Our Favorite Zambian Safari Camps

Sightings of the Big Five and other extraordinary wildlife aside, the biggest highlight, hands down, of a safari is a stay at an extravagant camp in the middle of the bush. 

These camps, also called lodges, are some of our team's favorite from across Zambia.

 

South Luangwa National Park

 

Mfuwe Lodge

Ease yourself into Luangwa life with a stay at the award winning Mfuwe Lodge. Set inside the park, just five minutes’ drive from the main gate, the lodge’s allure is instantly obvious.

Beneath a canopy of ebony and mahogany trees, its thatched buildings are arranged around the banks of two lagoons where an endless stream of wildlife will keep you enthralled as you lounge on the open deck or take a dip in the swimming pool. The airy interior of the lodge is an exquisite complement to its natural surroundings.

This region of the park is renowned for its prolific game – giraffe, buffalo, antelope, crocodile are constant visitors to Mfuwe Lodge’s lagoon, whilst in November the local elephants regularly wander right through the lobby, lured by a nearby wild mango tree. Whether you stay overnight, or just have lunch en route to a bushcamp, Mfuwe Lodge’s relaxed charm and enviable surroundings make it the perfect stopover. In between game drives, relax around the pool, in the library or pamper yourself at the Bush Spa.

 

Chikunto Safari Lodge

With 5 spacious luxury Tented Suites (including 1 x Honeymoon Suite and 1 x Two Bedroomed Family Suite) it never feels crowded at Chikunto. Having said that, the extra-large firepit provides and ideal space around which you can gather for a pre-Dinner drink or two and discuss some of the day's sightings.

The Lodge is built on raised decking that helps from both a security point of view (it is in the middle of a National Park, after all!) and helps make the most of the stunning views directly out to the Luangwa River. It is quite possible that the back-drop to your alfresco dining could a family of elephants making their way down to river to drink, whilst you listen to the sounds of the bush.

The salt-water swimming pool (no chlorine) has a counter-current system for those who wants to do some exercise and provides for some amazing photo opportunities for those that are so inclined. 

A visit to Chikunto Safari Lodge will provide you with a visit to 'The Real Africa' but with the best of the modern day creature comforts. 

 

Lower Zambezi National Park

Lolebezi

The eco-friendly Lolebezi is perfectly situated deep in the untouched wilds of the Lower Zambezi National Park. Exuding a modest elegance and simplicity, the lodge is designed to maximize the view along its private riverfront. Spacious, air-conditioned suites feature ensuite bathrooms with indoor/outdoor showers, and private plunge pools, perfect for whiling away the sunny African afternoons. Lodge facilities include a pool, full bar, open air cinema, boma and boutique shop. Enjoy your days on morning and afternoon game viewing activities, which include game drives, walking safaris led by professional ranger guides, bird watching, catch & release fishing, canoeing, boating safaris and sunset cruises. Relax at the spa, gym or enjoy yoga in a magical place.

 

Chiawa Camp

Chiawa Camp rests in the shade of a grove of mahogany trees on the banks of the Zambezi River in the Lower Zambezi National Park. The well-appointed tents are set on elevated wooden decks providing panoramic views of the Zambezi River. The tents are under thatch and have king size beds, insect screens and en-suite facilities.

The central thatched lounge and bar area with upper and lower viewing decks is the perfect spot to watch the sun set over another day in Africa. Enjoy al-fresco dining on the veranda or relax around the camp fire with a Pimm’s in hand, reminiscing about the day's adventures. Activities include day and night game drives in open safari vehicles, guided bush walks, canoe trips, boat cruises on custom built pontoon boats and catch and release angling. The camp has two game viewing hides and a pool with timber sun deck overlooking the Zambezi.

 

Victoria Falls Area

Royal Chundu

Royal Chundu is the perfect getaway. Scattered along the banks of the mighty Zambezi River, the luxury suites at River Lodge radiate seclusion and tranquility. Interior furnishings echo the Zambezi hues and accentuate the surrounding natural beauty. Teak walkways connect the suites to the main lodge, which houses the library, restaurant, wine cellar, cocktail bar and an infinity pool for relaxing and cooling off during the afternoon. At Royal Chundu, dining is an integral part of your experience, and the chefs take pride in preparing dishes that mirror the rich heritage of the region and the hospitality of the Zambian people. Guests can choose to dine indoors in the restaurant, on the viewing deck, in the privacy of their suites or in the Chief’s boma, where dinner is cooked on open-flames and accompanied by Zambian drumming and traditional Makishi dancers. Royal Chundu only employs people from the surrounding villages of Mushekwa, and Muluka.

 

Thorntree River Lodge

Featuring an environmentally conscious, modern design, the lodge draws inspiration from local cultures. Each tented suite includes an indoor and outdoor bathroom and private plunge pool. The main lodge consists of a lounge with an open dining area and cellar stocked with the finest wines. A gym and spa overlook the mighty Zambezi River, and there is a small library with Wi-Fi to check in with the world. The communal deck set along the river is home to a sunken boma and infinity pool. Additional wooden decking floats on the edge of the river and moves with the water level to create the illusion of sailing. Activities include visits to Victoria Falls, rhino trekking on foot and game drives in the Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park, cultural village visits, sunset river cruises (on the lodge’s own private boat), fishing, and visits to the Livingstone Museum. 

 

Kafue National Park

Chisa Busanga

Chisa is the Nyanja word for ‘birds nest’, and the rooms were inspired by the weaver bird nests that decorate the trees here. Sitting on a small tree-lined island, the camp uses only solar power as do the game drive vehicle and bicycles used to explore the watery dambos beyond.

Chisa Busanga Camp celebrates the natural and cultural heritage of the Busanga Plains, a place that will leave an indelible imprint on your mind.

PLAN A SAFARI

Call 1-800-421-8907 or fill out our questionnaire and submit it to a specialist to plan a trip.