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Robin's House
Robin's House
Robin's House
Robin's House
Robin's House

About Robin's House

On the banks of the Luangwa River, Robin’s House sits in the shade of tall mahogany, ebony and sausage trees ...

... looking across to the South Luangwa National Park. Owned and run by Robin Pope Safaris, it was originally the home of Robin and Jo Pope themselves, before it was turned into a private two-bedroom retreat for small families or two couples travelling together.

Robin’s House is a comfortable, self-contained retreat that is booked out to only one family or two couples at a time. With its own chef, valet, host/ess and private guide and vehicle, it gives the freedom for a really flexible, exclusive safari in an area of the South Luangwa known for some great wildlife viewing.

Our view

Robin’s House is a comfortable, self-contained retreat that is booked out to only one family or two couples at a time. With its own chef, valet, host/ess and private guide and vehicle, it gives the freedom for a really flexible, exclusive safari in an area of the South Luangwa known for some great wildlife viewing.

Amanda Bond

Amanda Bond

Country manager: Zambia

Accommodation

2 rooms

Children

Best for 7+

Open

All year

Activities

4WD Safari

4WD Safari

Birdwatching

Birdwatching

Cultural excursion

Cultural excursion

Fly-camping

Fly-camping

Guided walking safari

Guided walking safari

Night drive

Night drive

Traveller reviews of Robin's House

11 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.


95%
11 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
9
Good
1
Average
1
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Mrs J.fromGulf Shores

Arrived 27 Jun 2021, 4 nights

"Robin's House at Nkwali was lovely"

"Deck overlooking Laungua River. …" Read Mrs J.’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Ms T.fromKfar Saba

Arrived 4 Jun 2019, 4 nights

"A once in a lifetime experience! "

"We had an outstanding time... Everything was above expectations. …" Read Ms T.’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs YfromPA

Arrived 17 Sep 2016, 2 nights

"Great safari at Robin's House"

"Beautiful accommodations with great service both at the camp and from our excellent …" Read Mr & Mrs Y’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Dr EfromPennsylvania

Arrived 17 Sep 2016, 2 nights

"Robin's House review"

"It was outside the park, but the guiding was exceptional. It was interesting …" Read Dr E’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr PfromLondon

Arrived 11 Sep 2015, 3 nights

"Robin's House review"

"Simply excellent. …" Read Mr P’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr T & Mr LfromAmsterdam

Arrived 11 Sep 2015, 3 nights

"Great Stay at Robins House"

"Stayed as part of a group at Robins House. Very charming and intimate lodge …" Read Mr T & Mr L’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

AndreasfromSwitzerland

Arrived 11 Jul 2015, 6 nights

"Best place for family safari in South Luangwa"

"This was the undisputed highlight of our travel to Sambia and Malawi. Already …" Read Andreas’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs GfromPowys

Arrived 16 Aug 2014, 2 nights

"Robin's House review"

"Looking distinctly tied now compared with ten years ago and in urgent need …" Read Mr & Mrs G’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Average

Mrs D x 3fromNewport

Arrived 22 Sep 2012, 3 nights

"Robin's house review"

"On the saturday lunchtime when we arrived, we asked the host James if we could …" Read Mrs D x 3’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

The D FamilyfromHerts

Arrived 6 Jul 2011, 2 nights

"Robin's House review"

"Slightly disappointing, the house felt tired and in need of refurbishment. …" Read The D Family’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

See all Robin's House reviews

Robin's House: Our full report

On the banks of the Luangwa River, Robin’s House sits in the shade of tall mahogany, ebony and sausage trees ...

... looking across to the South Luangwa National Park. Owned and run by Robin Pope Safaris, it was originally the home of Robin and Jo Pope themselves, before it was turned into a private two-bedroom retreat for small families or two couples travelling together.

Very close to Nkwali Camp, Robin’s House also lies in a game management area. It comes complete with its own kitchen, chef, valet, safari guide and private 4WD game-viewing vehicle, and is fully self-contained.

Guests at Robin’s have the run of the thatched, white-washed house , at whose heart is a large central living area, with a big squashy sofa, chairs, small library of books and family-style oval dining table. To either side is a spacious bedroom, decorated in neutral cream tones enlivened by colourful bedspreads and cushions. One has a double bed, and the other has three singles, all under mosquito nets that are lowered in the evenings. Both bedrooms are en suite with a bathtub, shower, flushing toilet and handbasin.

Outside is a private veranda looking out towards the Luangwa River, and a shady area where mealtimes might be enjoyed in fine weather. Robin’s House also has its own small pool, next to a lovely decking area, complete with sunloungers.

Robin's House is situated in a small game management area (GMA) on the opposite side of the river to South Luangwa National Park. Whilst animals are common residents of the GMA, activities usually take place across the river within the national park, where the game is at its most relaxed – but the density of other vehicles is also at its highest. This is seldom problematic, as just downstream of the camp, Robin Pope has a private pontoon over the river which enables its vehicles to swiftly enter the park, south of the main (and sometimes busy) gate at Mfuwe Bridge – the usual access point for a number of camps which are located outside the park.

Guests at Robin's have a choice of activities: short walking safaris, 4WD game safaris and night drives. All walking safaris are accompanied by an armed scout, as well as a fully qualified RPS guide.

At a typical safari camp, you'd normally take two activities per day, each lasting around three–four hours. However, with your own expert safari guide and 4WD at Robin’s House, you can set your own schedule: get up when you like, eat when it suits you, and enjoy the safari activities for as long, or as short a time, as you like. This allows families or small groups to be completely flexible, and to change plans at will.

If you're planning a family safari, then you might also consider including a trip to Zambia's other 'houses' which have been designed with families or groups of friends in mind: Luangwa Safari House and Chongwe River House in the national parks, Tangala House near Livingstone and the old stately home at Shiwa Ng'andu.

Geographics

Location
South Luangwa National Park, Zambia
Ideal length of stay
Robin's House is open all year and small groups or families will often stay here for a week or two at a time. It’s possible to stay for a shorter period, but we’d recommend a minimum of three or four nights here. It is often booked up far in advance, especially during school-holiday periods – so book as far in advance as you can.
Directions
After just over an hour’s flight from Lusaka, guests are met at Mfuwe Airport for a 40-minute drive through Mfuwe village and a game management area to Robin’s House.
Accessible by
Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Full Board & Activities
Food quality
We’ve visited Robin’s House many times over the years, but we haven’t travelled as part of a family or a small group, so we haven’t had a chance to sample the food. But if its sister camps Nkwali, Nsefu Camp and Tena Tena are anything to go by, then we would expect good things.

Meals will generally follow the format of most safari camps, with a light breakfast being served before the morning activity and brunch after you return from your morning’s adventure. Save space for afternoon tea and then dinner is served on return from the evening game drive.

However, because Robin’s House is booked out solely by one family or small group of friends at a time, meals and mealtimes are tailored to suit them.
Dining style
Group Meals
Dining locations
Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service
None
Drinks included
Soft drinks, house wine and local spirits are included in the rates. Fine wines, champagne and imported spirits and liqueurs are charged as extras.

Special interests

Family holidays
Robin's House has been purpose-built for family safaris – just like a family house. It has a central lounge and dining area, two en-suite bedrooms, a kitchen and plenty of space. It's offers great value, flexible activities, and child-friendly guides in a top wildlife destination.
See ideas for Family holidays in Zambia
Wildlife safaris
Robin's House comes with a private 4WD and an expert guide, fully-qualified to lead walking safaris as well as 4WD safaris – and the park rules allow night drives and some off-read driving. Hence Robin's House offers a really superb wildlife safari experience.
See ideas for Wildlife safaris in Zambia
Private villas & houses
Robin's House comes with a private 4WD safari vehicle and an expert guide, fully qualified to lead walking safaris as well as 4WD safaris; park rules also allow night drives and some off-road driving. Hence Robin's House offers a really superb wildlife safari experience.
See ideas for Private villas & houses in Zambia

Children

Attitude towards children
Children of all ages are welcome at Robin’s House.
Property’s age restrictions
There is no minimum age limit, but park regulations mean that children under the age of 12 years are not allowed to walk in South Luangwa National Park.
Special activities & services
Robin’s House is always booked exclusively for one group of friends or family at a time, so safari activities, mealtimes and menus are flexible, and the chef will be happy to take into account the likes and dislikes of children. If children prefer to stay behind when parents are out on an activity, the host or hostess will arrange activities for them at the house, perhaps baking cookies, playing board games or trying their hand at arts and crafts. They can also arrange a visit to Kawaza Village. Note, though, that none of the team are professionally trained childminders.
Equipment
A cot and a high chair can be provided with advance notice.
Generally recommended for children
Robin’s House is in a malarial area with plenty of wildlife in close proximity, and the pool is unfenced. Thus we do not consider that it’s suited to very young children. However, the house itself is enclosed, and we think it is a great option for mature children over about the age of seven years, who understand the dangers that being here might present if they don’t follow the rules, and who love nature and want to learn more about wildlife.
Notes
Robin’s House is unfenced and dangerous wildlife can wander by at any time. The pool is unfenced and the camp is open to the river, where you’ll find abundant crocodiles and hippos. Children must be under the supervision of their parents at all times.

Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Robin's House

Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Robin's House have kindly recorded their wildlife sightings and shared them with us. The results are below. Click an animal to see more, and here to see more on our methodology.

Elephant

100% success

Giraffe

100% success

Hippo

100% success

Leopard

100% success

Lion

100% success

Pangolin

100% success

Spotted Hyena

100% success

Zebra

100% success

Aardvark

0% success

Buffalo

0% success

Eland

0% success

Roan antelope

0% success

Sable antelope

0% success

Wild dog

0% success

Wildebeest

0% success

Communications

Power supply notes
UK-style three-square-pin plug points are provided in the house. Adaptors are normally available on request.
Communications
There is usually cellphone reception. There is sometimes WiFi, but it’s unreliable and doesn’t always work. In an emergency, it is possible to arrange to use the internet at Nkwali’s office, just a short walk away.
TV & radio
None
Water supply
Borehole
Water supply notes
Tap water is from a borehole and we are advised by Robin Pope Safaris that it is safe for drinking. However, for those who prefer it, bottled water is also available. The house has flushing toilets, as well as hot and cold running water for the handbasins and showers.

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended
Yes
Medical care
The guide at Robin’s House is trained in first aid. For more serious medical issues there is a doctor based at a camp in the Mfuwe area, just a short drive away. In a medical emergency you would be evacuated by air to Lusaka.
Dangerous animals
High Risk
Security measures
Guests are advised not to leave the house at night, but should the need arise, you would be escorted by a member of the team.
Fire safety
There are fire extinguishers at Robin’s House.

Activities

  • 4WD Safari

    4WD Safari

  • Birdwatching

    Birdwatching

  • Cultural excursion

    Cultural excursion

  • Fly-camping

    Fly-camping

  • Guided walking safari

    Guided walking safari

  • Night drive

    Night drive

Extras

Disabled access
On Request
Laundry facilities
A full laundry service is included.
Money
Robin’s House does not provide a currency-exchange service. There is a safe in the house to store valuables.
Accepted payment on location
All extras can be paid in cash (Zambian kwacha, US dollars, euros or British pounds), or by Visa credit card.

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Robin's House's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Robin's House.


Excursions from Robin's House

Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Robin's House. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.


Kawaza Village Visit

Kawaza Village Visit

Two to three hours

Just outside Zambia's South Luangwa National Park lies a normal, working rural African village which is open and welcoming to visitors to the Luangwa valley. There is nothing artificial or contrived about Kawaza Village, and it offers a rare opportunity to experience and appreciate Kunda culture, and meet local Zambians.

More about Kawaza Village Visit
100% (1 reviews)
Tribal Textiles Tour

Tribal Textiles Tour

One - two hours

Visit the Tribal Textiles workshop, where hand-painted textiles are produced by more than a hundred local people. The workshop is close to Mfuwe Airport, so is ideally placed for a stop en route to/from the South Luangwa. With products ranging from cushion covers to bags and T-shirts, it's a great place for souvenir shopping while at the same time supporting the local community.

More about Tribal Textiles Tour

Other lodges in South Luangwa National Park

Alternative places to stay in this same area.


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Robin Pope bush-camp

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When to go to South Luangwa National Park

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Robin's House in South Luangwa National Park


Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

South Luangwa National Park in January

January marks the height of the wet season in South Luangwa. Expect frequent downpours, often lasting a few hours, with intermittent sunny periods. The mercury regularly climbs above 30°C, accompanied by high humidity. The park's landscape is verdant and lush, with crystal-clear air.

However, the abundance of water causes most larger animals to disperse, and the thick vegetation can hinder game viewing. Walking safaris are largely impractical during this time. Migratory birds, many in breeding plumage, boost the area's avian diversity. Most lodges close and the few that remain open offer their lowest rates. Only the central network of all-weather roads is reliably passable for 4WD safaris. Low numbers of visitors ensuring a tranquil park experience for those who do visit.

  • Wet season peak, frequent showers
  • Most lodges and all bush-camps are closed
  • Lush vegetation, ideal for photography
  • Large wildlife is scattered, can be challenging to spot
  • Few tourists, budget-friendly rates

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in January

South Luangwa National Park in February

February continues the ‘green season’ trend in South Luangwa National Park, with impressive thunderstorms delivering short bursts of rain most days, punctuated by clear skies. The park remains awash with water, affecting wildlife distribution and lodge operations.

Dense vegetation limits game viewing opportunities on safari and walking safaris aren’t usually possible. However, the swollen Luangwa River allows for unique boating experiences unavailable during drier months. Despite challenging conditions, patient visitors may be rewarded with sightings of animals caring for their young. The handful of operational lodges maintain low rates, and the park sees few visitors during this period.

  • Continued wet season, regular downpours
  • All bush-camps and most lodges are closed
  • Verdant scenery, photogenic landscapes
  • Game viewing challenging due to thick foliage
  • Low visitor numbers, economical pricing

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in February

South Luangwa National Park in March

March signals the tail end of South Luangwa's rainy season, with heavy showers still frequent. Water levels peak, so driving off the park’s all-weather road network remains challenging. Daytime temperatures consistently exceed 30°C, with rain-induced humidity remaining high.

Most lodges are still closed, and thick vegetation continues to impact game viewing and walking safaris. However, this period can offer exceptional sightings of animals with their offspring, and predator activity often increases. Wild dogs have historically been particularly active in the park during this time. The combination of clear air and increasingly blue skies provides excellent photographic opportunities. Birdwatching remains superb as migratory species prepare for their winter journey.

  • Wet season persists, intermittent rain
  • Many lodges remain closed
  • Abundant greenery, picturesque settings
  • Young animals plentiful, but hard to see
  • Minimal crowds, cost-effective travel

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in March

South Luangwa National Park in April

April represents a transitional period in South Luangwa National Park as the rains shift from intense downpours to lighter, less frequent showers. The park's scenery remains incredibly green and vibrant, though larger wildlife can be harder to spot on safaris.

Some lodges begin to reopen while seasonal bushcamps remain closed as they prepare for the upcoming dry season. The Luangwa River reaches often its highest level in April, creating a spectacular sight. Despite the challenges, this period can offer unique experiences for those willing to brave the unpredictable conditions – and accept a greatly reduced choice of places to stay.

  • Wet season waning, occasional showers
  • Some lodges begin reopening
  • Landscape still lush, great for photographers
  • Wildlife viewing slowly improving
  • Few visitors, attractive off-season rates

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in April

South Luangwa National Park in May

May is a lovely month; it typically heralds the start of the dry season in South Luangwa. While occasional showers may occur, most days are clear and sunny. As winter approaches, temperatures begin to drop, with daytime highs around 26°C.

The drying landscape improves access within the park, and most lodges reopen. Some standing water remains, but game viewing noticeably improves as the vegetation thins out. The clear air continues to benefit photographers. Late May is very popular among the Luangwa’s ‘safari regulars’ who seek to capitalise on good weather, improved wildlife sightings, newly-opened camps (including some seasonal bush-camps) and the final weeks of low-season rates at many lodges.

  • Dry season onset, clearer skies
  • Most lodges and some bush-camps operational
  • Vegetation still green, crisp air
  • Game viewing conditions improving
  • Last month for lower accommodation prices

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in May

South Luangwa National Park in June

June in South Luangwa National Park is characterised by virtually rainless days and abundant sunshine. Humidity levels plummet, and winter's approach brings cooler temperatures, with nighttime lows around 10°C and daytime highs of 25°C.

The landscape remains lush, but the thinning vegetation significantly enhances visibility for game viewing, the conditions are ideal for walking safaris. All the lodges and bushcamps in the park are operational by early June. While some offer shoulder season rates, others are already running with high-season pricing. Wildlife begins to concentrate around water sources, setting the stage for excellent game viewing in the coming months.

  • Consistently sunny, cooler nights
  • All South Luangwa lodges open
  • Wildlife sightings becoming more frequent
  • Ideal conditions for walking safaris
  • Viewing of the Victoria Falls at its best

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in June

South Luangwa National Park in July

As the dry season progresses in South Luangwa, July sees vegetation and grasses dying back, with water becoming increasingly scarce. Wildlife congregates around remaining water sources, most notably along the Luangwa River, leading to excellent game viewing opportunities.

July marks the heart of winter, with daytime temperatures in the 20s Celsius, whilst nighttime lows can drop to single digits. Early morning and late evening game drives can be particularly chilly, with lodges often providing blankets and hot water bottles. Bring your hats, coats and gloves! Visitor numbers rise significantly, and space at popular small camps can become limited. Nearly all properties now charge their highest rates.

  • Warm days, chilly evenings
  • Game viewing notably improved
  • Excellent visibility for walking safaris
  • High season prices for most camps and lodges
  • Comfortable daytime temperatures

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in July

South Luangwa National Park in August

August in the national park offers some of the year's best game viewing opportunities. South Luangwa’s vegetation has largely died back, and wildlife clusters around remaining water sources.

Rain is extremely unlikely, with sunny days largely guaranteed, though a haze may sometimes appear on the horizon due to dust and smoke in the air. Nighttime temperatures can dip below 5°C, but daytime highs reach the 20s Celsius. Warm clothing is essential for morning and evening drives. This is one of the most popular months to visit the park for a safari, with lodges and camps charging peak rates and often booking up far in advance.

  • Very dry warm days and cold nights
  • Prime wildlife viewing near water sources
  • Perfect weather for walking safaris
  • Peak season means highest prices
  • Some haze may affect photography

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in August

South Luangwa National Park in September

September is arguably the very best time to visit South Luangwa National Park. It probably hasn’t rained for many months, humidity is low, and temperatures are just beginning to climb.

Mornings are more comfortable for 4WD safaris, rising to daytime typical highs in the low 30s Celsius. Water scarcity forces the wildlife to congregate around remaining sources, particularly around the Luangwa River, where most of the camps and lodges are situated. There high game densities lead to increased chances of inter-species interactions. It’s peak season for lodges and camps charge which are often fully booked. A little haze may affect long-distance views and photography. The Luangwa River's water levels continue to drop, concentrating hippos and crocodiles life in the remaining stretches.

  • Dry and hot, clear skies
  • Exceptional month for wildlife observation
  • Landscape sometimes hazy due to dust and smoke
  • Peak season, lodges often fully booked
  • Higher prices for accommodation

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in September

South Luangwa National Park in October

October sees the dry season peak in South Luangwa at its most intense, with the landscape increasing parched. Occasional showers may occur as the promise of rain approaches. Temperatures can soar above 40°C during the day, rarely dropping below 20°C at night.

This heat can be draining, so walking safaris will set off early in the morning to beat the heat and sitting in an open 4WD on safaris can feel like facing a large hair-drier. Heat-haze and smoke may obscure the horizon as the Luangwa River becomes a series of pools, crowded with hippos and crocodiles. Other wildlife cautiously approaches these water sources, leading to thrilling predator-prey interactions. Game viewing is at its absolute best with the best chance of witnessing hunts.

  • Optimal wildlife viewing conditions
  • Very hot days and nights
  • Dusty, hazy atmosphere is challenging for photos
  • Some lodges start lowering their rates
  • Less crowded than previous months

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in October

South Luangwa National Park in November

November typically witnesses the end of the dry season in South Luangwa. While the onset of rains is unpredictable, temperatures remain consistently high and humidity builds as the wet season approaches.

Early November may still be dry, but spectacular thunderstorms usually arrive, often later in the month, triggering rapid green growth when they do come – and an explosion of life from insects and smaller animals. Everything seems to come to life! When pools of water becomes more readily available away from the Luangwa River the wildlife quickly disperses. Some camps and all the seasonal bush-camps camps close; those that remain open reduce their rates. The rains quickly clear the air of dust and smoke, improving visibility and photographic conditions.

  • Unpredictable month: depends on the rains
  • Hot and humid – then the set season begins
  • Wildlife dispersing as vegetation thickens
  • Lower accommodation rates, fewer tourists
  • Improved conditions for landscape photography

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in November

South Luangwa National Park in December

December usually marks the first full month of South Luangwa's wet season. Heavy thunderstorms become frequent, interspersed with sunny intervals. Daytime temperatures often exceed 30°C, accompanied by high humidity.

The rainfall transforms the landscape, encouraging lush vegetation growth. It’s a time renewal when insects, birds and smaller wildlife abound. While the larger species of wildlife remains in the park, wildlife viewing becomes more challenging due to the thick greenery and dispersed animal populations. Many lodges and all seasonal bush-camps are now closed as access to the park’s outlying areas becomes difficult. The few lodges that remain open offer lower rates and see few visitors. The rains clear the air, restoring vibrant blue skies and crystal-clear air which delights photographers.

  • Rainy season in full swing
  • Most lodges closed or offering low rates
  • Wildlife harder to spot in thick vegetation
  • Few visitors, budget-friendly period
  • Lush green scenery, very photogenic landscapes

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in December

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