Operated jointly by Robin Pope Safaris and the Nsefu community, Kawaza Village is an authentic, traditional local village with extra huts that allows guests to stay and immerse themselves in the day-to-day lifestyle of the villagers. Short stays of 1-2 nights are extremely popular, with a range of activities and cultural endeavours on offer to give an understanding of the daily demands of life in the African bush. Among a wide range of experiences to enjoy, guests can meet the local chief, visit the school, learn from a traditional healer, help the ladies collect water for the day, assist in construction, preparing meals or play football and other games with the village children. Although some of this sounds a little too much like hard work, the overriding principle is that these activities should be fun and educational, especially for any younger guests.
Overnight accommodation is simple but comfortable, consisting of mattresses on the floor under mosquito nets in traditional rondavels, with open-air bucket showers and long drop toilets. Traditional meals are included and a guide stays on site in case of difficulties or special requests. As with most cultural endeavours in the South Luangwa, the proceeds from a stay at Kawaza are ploughed straight back into maintenance and development of the village.
