Perched above the Luangwa River with wide, open views, Time + Tide Kakuli carries the spirit of an earlier era of safari, shaped by proximity to nature and a deep respect for the land. At its heart lies the enduring legacy of Norman Carr, whose pioneering walking safaris changed the way people experienced Africa. Known locally, and lovingly, as Kakuli, meaning “old buffalo bull”.
Each year, Kakuli is rebuilt from the ground up for the season, alongside our other bushcamps in the South Luangwa National Park, set deep within one of Africa’s most remarkable wilderness areas. This year marks a more significant shift. Following a phenomenal Green Season, the Luangwa has flowed fully, reshaping the riverbanks, and in turn, the camp itself – reopening in June, with it’s rooms now set back a bit further from the river’s edge. Nature has prompted evolution – and with it, opportunity. Renewal. Possibility.
“Rather than redefining the camp entirely, our approach is to introduce bold and considered changes that breathe new life into the space” – Reflecting Africa
The interiors remain grounded in a traditional aesthetic, preserving the textures, tones and familiar details that define Kakuli. The rooms are still built using natural materials, featuring thatch, wooden floors, and grass walls – sustainably gathered from the wild, in keeping with its surroundings. Existing pieces are thoughtfully retained, ensuring continuity in both function and feeling. The colour palette remains unmistakably Kakuli, with warm, earthy tones that echo the landscape beyond.
Layered into this foundation is a fresh expression of design, inspired by the surrounding local communities of the South Luangwa. Bold patterns and rich textures introduce a renewed energy, creating a natural dialogue between heritage and contemporary craft. The result is a space that feels rooted, where each new detail has been considered in relation to what came before.
Kakuli is home to only a handful of safari rooms, creating an experience that feels personal and well-spaced. Each bright and airy, designed to make the most of the panoramic setting. Enhancements include floor-to-ceiling stacking glass doors that open onto a generous covered, open-air seating area, allowing for a seamless connection to the outdoors – offering comfort without distraction from what lies beyond. Enclosed bathrooms look onto the landscape, and now boast outdoor baths to complement the indoor and outdoor showers, for soaking under the stars.
The main area continues to anchor the camp, elevated to take full advantage of its position above the river and a watering hole.
From here, the view stretches wide, with wildlife frequently gathering below to drink. It is a space designed for lingering, whether over a morning coffee as the day begins, or in the softer light of the afternoon, watching the stories of the river unfold.
Kakuli remains one of the most rewarding bases from which to explore South Luangwa National Park, whether by vehicle or on foot. A resident lion pride moves through the area, while leopards are sighted with remarkable consistency. Carmine bee-eaters bring flashes of colour to the riverbanks, gathering in their thousands later in the season, and pel’s fishing owls are often seen hunting in the shallows.
The rebuild of Kakuli is, in many ways, an exercise in restraint. It recognises that what already exists is worth preserving, while introducing a new layer of energy and intention. In the end, Kakuli remains true to itself. Familiar, yet refreshed. Rooted in heritage, yet open to what comes next. At its heart, Time + Tide Kakuli is a place that continues to honour its history, while inviting new stories to unfold.
FOLLOW THE ROAD LESS TRAVELLED
Discover the road less travelled
Our expertise in African travel and conservation dates back for many decades, you can expect equally pioneering travel guidance from our award-winning team. Time + Tide are custodians of some of the most remote corners of our planet and it is our privilege to guide you along the road less travelled.