Bridge Camp | Established Campground

March 5th, 2023 by trudie.bosman

Delicious food. Beautiful view over river. Friendly and helpful staff. My dog was welcome. We stayed in charlet, small, but clean and enough (K515 pppn which I think is a little bit overprized, but ok). Not far from the main road between Lusaka and Malawi. Right next to a road with some trucks coming past sometime during night. No card facilities.

February 2nd, 2023 by s.middleman

Good campsite across the road from the river. New, clean and modern ablutions. Amazing bar with incredible views of the River. a great stopover. Taxis is a lovely, friendly, host. Highly recommended 👌!!

January 4th, 2023 by sarahelizabethhelm

Great stop-over location on the way to South Luangwa, beautiful views over the river and the owner was incredibly helpful and friendly ! Great coffee in the morning. Clean ablutions, hot water and Wi-Fi. Would def recommend a stay here.

December 3rd, 2022 by pipkelly1

Great spot for a stop over. Off the main road. Rustic. Ablutions new and clean. Hot showers. Hendrix welcoming. Bar and pool. Highly recommend.

September 29th, 2022 by BigGreen

The new ablution block along the way up to the bar is working now. The hot showers are the best part here apart from the view from the bar. Usually, there is not a lot of food available from the restaurant. On weekends, they have some day guests at the pool and bar.
They keep watering a grassy patch in the camping area for tents.
Still 180 K ppn.

September 15th, 2022 by on-the-road-again.nl

It is a good place to have a stop over on your way to South Luangwa or Lusaka. The people are very friendly and the view from the bar on the riverbed is beautiful. Other than there isn't really anything special about the campsite (no view, dusty, next to the road) and the place feels a bit rundown. But fine for a night nevertheless.

September 6th, 2022 by david

Beautiful place. Very rustic but clean.
Fantastic bar and restaurant area overlooking the river.
A real magnet for fellow overlanders.

September 6th, 2022 by henriettethiim

Campground and lodge beautifully located on the Luangwa River and right on the border to Mozambique!
There's very little traffic on the road, so quiet at night.
Lovely restaurant. You have to order your food latest 7 pm.
Lovely staff and very friendly and ambitious Zambian female owner. Nice pool with incredible views over the river.
Rustic clean ablutions in stone houses. All fits very well into nature and surroundings.
Loved everything here!

August 9th, 2022 by Tortuga in Sambia

Nice Campsite, very friendly Personel
Like last year fix Spot in our Programm

August 3rd, 2022 by arshaddotkhan

Lovely location and ambience. A selection of food and drinks available. Have not checked out the accommodation. Pool was not in operation

July 22nd, 2022 by nickianddave

A good stop between South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi. We received a very friendly welcome, hot water donkey for the showers which were hot, with a good water flow and clean. lovely big firepit which we shared in the evening with 4 other overlanders and thoroughly enjoyed sharing each others stories over a drink. The road is a little noisy. There is a lovely plunge pool with a bar and rooftop seating area with a view over the Luangwa river. We'll priced at 180 kwa pppn

May 11th, 2022 by cd

Nice place to sleep on your way from Lusaka to Malawi/Mozambique. Rustic but clean. Friendly Staff. I camped in my rooftop tent

May 11th, 2022 by cd

Not bad. The only place to camp in this area on way from Lusaka to Malawi/Mozambique.

May 9th, 2022 by ivesvictor

Positives: new owners/ management so you could see they were trying to get the place back up and running.
Pool was nice and clean and very refreshing after long days drive.
Showers was nice and hot from the donkey, both night and early morning.
Scenic location on the the Luangwa river.

Negatives: Although they trying, the campsite is a bit run down. the showers and toilets are old and needs replacing. Small stuff like door handles needs replacing.
Can be a bit noisy with locals driving and walking by at night.

Good option for a one night stop.

180 Kwatcha per person.

May 7th, 2022 by hobogoessolo

Ablution is right next to campsite. Tents can be pitched and big rig friendly.

May 7th, 2022 by hobogoessolo

Very clean basic rustic ablutions. Hot water was available in donkey on arrival as we phoned 2 hours before arriving. Tasi was waiting for us. Had a fire going and two chairs at camp site. Check in was over in 2 minutes. Cold beers for sale at reception.

Very quiet . Next to the tar road but vey little traffic. 1 car in the last hour.

April 28th, 2022 by gazzieontour

The setting of Bridge Camp is fantastic; overlooking the Luangwa River. I really enjoyed my stay and could stay there permanently. The owners are really lovely people. The facilities are good, the food is excellent.

April 19th, 2022 by Marix

Very beautiful spot with friendly owner. We got here late, set up camp and made our own food, but you can get food there you just need to arrange beforehand. Nice bar area to sit and relax. Wish we could have stayed for longer, but we could only stay one night.

No card facilities.

February 20th, 2022 by heloise.tallon

Very Nice camp. You can camp or sleep in a chalet. Hot water.
The View on the river is awesome and the owners are friendly.
Very good stop on your way to Lusaka.

February 6th, 2022 by Lost Reception

Perfect for an overnight stay if your are en route to Chipata or Lusaka. Friendly owners. The lodge has a nice rustic atmosphere. As mentioned before phone ahead if you want some food. We camped directly next to the main building with a view over the river.

November 25th, 2021 by kenneth.munnoch

Under new management! Lovely Zambian owner Taris looked after us really well. We camped near the bar with amazing view over the river. 200kw each. Rooms looked good too at 515kw each, negotiable. Great spot and good bar area. Come prepared with food or phone ahead if you want a meal.

November 22nd, 2021 by janharm.duplessis

The location of this camp is what makes it unique since there are no other ‘established’ campsites on the great east road between Chipata and Lusaka. We got held-up on the old Petauke road from SLNP after recent rains and could not make it to Lusaka before sundown. The new owner (Taris) was very welcoming despite the ‘walk-in’ and also allowed us to camp on the lawn next to the pool/boma, since there were no other guests. We made use of the camp ablutions that was cleaned and prepped especially for us and, despite the rustic appeal, it was perfect. We paid Zk200 pppn (adults) and Zk100 pppn (for kids 13 and under). The pool was clean and a great relief from the heat! Cold beer and a proper view of the Luangwa river was the perfect end to our day. Taris has a lot of plans for the campsite…so watch this space!

November 13th, 2021 by samgdickinson

perfect stop off location. we stayed on grassy patch outside bar although main camping area is sandy. bar area had nice view but pool was a bit grubby. close to road but that didn't affect us. ablutions fine.

September 24th, 2021 by my-trip-on-the-wild-side.com

As described below, worth visiting. We camped on the lawn next to the fireplace and dining area. Paid KW 200 pppn. Close to the main road but almost no cars during the day/ night.

September 17th, 2021 by Instagram: @savannatales

We stopped en route from South Luangwa before crossing Lower Zambezi from East to West (by the way, very good track taking 4 hours from Bridge camp to the central game viewing area at the Zambeze shores). Price may be a bit expensive for the simplicity of installations, but justified by the strategic localisation for a stopover and the fantastic view to the Luangwa valley from the bar area and swimming pool. As no other guests were there, we were allowed to camp near the bar on a grassy patch for one vehicule. We really enjoyed our afternoon and evening. Good 4G with Airtel. Not more than 1 vehicule per hour passes on this road (tarmac, no dust).

August 8th, 2021 by Ants_and_Elefants

Bridge Camp is under new management and OPEN.
The manager Taris speaks excellent English.
Camping 260 Kw, Chalet 515 Kw .
I stayed in a chalet, which was recently renovated, and looked really nice (because I didn’t want to set up my tent for one night).
I checked the ablutions on the campground, they looked ok to me. The camp will prepare hot water for your shower.
The pool is clean and looks nice.

No food available at the moment, because the camp is on solar power, so the fridge works only intermittently.
If you bring your own food, they will prepare it for you.

And yes, the campground is next to the road. But I doubt that anybody changed the location in the last five years :).

I think some comments here are way over the top!
There is no reason not to check them out.
Give them a chance 😊.

June 20th, 2021 by BigGreen

We camped on top next to the bar area and paid 260 kw ppn. The pool was cleaned, but we did not use it. The view is nice (I suppose this influences the camping rates as well), but the only part that has been looked after is the bar deck. The actual camping facilities are working (good hot shower, soap and tissue paper provided), but very "rustic". We did not ask about the restaurant, but had a Mosi which was one of the most expensive on our trip at 30 kw . They are obviously struggling with the lack of visitors.

May 27th, 2021 by expeditionconservation.org

Avoid!!! There was practically no proper campsite, just an open area beside the road. One deteriorated brick building with a donkey. Restaurant not open, ”pool” so dirty that it haven’t been cleaned in ages...full of brown grime and slime! We were asked 240k (!!!) /pp — what a joke! Tried to negotiate and say that in last month someone had paid 125k, but quite a rude lady just insisted that it has ”just been changed ”. We asked why, have you made some improvements? She just laughed. Monkeys were everywhere, too. Certainly didn’t stay — we had to drive two more hours in the dark but that was a better option than staying here. Do NOT go here, it’s completely run down and scammer prices!

May 17th, 2021 by volker.wrede

Place is completely ran down. Full of smoke because of burning old gras. Bar is closed. They wanted 12 USD or 240 Kwatcha pppn!! So they doubled up prices just like that. This place is a rip off! You should not accept this game, just because this is the only campsite around.

April 15th, 2021 by Miss Daisy

Still 125k ppn, ok stop on the road to from Lusaka to South Luwanga NP. monkeys

October 10th, 2020 by janharm.duplessis

Camped here for 1x night on our way from Lilongwe to Lusaka. We were held up at the Malawi/Zambia border and arrived after sunset, but the staff was very friendly on arrival and even had a fire going for us. The place is rundown, but ideal for a stopover with flush toilets and hot-water showers. We had a nice flat spot where we set-up 2x offroad trailers and rooftops. The only negative is that the road to Luangwa runs right past the campsite with the river on the other side of the road - a bit noisy. We paid the prices that was previously posted.

March 20th, 2020 by @ala.in.africa

After reading the reviews here we thought this will be rather a run down place. We were nicely surprised by a clean campsite and a very nice bar overlooking the river. As we were alone the staff told us to camp on the patch of grass next to the bar. Ablutions are made out of stone, this makes the shower look clean. Cold water as we arrived late and weren't bother to wait for the donkey (staff offered to warm the water for us). Toilets need replacing as look very old. The main campsite has patchy grass and loads of shade. There is access to water and a large shelter. We would recommend for a nice stop over between Chipata and Lusaka. The road that is in between the campsite and river is rather quiet with an occasional lorry passing by. Very nice river view from the bar and from the grassy spot next to it.

December 25th, 2019 by johnmccarthyjnr

We camped at the place for one night and thought it to be fine. Granted it is not quite 5 star but for a camp site in Africa things could be a lot worse. We had a few beers and were looked after by a nice guy called Jeremiah. Nice views, lovely fire flies and overall not a bad experience.

December 14th, 2019 by jppieterse17

December 2019. Camp still run down. Bar and restaurant closed. 125 Kwacha per person.
Nice view of the river and a decent experiance all together.

November 6th, 2019 by celine.aubin82

Completely run down place, would not stop there even for one night. We popped in for lunch, got an expensive (but good) meal. Atmosphere is weird, does not feel right at all. A pity indeed because the location is great !

November 3rd, 2019 by stefan_r

We tried to make a reservation per e-mail but nobody responded. So we drove in without reservation (unfortunately this is one of the only options in the area). We could have a couple of cold beers at the bar (with a nice view) and the staff was friendly. The Campsite itself is not more than a big parking spot next to the road with braai facilities and an ablution block with hot showers. They provide charcoal and firewood. Ok if the place is not fully booked. Otherwise...

October 21st, 2019 by paul.bromfield

Overpriced, rundown, one staff member, no food and charges for a Chalet at USD 90 per night ? Keep driving past and make another plan

October 21st, 2019 by paul.bromfield

Overpriced, rundown, dirty and have to chase the one member of staff on duty to get a beer. At least that was cold but, at the prices charged, you would certainly expect a lot more. Maybe OK for a one night cam but that would be all.

July 2nd, 2019 by cycloscopebox

The place is very nice and has got a beautiful view on the river. Camping is 125 pppn or 10Usd. Restaurant and bar are now open but pretty expensive, 30 kwacha for a beer, 110 for a small pizza or an humburger and 125 for a pasta. Showers and toilets are clean, hot water.

June 25th, 2019 by christophe.adam18

Unfortunately the camp is run down and way overpriced 125 ZMK pp, but the place is beautiful, over looking the Luangwa river and on the over side it’s Mozambique

March 21st, 2019 by jacqueli.tulleken

Owner has abandoned Bridge Camp, so now Jeremiah and his family is trying to keep it running with the little money they get from campers, hence why it’s a bit run down. They really need our support. Fabulous setting but don’t think the kitchen is open, only bar with a few drinks.

November 14th, 2018 by instagram.com/nirozenfeld

very run down and overpriced, ablutions are bad, bar has nice view but too expensive.
didn't like it at all.

February 15th, 2018 by bayamakumpika

Best: bar area, magnificent few over Luangwa River and Mozambique. Nicely arranged. Beverage prices high but reasonable, concerning the location. Most menu meals not available.
Camping basic, very basic...no privacy except for a small separation wall to the road, very hard ground.
Chalets scattered on escarpment, simply too primitive and totally overpriced ($100), solar light and smelly donkey boilers.
The owner is a nice guy under the influence...

January 14th, 2018 by zinkali

As mentioned below, camping area is right on the road with zero privacy and is very run down. Bar area above is pleasant with a nice view of the river.
Price is now ZMW 125 pppn, which is absolutely overpriced. If you can avoid the place, the owner knows it’s the only place in the area and often just a stop over so he didn’t negotiate at all, even though we were the only guests and it’s off season.
There is indeed loo paper!

September 2nd, 2017 by followdustytracks.com

Pretty area but the camp site doesn't make the most of it. The bar has a good outlook. VERY EXPENSIVE! 120 Kwacha per person per night for camping. It cost us less to stay up at South Luangwa. I didn't like the owners attitude at all! We just used it as an overnighter between South Luangwa and Lusaka.

August 6th, 2017 by ourepictrip.com

Too expensive at 120 kwacha pppn. No electricity, no WiFi. No shade, no privacy from the road, no proper pitches. But is the only place around and no wild camping is possible either! At least there was loo paper.

June 16th, 2017 by larry.mcgillewie

Very overpriced. Nice spot, but needs maintenance and cleaning. Good shower. No toilet paper.

June 4th, 2017 by globenomaden

Directly beside the road. nothing special but overpriced, ZKW 120pppn. Only the view from the bar area is nice. Unfortunately also the restaurant is very expensive.

January 27th, 2017 by oryxli

Ok for a 1 night stopover between Chipata and Lusaka. Ablutions basic but hot water is available. Bar and Restaurant expensive - Bier 30Zkw!!!
Did not eat there.

September 17th, 2016 by jon

Campsite located on road with no wall. Camp owner shouting at staff. Very overpriced bar!!

September 10th, 2016 by rundp2.schreiber

Narrow place for truckcamper, no electricity for the car, ablution ok., no water supply.
From the bar you have a very nice view to the Luangwa.

July 19th, 2016 by wollert

Uneven campground. Some basic chalets. Clean & basic ablutions. Good but expensive restaurant. Nice view from restaurant. Dutch owner. 10 $ ppn

July 19th, 2016 by trekgreatamerican

The reviews didn't do this place justice, it is a stunning spot! Cute lodge on the river overlooking Mozambique on the other bank. Restaurant available but the food was average for the phenomenal prices. I found this place stunning, but too expensive. Camping was ok at $10 pppn. Facilities are not run down, they are not good enough. We stayed in a chalet as there were a few of us, and most of the Windows did not have curtains, and the ones that did were covered with an old sheet, mattresses were poor and mosquito nets were cheap. The staff also had to kneel to talk to the owner!?!? Something I never thought I would witness in our modern world. Good spot for overnight but not sure I like how it is run.

May 14th, 2016 by catherine.dlcw

Good place to break up the journey from Lusaka to the national park. Basic site, shaded with running water, hot showers and decent toilets. Bar is very expensive. Staff friendly. Provide free fire wood or charcoal on demand. $10 per person per night

March 18th, 2016 by jasper.harms

Not nearly as bad as earlier descriptions depict it. Decent ablutions with hot water, free firewood and charcoal. USD 10 (or ZMW 113) pppn

January 9th, 2016 by mmartinh

not so nice campsite. one shelter for two small tents. shade is rare.

April 4th, 2015 by alles-selbst-erlebt

Maintenance ongoing, but still not so nice. Staff not motivated. Ok to break the journey between Lusaka and Chipata, but not more. Paid 60 Kwacha pp.

September 14th, 2014 by Tucks' Truck

Very run down but has a nice bar area.

June 18th, 2013 by kapp2cape-blog.net

Very basic campsite; owners seem surly and grumpy; ablutions passable; very expensive drinks at the bar!

Cost:ZKW55