry conditions, the wild dog pack that usually frequent the central section of the park had been able to go walkabout up to the far north of the park (Mupamadzi). But Kiki made a special effort to liaise with ZCP (Carnivore researchers) to obtain information on the locations of monitored packs and, along with another couple keen to see dogs, we departed extra early in the afternoon to try to locate a different pack north of the central area. After one failed attempt, the next day the pack had moved even further north but Kiki dispatched a vehicle after lunch to locate them and sit with them for us until we arrived. This was really appreciated by myself and the other guests, who had never seen wild dogs after several safaris and were very, very happy.
As I was staying a week, I was also able to do an all day drive to the north of the park, and when I left to Tafika, the transfer went all the way up to the Tafika crossing rather than the more boring, easier option of going via Mfuwe and the Milyoti gate. Another couple arriving at Tafika from Nkwali a few days later had also come this way.
My guide, John, was excellent and I really enjoyed his guiding.
I noted a few improvements RPS have been making by replacing the bench seats in the vehicles with individual "bucket seats" and providing options for evening meals.
Although the dogs were largely absent, I had some great leopard and lion sightings, especially one morning spent with the "big pride". The park looks particularly beautiful at this time of year- it has been a dry year so grass wasn't too high but the scenery still looked lush and green." See all these reviews: 14n in Zambia
"Nkwali review"
"Nkwali review"
"Nkwali review"
We have spent over this period over 100 days at RPS camps. See IT's Monday 9 January 2024 which mu husband wrote and photographed.
We do not count the animals. Sadly you do not ask about the birds which were very good yet again.
They are also part of the experience. If you just do the animals you will have long stretches of NOT seeing anything.
Also the trees and flowers are so very interesting but again you ignore them Why?" See all these reviews: 22n in Zambia
"Nkwali review"
Despite taking all sensible precautions, we were both badly bitten on faces and body whilst asleep (more than 20 each on our faces)
This did not endear us to the camp." See all these reviews: 20n in Zambia
"Nkwali review"
The sightings, were largely just us. Me and Obi. Again, somehow, I wound up with a private guide/truck. I applaud the way RPS dealt with the family of 7, and I. We each wound up with a private safari.
Our sightings, were our own. We had to "sing for our supper". We found the vultures, that lead us to the carcass, that lead us to the lions. This is SO rewarding. And after, the debacle of filming crews, I found that the central sector, was very shy of vehicular traffic. (contrary to what I was expecting). It was very refreshing, to again, have sightings to oneself.
A big bull elephant was in camp (well, most of the time lol). So we needed to be escorted. The yellow baboons, decided on the last afternoon, that when we were all distracted by the elephant at the watering hole by the pool, that this was a good time to raid the chalets. Thankfully, I had heard the warnings, and placed my meds in the safe. This still didn't save me from embarrassment. The little jokers, pushed everything off the shelves, went through the first zipper on my backpack (my ipad, and charging cords were pulled out and strewn), they stole a can of Peaceful Sleep, and.............yup. Took a pair of my quick-dry underwear that were hanging to dry. I had an escort to try to find them that afternoon, the can of spray, and my knickers......but no such luck.
Again, having even terrible wi-fi, was welcome by me (and my family). It's nice to be able to tell folks you are okay. But I also love the digital detox in-between. This worked out perfectly.
I loved this camp. I know, you can look at the whole list, and wonder how I can love each camp, but I really think I could spend extended time here. I enjoyed the pontoon ride into the game park each morning. I enjoyed the drums to welcome the day, and to welcome the evening. So special. The staff was amazing. And the location within the busy central sector was situated such that you could avoid traffic. Love, Love, Love" See all these reviews: 14n in Zambia
"Nkwali review"
Meals were very good with lunches being the highlight.
Service was exceptional." See all these reviews: 15n in Zambia
"Nkwali review"
What is nice about their camps is that each one is different in style giving the visitor another aspect of how to enjoy a safari. Food is always good and when the opportunity arises they enjoy giving their guests a bush breakfast when you all gather together to appreciate a late breakfast out in the open.
That we plan to return again says how much we like this and their other camps." See all these reviews: 8n in Zambia
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