Coming from Mfuwe Airport, turn left just before the main Mfuwe Bridge, following the signs to Kapani, Nwali, the Wildlife Camp, and others. Past the entrance to Kapani, about 4km beyond the main road, the road forks; take a left and drive for about 1km to the Wildlife Camp. Wildlife is a popular, buzzing camp that's large by Luangwa standards. It's owned and run by the helpful Patsy and Herman Miles.

The camp has seven en-suite chalets, each with three beds, and a family chalet with two bedrooms (four beds) and a bathroom. All the rooms and chalets are clean and pleasant, but none are luxurious. The campsite also has five 'military-style' permanent tents which have shared ablutions.

Unusually for the Luangwa, the wildlife camp encourages self-catering, and its facilities include the use of kitchen equipment (fridges and freezers, electric stove, crockery, cutlery, etc) and also the staff, who will help prepare food for you. However, bear in mind that you'll need to bring your own food to the camp for this, and there are no corner shops around here! So this option is really designed for those with their own fully-stocked and equipped vehicles, or for very intrepid (and strong) backpackers.

If you have your own kit and prefer to camp, then there's a campsite. This is slightly separate from the lodge and set in a large grove of mopane trees. It has thatched roofs (without walls) dotted around if you want to pitch your tent under one; it's probably not wise to sleep outside without a closed tent. In addition, there are five small military tents with beds, together with a kitchen and a cook who will prepare your food for you if you bring it to him. Note that there are monkeys about so don't leave food lying around.

The Wildlife Camp is run in association with the Wildlife and Environmental Conservation Society of Zambia (WECSZ). Sixty per cent of what the camp is paid for accommodation goes straight to the Chipata branch of the WECSZ, to be used for their conservation/development projects. So if you can afford to have a chalet rather than camp here, much of your extra money is going to a good cause.

The bar/restaurant area (including a small curio shop) is often busy and always relaxed. It overlooks the main Luangwa River and serves à la carte meals (eg: roast pesto-and-cream chicken with sweet potato) and snacks. The camp runs activities including exceedingly popular day and night game drives, and walking safaris. If you have your own vehicle then you can drive yourself into the park. (Note, though, that you can drive yourself into the park during the day, but only licensed guides are allowed to conduct night drives.) Alternatively, you can book in at a per person per night rate, which includes accommodation, all meals, activities and game drives.

With prior notice, backpackers can sometimes arrange to be collected from Chipata by the staff here. The wildlife camp makes a good base if you have your own vehicle. Zambians, Malawi residents, and members of the WECSZ qualify for discounts.