The Best Luxury Safari Lodges in Zambia

safari lodges in zambia

After a soul-stirring day of watching hippo bathe in the Lower Zambezi or giraffe striding across the savannah in South Luangwa National Park , there’s nothing better than retreating to the stylish creature comforts of a luxury oasis in the bush. Arrive at any one of these best safari lodges in Zambia to find swoon-worthy camps that look as if they’ve been lifted straight from the pages of a magazine. Design esthetics may vary, but the best lodges share many attributes: sublime landscapes, highly personalized levels of service, tantalizing cuisine, a commitment to conservation and community, and exceptional guiding. Ranging from just four to 12 suites, you’re guaranteed an intimate safari experience in the heart of the Zambian wilderness.

The best safari lodges in Lower Zambezi National Park

Straddling the Zambezi River, Zimbabwe’s Mana Pools National Park reaches out and locks hands with Lower Zambezi National Park (Zambia) to form an enormous trans-frontier wildlife sanctuary—a productive place for big game viewing. Spot elephants drinking on the riverbank, a lion cooling off with an afternoon swim, or take to the gentle waters in a canoe to paddle past crocodiles. At the end of each splendid day, retire to one of the best Zambia luxury safari lodges to admire a star-filled sky, relishing in the realization that you are in a place where the modern world has yet to intrude upon nature.

safari lodges in zambia

Set upon 12 acres of protected wilderness, Lolebezi boasts more than half a mile of private Zambezi riverfront. Featuring four romantic superior suites and two double family units, this intimate lodge blends the luxury of a world-class safari camp with the simple elegance of life in the African bush. Hit the trails in search of leopards with your experienced guide during the day; in the afternoon, come back to take a dip in your private plunge pool. Alternatively, enjoy a spa treatment, meditate on the yoga deck, or sip a cocktail in the thatched Sala overlooking the river.

Highlights:

  • Wake up to views of the mighty Zambezi River flowing past your room.
  • Stay cool in your fully air-conditioned suite.
  • Catch a movie in the forested open-air cinema

Who it’s best for: Romantic couples, couples celebrating a special occasion, and families.

Sausage Tree Camp

safari lodges in zambia

Set on the riverfront in the heart of the national park, Sausage Tree Camp ’s seven tented suites and Kigelia House are generously spaced along the riverbank. This assures guests their privacy but also provides the elephants with plenty of room to amble between suites! Start your day with an open-air shower before discovering the Lower Zambezi by private game-viewing vehicle, boat, or canoe. In the afternoon, take a dip in your private plunge pool and then head to the open-air dining tent to savor gourmet African-inspired fusion dishes.

  • Allow your “Muchinda” (private butler) to take care of your every whim.
  • The camp has no boundaries, so animals are free to wander through.
  • Give back: Sausage Tree Camp supports Conservation Lower Zambezi, which helps to protect the park’s wildlife.

Who it’s best for : Adventurers in search of exclusivity and private vehicle game drives.

Chiawa Camp

safari lodges in zambia

Soak up the historic ambiance at Chiawa Camp , the first camp to set up in Lower Zambezi National Park. Offering an unhurried safari experience alongside a wide selection of more active pursuits, Chiawa is one of Zambia’s best luxury safari lodges. Eight luxurious safari tents showcase a perfect blend of form and functionality that’s enhanced by furnishings crafted by local artisans. What’s more, the lodge’s safari suites enjoy commanding views of the region. Spend unforgettable days meeting elephants on game walks or canoeing past hippos on the river, and in the evening, dine on Afro/Euro dishes by the campfire.

  • Tent decks feature a unique “bench wallow,” areas that serve as a sunken lounge in cooler months, and a plunge pool during the hotter months.
  • Enjoy breakfast, brunch, or lunch in the bush or on a boat on the Zambezi.
  • River safaris take place on custom-built pontoon boats with environmentally sensitive four-stroke outboard motors.

Who it’s best for: Adventurers who enjoy a nostalgic ambiance and a robust offering of active leisure activities.

safari lodges in zambia

Sitting in the heart of Winterthorn Forest, in a quieter area of Lower Zambezi National Park, Anabezi guests often experience game viewing in relative privacy. This sophisticated camp is home to 12 beautiful tented suites built upon elevated boardwalks which allow elephant, buffalo, and antelope to roam freely through the camp. Spend glorious days watching elephants swimming from island to island as you cruise down the Zambezi River or grab your camera and head off on a photographic safari. In the afternoon, cool off in your private plunge pool or treat yourself to an in-room massage. When it’s time to eat, dine on the Zambezi Deck as impala stroll by, and then retire to the Mushika Deck to sip a G&T.

Highlights :

  • Boardwalks mean you can safely walk around camp during the day without an escort.
  • Since Anabezi’s establishment, anti-poaching patrols have resumed in the eastern regions of the park. The lodge provides back-up patrols to these initiatives.
  • Anglers can cast a line to hook a legendary African tigerfish.

Who it’s best for: Discerning travelers who appreciate creature comforts like plunge pools and over-the-bed air conditioning.

The best luxury safari lodges in South Luangwa National Park

If there’s nothing you love more than getting up close to wildlife, the intensely beautiful South Luangwa is the national park of choice when it comes to walking safaris . Lace up your hiking boots and prepare for sightings of lion, elephant, buffalo, hippo, zebra, antelope, and Thornicoft’s giraffe–the only park in Zambia where you can find giraffe. South Luangwa’s 3,500 square miles (about the size of Yellowstone) are also home to an incredible density of leopards, so you’re almost certain to see a few of these elusive cats. During the hotter months, walking safaris depart early in the morning, while game drives take place in the afternoons.

safari lodges in zambia

Sitting in the northern reaches of South Luangwa National Park—one of Africa’s most remote and abundant game-viewing regions— Lion Camp is one of the best safari lodges in Zambia. Featuring eight luxury and two deluxe thatch-and-canvas suites on stilts that boast private decks with unobstructed views, Lion Camp offers an authentic safari experience where lion and leopard steal the show. Stride out on foot to explore on a walking safari, head out on a game drive, or with a naturalist on a specialized photographic safari. In the afternoon, take a dip in the pool, play a game of billiards or head to the water-level hide for some more up-close game-viewing. In the evening, take a seat at the dinner table in a traditional boma under the stars. 

  • Start the day with a bush breakfast while you watch crocodiles and a bloat of hippo.
  • The deluxe honeymoon suite boasts a rooftop sleep-out deck for a night under the stars.
  • The unique photographic studio features a large working space, international plug points, and USB chargers. 

Who it’s best for: This camp offers a fully rounded safari experience, making it a great option for travelers who prefer to stay at just one lodge. Chic design features and beautiful styling add elegance to the bush experience.

safari lodges in zambia

Puku Ridge overlooks a private floodplain and offers a remote and refined wilderness experience. Its elevated landscape allows guests to spot giraffe or puku (antelope) right from one of the best luxury safari lodges in Zambia. With its elegant architectural style to its thoughtfully outfitted game-viewing vehicles, you’ll find sophistication at every turn. Spend incredible days tracking leopards on walking safaris , and then head to one of the camp’s eight luxury safari tents to enjoy a relaxing soak in your huge bathtub overlooking the flood plain. Alternatively, languish in the plunge pool on your multi-level veranda before heading to the lodge’s open-air lounge to dine. When it’s time for bed, return to your tent to sleep in your “star bed” under the vast African night sky.

  • Observe wildlife at the camp’s perfectly positioned photographic hide in front of its private watering hole.
  • Take a “Red Light Night Drive” to see the park’s predators without disturbing their hunting activities.
  • Silver status carbon-neutral camp.

Who it’s best for: Sophisticated travelers who appreciate a shorter transfer from the airport and an uber-luxe experience in camp.

safari lodges in zambia

Sitting on a sweeping curve of the Luangwa River, Chinzombo is one of Zambia’s best safari lodges. A wildly luxurious camp, its sophisticated brand of bush authenticity blends effortlessly with its idyllic riverside setting. There are just five luxury safari tents and one family tent with features that include eco-cooled sleeping areas, large verandahs with private pools, and soaking tubs with riverfront views. The area is renowned for elusive leopard sightings, as well as large herds of elephants. In the afternoon, return to the lodge to stretch out on a shaded verandah and unwind with a blissful in-room spa treatment before heading to the main lodge to indulge in a superb dinner under the stars.

  • Stylish tents dressed in neutrals and organic textures, with design accents that harken back to the early days of safari.
  • Chinzombo is a great option for multi-generation trips, as children of all ages are welcome.
  • The lodge’s Time + Tide Foundation invests in the future productivity of wildlife economies through community and school-based learning.

Who it’s best for: Just a one-hour game drive transfer from Mfuwe Airport, this is a great option for adventurers who don’t want to waste any time starting their safari.

The best luxury safari lodges in Liuwa Plain

Escape the crowds of the busier parks and head off the beaten path through the grassy flood plains, wooded islands, raffia palm clusters, and open pans of Liuwa Plains National Park . This remote landscape is characterized by its sweeping expanses, seasonal flooding, and abundant wildlife. Expect to come face-to-face with herds of wildebeest, packs of hyenas, and resident lion prides.

King Lewanika

safari lodges in zambia

Surround yourself in golden light and vast blue skies at King Lewanika , one of the best safari lodges in Zambia. Its five luxury safari tents and one family safari tent are the epitome of timeless bush elegance. Adorned in leather, cotton, and canvas, they exude vintage charm. Each has an indoor and outdoor shower, a comfortable lounge, and an impressive verandah—all boasting views over the plains. Join experienced guides on a safari to admire some of Africa’s most spectacular wildlife, including the region’s growing cheetah population, on foot, in a game vehicle, or by canoe. In the afternoon, look out over the horizon from the lodge’s serene main lounge before heading to the campfire to spend a few contented hours under a canopy of endless stars.

  • King Lewanika is the only permanent camp in Liuwa Plains National Park.
  • Children of all ages are welcome, so it’s a great option for families and multi-generational groups.
  • Treat yourself to the camp’s unforgettable “Sleepout Under the Stars” fly camping experience.

Who it’s best for: King Lewanika is perfect for adventurers who like to go beyond the beaten path. It’s also a superb spot if you want to catch the second-largest wildebeest migration in Africa.

The best luxury safari lodge in Kafue National Park

Breathtaking Kafue National Park is the largest national park in Zambia and the second largest in Africa. The jewel in the Kafue crown has to be the Busanga Plains to the north, which are said to provide some of the best lion-viewing on the continent.

Shumba Camp

safari lodges in zambia

Shumba Camp operates for just five months each year, making it one of the most exclusive safari camps in the whole of Africa. Located on its own little island in the heart of Busanga Plains, the lodge features six luxury suites built on raised platforms so you can observe incredible wildlife from every angle. The area is home to leopard, hyena, and cheetah, as well as the park’s star attraction: “flying lions” who can be seen leaping over channels of water, running through the flooded plains as they hunt. Whether you spend your days exploring the plains by game vehicle, on foot, or by boat, Busanga is simply incomparable. After a day of first-class wildlife-watching, retreat to Shumba to take a dip in the pool overlooking the flood plains and then dine beneath endless stars.

  • Discover the wetlands of Busanga Plains, which are often referred to as a “mini Serengeti.”
  • Rise before the sun to admire lechwe (antelope) in the park’s misty “Plains of Plenty.”
  • Dine on Zambian cuisine cooked over an open fire and in a starlit boma.

Who it’s best for: Travelers who value genuine exclusivity and unique wildlife encounters. Shumba is also a big hit with adventurers who yearn to get off the beaten path to witness the wild beauty of Zambia’s “mini Serengeti.”

The best luxury safari lodge on the Zambian side of Victoria Falls

Originally called Mosi-oa-Tunya, “ the smoke that thunders ,” Victoria Falls hugs the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe. In Zambia, it sits in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, which stretches seven-and-a-half miles along the Zambezi River. Not only is the region home to Africa’s showstopping waterfalls, but it also borders several ancient wildlife migration routes and river crossing points, some of which are still frequented by elephants.

Royal Chundu Island Lodge

safari lodges in zambia

Royal Chundu Island Lodge sits on a remote, private island on the Zambezi, making it one of the best luxury lodges in Zambia. With its seclusion and exclusivity, all four of its spacious suites open up onto private decks that overlook the rapids. Spend incredible days white-water rafting on the Zambezi or fly over the falls in a helicopter. Alternatively, unwind in your infinity pool or spend an hour relaxing in a riverside bathtub. In the evening, meander along the lodge’s teak walkways to reach the main dining room, where you’ll sample pan-African cuisine. The next day, treat yourself to an authentic boma experience as you dine under the great branches of an ancient baobab tree.

  • From river fish to baobab ice cream, experience locally sourced creative dining at its best.
  • Indulge in a luxurious spa treatment in the privacy of your own suite.
  • Arrange a private picnic for two on the riverbank, complete with Persian carpets and hammocks.

Who it’s best for: Island Lodge is located 18 miles upstream from Victoria Falls, so it’s perfect for travelers who wish to escape to a tranquil retreat after a busy day in Livingstone and at Victoria Falls.

Some of our favorite luxury Zambia itineraries

Chula Island tent in the early morning

Back to Nature Wilderness Adventure

Old-School Zambian adventure in owner-run camps

seba camp game drive with guests observing a leopard in a tree on the best botswana safari

Exploring Zambia: Walking and Waterways

Explore two of Zambia’s Iconic Parks and Diverse Activities

walking safari along a shallow body of water in north luangwa

Remote Zambia On Foot

Explore South & North Luangwa on game drives and walking safari

Plan your Trip

Ready to start planning your own incredible adventure? We make the process stress-free and enjoyable.

travel tips and travel photography

11 Best places to stay for Safari in Zambia

Planning a safari in Zambia ? This is your guide to the best accommodations in the heart of Africa. With the thundering Victoria Falls, the enchanting Lower Zambezi National Park, the untouched Kafue, and the untamed wilderness of South Luangwa National Park and the remote North Luangwa, Zambia is one of the most inspiring and beautiful countries for a safari in Africa.

Lodges to stay for Safari in Zambia

The places you choose to stay can make or break your safari trip in Zambia. In this guide, I share my hand-picked accommodations across Zambia, ensuring that you will leave Zambia in awe with lasting memories of some of the best safari experiences in Africa.

Find the best places to stay for Safari in Zambia here:

Wild Dogs Lodge in Lusaka

Wild Dogs Lodge in Lusaka Zambia

After a short 2-hour flight with Proflight Zambia from Johannesburg to Lusaka Airport, you can reach Wild Dogs Lodge in Lusaka within 15-20 minutes. The lodge offers an airport transfer at 20 USD per vehicle. Roads in Lusaka are pretty good, but for the last 8 minutes over a dirt road you will get the ‘African massage’.

The first word that came into my mind when entering Wild Dogs Lodge was peaceful. It's a peace of the African bush in the middle of Lusaka city and therefore a great start for your safari in Zambia.

Family-owned African-style Lodge

Wild Dogs Lodge in Lusaka Zambia

It’s an intimate (german-owned) lodge with only 10 African-style rooms under 4 thatched chalets hosting up to a maximum of 20 people.

cottage at Wild Dogs Lodge Zambia

All cottages - that have fruit names like Mango, Pawpaw, and Guava - face the peaceful garden and the swimming pool with a few sun loungers. The 18-meter-long pool is perfect to cool off on a hot day and to swim a few laps.

Beautiful shady bird-rich garden

Garden at Wild Dogs Lodge Zambia

The cottages are in a beautifully decorated green garden with amazing Lozi & Jacaranda trees offering enough shady spots. Ernest, the gardener, loves to show you around the garden where you can find several Mango and Avocado trees.

Birds also favor Wild Dog’s garden, for example, the Blue Waxbill, Woodpecker, Woodland Kingfisher, and the always present BulBul. Waking up, and hearing the sounds of these birds, is a very peaceful feeling.

Delicious food with fruits and veggies from their garden

Wild Dogs Lodge Lusaka

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are on the terrace surrounding the pool. They have a 24-hour coffee/tea station available for guests and the food was good. For breakfast, you can choose eggs of your choice. I loved their light lunch; a salad with chicken strips. For dinner, I had their delicious beef filet in garlic, onion, and champignons with various vegetables.

Wild Dogs Lodge also has their vegetable garden where they grow green pepper, lettuce, spinach, eggplant, and so forth.

Best place to stay in Lusaka

Best place to stay in Lusaka Zambia

In summary, I couldn’t think of a better green place to stay in Lusaka . An excellent location in a wonderfully decorated garden with good healthy food options and the friendliest professional team; the best place to start your safari in Zambia. Wild Dogs Lodge also offers a two-deck conference area. Book your stay at Wild Dogs Lodge .

Conference Center Wild Dogs Lodge in Lusaka Zambia

Pioneer Camp in Lusaka

If you’re a bit more on a budget, check out Wild Dogs Lodge’s rustic sister camp, named Pioneer Camp with accommodations ranging from a camping place, and basic thatched tents to higher standard safari and miombo chalets with ensuite bathrooms. It’s also a great place for birding!

Fly Zambia with Proflight Zambia

The most convenient and fastest way to get from Lusaka to the best places for a safari in Zambia is by airplane. Proflight Zambia offers scenic flights to most safari destinations in Zambia like Kafue National Park, Lower Zambezi National Park, South Luangwa, and North Luangwa.

Mukambi Safari Lodge in Kafue

Mukambi Lodge in Kafue NP Zambia

A 4 to 5-hour drive from Lusaka takes you to Mukambi Safari Lodge , on the doorstep of Kafue National Park . Driving down to Kafue, also known as Zambia’s untouched treasure, you don’t see any souvenir stalls or small markets which shows that the masses did not yet discover the park. You only see a few rural villages and a few vegetable and fruit stalls.

Mukambi Safari Lodge Kafue Zambia

The closer you get to Kafue, the more ever-beautiful and picturesque Baobab trees are showing up in the landscape. The last few kilometers, the landscape is turning into a more densely vegetated area and once you turn off from the main road, you will most likely see the first antelopes, like Impala or Puku.

Enchanting viewing deck

Mukambi Lodge Kafue Zambia

The first thing you notice when entering Mukambi Lodge is that this wonderful place is located right on the banks of the Kafue River with an upper and lower viewing deck to watch hippos and an occasional crocodile. The surrounding plants also attract many birds. If you close your eyes, the only thing you hear is the sound of a shrike or a bulbul and the flowing water of the river.

Room with a view

Best places to stay in Kafue Zambia

Mukambi Lodge has 10 rounded en-suite chalets (rondavels) and 4 luxury tents overlooking the Kafue River. They are a few meters apart from each other to ensure privacy.

room Mukambi Safari Lodge Kafue Zambia

The beds are very comfortable, and you will definitely enjoy the view of the river from your private terrace while local wildlife passes by your rondavel, including puku, impala, baboons, and monkeys. And not to forget about the birds singing their songs. After having a resident hippo that unfortunately died, Mukambi Lodge also has a resident wild cat !

Activities Mukambi Safari Lodge

things to do Mukambi Lodge Kafue

Apart from game drives and walking safaris , you can also opt for a fishing trip or a sunset boat cruise on the Kafue River .

walking safari at Mukambi Lodge Kafue NP Zambia

We opted for a walking safari and a game drive in Kafue National Park. Our first walk in Zambia treated us with a bachelor herd of 3 elephants. We watched them from a safe distance to not interfere with their daily lives.

Walking Safari Kafue NP Zambia

The Kafue area is beautiful with various shrubs and trees, including beautiful Baobab trees and Lala palm trees.

Inifinity Pool Mukambi Safari Lodge in Kafue Zambia

After your morning safari in Kafue National Park, the infinity pool is the perfect place to relax and cool off or treat yourself to a relaxing massage.

Enjoy a campfire at Mukambi Safari Lodge Boma

When coming back from your sundowner safari in the afternoon, join the campfire to gaze into the fire and see the milky way unfold. A perfect ending of a day spent in the African bush.

Safari Tour Kafue National Park

Mukambi Safari Lodge Kafue National Park Zambia

Mukambi Lodge is the perfect gateway to Kafue National Park with several areas worth exploring. If you have enough time, plan a minimum of 2 to 3 nights in each of the camps that are part of Mukambi Safaris: Busanga Plains Camp (July to October), Fig Tree Bush Camp (May to November), and Mukambi Safari Lodge (All year round). This way, you will have the best experience of all that Zambia’s untouched gem offers.

Book a 6-day safari tour in Kafue National Park or the 8-day (shared) Full Kafue Experience that includes all the camps of Mukambi Safaris and experience the best Kafue has to offer. Another option is a 12-day safari tour Best of Kafue National Park and South Luangwa .

Wonderful team and knowledgeable guides

knowledgeable guide at Mukambi Lodge Kafue

Mukambi Safaris is a Dutch family-owned business since 2002. Mukambi’s knowledgeable guides rotate in all the camps and Busanga Plains is among their favorite areas to guide because it’s known for special wildlife sightings.

The team at Mukambi is lovely. I forgot my Apple Mouse at the lodge and they did everything in their power to transfer it from Kafue to South Luangwa. Just perfect. Zikomo Robyn and staff! I will be back to explore more of Kafue National Park.

Chiawa Camp in Lower Zambezi

Chiawa Camp Lower Zambezi Zambia

After a 35-minute scenic flight with Proflight from Lusaka to Jeki Airstrip it’s another hour to the family-owned multi-award-winning Chiawa Camp,  but a surprising scenic ride! First, you hop on a short game drive through the Jeki area welcomed by many Lilac Breasted Rollers, baboons, and various antelopes.

Proflight Zambia

Then, a small motorized boat takes you in 40 minutes to Chiawa Camp cruising the Zambezi River, with amazing sightings of elephant crossings, many hippos, and incredible views of the Zambezi River and its channels.

The pioneer in Lower Zambezi National Park

Chiawa Camp Lower Zambezi

Once you arrive at the camp, you are already smiling from ear to ear and the friendliest staff is waiting at the deck to welcome you with open arms. A great first impression of Chiawa Camp , which is the first camp to settle on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River.

Safari experience of a lifetime

walking safari lower zambezi national park zambia

Lower Zambezi National Park is one of Africa’s most scenic wildernesses offering some of the best safari activities in Zambia and Africa.

Wintertorn forest Lower Zambezi Zambia

Apart from the wildlife-rich game drives led by high-quality guides, Chiawa Safaris also offers unique walking safari experiences through the magical winter thorn forest and along the lagoon with lots of elephant encounters.

Elephants in Winter thorn forest Lower Zambezi Zambia

The activities that make Chiawa Camp even more unique are the water-based Lower Zambezi safari activities, like a canoeing trip through the Zambezi channels with amazing wildlife sightings that include up-close vistas of crocodiles, hippos, elephants, many birds, baboons, and several antelope species while peacefully floating on the water, listening to the sounds of nature.

Canoe Safari Chiawa Camp Lower Zambezi

Ending your canoe safari  with a sundowner overlooking the Zambezi River that reflects the orange colors of the setting sun is magical.

sunset boat safari lower zambezi zambia

Because of the strict regulations, I assure safari lovers of seeing very little to no human activity while paddling the waters of the Zambezi River which provides that extra exclusive feel of being the only ones on the river.

Tiger Fishing Chiawa Camp Lower Zambezi

Other things to do on safari in Lower Zambezi National Park are night game drives, boat safaris using stable pontoon boats, and tiger fishing. What I loved about Chiawa’s night game drive was the use of a red filter on the spotlight and car to not disrupt the animal’s behavior. It was the only place in all of Zambia where they used this red light.

Elephants & Buffalo visit Chiawa Camp

Elephants in Chiawa Camp Lower Zambezi Zambia

You don’t have to drive far to see wildlife. And even better, elephants visit Chiawa Camp daily as the camp is in the middle of a prime wildlife zone within Lower Zambezi National Park.

Elephants visit Chiawa Camp in Lower Zambezi Zambia

Other wildlife to spot (even within the camp) are lion, leopard, buffalo, waterbuck, hippos and crocodiles. I had a buffalo grazing next to my tent one evening and enjoyed viewing the elephants from my private veranda.

Quality food on beautiful locations

Lunch with a view at Chiawa Camp Lower Zambezi

Chiawa’s food is delicious, and I like their effort to prepare different spots to enjoy lunch.

Breakfast Chiawa Camp Lower Zambezi Zambia

They serve breakfast on the bank of the river at the fire while you can enjoy the slowly rising sun. One day, we had a champagne lunch on the boat while enjoying the river views and another day we sat on the upper deck.

Lunch on the Zambezi River at Chiawa Camp Zambia

Just before they serve dinner from their main dining area, the staff gathers to sing a song or two to invite us for dinner; a proper choir with regular rehearsals and their album which you can buy at the lodge to support them.

Luxury Safari Tents with plunge pool

Chiawa Camp Luxury Tented Safari Cottages

The 100 square meters safari tents are very spacious with a comfortable super-king sized bed, a lounge area, and an enormous bathroom plus an extra outdoor ‘waterfall’ shower for that extra bush feeling.

Chiawa Camp Lower Zambezi Luxury Safari Tent

Via a sliding door, you enter your private shaded veranda that includes a dining table, leather safari chairs, and ‘bench wallow’; a sunken lounge area and an on-demand plunge pool . I also loved the hammock to chill in between the  Lower Zambezi safari activities.

private plunge pool Chiawa Camp Lower Zambezi

Reusable water bottle

Chiawa Camp wins the prize for the best water bottle gift. Several camps are offering reusable water bottles to their clients which is a great way to reduce the use of plastic water bottles but I found Chiawa’s water bottle the most convenient and appealing. It’s not only a gift to take home, but a gift to nature in an effort for a cleaner and healthier environment.

Travel Tip for your Safari in Zambia : not all camps provide reusable water bottles or a water bottle to take home as a gift, so please bring your reusable water bottle that keeps your filtered water cold instead of asking for a plastic water bottle.

Best place to stay in Zambia

Chiawa Camp is the best place to stay in Lower Zambezi Zambia

Chiawa Camp is my number one pick as the best place to stay in Zambia and Lower Zambezi National Park became one of my favorite new wildlife parks in all of Africa. Want to include Chiawa Camp in your Zambia Safari Tour? Check out the 15-Day Luxury Zambia Safari & Waterfalls Holiday .

Old Mondoro Lower Zambezi National Park

Old Mondoro Camp Lower Zambezi Zambia

Old Mondoro , part of Chiawa Safaris, is a wildlife photographer’s paradise offering a more intimate and rustic option to enjoy Lower Zambezi National Park. With only 5 chalets, this is the perfect place to stay for that authentic raw African bush feeling with incredible wildlife encounters.

Old Mondoro Camp by Chiawa Safaris Zambia

Old Mondoro Camp is within a winter thorn forest and elephants are always present which means the staff has to drive you to your chalet. It’s also the place with one of the best toilet views in Africa.

Chindeni Bush Camp in South Luangwa

Best place to stay for Safari in South Luangwa Zambia

Chindeni is a lovely luxurious tented camp on the edge of an oxbow lagoon in South Luangwa National Park in Zambia with the N’Chindeni Hills providing a wonderful backdrop. I love the fact that this stylish but rustic bush camp is in a remote area of Zambia’s Honeypot in the middle of the bush, where the magic happens.

Fly Zambia with Proflight Zambia

You can reach South Luangwa from Lusaka by road or by air with Proflight Zambia . From Mfuwe airstrip, it’s a 45-minute drive to the Bushcamp Company’s main lodge, Mfuwe Lodge ; famous because of the elephants passing the reception hallway to feed on their wild Mango tree. From Mfuwe Lodge it’s another 2,5 hour drive to Chindeni Camp.

Intimate bush camp offering prime wildlife viewing

Chindeni Bushcamp Company South Luangwa

With only 4 luxurious tented chalets, raised on decks with a private veranda overlooking the lagoon, it gives you the perfect intimate feel. The main area is a huge wooden deck surrounded by Ebony trees with the same magical views of the lagoon where elephants pass to drink, hippos wallow around, or wild dogs run along the tree line.

Chindeni is the best place to stay for safari in South Luangwa

These special views never get boring and the sunrise at Chindeni Camp is simply stunning.

Things to do at Chindeni Camp

Game drive in South Luangwa Zambia

At Chindeni Bush Camp, you can do several safari activities , that include walking safaris, scenic sundowners, game drives, and night drives.

Chindeni camp is the best place to stay for safari in Zambia

Prince was the perfect guide. He had a wealth of knowledge about all things nature; also the smaller things.

Walking Safari Bushcamp Company South Luangwa

I enjoyed going on game walks with him, but also the afternoon drive was fun and very informative.

Walking Safari is King

BUffaloes on Walking Safari South Luangwa

South Luangwa is the pioneer of walking safaris . Foot safaris differ from game drives as you will see so much more, for example, leopard scratches on a Natal Mahogany, rubbings of elephants along the bark of several trees, aardvark droppings, remains of animals, and sunbirds drinking the nectar of the sausage tree flowers.

Walking safari in South Luangwa Bushcamp Company

On our first morning, we saw two lionesses that were part of a bigger pride of 7 lions, famous for hunting hippos. Also, special was seeing an Ant Lion (part of the small five), and trees that grow on top of a termite mound, showing how old the termite mound already is. Another great sighting was a flock of yellow-billed storks catching catfish while being chased away by an African fish eagle who stole their fish.

Fish Eagle stealing fish from the yellow-billed storks

On our fruitful night drive, we saw for example a leopard, a leopard cub on its own, a serval, two genets and hippos grazing on the land.

Abundance of wildlife

Leopard Cub South Luangwa Zambia

Other animals we spotted on our walks during our 2 nights at Chindeni: leopards, elephants, hippos, a herd of buffalo, giraffes, wild dogs, a leopard with a kill, wild dogs with pups, kudu, crocodiles, and hyenas.

Chindeni Camp South Luangwa

So you honestly can’t go wrong booking at Chindeni Camp as the surroundings of the camp offer an abundance of wildlife right at your doorstep.

Conscious Bushcamp Company

safari lodges in zambia

The Bushcamp Company has 3 lodges and 6 bush camps. What makes them special is that they are the only safari operator in the Southern section of South Luangwa National Park and they can pride themselves on the intimate nature of their small, exclusive bush camps in awe-inspiring and remote locations, far from other camps and tourists.

Check out this 9-day safari tour that includes Mfuwe Lodge and one of their bush camps to experience splendid South Luangwa and Zambezi Valley.

Chindeni Safari Lodge Zambia in South Luangwa

What I also love about Bushcamp Company is that they give every client a water bottle as a gift to take home . The message on the bottle says ‘Refilling this bottle reduces annual consumption of single-use bottles by up to 55,000’. A magnificent gift to the environment and the bottle keeps your water cool for a minimum of 12 hours!

Every client also receives an elephant keyring for conservation . The proceeds from the sale of these colorful key rings benefit elephant conservation in South Luangwa National Park and you get them in all the colors of the rainbow.

Chamilandu Bush Camp in South Luangwa

Chamilandu Bush Camp South Luangwa Zambia

Chamilandu Bush Camp is not too far from Chindeni Camp, both owned by The Bushcamp Company. Chamilandu has a more rustic feel than Chindeni because their rooms are semi-open to the African bush. It's a great camp for the well-traveled Africa lover.

Chamilandu Bush camp Breakfast South Luangwa

Unfortunately, I didn't get to experience the camp to its fullest because I arrived very late in the evening when it was already dark and we left the following morning very early for a walking safari to Chindeni Camp. However, I loved the setup and the views of the river while enjoying the early morning light.

Luangwa Bush Camp in South Luangwa

Best place for bush camping in South Luangwa Zambia

At Luangwa Bush Camp from Robin Pope Safaris , you go back to basics as you will be camping in the middle of South Luangwa's wilderness with views of the Luangwa River. While this is not a luxury lodge experience, you will find luxury in being disconnected from the world and fully connected to nature instead. It's at this place, where I felt I could recharge my battery.

Sunset at Luangwa River Zambia

Hearing the laugh of a Hyena or a Lion's roar while sleeping in a canvas tent is truly something special; a different kind of luxury. Even the hot bucket shower felt like a wonderful gift as I didn't expect to have hot water while camping in the middle of the bush, but Luangwa Bush Camp has all you need! Even their breakfast, lunch, and dinner are great as they get the food from their Nsefu camp.

Lunch at Luangwa Bush Camp by Robin Pope Zambia

From Tena Tena Camp we did a walking safari to Luangwa Bush Camp. This was a very exciting walk as we spotted a leopard roaming in the distance, discovered Aardvark tracks, found a tooth of a leopard, saw beautiful trees and elephants, and a skull.

Walking Safari South Luangwa with Robin Pope Safaris

After arriving at the tented camp, you can't do more than relax in your tent or watch birds and animals like hippos along the Luangwa River.

Safari Tent at Luangwa Bush Camp by Robin Pope

After lunch, we did another walk around the camping area with interesting sightings of a hippo carcass and giraffes that seemed very relaxed in our presence.

Giraffe on Walking Safari with Robin Pope Safaris Zambia

For a different safari experience, I highly recommend bush camping in South Luangwa National Park with Robin Pope Safaris.   This off-the-grid bush experience is one of the reasons this camping adventure is one of my top places to stay for a safari in Zambia.

Mwaleshi Camp in North Luangwa

best place to stay for safari in North Luangwa Zambia

Mwaleshi Camp is a rustic bush camp on the banks of the Mwaleshi River 10 km upstream of the confluence with the Luangwa River. It’s the only camp in the vast wilderness of North Luangwa National Park offering 4 chalets, operating from June 15 until the end of October. The camp is part of Remote Africa Safaris and the easiest way to get to the camp is by plane from RASAir , Remote Africa’s in-house Cessna 210. It’s a 40-minute flight from Mfuwe Airport in South Luangwa with scenic views of the Luangwa River.

Remarkable, remote, and rustic

Rustic Mwaleshi Camp North Luangwa

The feel of the North differs from the South. There’s no distraction of other people or cars passing and Mwaleshi is one of the in total two camps inside the park. The other camp, Takwela, is also part of Remote Africa Safaris but that camp is in a different area of North Luangwa.

Mwaleshi Camp Remote Africa Safaris Zambia

The camp is very rustic and might not be for everyone, especially if you’re a first-time Africa visitor but I rank Mwaleshi Camp and its surrounding nature as one of the favorite places I stayed in Africa .

Mwaleshi Camp North Luangwa Zambia

The remoteness of the camp and the semi-open cottage built with natural materials only using local skills, is what makes it so exclusive. Also, the purity of the walks into areas with no roads adds to the exclusivity.

Only Black Rhino population in Zambia

The area along the Mwaleshi River offers a chance to see the Big Five (and wild dog) on foot and North Luangwa is a hotspot for lion, kudu, Zambia’s endemic Cookson’s wildebeest, elephant, wild dog, and black rhino.

Mwaleshi Camp is within a 120 km 2 black rhino sanctuary , another reason this hidden gem is worth visiting. According to Birdwatch Zambia, there are 416 species of birds and the Luangwa Valley is also one of the top 10 lion strongholds of Africa.

Pure Nature Connection

With no Wi-Fi, cell phone connection, or electricity it is purely a connection to nature here. Use all your senses to connect to nature and enjoy being present in the very moment. It’s the perfect place to recharge your battery and I recommend a minimum of 4 days to fully immerse yourself into this remote luxury for the best experience.

Waking up to the sun rising over the Mwaleshi River while having your breakfast around the fire and listening to the sounds of the birds is a perfect start of the day and a great way to prepare yourself for a 4-hour walking safari. In the afternoon, you go out for another 2.5 to 3-hour walking safari ending with a sundowner while watching the sun set over the Mwaleshi river.

Home-cooked cuisine

mwaleshi camp north luangwa zambia

Back at the camp, you can enjoy a perfect candlelight dinner, cooked over a wood fire. They bake the  homemade bread with coals in the ground and their fresh vegetables come straight from their vegetable garden .

Most inspiring guide & camp manager

Guiding at Mwaleshi camp Zambia

A guide can make or break your safari. Brent was honestly one of the most inspiring souls I have met . He’s extremely passionate about all things nature, sharing his knowledge philosophically.

Brent Mwaleshi Camp North Luangwa

A very interesting person to listen to with a pleasant voice; the perfect person for a TedTalk if you ask me. Brent is the kind of guide that makes you want to go back to that place.

Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls

Devils Pool Victoria Falls Zambia

The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls is a very expensive hotel part of the Anantara Hotel Group, so it's not for everybody. I haven't slept here myself, but I visited this luxury property a few times for lunch and a delicious high tea. This hotel has been included in the list of the best places to stay in Zambia because it serves as the departure point by boat to Livingstone Island for the Devil's Pool activity.

The Victoria Falls Waterfront in Livingstone

The Victoria Falls Waterfront is a much more affordable place to stay in Livingstone. It's close to Victoria Falls, overlooking the Northern banks of the Zambezi River, and is only 10km away from the famous Victoria Falls, the smoke that thunders. The lodge also has a swimming pool, braai facilities, and a lively bar.

Best places to stay for Safari in Zambia

Best safari lodges in Zambia

Most of the best places to stay are intimate bush camps and exclusive safari lodges in Zambia's most pristine wilderness areas , such as Lower Zambezi National Park, Kafue National Park, South Luangwa National Park, and North Luangwa National Park. If you are looking for a real remote safari experience with an abundance of wildlife away from the crowds, choose Zambia as your next safari destination! It's one of Africa's underrated countries for safari but I'm 100% sure you won't regret traveling to one of the safest countries in Africa. Be ready for awe-inspiring natural wonders and Zambia's enchanting wilderness.

Here’s a summary of my 11 hand-picked favorite accommodations to stay for safari in Zambia :

  •  Wild Dogs Lodge in Lusaka
  •  Pioneer Camp in Lusaka
  •  Mukambi Safari Lodge in Kafue National Park
  •  Chiawa Camp in Lower Zambezi National Park
  •  Old Mondoro in Lower Zambezi National Park
  •  Chindeni Camp in South Luangwa National Park
  •  Chamilandu Bushcamp in South Luangwa National Park
  •  Luangwa Bush Camping
  •  Mwaleshi Camp in North Luangwa National Park
  •  Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls
  •  The Victoria Falls Waterfront in Livingstone

Do you have tips for lodges that deserve to be part of this list too? Share your tips in the comments or invite me to visit your lodge. Check out this selection of Zambia Safari Tours to book your next safari in Zambia.

safari lodges in zambia

I’m a NatGeo-published travel and wildlife photographer, and travel blogger on a mission to travel, explore, and capture the world with love and respect for our planet. I’m also a photo safari guide taking travel lovers on photography trips to Africa.I gave up my great position as a Policy Advisor at the government to follow my dreams. As a nature & wildlife enthusiast at heart, I feel at home in the African bush. It makes me feel humble, alive, and free. I understood my place in the world again and the important role we must play in maintaining our natural balance.In this busy world, we live in, I use my photography as an anchor to slow down and mindfully connect to nature, by observing and capturing our natural world from the heart, creating imagery that represents our wild nature & the true essence of life. To me, it's important to inspire others with our love for the natural world & its wildlife so that we can help preserve it for future generations.I believe that travel makes you a better person and enriches your life if you treat 'Mother Earth' and all its inhabitants the way you want to be treated, with love and respect!We hope you're enjoying our free travel tips and photos taken on our planet. If so, please consider supporting our work by buying us a coffee through https://ko-fi.com/ourplanetinmylens

the Luxury Travel Expert

  • [ March 11, 2024 ] Top 10 world’s most luxurious wilderness hotels Top 10 lists
  • [ March 8, 2024 ] Aman Resorts launches luxury yacht cruising Travel news
  • [ March 4, 2024 ] Top 10 best First Class airlines in the world Top 10 lists
  • [ March 1, 2024 ] Travel contests & sweepstakes: win luxury holidays! Travel contests
  • [ February 28, 2024 ] Review: Patina Maldives, Fari Islands Hotels reviews

Top 10 best hotels & safari lodges in Zambia

Monday  newsletters  always feature  top 10 travel lists  to inspire.

Today (November 18, 2019): Top 10 best hotels & safari lodges in Zambia.

Zambia is not often the first country travelers think of when they want to go on a safari. However, IMHO, the southern African country — home to Victoria Fall and 20 national parks – is Africa’s most underrated safari destination, despite the fact that it offers the greatest all-round wilderness experience in the continent, alongside Botswana. The seclusion and untouched raw beauty of the country is unrivaled, attracting those looking to experience the “true Africa.” The game viewing here is prolific as well, with huge herds of elephant, large prides of lions, packs of wild dogs, and a healthy leopard population. There are also plenty of appealing places to stay, with the market being dominated by Time + Tide , one of Africa’s most exclusive safari companies. Here’s my countdown of the ten best safari lodges, camps, and hotels in Zambia.

There is more information (with Youtube clips) below the slideshow. Think I missed a hotel in Zambia? Leave a comment .

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

*** Follow me on  Instagram ,  Youtube ,  Twitter  or  Facebook  for a daily moment of travel inspiration ***

10. SAUSAGE TREE CAMP, LOWER ZAMBEZI NATIONAL PARK

Sausage Tree Camp is hidden amongst mature sausage and mahogany trees on the banks of the Zambezi River. Beautiful accommodation includes seven luxury suites with open air bathrooms, dining and lounge area, personal bar, private pool and veranda. The sole-use Kigelia House is perfect for small groups or families, as it features two spacious bedrooms, ensuite bathrooms, a sitting room, private pool and veranda. African-fusion meals are served in the open-air dining tent, on the main viewing deck or in the privacy of guests’ tents. Adventures include twice-daily game drives with your private guide, walking safaris, canoeing, boat cruises and fishing.

  • Hotel website : Sausage Tree Camp

BEST HOTELS LODGES ZAMBIA

9. SHUMBA CAMP BY WILDERNESS SAFARIS, KAFUE NATIONAL PARK

Shumba Camp is situated in the massive Kafue National Park near the famed Busanga Plains area — considered one of Zambia’s most important wetlands, as well as a wildlife paradise with a wealth of plains game, predators and birds. The camp’s well-appointed tents boast spectacular views of the surrounding plains and feature a lovely ensuite bathroom with both indoor and outdoor showers. Delectable meals are prepared and cooked on the open fire, in front of guests — offering a traditional culinary bush experience. Adventures include morning and evening game drives, walking safaris and birdwatching. Wonderful scenic boat trips offer the opportunity to explore the region’s channels.

  • Hotel website : Shumba Camp by Wilderness Safaris

BEST HOTELS LODGES ZAMBIA

8. TONGABEZI LODGE, MOSI-OA-TUNYA NATIONAL PARK

Set in the shade of a towering grove of ebony trees, Tongabezi Lodge is set on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River. Warm and exclusive, the lodge consists of five river cottages and six private houses. Boasting high ceilings and expansive wooden and glass doors and windows, the accommodations combine authentic local style with a beautifully clean and modern design. Delectable meals can be savored at one of three open-air dining decks or in the privacy of your own cottage or house. A shimmering swimming pool mimics the colors of the Zambezi and invites guests to cool off. Activities include game drives, bush walks, canoeing, tours of Victoria Falls and much more.

  • Hotel website : Tongabezi Lodge

BEST HOTELS LODGES ZAMBIA

7. MFUWE LODGE BY THE BUSHCAMP COMPANY, SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK

Award-winning Mfuwe Lodge (recently voted the 9th best hotel in the world by Travel + Leisure ) is set inside Zambia’s most famous wildlife sanctuary, just a five min drive from the main gate. The lodge’s allure is instantly obvious. Beneath a canopy of ebony and mahogany, its eighteen air-conditioned chalets are arranged around the banks of two lagoons where an endless stream of wildlife keeps guests enthralled as they 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. Mfuwe Lodge also offers its guest a chance to relax at its bush spa or to buy a few mementos at it curio shop.

  • Hotel website : Mfuwe Lodge by The Bushcamp Company

BEST HOTELS LODGES ZAMBIA

6. ROYAL ZAMBEZI LODGE, LOWER ZAMBEZI NATIONAL PARK

Set against the breathtaking mountain backdrop of the Zambezi Valley Escarpment, the Royal Zambezi Lodge has 3,5 km (2 mi) of unspoiled river frontage on the northern bank of the Zambezi River. The lodge is directly across the river from Mana Pools National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on the Zimbabwe side and just minutes from the Lower Zambezi National Park. The lodge’s 15 airy canopied tents are nestled under mature trees, each one carefully positioned to ensure maximum enjoyment of the surrounding views while retaining complete privacy. After a long day fishing or tracking wildlife the infinity pool – which overlooks the river – is the perfect place to relax and unwind.

  • Hotel website : Royal Zambezi Lodge

BEST HOTELS LODGES ZAMBIA

5. THE ROYAL LIVINGSTONE VICTORIA FALLS HOTEL BY ANANTARA

The Royal Livingstone Hotel stretches luxuriously along the banks of the Zambezi River. A stone’s throw away from the mighty Victoria Falls, the property overlooks the smooth waters just before it plunges over the legendary waterfall creating a permanent waterspray. The hotel consists of a series of 17 colonial-style buildings, with deep verandas, set amidst indigenous trees and plants. The main hotel is a sequence of thatch-roofed buildings, most African in their influence, and incorporates the lounge, restaurant and bar. A classic swimming pool visually links the waters of the river with the terraces of the hotel, with a sweeping timber deck planted in the swirling water of the Zambezi.

  • Hotel website : The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Hotel by Anantara
  • Tip : get compimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and arrival by water taxi along the mighty Zambezi River).

BEST HOTELS LODGES ZAMBIA

4. TIME + TIDE KAKULI BUSHCAMP, SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK

The famous Norman Carr pioneered walking safaris in Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park and his legacy lives on at Time + Tide Kakuli bush camp, and its three Time + Tide sister hotels Luwi, Nsolo and Mchenja. Perched high above the Luangwa River, Time + Tide Kakuli offers impressive vistas of the river’s many visitors below. Designed to celebrate the panoramic setting, the suites have a long, low profile and a bright, airy feel. Kakuli can be used as one ‘stop’ on a longer camp-to-camp walking safari. All walking safaris in Zambia are conducted with an armed game scout leading the way, followed by your professional safari guide.

  • Hotel website : Time + Tide Kakuli
  • Review : read my review of Time + Tide Kakuli here .

3. TIME + TIDE KING LEWANIKA, LIUWA PLAIN NATIONAL PARK

Set on the banks of the Munde stream, King Lewanika Lodge is located in Liuwa Plain National Park, which is home to Africa’s second biggest wildebeest migration, magnificent birdlife, a growing cheetah population, and the famed Lady Liuwa lion pride. Raised on wooden platforms, the lodges mimic the vast expanse of the Liuwa plains with an open and airy design. Modern and sleek, yet perfectly in tune with their setting, the hotel’s 6 villas offer total immersion in the vast landscape, allowing travelers to experience nature’s masterpiece in a meaningful way. Each villa features a comfortable lounge, a spacious bathroom with an outdoor shower and a wide terrace from which to marvel at the views.

  • Hotel website : Time + Tide King Lewanika

BEST HOTELS LODGES ZAMBIA

2. TIME + TIDE CHONGWE, LOWER ZAMBEZI NATIONAL PARK

Time + Tide Chongwe is set at the confluence of the Chongwe and Zambezi Rivers against a beautiful mountainous backdrop, offering the best views in the Lower Zambezi. While the camp’s 9 ensuite tents are beautifully appointed, the real draw are the two ultraluxe Suites and Chongwe House. The Albida Suite sleeps four guests in two elegant ensuite bedrooms situated on either side of a private dining and lounge area complete with a plunge pool and fire pit. The Cassia Suite is an ultra-private suite for two consisting of a luxurious bedroom, canopied lounge, and plunge pool. Zambia’s most spectacular private safari home – Chongwe House – sleeps eight guests in four spacious ensuite bedrooms.

  • Hotel website : Time + Tide Chongwe Suites and Time + Tide Chongwe House
  • Review : read my review of Time + Tide Chongwe here .

1. TIME + TIDE CHINZOMBO, SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK

Situated on a sweeping curve of the Luangwa River and designed by award-winning architects Silvio Rech and Lesley Carstens, Time + Tide Chinzombo is Zambia’s most exclusive hotel. Six beautiful and wildly luxurious villas combine a modern architectural feel with natural materials such as leather, reeds and canvas. Each villa boasts its own private plunge pool and is situated on an elevated deck that boasts views of the tranquil river and the abundant wildlife that frequents its banks. A winding path connects the villas with a shared lounge and dining area set in the shade of msikizi trees. A boat ride across the river gives guests direct access into the game rich Luangwa National Park.

  • Hotel website : Time + Tide Chinzombo
  • Review : read my review of Time + Tide Chinzombo here .

Share this:

  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)
  • Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
  • Click to print (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)

Related Articles

BEST HOTELS IN PRAGUE

Top 10 best luxury hotels in Prague

Monday newsletters always feature top 10 travel lists to inspire […]

most spectacular waterfalls in the world

Top 10 most spectacular waterfalls in the world

Monday newsletters always feature top 10 travel lists to inspire […]

BEST HONEYMOON HOTELS IN THE WORLD

Top 10 most phenomenal luxury hotels for a honeymoon

I normally enjoy your ‘Best of’. Not sure you got Zambia though, you have missed some awesome lodges like Chiawa and its incredible bush camp Old Mondoro in Lower Zambezi. Tena Tena and Kaingo in South Luangwa. Time and Tide lodges are very good but possibly not 1/2/3/4.

Is that a real elephant walking through Mfuwe Lodge??

Totally with Jane Cleave on this! It’s about safari, not just about lodges, right? So how come Chiawa and Old Mondoro or Kaingo nowhere on this list??

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

© The Luxury Travel Expert 2023

Discover more from the Luxury Travel Expert

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

SafariBookings

  • You are here:

Top 10 Best Zambia Safari Lodges & Camps

Top 10 Best Zambia Safari Lodges & Camps

Ariadne is a renowned African wildlife photographer whose work is featured in many well-known guidebooks and magazines.

There is no shortage of outstanding Zambia safari lodges and camps. Whether you’re looking for the ultimate rustic camp with minimal walls and maximum bush ambience or a more traditional luxurious retreat with all mod cons, Zambia has plenty of options for everyone. Making sense of it all can be a little daunting, so here goes with some of our favorite Zambia safari lodges and camps.

Mfuwe Lodge

Mfuwe Lodge room

Mfuwe Lodge is the perfect base for safaris in the game-rich South Luangwa National Park . You don’t need to go far to see lots of wildlife when staying here. All 18 chalets, carefully positioned in the shade of ancient mahogany and ebony trees, have views over a large lagoon, a draw for thirsty animals in the Dry season. In November you might even see elephants wandering through the lobby in search of wild mangos.

Mfuwe Lodge Tours

The River Club

View over the Zambezi from a River Club suite

Just a stone’s throw from Victoria Falls, the River Club is the perfect add-on to a safari. The elegant suites with magnificent views over the mighty Zambezi offer a perfect haven to unwind. But there are also plenty of activities if you feel like keeping busy. Swim in the infinity pool with forever-views over the river, meander the paths along the property’s riverine forest, enjoy the sunset on an evening cruise, or indulge in a relaxing massage.

Tena Tena Safari Tent

Tena Tena, which translates as ‘temporary home’ is located in the remote Nsefu sector of South Luangwa National Park . Guests are accommodated in six spacious tents maximising privacy and uninterrupted views onto a magnificent stretch of the Luangwa River. The main area is moulded around a massive termite mound in the shade of an ancient mahogany tree. This home away from home offers the ultimate personalised safari experience in a rustic, yet elegant environment.

Tena Tena Tours

Tafika Camp

Family chalet twin room

If you’re yearning for an old-style, no-frills, authentic safari camp deep in South Luangwa, look no further. The intimate, owner-managed Tafika Camp hosts just 14 guests at a time in thatched huts on the bank of the Luangwa River. Wildlife viewing is superb here with big cats, especially leopards , stealing the show. Walking safaris and mountain biking safaris are highly recommended too.

Tafika Camp Tours

Sausage Tree Camp

Luxury suite view

Tucked away in the remote depths of Lower Zambezi National Park , Sausage Tree Camp is the epitome of safari chic. This 5-star luxury camp has it all – including a 25-meter swimming pool overlooking the mighty Zambezi River. Expect incredible attention to detail, immaculate service and gourmet food, but don’t forget what it is all about – the guiding and wildlife viewing are equally outstanding.

Sausage Tree Camp Tours

Busanga Plains Camp

Busanga Plains Camp chalet

This small seasonal bush camp is located in the middle of the famous Busanga flood plains in Kafue National Park . As Zambia safari camps go, it doesn’t get more ‘bush’ than this. Busanga Plains Camp consists of just four luxury safari tents with open-air bucket-shower bathrooms and a rustic communal area around a campfire. While the surroundings are humble and in perfect balance with nature, the service and food are fit for a king. Don’t think you’ll be slumming it here.

Busanga Plains Camp Tours

Mwaleshi Camp

Mwaleshi Camp Aerial view

As only one of three accommodations in the inaccessible wilderness of North Luangwa National Park , Mwaleshi Camp offers a truly exclusive walking safari experience. It doesn’t get more remote than this. Access is by small aircraft only and there are virtually no roads in the park. With your expert guide, you’ll have a real chance of tracking down the Big Five (and wild dog) on foot. The camp is made up of four rustic chalets with minimal facilities but hot showers on request.

Mwaleshi Camp Tours

Time + Tide Chinzombo

Time + Tide Chinzombo villa river view

Chinzombo, with its award-winning designer villas, is South Luangwa’s most luxurious safari camp. It is made up of six spacious units with private plunge pools and panoramic views over the Luangwa River . Contemporary design, mixed with natural materials offer a touch of sophistication to this 5-star bush retreat. Award-winning guides are ever ready to take you on thrilling game drives, walks and boat cruises.

Time + Tide Chinzombo Tours

The Royal Livingstone Hotel

Zebras on lawn

Exuding the charm of a bygone era, the Royal Livingstone Hotel offers luxury accommodation within walking distance to Victoria Falls. Enjoy a world-class spa treatment on the banks of the river and try the different African and International dining options available in the hotel. Your private butler will make all arrangements. And don’t miss out on high tea. Where else do you get zebras nibbling on the manicured lawn while drinking a cuppa?

The Royal Livingstone Hotel Tours

Ila Safari Lodge

Luxury tent with Kafue river view

Ila Safari Lodge offers luxury tented accommodation in Kafue National Park . The tents seamlessly blend into the wild surroundings while offering sweeping views of the Kafue River. However, its main claim to fame is its minimal carbon footprint and outstanding eco credentials. From the solar powered electricity to the locally sourced building materials to its development of Zambia ’s first electrical game drive vehicle. Veggies are grown in a community garden and the friendly staff are local villagers trained on site.

Ila Safari Lodge Tours

Want To Visit Zambia?

Click on the button below to compare Zambia safaris offered by top rated tour operators.

158 Zambia Safaris

About SafariBookings

SafariBookings is the largest online marketplace for African safari tours. Easily compare offers from top-rated tour operators. Make decisions like a pro by using our 100,937 reviews and 223 destination guides. More About Us

  • Country Overview
  • Parks & Reserves
  • Popular Routes
  • Tour Operators

Zambia Safaris

10-Day Romantic Zambia Honeymoon Safari

10-Day Romantic Zambia Honeymoon Safari

$7,435 to $8,076 pp (USD)

5-Day Safari to Livingstone and Kafue National Park

5-Day Safari to Livingstone and Kafue National Park

$902 pp (USD)

7-Day South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi Epic Safari

7-Day South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi Epic Safari

$3,630 pp (USD)

Zambia Safaris by Type

  • Budget Safaris
  • Luxury Safaris
  • South Luangwa
  • Kafue Safaris
  • Lower Zambezi
  • Victoria Falls Tour Itineraries
  • Mosi-oa-Tunya
  • North Luangwa

Best Time To Visit Zambia

Parks & reserves zambia.

safari lodges in zambia

South Luangwa National Park

safari lodges in zambia

Kafue National Park

safari lodges in zambia

Lower Zambezi National Park

Photo gallery zambia.

safari lodges in zambia

Map of Zambia

safari lodges in zambia

Most Popular Blog Posts

  • Best Time for African Safari
  • Best Safari in South Africa
  • Family Safari in South Africa
  • African Safari Tips
  • Game Reserves Near Cape Town
  • What to Pack for a Safari
  • Best African Safari Parks
  • Top 5 Best African Honeymoon Safaris
  • Top 5 Best Tanzania Family Safaris
  • Best Places to See Cheetahs in Africa
  • How Much Does an African Safari Cost?
  • Best Places To Visit In Africa in 2024

Blog Categories

Safari tours to zambia.

Zambia: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Lusaka (Start) , South Luangwa NP, Victoria Falls, Livingstone (End)

Wayfairer Travel

4.9 /5  –  149 Reviews

Zambia: Private tour Budget Lodge & Guest House

You Visit: Livingstone (Start) , Mosi-oa-Tunya NP, Kafue NP, Livingstone (End)

4.9 /5  –  28 Reviews

Zambia: Shared tour (max 8 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge

You Visit: Lusaka (Start) , South Luangwa NP, Lower Zambezi NP, Lusaka (End)

Wilderness Horizon Safaris

4.9 /5  –  16 Reviews

TOP DESTINATIONS

  • Kruger Park
  • Okavango Delta
  • Serengeti National Park
  • Victoria Falls

TOP COUNTRIES

  • South Africa

TRAVEL DEALS

View All Travel Deals

SOUTHERN AFRICA

East africa, indian ocean islands, top experiences.

  • Beach Holidays
  • Family Safaris
  • Honeymoon Safaris
  • Desert Safaris
  • Luxury Rail Safaris
  • Multi-Generational Safaris
  • Positive Impact Safaris
  • Photographic Safaris
  • Walking Safaris

WILDLIFE SAFARI

  • Big Five Safaris
  • Birding Safaris
  • Gorilla Trekking Safaris
  • Migration Safaris
  • Mobile Camping Safaris
  • Horseback Safaris

FEATURED EXPERIENCES

Comfort levels, property types.

  • Tented Camps
  • Boutique Hotels

Featured Safari Collections

  • Time & Tide
  • Extraordinary
  • African Anthology
  • Desert & Delta

GET TO KNOW US

  • Meet The Team
  • Pricing Explained
  • Traveller Reviews
  • Traveller Stories
  • Why Book With Us?
  • HerdTracker
  • Safari Cost Calculator
  • South Africa In 360
  • Trusted Safari Partners

What are you looking for?

  • Safaris & Tours

Destinations

  • Experiences
  • Accommodations
  • Why book with us?

Hello traveller!

It's in Cape Town now.

We're sorry. Our safari planners aren't available now. Our office hours are 08:00 - 19:00 (GMT+2).

Call us to speak to an experienced safari planner.

Alternatively, we recommend...

Schedule a phone or Zoom call with one of our safari planners

Complete our travel enquiry form to connect with a safari planner

Zambia Safari Lodges, Game Lodges, Tented Camps & Villas

Search our collection of the 73 best zambia safari lodges, game lodges, tented camps & villas, comfort level, property types.

73 match of 1116

safari lodges in zambia

African Bush Camps Thorntree River Lodge

Zambia Livingstone

Thorntree River Lodge is set in Zambia’s Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park, just a short distance from...

safari lodges in zambia

Special Offer

Stay 7, pay 5

Anabezi Camp

Zambia Lower Zambezi National Park

Explore pristine and untouched wilderness in one of Africa’s most remote safari destinations. Anabezi sits...

safari lodges in zambia

Baines' River Camp

Set under Jackalberry and Tamarind trees on the banks of the Zambezi River, you will...

safari lodges in zambia

Bilimungwe Bushcamp

Zambia South Luangwa National Park

Overlooking 3 waterholes with many herds of resident elephant, Bilimungwe Bushcamp is a hidden gem...

safari lodges in zambia

Chamilandu Bushcamp

Chamilandu is a breathtaking camp on one of the South Luangwa’s prime river locations, perfect...

safari lodges in zambia

Chiawa Camp

On the banks of the Zambezi River, under the largest grove of Mahogany trees, the...

safari lodges in zambia

Chikunto Safaris Lodge

Chikunto Safari Lodge is a boutique lodge located on an amazing site within the world-renowned...

safari lodges in zambia

Chindeni Bushcamp

Situated on the edge of an oxbow lagoon and set against the backdrop of the...

safari lodges in zambia

Chisa Busanga Camp

Zambia Kafue National Park

After falling in love with the Busanga Plains, Chisa Busanga Camp was built to mimic...

safari lodges in zambia

Chongwe River Camp

Zambia Zambezi River

Time + Tides’ recently renovated site, Chongwe camp, has each safari tent situated beside the meeting...

safari lodges in zambia

Chula Island Camp

Chula Island Camp, a gem nestled by the Zambezi River, blends luxury with the essence...

safari lodges in zambia

Chundukwa River Lodge

Zambia Victoria Falls

Chundukwa River Lodge is located on a horse ranch, set alongside the Zambezi River, just...

safari lodges in zambia

Flatdogs Camp

Flatdogs camp offers a mix of accommodations right next to the South Luangwa NP, it...

safari lodges in zambia

Ila Safari Lodge

The lodge is re-opening in March 2024.  Ila Safari Lodge is located on the banks...

safari lodges in zambia

Island Bush Camp

Island Bush Camp is owned and operated by Ron & Anke Cowan, along with sister...

safari lodges in zambia

Islands of Siankaba

The Islands of Siankaba luxury lodge is located on two private islands in the middle...

safari lodges in zambia

Kafunta River Lodge

The 10-room lodge is located on the floodplains of the Luangwa River, away from the...

safari lodges in zambia

Kaingo Camp

Located deep within the South Luangwa, in an area renowned for Leopard, Kaingo Camp offers...

Zambia Accommodation

Zambia’s about so much more than just the Victoria Falls . Enjoy canoe safaris in the Lower Zambezi National Park , walking safaris in the Luangwa Valley and leopard-spotting on night drives in South Luangwa and the Lower Zambezi. There’s also spectacular birdlife along the Zambezi and around Lake Bengweulu.

Zambia safaris are renowned for their natural beauty and are one of the most pristine and unspoiled wildlife havens on the entire African continent, owing to the country’s incredibly low population. This low population is one of the many reasons the accomodation in Zambia is so unique, with a huge variety of luxurious Zambia game lodges, safari lodges and tented camps.

Safari Lodges, Game Lodges & Tented Camps 

Kafue National Park is Zambia’s largest wildlife reserve and also one of the biggest in Africa. It covers more than 22000km² (2500km2 more than South Africa’s Kruger National Park ), and the terrain varies significantly from north to south.

Zambia accommodation in the park offers travellers plenty of options for places to stay in between safaris, from Zambia safari lodges to Zambia game lodges and Zambia tented camps.

Kasanka National Park is Zambia’s only privately managed park, run by the Kasanka Trust charity in partnership with the local community. At slightly less than 400km2, it’s also one of Zambia’s smallest, lying just south of the Bangweulu Wetlands near the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Lake Kariba is the world’s largest man-made dam by volume, extending over 5000km2 along Zambia’s southern border. Completed in 1959, the dam provides hydro-electric power to both Zambia and Zimbabwe, and fish stocks – mainly tilapia, kapenta and the prized tigerfish – are also shared.

One of Zambia’s most remote national parks, Liuwa Plain lies west of the upper Zambezi River, close to the border with Angola. It’s made up of vast grasslands with a smattering of pans, dotted here and there with palms and clumps of Kalahari woodland.

Lower Zambezi National Park is one of Zambia’s premier wildlife destinations, certainly in the top three with South Luangwa and Kafue. Wildlife viewing is best along the rivers, which border the park on three sides. Some of Zambia’s safari lodges, game lodges or Zambia’s tented camps actually offer boat cruises that allow you to get close to some of this spectacular wildlife. 

The Zambezi River itself is the region’s main source of water and the major attraction, both for visitors and game. Zambia game lodges, Zambia tented camps and Zambia safari lodges offer guests brilliant Zambia accommodation choices in the region.

Popular search terms: Zambia Accommodation, Zambia Safari Lodges, Zambia Game Lodges, Zambia Tented Camps 

Why travel with us?

Recent reviews from travellers who planned and booked their africa trips with discover africa safaris, our tour operator susan was extremely prompt efficient with our travel plans..

13 Day South Africa, Uganda and Kenya Safari Review

Kathy Menary, New Zealand 13 Jul 2023

Promptly reliable.

2 Day Kruger Safari Review

Sonal Patel , United States 05 Apr 2023

Quick to respond and easy to talk with.

Botswana and Zimbabwe Safari Review

Riley, Canada 26 Aug 2022

Very efficient service to get us on safari in a wonderful reserve..

Eastern Cape Safari Review

David, United Kingdom 16 Mar 2018

Well planned safari and good service.

Safari in East Africa Review

Billy, South Africa 11 Dec 2014

Our wedding planning ran so much smoother with discover africa..

A Wedding Safari Review

Dorinda & Charl, South Africa 01 Mar 2013

Speak to an expert safari planner.

Schedule a video or phone call with one of our African Safari Experts to plan a tailor-made tour around your interests, wishes and budget.

safari lodges in zambia

Ready to plan a tailor-made safari?

Enquire now and a Travel Expert will get back to you within 24 hours.

Registered Members of these Organizations

USEFUL LINKS

  • African Safaris
  • African Safari Tours
  • African Safari Lodges
  • Why Book with us?
  • Content Collaborations
  • Safari Cost Estimator Tool
  • Wildebeest Migration
  • Privacy Policy
  • Website Terms of Use

POPULAR COUNTRIES

  • View All Countries
  • South Africa Safaris
  • Botswana Safaris
  • Kenya Safaris
  • Tanzania Safaris
  • Namibia Safaris
  • Rwanda Safaris
  • Uganda Safaris
  • Zambia Safaris
  • Zimbabwe Safaris

POPULAR DESTINATIONS

  • View All Destinations
  • Cape Town Holidays
  • Kruger Safaris
  • Victoria Falls Safaris
  • Masai Mara Safaris
  • Serengeti Safaris
  • Etosha Safaris
  • Chobe Safaris
  • Okavango Delta Safaris

TRAVEL BLOGS

  • Tanzania Through the Lens: 5 Must-Visit Safari Destinations
  • Mountain Gorillas and Volcanos: Why Rwanda is a Photographer’s Dream Safari
  • 5 Kenya Highlights Worthy of Your Next Photo Safari
  • Winged Wonders: Top 10 Must-See Birds on Your Next South African Safari
  • 5 of the Most Interesting Plants in Botswana

DISCOVER AFRICA SAFARIS

  • 2nd floor, Tygervalley Chambers One, 27 Willie van Schoor Avenue, Bellville, Cape Town , 7530
  • Search Please fill out this field.
  • Manage Your Subscription
  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • Sweepstakes

Zambia's Newest Safari Lodge Is Within a UNESCO World Heritage Site — and Gets You Closer to the Wildlife Than Ever Before

Opened in June, Lolebezi is located in Zambia's remote Lower Zambezi National Park.

Jessica Poitevien is an international storyteller and regular contributor to Travel + Leisure.

safari lodges in zambia

As I walked along the gravel-covered path to my suite at the new safari lodge Lolebezi , which opened in June 2022 in Zambia's Lower Zambezi National Park, my experienced guide scanned the surrounding bushes and winter thorn trees for any signs of wildlife.

We almost made it to my room incident-free — until we saw a large male elephant casually munching on the vegetation near my front door. So instead of going the easy way (as in, entering through the front door), my guide helped me sneak around the corner and enter my suite via the back patio, leaving the pachyderm to enjoy his meal. My guide left, but my two-ton friend chose to stay with me for a while.

With floor-to-ceiling windows along the entire back wall of my suite, I decided to skip my afternoon nap and admire the mighty creature meandering along the shores of Zambia's Zambezi River.

"We like the land to dictate the pace of life," said Beks Ndlovu, founder and CEO of African Bush Camps (ABC), the safari outfitter that operates Lolebezi. "Ultimately, we believe that if you don't, you'll miss something that nature has to give us as a gift."

Following Nature's Lead

Listening to the rhythm of the land meant early morning game drives to spot lions fresh off a kill; taking a detour when a mother elephant and her babies decided to block the road; and changing plans when we spotted wild dogs take down an impala.

Lolebezi's location in Lower Zambezi National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers the unique opportunity to explore a remote region that's teeming with wildlife but few other safari-goers. It's truly wild, in every sense of the word, with no enclosures or fences stopping the animals from roaming freely and allowing us to witness our guides' tracking skills hard at work.

Throughout our daily game drives, we saw waterbucks, hyenas, warthogs, zebras, baboons, impalas by the dozen, and so much more. This region of Zambia is also known for its high population of the ever-elusive leopard, giving guests an increased likelihood of spotting one. Meanwhile, birders can also catch a glimpse of several fascinating species like the vibrant lilac-breasted roller or the bateleur eagle.

Standard game drive vehicles hold up to nine passengers, but at Lolebezi — and the other 16 ABC properties — only six people are seated in each car (unless requested otherwise), so everyone gets close to the action with a window seat. Brave visitors can even embark on walking safaris, a practice that originated in Zambia .

And the action doesn't stop on land. An essential part of letting nature lead the way comes from Lolebezi's most unique asset: direct access to Africa's fourth longest river. While most safari-goers across Africa don't have the opportunity to enjoy water-based activities, they're an integral part of the Lolebezi experience.

Guests can start their day upstream on the Zambezi River, canoe toward the lodge, and stop for brunch on a sandbar, where staff will set up umbrella-shaded tables for a full meal, enjoyed from chairs propped up in ankle-deep water. Fishing enthusiasts can test their skills on a catch-and-release excursion and attempt to reel in the jewel of the Zambezi, the tiger fish, a species that earned its name thanks to its mouthful of surprisingly large and sharp teeth. For a more tranquil water adventure, Lolebezi guides often take guests cruising on the river to enjoy their evening sundowner — a safari tradition where everyone gathers around sunset for pre-dinner snacks and drinks. No matter how guests get on the water, hippos and crocodiles will be there to accompany them from a safe distance.

Honoring Zambia Through Design

The philosophy of "letting the land dictate" the experience places such importance on nature — and that's reflected throughout the design of Lolebezi, with an added emphasis on Zambian culture. Like the forest surrounding it, this luxury lodge seems to sprout from the ground with its various natural materials and a neutral color palette. Notable features include woven reed ceilings, hand-carved wooden doors, a unique calabash curtain in the dining area, plus fish scales, crocodiles, and bird motifs subtly blending into the décor.

The attention to detail is especially impressive in the eight suites at Lolebezi, including two designed specifically for families. Suites are divided into two sections, with the bedrooms and sitting areas facing east for stunning sunrise views, while the bathroom and dressing room face west. With floor-to-ceiling windows on the river-facing side of the suite, I could soak up the unobstructed views from the bedroom to the frameless indoor shower to even the loo. These towering windows also serve as sliding doors opening to the outdoor deck, complete with lounge chairs, seating areas, and a private plunge pool. With the doors fully open, the living space becomes an indoor-outdoor living room, immersing you in the idyllic environment.

The thoughtful design continues throughout the property with an outdoor yoga space, a spa, a game room, and a gym, all with floor-to-ceiling glass doors that keep guests connected to the natural beauty of Lower Zambezi at all times. Lolebezi also offers an outdoor dining pavilion and lounge areas, including a fire pit where guests gather for sundowners and an infinity-edge pool overlooking the Zambezi River. It's where I sat as a small herd of elephants crossed the river, and one wandered over to eat the plants just a few feet away.

"The design element comes into how you experience a place, and ultimately, it facilitates the experience of being amongst wildlife and nature," Ndlovu said. He added that ABC requires a minimum three-night stays at its properties, which reduces the environmental impact of fast travel while allowing guests to fully enjoy the carefully curated amenities at each location.

Serving Guests, Mother Nature, and the Community

"We wanted to create a place that shows the essence of Zambia and offers world-class service," Shahida Yousuf, owner of Lolebezi, said.

With a maximum capacity of 16 guests, visitors are guaranteed to enjoy a truly personalized experience. The high level of service manifested in several ways throughout my stay, from the entire staff knowing me by name, to every game drive where the knowledge guides would teach me something new.

But guests aren't the only ones benefiting from ABC's tourism approach.

More guides and visitors in Lower Zambezi National Park deters poachers, and the Lolebezi staff are working diligently to preserve the natural flora and fauna in the area.

At Lolebezi, eco-friendliness is embedded into the design, but the sustainability-driven economy also prioritizes giving back to the local community. Conscious travelers will appreciate that, for every night a guest spends at any ABC property, $10 is donated to the African Bush Camps Foundation, which spearheads several programs that enrich communities in the surrounding areas with a focus on education, conservation, and community empowerment.

It's all a part of the Lolebezi approach to honor the land, which dictates the entire experience here.

TourTheTropics.com | The Top 5 Zambia Safari Lodges

Book With Leading Tours While Protecting Habitat

  • Amazon Rainforest
  • Galapagos Islands
  • Puerto Maldonado
  • South Africa
  • Tours & Lodges
  • Cruises in the Tropics

Ash Photo

Hi, I'm Ash, your tour advisor. I hope you find this post helpful. If you want my help deciding on an experience, send me an message .

The Top 5 Zambia Safari Lodges

zambia-safari-lodges

Zambia can offer you a more authentic and wild safari experience than many of the better known safari destinations. But there are still some fantastic safari lodges to enjoy. These allow you to make the most of Zambia’s beautiful scenery and incredible wildlife.

So let’s get started with the top 5 Zambia Safari Lodges.

The Royal Zambezi Lodge, Lusaka, Zambia

The Royal Zambezi Lodge

Nestled in the untamed wilderness of Zambia’s heartland lies the remarkable Royal Zambezi Lodge. The lodge offers you an oasis of luxury and adventure beckoning safari lovers the world over. As a distinguished safari operator, the lodge has earned prestigious awards and recognition becoming one of the leading Zambia safari lodges.

Set against the backdrop of the awe-inspiring Zambezi Valley Escarpment and perched along the banks of the mighty Zambezi River, you will enjoy the Royal Zambezi Lodge’s prime location on the fringes of the UNESCO-designated Mana Pools National Park. The Lower Zambezi National Park is also just a stone’s throw away. This privileged position gives you unparalleled access to Zambia’s most captivating and diverse wildlife-filled ecosystems.

Upon your arrival, you’ll be welcomed into safari luxury and comfort. Choose to indulge in the Royal Suites or elevate your experience further with the Presidential Suites, all seamlessly integrated into the beautiful surroundings. What makes your stay truly remarkable is that the lodge is situated within an unfenced and free-wildlife zone, ensuring unforgettable encounters right from the sanctuary of your suite. Here, elephants, hippos, buffalos, lions, leopards, and a host of other magnificent creatures are frequent visitors, each regular visitor with a charming name bestowed upon them by our dedicated staff.

At the Royal Zambezi Lodge, your safari is meticulously planned to harmonize with the rhythms of the wilderness. Expert guides lead you on early morning, late afternoon, or thrilling nocturnal game drives when wildlife is most active. The all-terrain vehicles are equipped with sunshade roofs, warm ponchos for cooler evenings, and handheld spotlights for unforgettable nighttime sightings. These excursions offer unobstructed panoramic views and swift transportation to promising wildlife locations, all thanks to real-time communication with talented guides over onboard radios.

The lodge offerings extend beyond traditional safaris. Embark on bush walks, hikes, canoeing adventures, and angling expeditions. Delve into the captivating world of birdwatching or engage with local communities to truly immerse yourself in the rich culture of Zambia. Take a serene river cruise and savor the tranquil beauty of the Zambezi River. The Royal Zambezi commitment to flexibility means that they’re eager to tailor your stay to create your ideal Zambia safari.

And after your exhilarating game drives and bush walks, you can treat yourself to a rejuvenating experience at the Royal Zambezi Spa, one of Zambia’s exclusive bush spas.

The Royal Zambezi Lodge

The Royal Zambezi Lodge

The award-winning Royal Zambezi Lodge offers you an incredible experience of Zambia’s heartland, traversing untamed wilderness and vibrant ecosystems teeming ...

Includes: all meals, accommodation, two activities per day, soft drinks, house wines, local beers, non-premium drinks, private guiding/vehicle/boat, complimentary 15 min. foot/hand massage at Royal Bush Spa, Royal Airstrip transfers. | 3, 4, 5 days+

The Kaingu Safari Lodge

The Kaingu Safari Lodge

You will find the Kaingu Safari Lodge in the heart of Zambia’s pristine wilderness. As an owner-run lodge in one of the country’s most wildlife-rich regions, Kaingu Safari Lodge seamlessly blends comfort with the untamed beauty of its surroundings.

This meticulously crafted lodge stands as a testament to its unwavering commitment to excellence. The lodge offers personalized service and strives to tailor make your experience. And from the moment you arrive, you’ll sense a warmth like being among family.

Kaingu Safari Lodge serves as your gateway to Kafue National Park. Covering 22,440km² of wildlife habitat, this is one of Africa’s best-kept secrets. Here, you can immerse yourself in the wild, almost entirely on your terms.

Situated in the Namwala Game Management Area (GMA) along the Kafue River, the lodge offers you an array of activities that allow you to connect with nature like never before. Game drives in the national park reveal the rich diversity of wildlife against breathtaking landscapes. And the boat cruises along the Kafue River offer a chance to witness hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and more, against a backdrop of stunning rock formations and islands.

You can also explore the African bush on foot. The lodge’s nature walks introduce you to Zambia’s vastness, with large granite boulders adding a unique dimension to the experience. And now, be among the first to explore the Kafue River’s hidden treasures in inflatable canoes guided by safari experts, encountering hippos, crocs, and a wealth of birdlife as you paddle through pristine waters.

Kaingu is more than just a lodge; it’s a commitment to preserving the environment. The accommodations are designed to have minimal impact on the pristine surroundings. The lodge is owner-operated in an eco and socially sustainable manner, ensuring that your stay here leaves a positive footprint.

You can also venture beyond the lodge and wildlife to explore rural village life in Zambia. Just 25 km from Kaingu Lodge, you’ll discover families engaged in traditional farming and fishing, welcoming visitors with open arms. During the school terms, you can visit community schools supported by the KaingU Trust, where every guest’s contribution makes a difference.

Families and young explorers are in for a treat at Kaingu. The nature walks, boat cruises, and engaging activities allow everyone to delve into the untamed wilderness. Your children can connect with local schoolmates, fostering cultural exchange. Activities prioritize conservation and sustainable use of resources, ensuring an enriching experience for all.

The Kaingu Safari Lodge

Nestled in the heart of Africa’s pristine wilderness, you will find the Kaingu Safari Lodge. The lodge beckons you to ...

Includes: all meals & snacks, accommodation, safari activities, transfers from Lusaka. | 4, 5, 6 days+

The Chiawa Camp

The Chiawa Lodge

Nestled along the pristine banks of Zambia’s Zambezi River, Chiawa Camp welcomes adventurers to experience the Lower Zambezi National Park’s wildlife-rich wilderness.

As pioneers of this unspoiled landscape, the family-owned and operated Chiawa Camp has garnered awards for its unwavering commitment to wildlife conservation, exceptional safari encounters and hospitality.

Chiawa Camp provides a gateway to Africa’s iconic wildlife. Here, guests can marvel at elephants, lions, leopards, hippos, and more, all thriving in their natural habitat.

From heart-pounding game drives and exhilarating game walks to serene canoe trips and leisurely boat cruises, the camp’s experienced guides offer a diverse range of experiences that immerse guests in the wonders of the Lower Zambezi’s unique ecosystem.

Each luxurious tent offers breathtaking views of the Zambezi River, ensuring guests have a front-row seat to the mesmerizing African sunsets and the captivating wildlife that frequents its shores.

The culinary team at Chiawa Camp crafts a delicious fusion of Afro and European cuisine, guaranteeing a dining experience that caters to every palate. Fresh ingredients and innovative menus define the camp’s culinary offerings.

The Tongabezi Lodge

The Tongabezi Lodge

Tongabezi Lodge welcomes travelers to an enchanting eco-lodge just 12 kilometers upstream from the majestic Victoria Falls. Positioned on the Zambezi River, this award-winning destination combines luxury with adventure, inviting guests to immerse themselves in a world of romance, natural beauty, and unique dining experiences.

The lodge offers a selection of five individual and exclusive River Cottages. And guests can choose accommodations that resonate with their idea of the Tongabezi experience.

Each of the individually styled River Cottages and Houses accommodates two to five guests, characterized by unique touches and charming character.

You will enjoy a blend of romance, exclusivity, and attentive service along the Zambezi River.

At Tongabezi, there is no fixed itinerary; guests have the freedom to decide how much or how little they wish to do. Inclusive excursions can be booked at their convenience, and the lodge can help you book external activities to make the most of the region.

Tongabezi Lodge offers an array of inclusive activities during guests’ stays, including awe-inspiring visits to Victoria Falls, morning game drives in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, serene sunset boat cruises on the Zambezi River, and romantic sampan dinners on the water. Park and museum entrance fees are additional.

The Mfuwe Lodge

The Mfuwe Lodge

Nestled amidst the tranquil embrace of ebony and mahogany trees, Mfuwe Lodge stands as an award-winning sanctuary for you to discover the heart of Luangwa.

Prepare to be captivated by the abundance of wildlife in this region. Giraffes gracefully walk around the park, hippos bask in the sun, buffalo roam freely, antelopes dart through the savannah, and stealthy crocodiles wait in the lagoon.

Enjoy the beautiful scenery and wildlife on a number of activities and excursions. Head out to explore on game drives, night drives and walking safaris with skilled and friendly guides.

Ash - Author & Travel Advisor

Want inspiration for future adventures?

Join our community for monthly selections of the world’s best tours, lodges, and cruises.

Easily unsubscribe at any time.

Thanks. You have been added to the mailing list.

Luxury safari lodges on the Zambezi

A nest of solitude and natural beauty.

Voted as  Zambia's Leading Safari Lodge  by the World Travel Awards for several years running, Royal Chundu is a celebration of hospitality, happiness and homeliness, in a location that is full of wonder, goodness and inspiration.

The first, and only Relais & Châteaux  property in Zambia, Royal Chundu is a private immersion in the Zambezi and the spirit of Zambia. Our two lodges sit just upstream from Victoria Falls and rest beside the gently flowing Zambezi River. Royal Chundu River Lodge  holds private access to a secluded 15km stretch of waterway, while the remote Island Lodge  sits on the private Katombora Island, 4km upstream, and is bookmarked by two protective rapids.

Embark on the Royal Chundu experience with us today. Take a look at our lodge rates .

To feature Royal Chundu in your personalised luxury African itinerary, browse through our  recommended tours and  contact us to start planning.

Tailor-Made Tours featuring Royal Chundu

From the blog.

Stay up-to-date with our day-to-day

Royal Chundu Homeschool ~ Soap Melting & Moulding

by Tamlin Wightman on May 20, 2020

Royal Chundu Homeschool ~ Creating Natural Dyes

by Tamlin Wightman on May 11, 2020

How Your Stay at Royal Chundu Empowers Whole Communities

by Tamlin Wightman on February 24, 2020

The Chitenge ~ A Zambian Icon

by Tamlin Wightman on September 16, 2019

safari lodges in zambia

The Joy of Cooking with Others ~ A Zambezi Collaboration

by Tamlin Wightman on August 29, 2019

What You Build Builds You ~ A Look at our Zambezi Food Garden

by Tamlin Wightman on August 25, 2019

safari lodges in zambia

Consideration, Community & “Chef-ery”

by Tamlin Wightman on July 27, 2019

This is our second time at Royal Chundu Lodge and it remains one of the best places ever visited! Service excellence and tranquility best describe this wonderful place. Food was lovely, especially desert!

Vroutjie, Pretoria, South Africa

safari lodges in zambia

Chikunto Safaris

Luxury boutique safari lodge inside zambia's south luangwa national park, unique place to relax & enjoy, the perfect base for you, who doesn't travel sees only one page of it.", - augustinus aurelius -, an exceptional wildlife sanctury.

Chikunto Safari Lodge & Camp is ideally located inside South Luangwa National Park, a 50-minute game drive from the National Park's Mfuwe gate, itself just a 40-minute drive from the nearest airport at Mfuwe, which in turn is a 1-hour flight from the capital, Lusaka.

With panoramic views out over the Luangwa River and flanked by rolling plains, plateaus, and miombo vegetation the camp / lodge is located in an area of distinctive natural beauty and in a location renowned for it’s density and variety of wildlife.

safari lodges in zambia

The boutique, independent eco-friendly safari camp / lodge at Chikunto has just the 5-x luxury Tented Suites, tastefully combining feelings of intimacy with feelings of space and of connection to the African bush around you.

The property overlooks the meandering Luangwa River on a picturesque bend, on a famous site known as the Big Bend and is recognised as one of the best Safari Lodges in South Luangwa and is an ideal location for your authentic wilderness safari.. The unfenced nature of the property means that the wildlife has freedom of movement throughout the area, providing plenty of opportunities for your game-viewing to start ‘at home’.

For reasons of safety and security, as well as to maximise the stunning panoramic views, the central lodge area as well as the individual Tented Suites, are built on secure raised decks overlooking the Luangwa River.

safari lodges in zambia

This main central area comprises of a large, airy space under thatch and a discretely luxurious lounge area in which you can relax, discuss the sightings of the day, read one of the onsite wildlife books or simply take in the uninterrupted views over the Chikunto waterhole and the Luangwa river. There is even Starlink broadband connectivity for those of you who might want to share some images with friends and family - or even send that all-important email.

Beneath the thatch there is also a well-stocked bar, with super-comfortable leather barstools on which to relax.

safari lodges in zambia

This main central area comprises of a large, airy space under thatch and a discretely luxurious lounge area in which you can relax, discuss the sightings of the day, read one of the onsite wildlife books or simply take in the uninterrupted views over the Chikunto waterhole and the Luangwa river.

There is even broadband connectivity for those of you who might want to share some images with friends and family - or even send that all-important email.

safari lodges in zambia

From the main lounge there is a direct link to an open-air circular deck area , with a large feature fire-pit around which guests can gather for a pre-dinner drink / chat or warm themselves up with a mug of coffee before heading out on an early-morning game drive.

safari lodges in zambia

Immediately in front of the lounge area is a saltwater counter-current swimming pool, unique to South Luangwa. You can decide if want to cool off in the pool, maybe with a chilled drink in front of you from the nearby bar or if it is time to get some exercise – with the pump switched to level 2 it is like you are swimming against the tide in a permanent infinity pool.

Directly in front of the swimming pool and deck area there is a waterhole that becomes an increasingly huge draw for a wide range of wildlife as the season progresses, providing an ideal opportunity for onsite bird watching, wildlife viewing and for some amazing wildlife photography opportunities.

safari lodges in zambia

Each of the Tented Suites are accessed via wooden walkways from the central area and are built on raised decks with a private veranda looking out over the Luangwa River and the wildlife in the immediate area. These spacious Suites have been designed to maximise your feelings of privacy, and to create a real authentic feel of ‘connection’ with the African bush but to underpin that with feelings of security and comfort.

safari lodges in zambia

Luxury Double or Twin Tented Suites

safari lodges in zambia

Luxury Family Tented Suite

safari lodges in zambia

Deluxe Twin Suite

safari lodges in zambia

Deluxe Combination Suite - with private elevated Sleep Out & Stargazing Platform

safari lodges in zambia

...with Stargazing Platform Access

The countryside in the Luangwa Valley is remarkable. The vegetation is characterized by riverine forest which is wonderfully green all year round. The South Luangwa National Park offers spectacular wildlife viewing and is recognized as one of the best parks in Africa to encounter the elusive leopard. Elephants abound and expansive herds of buffalo are often seen. The Luangwa River is home to crocodile and sizeable pods of hippo.

One of the most well-known endemic species in the Luangwa Valley is the Thorneycroft's Giraffe. Their distinctive pattern consists of large, irregular shaped brown to black patches separated by white to yellow bands.

Zambia, especially the Luangwa Valley, is famous for its incredible walking safaris. Here, guests discover the environment on foot, enjoying eyeopening and exciting sightings.

Experts have dubbed the South Luangwa one of the greatest wildlife sanctuaries in the world. The concentration of game around the Luangwa River and its oxbow lagoons is among the most productive in Africa.

South Luangwa National Park is widely recognised as one of Africa’s premier National Parks, delivering a wide range of excellent game viewing opportunities throughout the year. The changing seasons are very pronounced, providing visitors with the opportunity to partake in a mixture of the more traditional game drives, walking safaris - for which South Luangwa is justifiably famous - and water-based boat safaris (water levels permitting).

Chikunto Safari Lodge & Camp opens in the middle of February with a combination of game drives and boat drives available until late-April / mid-May and closes in the middle of November as the rainy season begins.

Pick Up & Drop Test

We’ll pick up from airport while you comfy on your ride, mus nellentesque habitant.

Parking Space

Fusce tincidunt nis ace park norttito sit amet space, mus nellentesque habitant.

Room Service

Room tincidunt nis ace park norttito sit amet space, mus nellentesque habitant.

Swimming Pool

Swimming pool tincidunt nise ace park norttito sit space, mus nellentesque habitant.

Fibre Internet

Wifi test nis ace park norttito sit amet space, mus nellentesque habitant.

Eat tincidunt nisa ace park norttito sit amet space, mus nellentesque habitant

Testimonials

What client's say.

safari lodges in zambia

Life changing

We didn't know what to expect when we showed up, but three days into our stay we decided to book it for next year!! I can't say enough about this place. Everything from the food to the staff. We came as strangers and left as family!!

safari lodges in zambia

Abundant wildlife from a super, intimate lodge

A fabulous experience from start to finish. The accommodation was excellent, the food delicious and the staff delightful. Chikunto is well placed to access the best parts of the South Luangwa National Park and our guide James had both an extensive knowledge of the animals and of their behaviour which allowed him to position the Land Rover for the best view of the action. We were thrilled to watch ...

safari lodges in zambia

F7687EMjohnw

Leopard heaven – if you want a ‘sure thing’ stay at chikunto safari lodge.

Leopard Heaven – if you want a ‘sure thing’ stay at Chikunto Safari Lodge Seeing is believing! Three leopards later on my first game drive with Chikunto Safaris there was little doubt in my mind that South Luangwa is indeed The Valley of the Leopard. And Chikunto’s guides are expert at finding them. Talk about good 'spotting'! Finally, my dream had come true - I was in ‘leopard heaven' as our ex...

safari lodges in zambia

Tiffany-on-holiday

Great lodge location within the park and a wonderful welcome.

We'd heard that there were wild dogs in the area and obtained some excellent help and advice even though we were not residents. This included a short tour of the facilities which seemed very luxurious from a stunning pool to the small number of exclusive cabins. Definitely one for the bucket list as it was clear that you'll be well looked after

safari lodges in zambia

SolihullRichard

Recent safari at chikunto safari lodge.

We purchased this safari lodge completely blind based on a choice largely driven by a travel deal during the height of Covid-19. But, Chikunto Lodge turned out to be an incredible experience; with exceptional safari guides, long and eventful safari drives twice daily, incredible dining experiences throughout the week and a staff that demonstrated kindness, care and knowledge. The lodge caters to...

safari lodges in zambia

  • Indian Ocean Islands
  • Cape Winelands
  • Garden Route
  • Kruger National Park
  • KwaZulu-Natal
  • Gorilla Trekking
  • Great Migration
  • Family Travel
  • Accommodation
  • Traveller’s tales
  • The Bucket List
  • Postcards From Africa
  • Cape Town Restaurant Guide
  • Cape Winelands Restaurant Guide
  • Johannesburg Restaurant Guide
  • Special Features
  • Our Home Safari
  • Africa’s Photographer of the Year
  • Photography & Videos
  • Let’s start planning

December 30

10 Best Luxury Safari Lodges in Zambia

0    comments

Author Image

Although it's a vast, remote place, you'll find many luxury safari lodges in  Zambia . This south-central African country offers some of the best game viewing experiences on the continent. However, it's best known for is being the birthplace of the walking safari as well being home to Victoria Falls . Here's which luxury safari lodges in Zambia to stay at for the best experience.

Romantic sunset at Royal Chundu in Zambia

An idyllic setting on the Zambezi, Image Credit: Royal Chundu

Zen and Zeal in Zambia

You can do as little or as much as you want at the top luxury lodges in Zambia. From legendary walking safaris in  South Luangwa National Park  and big game viewing in  Lower Zambezi National Park  to admiring the rare and prolific wildlife in  Kafue National Park  and rhino tracking in  Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park . Then there's the majestic Victoria Falls for breathtaking views and (for the brave!) swimming in Devil's Pool, nature's infinity pools on the edge of the Falls. 

Matching the incredible wilderness and wildlife experiences, Zambia's luxury safari lodges all feature the trademark Zambian warmth, enthusiasm and pride of her people. And the luxury lodges found here chart a sophisticated path for all safari lodges in the country to follow.

Zambia is a pristine country of unspoiled landscapes, spectacular natural wonders, rich culture and diverse wildlife

Even the most remote corners have luxury safari lodges in Zambia 

Our Favourite Luxury Safari Lodges in Zambia 

As the World's Best Safari Company, we have first-hand experience of all the top luxury safari lodges and exhilarating experiences our continent has to offer. As handpicked by our African Travel Experts, in no particular order, here they are.

1.  Royal Chundu River Lodge and Island Lodge

Royal Chundu River Lodge  is a sublime safari-style lodge on the Zambezi River that's ranked among the best of Zambia's luxury safari lodges. Or you can board the boat bound for Island Lodge to take the luxury, privacy and romance up to the highest notch. 

Royal Chundu is a pair of ultra-luxury lodges about 30km upstream from Victoria Falls on the Zambian side of the Zambezi River. Gigantic thatched suites open onto decks that seem to hover over the water. Furthermore, both lodges feature tasteful living areas straight out of a décor magazine, and they share the same level of personal service and attention to detail. A wide range of activities, family-friendly and s deep commitment to uplifting the local villages and communities make your stay at Royal Chundu a rewarding and enjoyable Victoria Falls experience.

  • Privacy, luxury and romance on the iconic Zambezi River
  • Community-run Relais & Châteaux property
  • All-inclusive food, drink and activities, including a guided walking tour of Victoria Falls
  • Huge suites and villas with private verandahs at the water's edge

Who's it for?

Royal Chundu offers universal appeal as an intimate and elegant safari lodge. River Lodge welcomes families with children of all ages. And, of course, this setting is pure romance. Therefore, it's ideal for honeymoons and splash-out milestone celebrations.

The world's most romantic dinner setting

Riverside romance, Image Credit: Royal Chundu

2. Thorntree River Lodge

Thorntree River Lodge  is on the slick end of Zambia's luxury safari lodges with neat, elegant lines softened by rustic detail to create a chic and sophisticated safari hotel experience. 

Located inside the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park and a short drive from Victoria Falls, you can experience a walking safari tracking rhino and a walking tour of the Seventh Wonder of the Natural World. And a whole lot more in between, including river cruises, birding, fishing, cultural tours, canoeing and game drives. Or, you could spend the day relaxing at the lodge, enjoying a workout and spa treatment followed by a well-earned rest by your private plunge pool.

  • Glorious setting on the tranquil and scenic Zambezi River
  • Huge glass-fronted tented suites with private plunge pools, climate control and outside showers
  • Guided tour of Victoria Falls, rhino tracking on foot, game drives and river cruises
  • Family-friendly with a dedicated children's safari club, gym and spa

Thorntree River Lodge wrote the book on discreet luxury and unbridled romance. It's also excellent for families with the Ngwana Club for children and a gym, spa and childminders for the parents. Solo travellers are given special treatment as well.

Pool overlooking the Zambezi at Thornrtee River Lodge

Welcome to your riverside haven

3. Tongabezi Lodge

Tongabezi Lodge  is a fine example of luxury safari lodges in Zambia leading the way in eco-tourism. Charming individually-designed cottages and houses line the Zambezi River upstream from Victoria Falls. 

A warm, intimate and thoroughly welcoming lodge, Tongabezi not only offers a fantastic range of activities from game drives to tours of Victoria Falls but also engages in many community upliftment programmes. Tongabezi is a great family or group celebration venue with exclusive-use houses and special attention to the little ones.

  • Delightfully personal and intimate safari-style lodge on the Zambezi River near Victoria Falls
  • Modest luxury and charming individually designed suites and villas
  • Active community engagement and environmental sensitivity
  • Huge sprawling rooms with private pools and serene views of the river

Tongabezi Lodge is great for honeymooners, couples, families, groups and individuals. With such luxury and attentive service coupled with a range of incredible activities, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Outdoor area with door at Tongabezi Lodge in Zambia

Lounge on the deck and admire the views, Image Credit: Russel Hine

4. Time + Tide Chinzombo

Most luxury safari lodges in Zambia have earned a reputation for excellent game viewing in remote, unspoilt wilderness areas.  Time + Tide Chinzombo  leads the way with a new breed of luxury safari lodge that's every bit as exciting as the wilderness experience. 

The enormous suites, celebrating the Luangwa River with huge glass sides, are a subtle mix of Scandinavian and African styles. As a result, it's a Zambian speciality featuring ultimate luxury in the ultimate wilderness. The South Luangwa National Park is one of Zambia's premier game reserves. And Time + Tide Chinzombo is one of Zambia's premier safari lodges. Therefore, together they make a fine pair.

  • Prime location on the Luangwa River in the South Luangwa National Park
  • Supreme luxury in the wilderness, including private plunge pools and a spa
  • Welcoming children of all ages with special children's activities and menus
  • Variety of activities including day/night game drives, walking safaris, river safaris, sleepouts, cultural and philanthropic tours, and family and children's activities

Chinzombo offers a truly wild bush experience from a luxurious safari home base. Suitable for individuals, romantic couples and family adventure, this safari lodge is for everyone.

Views from room at Time + Tide Chinzombo

Views all around, Image Credit: Time + Tide Chinzombo

5. Lolebezi

Leading Zambia's luxury safari lodges to new ground, Lolebezi is a modern and sophisticated iteration on the Zambezi River in the Lower Zambezi National Park. Facilities and amenities belie the ultra-wild, ultra-remote location of this safari lodge. 

The plush, elegant suites – just four double and two family – have private plunge pools with river views, air conditioning, indoor/outdoor showers, bathtubs and a private deck and day area. Game viewing is excellent in the Valley, and your guided activities include walking safaris, game drives, river cruises, canoeing, fishing and wellness at the in-house spa and gym.

  • Extraordinary private concession on the river in the game-rich Lower Zambezi, especially good for elephant and leopard sightings 
  • Great variety of inclusive guided activities on land and water
  • Family-focused: two family suites and the Ngwana Club welcome children of all ages with special activities and meals
  • Luxury lodge with air-conditioned suites, private plunge pools, spa, yoga, gym, open-air cinema, library, campfire

Lolebezi combines raw wilderness and refined luxury in the Lower Zambezi National Park. Great for luxury safaris, wellness treatments, couples and families.

View from suite and pool at Lolobezi in Zambia

A romantic hideout for couples, Image Credit: Lolobezi

6.  Time + Tide Chongwe River House

Where the Chongwe River meets the Zambezi River, you'll find one of the most exclusive of Zambia's luxury safari lodges.  Chongwe River House  is an exclusive-use villa seemingly hewn from the very ground upon which it stands. With the river in the foreground and steely blue escarpment framing the bush in between, this is one of the most beautiful settings imaginable. 

Furthermore, your private butler and exclusive safari activities make Chongwe River House an exciting luxury family holiday celebration. However, couples and individuals haven't been neglected, as Chongwe River Lodge is equally impressive in its quirky design, sublime setting and impeccable service.

  • Exclusive-use safari house in the Lower Zambezi designed for convivial get-togethers
  • Private butler, game guide and wonderfully personal service
  • Ngwana Safari Club for children of all ages
  • Exceptional game viewing area with varied safari activities on land and water

Contrary to what the luxury trappings imply, the safari and wilderness experiences really make Chongwe River Lodge and House shine. The exclusive-use house suits groups and large families who want a luxury safari adventure with plenty of activities to suit everyone and all ages in the party. On the other hand, the River Lodge is great for small families, couples and individuals.

Chongwe River House in Zambia

A unique setting for the most memorable holiday in Zambia, Image Credit: Time + Tide Chongwe House

7.  Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma Lodge

Most of Zambia's luxury safari lodges occupy prime river frontage on the Zambezi upstream from Victoria Falls. Of these,  Sussi & Chuma Lodge  is one of our favourites. 

Surrounded by water, the safari-style lodge is inside the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park and 12km upstream from Victoria Falls. Peeking through age-old ebony trees that line the river, 12 enormous thatched 'tree houses' look out over the swirling river. Service is warm, friendly and personal, while the activities on offer will keep you busy (or not busy) for days.

  • Beautiful setting on the Zambezi inside the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park upstream from Vic Falls
  • Wonderful activities include guided walking safaris, game drives, canoeing, boating, school visits, community interaction and, of course, a guided tour of Vic Falls
  • Luxury tree houses with air conditioning and private decks
  • Riverview spa treatments with indigenous oils and treatments

Individuals and couples will feel equally pampered, and families with children over six are well-catered for with special activities and menus. Sussi & Chuma Lodge makes a great base from which to explore and discover the whole Victoria Falls area.

Poolside relaxation at Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma Lodge in Zambia

Riverside relaxation. Credit: Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma

8. Shumba Camp

Many luxury safari lodges in Zambia are famous for their connection to the wilderness. For some, luxury comes in the form of complete isolation and immersion in the wilderness. For others, luxury comes in the form of fine dining beneath a canopy of stars. 

Either way,  Shumba Camp , on the Busanga Plains, in the Kafue National Park ticks both boxes. Admirably so. Occupying its own little island among the seasonal channels and waterways of the plains, Shumba Camp is a paired-down safari lodge surrounded by over-the-top wilderness and wildlife action.

  • Exclusive and very remote, this is wild Zambia at its most wild
  • Just six suites make Shumba Lodge a very intimate experience
  • Incredible lion sightings and rare species including sable, roan, lechwe, wild dog and cheetah 
  • Wide variety of birdlife with nearly 500 species on record

This remote, wild safari camp has a stunning setting, and the beautiful tented suites are made for privacy and comfort. Ideal for families, solo travellers and couples. In fact, anyone who wants to be very far from the human world and deeply immersed in the wilderness. Most notably, photographers, birders and wildlife enthusiasts will fall in love with this place.

Spectacular sundowners at Shumba Camp

Spectacular sundowners at Shumba Camp, Image Credit: Shumba Camp

9.  Toka Leya Camp

Many of Zambia's luxury safari lodges have embraced the family safari. And of these,  Toka Leya Camp  is a shining example with family suites, children's activities, minders and legendary pizzas. 

The tented suites, built on stilts around giant trees, are enormous. Secluded decks pay homage to the glorious river views, and the tranquil beauty of Toka Leya belies the adventure and contagious excitement of nearby Victoria Falls. Built along the Zambezi River in the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, Toka Leya is a tranquil, scenic and ever-so-luxurious base camp from which to explore the area.

  • All-purpose luxury safari lodge for adventure, relaxation, wellness, romance, river, wildlife and cultural experiences
  • Inside the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park offering game drives and rhino tracking activities
  • Short drive to Victoria Falls, which is one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World
  • Olympus photo hub, spa, gym, swimming pool, children's activities, pizza oven and firepit

With so much going on at camp and in the area, Toka Leya is great for families. However, please note that children must be six years old and older as this lodge is in a wildlife area. It's also a perfect safari lodge for romantic celebrations and solo travellers after a bit of luxury and post-safari pampering.

Toka Leya suite with view

Your dreamy suite, Image Credit: Toka Leya

10.  Old Mondoro

There's much talk about Zambia's classic, no-frills safari camps that immerse you deeply into the surrounding wilderness. However, when it comes to Zambia's luxury safari lodges, the magic of  Old Mondoro  is its sublime setting and authentic bush experience. 

Luxury comes in the form of a hot shower, a large tented suite and delicious meals serenaded by Africa's wild sounds. The safari is the obvious focal point at Old Mondoro, with day and night game drives, walking safaris and river safaris a daily feature. Lion, leopard and elephant encounters are widespread, and most days, the camp sees its share of wildlife passing right through.

  • With only five guest suites, you get a very intimate, personal safari experience
  • Lower Zambezi National Park is an incredibly game-rich, elephant-packed neighbourhood of the Zambezi River
  • Game drives, walking safaris and river safaris with good chances of seeing elephants and leopards, other big cats, plains game and prolific birdlife
  • Authentic bush experience safari camp with excellent personal service and just the right level of comfort-to-wilderness ratio

Old Mondoro is perfect for couples and individuals who want a comfortable safari that is all about the safari. On the Zambezi River and very, very far from any humans, this is as authentic a safari experience as you'll ever get. Children 12 and over are welcome and catered for. On the other hand, the sister camp Chiawa is best suited for families welcoming children aged six and up with a range of exciting safari and entertainment activities.

Elephant in front of two people at Old Mondoro Lodge (Photo by Marsel van Oosten)

Hello there gentle giant, Image Credit: Old Mondoro

Inspired to Stay at These Luxury Safari Lodges in Zambia?

These are just a taste of the many excellent safari lodges in Zambia's many excellent national parks. In fact, for every lodge on this list, we had a handful of similar to choose from. 

With such a range of safari styles – from chic and ultra-luxurious villas to glamping – Zambia has a safari experience just for you.  Contact one of our Zambia Travel Experts  today and start planning a safari of a lifetime. See you in Africa! 

Rhino Africa Consultants

Plan your African Safari today

Opens our enquiry form

Opens our enquiry form

Trustpilot

Based on 3000+ reviews

You may also enjoy 

The stamm family discover the magic of southern africa, when is the best time to visit victoria falls, dare to take a dip in devil’s pool.

Author Image

About the author 

Born in Zimbabwe and, having bluffed his way through a Journalism Degree at Rhodes, Ian turned his reluctantly nomadic life into a successful career as a travel writer. With stints in Harare, Joburg, Cape Town, Swakopmund, Port Shepstone and Greyton, he has travelled the length and breadth of southern Africa. Now living in Knysna, Ian combines his innate tendency to write for a living with a deep-rooted love of Africa’s wilderness and a keen interest in the hospitality trade.

Session expired

Please log in again. The login page will open in a new tab. After logging in you can close it and return to this page.

Privacy Overview

safari lodges in zambia

Enquire Now

South Luangwa National park safari lodge

Kafunta river lodge south luangwa.

Kafunta River Lodge is a classic Zambian safari lodge, combining all the essentials for a great safari, including its spectacular location at the edge of the floodplain. Beyond the plain, lies the Luangwa River – one of the best game viewing areas in the magical South Luangwa National Park . This is indeed the premier park in Zambia and one of the best national parks in Africa . The lodge was fully renovated in 2019 and offers a relaxed atmosphere and great attention to details. We love what we do and we can’t wait to share this with you!

Our accommodation

Safari lodge chalets & luxury suites.

At Kafunta River Lodge, each of the luxury private chalets, the main lounge and the dining decks overlook the game-rich floodplain. Our eight safari chalets stand on raised wooden platforms and have thatched roofs and private viewing decks. They are pleasantly decorated to match the local style. We also have two spacious luxury suites with extra-large en-suite bathrooms. Each suite features a cosy mezzanine with additional day beds and an open balcony. Our rooms all have comfortable sitting areas with coffee and tea facilities and a small fridge stocked with refreshing drinks.

Safari Packages Including Kafunta River Lodge

Extended best of south luangwa safari – 8 nights.

  • Available Dates: May 25th to October 31st

Best Of South Luangwa Safari – 5 nights

Ultimate south luangwa safari – 8 nights, what to expect, a day at the lodge.

safari lodges in zambia

Wake-up call

safari lodges in zambia

Early morning tea

safari lodges in zambia

Morning safari

safari lodges in zambia

Buffet brunch

safari lodges in zambia

Afternoon tea

safari lodges in zambia

16:00-19:30

Night safari

safari lodges in zambia

Four course dinner

Experience the

Natural hot tub.

Next to the bar is our infinity pool and the only natural hot tub in the Luangwa Valley, fed from a natural geothermal source on Kafunta’s grounds. With an average temperature of 37 degrees, the water is very therapeutic, added to which are the magnificent views over the flood plain and the Luangwa River. During cooler nights from May to July, this truly is the perfect ending to an eventful day’s safari.

safari lodges in zambia

WILDLIFE HIDE

The floodplain and waterhole in front of the lounge is a haven for all sorts of animals. Be it a family of elephants, a few giraffes , an inquisitive puku, a discreet water-monitor lizard, a couple of saddle-billed storks or our resident fish eagle, there is always something to observe. Our photographic hide is the perfect place to photograph these daily visitors.

safari lodges in zambia

FIG TREE SPA

Tucked away at the foot of the giant fig tree, our intimate Spa offers a variety of massages and treatments designed to spoil you with a moment of pure bliss and relaxation. A great addition to your safari experience.  

Open our Spa Menu . 

lounge & dining in style

Central to the lodge is our relaxing lounge and dining area, thatched in a traditional African style. The extensive decks lead to the stunning and undisturbed view of the plain and its frequent wild visitors. So many stylish places to unwind: the sofas near the wild mango tree, the cosy fireplace or the reclining sunbeds by the infinity pool. When the night comes, enjoy sumptuous candlelit meals under the vast African sky, in company of the hippos wallowing in the waterhole or the while-tailed mongoose scurrying by. Your safari never really ends!

Get a tailormade Zambian Safari

See the animals, game drives.

Game drives are our favourite activity at Kafunta River Lodge. They start with the exciting river crossing at the pontoon, laying just minutes away from the lodge and giving access to more remote areas with extraordinarily good wildlife. Alternatively, we are a short game drive away from the main gate, which leads to another variety of game viewing loops and lagoons in the northern sector. Early morning walks can also be arranged although we recommend our bush camps for these to enjoy a real immersion in untouched wilderness. And of course, our afternoon game drives culminate with the amazing African sunset, celebrated by a traditional sundowner drink before continuing onto the night safari in search of nocturnal animals.

safari lodges in zambia

Newsletter Signup

safari lodges in zambia

Quick Links

Make an enquiry

Sign up to receive instant access to our in depth Zambian Safari Planning Guide . You’ll receive our monthly safari updates, inspiring stories and exclusive tips and goodies, right from the heart of South Luangwa.  

  • Auction Bids
  • Auction Watchlist

Travel news, tips, reviews & videos of luxury hotels to help plan your vacation.

Bid & win a luxury hotel stay or travel item for your next vacation.

  • Accessories
  • Accommodation
  • Experiences

Book a room with us for complimentary upgrades & VIP benefits like breakfast for two at your favorite luxury hotel.

  • Find Out More

Recents Clear

Top 10 Best Luxury Safari Lodges in Zambia

popular post today

Top 10 Best Luxury Safari Lodges in Zambia

An African safari in Zambia is a once-in-a-lifetime experience in a relatively undiscovered country. Wake up to the sounds of wildlife, and in the evening, explore the bush on the back of an open vehicle as the sun falls below the horizon. In Zambia, you can enjoy Big Five safaris and opportunities to see the endangered white rhino in an unspoiled part of Africa.

Spot giraffes, zebras, hippos, and wildebeest roaming peacefully in largely untouched game reserves like the Kafue National Park. Head to Mosi Oa Tunya National Park to spot the Big Five for an exhilarating 4×4 game drive.

Zambia’s best luxury safari lodges include Chindeni Bushcamp, David Livingstone Safari Lodge & Spa, Nkwali Lodge, Sausage Tree Camp, Shumba Camp Kafue National Park, Stanley Safari Lodge, The River Club on the Zambezi River, Toka Leya Camp, Tongabezi Safari Lodge, and Zungulila.

1. The River Club, Zambezi River

The River Club is a charming oasis on Zambia’s magnificent Zambezi River, situated 18km upstream from the town of Livingstone and the renowned Victoria Falls World Heritage Site and one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World.

This boutique, owner-run luxury lodge is Livingstone’s premier destination on the Zambezi River, offering genuine hospitality, commitment to the local community, total peace and tranquillity, and the opportunity to create amazing lasting memories.

The Club features eleven spacious and private elevated suites nestled in the trees, overlooking the mighty river with its pods of hippos lazing about in the sunshine on the edge of the Zambezi National Park. The River Club is a fantastic destination for honeymooners, those on a safari circuit, and families with children six and up, offering spacious family accommodations and extensive gardens to explore. A host of activities await young and old on the property as well as around Victoria Falls.

The River Club boasts a beautiful infinity pool where you can relax with something chilled, an elegant main verandah with stunning views of abundant wildlife, an Edwardian dining area servicing exquisite cuisine, a games room to chill out in, or why not sip sundowners on an evening cruise following an afternoon game of tennis or read a book on your private deck with truly unrivaled views.

2. Tongabezi Safari Lodge, Zambezi River

If you are looking for a magical safari location with beautiful lodgings featuring sliding glass doors and like the idea of falling asleep to the sounds of an African river, including hippo grunts, you can’t get much better than Tongabezi Safari Lodge .

Tongabezi Lodge is a romantic safari hideaway on the banks of the Zambezi River just upstream of Victoria Falls. There are six premium Houses with luxurious king beds swathed in mosquito netting, four with sliding doors that guests can choose to leave entirely open, a Tree House that is open to the river, and a Garden House that faces onto a private walled garden. Large verandah-styled decks overlook the Zambezi River. The bathrooms have large walk-in showers, a vanity with two sinks, and fabulous claw-footed baths offering great Zambezi River views.

The reception and gift shop sits in the upper area of the Safari Lodge grounds. Lower down the path, and just above the river, you will find the dining area, a small bar, and a lounge area. These sections are all entirely open to a large two-tiered deck jutting above the river bank. The upper tier contains the fire pit for evening sundowners and the lower tier tables for dining. The swimming pool is located slightly further downriver. For dinner, guests are usually directed to the upper deck for drinks and conversation around the fire pit. If you don’t want the company, you can ask to be shown directly to a table. You can dine indoors or outside on the deck overlooking the river. The deck is lit along the edges with lanterns, truly magical.

Take a river cruise to visit the sandy islands, hippos, and crocodiles of the Zambezi River, or try an Ultralite or helicopter flight over the falls and visit the famous Livingstone Island, where guests can swim to the edge of the Falls.

3. Stanley Safari Lodge, Zambezi River

Wake up to a warm breeze, the distant roar of lions, and a symphony of birds. Step out onto your very own verandah and down to the infinity pool, where you can gaze at the spray from the nearby Victoria Falls. If this sounds appealing, then a few days at the Stanley Safari Lodge might be just what you are looking for.

Set on a hill bordering the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park and overlooking the unspoiled bush, Stanley Safari Lodge is only three kilometers from Victoria Falls. The main lodge area is an oasis of calm. The views from the main tropical garden, the infinity pool, and the privacy of your room are spectacular.

The suites are individual cabins set on beautifully landscaped grounds. These ten uniquely designed chalets are constructed of teak and local stone and are open-fronted or are designed in colonial style with brick and tiled rooms that are closed. Each unit is a bit different and very spacious, with big comfy beds, well-appointed baths, and even adaptors and hair dryers.

The staff are incredibly attentive and genuinely friendly, with great attention to detail. Everything comes with a big Zambian smile! The fantastic dining can be taken in the open lodge or in the garden by candlelight. Food is both excellent and varied. The highlight is that the staff often seat you in different areas to eat. Each area has its own charm, and each area is terribly beautiful.

Take a guided tour of Victoria Falls, a game drive, or just laze by the pool and marvel at the views and the mist from Victoria Falls in the distance. If you laze for long enough, the wildlife just might come and find you!

4. David Livingstone Safari Lodge and Spa, Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park

The David Livingstone Safari Lodge is situated in Livingstone in Zambia. The lodge is set inside Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park, home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, rhinos, buffalo, giraffes, and baboons. The lodge has 77 en-suite rooms and a lovely pool. It is larger than some of the more boutique camps featured in this review. Most rooms look out over the mighty Zambezi River, and all guests have a private balcony where they can enjoy a leisurely sundowner while taking in the view. It’s worth noting that the rooms further from the reception and restaurant are quieter and rooms on the second floor have better views.

There are several dining options at The David Livingstone Safari Lodge. A favorite is The Pool Deck and Gwembe Terrace, which overlooks the river and provides an authentic gastronomic experience in a relaxed and casual atmosphere, perfect for sitting back and enjoying a magnificent African sunset while sipping on a cocktail.

The lodge has an onsite gym and Award-Winning Spa and wellness center that was voted Best Safari Spa in Africa and was featured in Conde Nast Johansens’ 2015 Collection. The Spa has breathtaking, panoramic views of Zambezi River and Victoria Falls and offers treatments including intensive sports massages, mud wraps, facials, and manicures.

Activities available to guests include bungee jumping, white water rafting, abseiling; bird and game watching; fishing; game drives; walking, horse riding, or elephant-back safaris, walking with lions, and visits to local craft markets and tours to the Victoria Falls. A stay at the lodge wouldn’t be complete without a sunset cruise on The Lady Livingstone, a forty-four-seat, three-deck river cruiser perfect for relaxing with a few drinks while spotting elephants, hippos, and crocodiles on the Zambezi.

5. Toka Leya Camp, Zambezi River

Toka Leya Camp has just twelve climate-controlled ensuite tents along the Zambezi River, and is just a few kilometers from the famous Victoria Falls. Wooden walkways join the camp’s rooms, and you can enjoy a dining room, lounge, bar, several decks, and an infinity pool, all overlooking the Zambezi. Wildlife on the Zambezi includes birds, elephants, and hippos.

While staying, you can enjoy game drives into the Mosi-oa-Tunya Park to spot buffalo, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, and impala. White rhinos were reintroduced into the park, and the occasional predator may also be seen. Plus, there is a rich birdlife in the park.

6. Shumba, Kafue National Park

Shumba is situated in the northern region of the massive Kafue National Park, in the famed Busanga Plains area and is named after the prides of lion found in the area.

This camp is on a wooded island in the center of the million-hectare Busanga Plains. These plains are home to hundreds of red lechwe, puku, and other game and their predators. Fig trees shade the decks of the camp, and while you relax in the shade, you can spot some exciting wildlife. The permanent watering hole attracts large prides of lions.

This boutique camp has a great pool and just six safari tents situated on raised platforms and includes en-suite bathroom facilities and outside showers. All tents offer impressive views across the plains. The communal areas offer Zambian hospitality, sumptuous dining, a gorgeous pool, fireside tales, and stargazing in the skies above.

Take a game drive during the day to spot buffalo, wildebeest, and even cheetahs and lions. Night drives make it possible to spot nocturnal species like owls and leopards. When the plains are flooded, you can also enjoy boating, catch-and-release fishing, and birdlife, with over 491 species, including kingfishers, herons, and storks.

7. Nkwali Lodge, South Luangwa National Park

Nkwali Lodge is situated in South Luangwa National Park. The Luangwa Valley is vast, remote, and home to both people and an awe-inspiring variety of game.

Nkwali safari lodges are located on the banks of the Luangwa on a magnificent meander in the river, overlooking the National Park, where leopards roam along the bank and can often be spotted from camp. Situated on Robin Pope Safaris’ private land outside the park, there is a private game viewing area behind the camp and exclusive access into the park either by boat or across the pontoon.

The area surrounding Nkwali is a superb game-viewing country with a beautiful area of ebony woodland and open grasslands. You often see as much behind camp as in the park, including leopards, lions, and occasionally wild dogs. This area is particularly suitable for elephants and Thornicroft giraffe (an endemic species). Elephants also regularly cross the Luangwa, seen from the bar, or come to the waterhole near the thatched dining room.

The Nkwali chalets are large, fresh, and spacious, with a great river view. The six chalets with bamboo woven walls and thatch roofs offer rustic luxury, opening up to magnificent views of the river as well as open-air en-suite bathrooms. The ensuite bathroom has double sinks and showers open to the skies during the dry season. The bar area, right on the edge of the Luangwa banks, is built around a huge ebony tree with fantastic views of the river and across to the park.

8. Chindeni Bushcamp, South Luangwa National Park

If you want to experience an ‘authentic’ Zambia safari, Chindeni Bushcamp is a seasonal safari camp with canvas-walled tents and raised wooden decked floors. It can be found in a desirable location in the South Luangwa National Park in Zambia, on the edge of a lagoon where hippo chortle and elephants wallow. This is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful tented camps in South Luangwa.

Something about sleeping under canvas ignites a sense of adventure in everyone. At Chindeni, you can combine that thrill with style and comfort in one of its four opulent tents. Gaze out from your private veranda onto the lagoon, which attracts birds and animals from miles around. Or settle back with a gin-and-tonic in the multi-level varnish decked central lounge and dining area, surrounded by ebony trees and boasting the same spectacular view of the serene lagoon and its inhabitants.

9. Sausage Tree Camp, Lower Zambezi

Sausage Tree Camp will give you one of the best luxury lodge or camp experiences in Zambia’s wild Lower Zambezi. Sausage Tree camp is the epitome of bush chic, offering a civilized approach to a true bush experience with lavish attention to detail.

The huge tents have white roofs to keep the heat out or in and extraordinary views of the Zambezi with its elephant grass islands. Elephants will often use the path by your luxury tent to get down into the river, and Hippos paddle in front of the lodge and the swimming pool.

Sausage Tree Camp offers some of the most exceptional game viewing in natural habitats in Africa. Its location within the Lower Zambezi National Park on the banks of the Zambezi River means that game viewing activities take place both on the water, by boat and canoes, and on the land by four-wheel drive game viewing vehicles or on foot (bush walks). The camp is well equipped with game-viewing vehicles, boats, and canoes, offering many different ways to discover the wildlife surrounding this luxury camp.

Copyright Luxury Travel Diary 2014 - 2024. Duplication outside of luxurytraveldiary.com is forbidden.

Note: Benefits & upgrades subject to availability. Benefits offered correct at the time of writing. Terms & conditions apply. Enquire for more information. Posts may be sponsored by the proprietor or brand being appraised. All opinions remain our own & are in no way influenced.

Featured By

Luxury Travel Diary featured by abc.

Join our mailing list

Check your inbox or spam folder to confirm your subscription.

Receive news on auctions & our most popular posts. Opt out at any time. See our Privacy Policy for details.

Safarinear

Zambia Safari Lodges | Luxury Stays in the Heart of Africa

Matt Davison

Zambia is a breathtaking country in the heart of Southern Africa, home to the iconic Victoria Falls. This diverse landlocked region of Africa has plenty of wildlife for all to enjoy, and there are many luxury Zambia safaris to choose from.

From the great African elephant to the notorious hippo, you will not fall short of an exciting experience. However, it’s not always easy choosing a lodge, especially when there is such a large variety to choose from. But don’t worry; this list offers a comprehensive guide to Zambia’s seven best safari lodges.

Next Read: Discover more about the beautiful country with this Zambia vacation guide .

7 Best Safari Lodges in Zambia

When planning your safari, Zambia offers plenty of incredible places to stay at. With this list of fantastic lodges, you’ll know exactly where to stay when traversing across the wild terrain of Zambia. From Victoria Falls to the Busanga Plains, you won’t miss a beat in this majestic area of the world.

1. Time + Tide Chinzombo

time + tide chinzombo

This luxurious lodge is found on the southern banks of the Luangwa River and offers guests unmatched views of the surrounding landscape. With only six luxury villa’s on offer, you’ll have an intimate and exclusive experience.

Admire the wildlife around you from your private plunge pool and sleep under the stars. Time + Tide Chinzombo is in the Luangwa National Park and offers the best place to stay throughout the region.

Highlights: ● Join a walk or boat cruise with the Chinzombo award-winning guide team. ● All meals and standard bar drinks are included. ● Transfers to and from Mfuwe Airport.

2. The Royal Livingstone Hotel

the royal livingstone hotel

The Royal Livingstone Hotel is an iconic lodge within the attractive region of Victoria Falls . The five-star hotel service is a classic Zambian lodge that the whole family can enjoy.

March to May is the best time to visit Victoria Falls , and the Royal Livingstone Hotel is one of the best places to stay. This is a unique hotel and one of the few places where you can see zebras and impala feeding on the freshly cut lawns outside your room.

Highlights: ● Enjoy the world-class meals prepared by fantastic chefs. ● The fine establishment offers private butler and concierge services. ● Have unlimited access to Victoria Falls and pristine hiking trails.

3. The Sausage Tree Camp

the sausage tree camp

If you are looking for a secluded and indulgent hotel in Zambia, then the Sausage Tree Camp is for you. Escape into the comfort of the comfort and grandeur of one of the seven suites available.

Take in the ever-present wildlife and magnificent sunsets of the Lower Zambezi National Park. The villas are tucked away amongst the distinctive mahogany and sausage trees . This five-star lodge is the epitome of luxury Zambia safari camps.

Highlights: ● Enjoy the expert game drives and guided walks through the Lower Zambezi National Park. ● Dive into the African-inspired meals provided. ● It is prime fishing, bird watching, and canoeing camp.

Follow this link to place a booking at the Sausage Tree Camp.

4. The Royal Zambezi Lodge

the royal zambezi lodge

The Royal Zambezi Lodge offers all the delights of Zambia and so much more. From canoeing along the expansive Zambezi river to hiking up the nearby mountains, there is plenty to do at this gorgeous hotel in Zambia.

Soak up some bubbles at the Royal Bush Spa after your exciting day out in the wild of Zambia. With fifteen hidden cabins to choose from, you are guaranteed a personal experience with nature all around you.

Highlights: ● The lodge provides private river cruises and guided hikes. ● Big cat sightings are frequent along this area of the Zambezi river. ● 5-star luxury lodging and personalized meal services.

Follow this link to place a booking at the Royal Zambezi Lodge.

5. Shumba Camp

shumba camp

Located in the infinite Busanga Plains of the Kafue National Park , this is the ideal lodge to look at when planning your safari to Zambia. Shumba gets its name from a local pride of lions and is one of Africa’s finest lodges.

With astounding panoramic views of the wildlife from all the rooms in the camp, you expect to see the best Zambia. Meals are prepared on an open fire and provide guests with an authentic safari experience.

Highlights: ● Experience a bird’s perspective of the land with a hot-air balloon ride between August and October. ● See the big game during a morning or night game drive of the Busanga Plains ● Guided boat rides are available from March to May during the flooding months.

Follow this link to place a booking at Shumba Camp.

6. Tongabezi Lodge

tongabezi lodge

Tongabezi is a romantic five-star guest lodge located along the Zambezi river. Close to Victoria Falls, this camp offers an intimate setting close to two iconic landmarks in Africa.

Join a guided walk to Victoria Falls or enjoy a magnificent helicopter flight across the golden landscape. With spectacular river views, you won’t miss out on any of the wildlife as you enjoy a relaxing bath after your day of adventure.

Highlights: ● Enjoy a Sampan dinner as you float along the Zambezi river. ● Sunrise and sunset boating tours are on offer, as well as fishing trips. ● Guided trips into Mukuni Park are all a part of this fantastic lodge.

7. Tena Tena

Tena Tena is a luxury glamping set up along the Luangwa River and offers unmatched views of the wildlife on display. This authentic and rustic setup still provides the finer things in life with grand ensuite bathrooms and deluxe services.

Immerse yourself in the African landscape with this unique safari lodge in Zambia, and hear the wildlife around you from the safe comfort of your viewing deck. In the shade of the old mahogany trees, you’ll enjoy unspoiled views of the end of the Great African Rift Valley.

Highlights: ● It serves Gourmet breakfasts and dinners, which you can enjoy from the comfort of your private room. ● Join a private 4×4 game drive of the South Luangwa National Park. ● Fantastic views of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, lions, buffalos, and plenty of birdlife.

victoria falls zambia

Final Thoughts on the Best Zambian Safari Lodges

With the glowing red sunsets and ever-present wildlife, Zambia is the heart of a great African safari. From the cascading Victoria Falls to the meandering Luangwa River, this beautiful country has a rich diversity of nature.

The luxury lodges of Chimzobo showcase just how comfortable a trip to Zambia can be, with more rustic stays shown at Tena Tena. With all these incredible places on offer, planning safaris to Zambia is effortless.

If you’ve had your fill of Zambia and are looking for another amazing Southern African adventure, take a look at the best safari lodges in Tanzania.

Zambia Safari Lodges | Luxury Stays in the Heart of Africa

Hotels in Livingstone Zambia | 5 Best Places to Stay

Zambia Safari Lodges | Luxury Stays in the Heart of Africa

Best Time to Visit Zambia | Weather, Temperatures & More

Tags: Africa Safari

A lioness lying down

Top 10 Animals in Zambia: Wildlife in Sub-Saharan Africa

kudu sunset puku zambia

Luxury Zambia Safari Holiday | Best Places To Tour

Airplane with a sunset backdrop

Livingstone Zambia Airport | Best Flights, Routes & Attractions

Best Time to Visit Zambia | Weather, Temperatures & More

Leave a reply Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Safari Near

Compare items

  • Total ( 0 )

Shopping cart

  • Travel Guides Plan your adventure
  • Destinations Our favourite places
  • Tours Book a trip
  • Travel Companies Independent specialists
  • Travel Guides
  • Destinations
  • Travel Companies

The best safari in Zambia

An expert guide to zambia's best safari parks, camps & lodges.

Sarah Kingdom

Sarah Kingdom

  • In this guide

South Luangwa National Park

North luangwa national park, lower zambezi national park, kafue national park, kasanka national park.

  • Liuwa Plains National Park

Bangweulu Wetlands

  • Mosi-oa-Tunya
  • Where to go
  • Need to know

I fell in love with Zambia after my first safari, at the tender age of 15. A few years later I returned for what was initially supposed to be a six-week holiday... 30 years later, I couldn’t imagine living anywhere else.

As a travel journalist and guidebook author specialising in Zambia safari and wildlife, I’ve visited pretty much all of the country’s 21 National Parks, as well as many of its transfrontier parks, wildlife reserves, game management areas, RAMSAR wetland sites, forest reserves and Important Birding Areas.

No one loves safari in Zambia as much as me, but I’ve also figured out some of the potential pitfalls to visiting this vast and sometimes difficult to navigate country. In the following pages I’ll explain some of my favourite Zambia safari highlights, as well as some of the things you should know before you book. Happy travels!

Where to go on safari in Zambia

Our experts' top picks.

My top Zambia safari recommendation

My top Zambia safari recommendation

My overall favourite place to go on safari in Zambia is the wild, untouched North Luangwa National Park, home of the walking safari.

Game drives are not permitted in the majority of the park and access is primarily by walking safari. You’ll leave the vehicle in camp, setting out on foot each day with your guide and an armed scout, to walk among elephants, antelope, zebra and even the occasional predator, always maintaining a safe distance!

North Luangwa is a specialist safari destination, recommended for seasoned safari-goers who are used to roughing it in the bush. Expect long, hot and dusty walks on unmarked trails, crossing rivers on foot and hacking through thick undergrowth.

The best place for big cats

The best place for big cats

If it’s big cats you’re after, look no further than South Luangwa , nicknamed the Valley of the Leopards, with one of the densest populations of leopard anywhere. It's also home to lions and spotted hyena, along with an abundant wild dog population on team canine.

My favourite way to see the wildlife in South Luangwa is on a walking safari. On a walking safari, you can see lions, leopards, elephants and learn about the flora of the park. It’s not all about big beasts however; a walking safari will allow you to get up close with a termite mound and learn about Zambia’s ecosystem.

Everything in one package

Everything in one package

If you want to avoid too much domestic flying, Kafue National Park is incomprehensibly huge and has everything you could want among incredibly diverse landscapes. You can spend at least a week here travelling from camp to camp.

Whilst Kafue doesn’t have the huge herds of game that can be found in some other Zambia safari parks, what it lacks in density it more than makes up for in diversity. There are at least 161 species of mammal, six cat species, and 22 species of antelope. This is the only park in Zambia where I have been lucky enough to see both aardvark and pangolin – two very rare safari sightings!

The world's biggest mammal migration

The world's biggest mammal migration

You’ve heard about the famed wildebeest migration of East Africa , but for the biggest mammal migration on earth you can’t miss the spectacular fruit bats of Kasanka between October and December.

Beyond the bats, Kasanka is home to one of Africa’s rarer antelopes, the shy, secretive, semi-aquatic sitatunga – the park is home to more than 500 of them, making it Africa’s densest and most visible population of sitatunga! The elusive Blue monkey and the little-known Kinda baboon also both call Kasanka home and it’s unlikely you’ll encounter either of these species anywhere else in Southern Africa.

Canoe safaris in Lower Zambezi & Bangweulu

Canoe safaris in Lower Zambezi & Bangweulu

Seasoned safari-goers who are tired of the conventional game drive should ditch the 4X4 and get into a canoe for a watery safari in either Lower Zambezi National Park or the Bangweulu Wetlands.

For me there is something timeless about travelling through these swamps. I find it a world away from racing around in a safari jeep. Your guide at the front of the canoe, long pole in hand, propelling you through narrow channels, between the thick reeds and papyrus. Silence, except for slight burbles and gurgles as you glide through the water. It’s one of my all-time highlights.

Wildebeest migration without the crowds

Liuwa Plain National Park

Wildebeest migration without the crowds.

Liuwa Plain is home to the second largest wildebeest migration in Africa and, compared to the more famous wildebeest migration in East Africa , this spot is hardly known. Each year in November, with the start of the rainy season, massive herds of blue wildebeest, 45,000 strong, migrate to Liuwa Plains, often mingling with zebras along the way.

Featured Zambia Safaris

safari lodges in zambia

Best of Zambia Safari

safari lodges in zambia

The Best Of Lower Zambezi

Four-day private safari of zambia's lower zambezi.

safari lodges in zambia

Zambia’s Premier Wildlife Safari

Wildlife safari in south luangwa national park.

safari lodges in zambia

South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi Safari

safari lodges in zambia

Zambia's Animal Kingdom

13 days safari in kafue national park and south luangwa national park.

safari lodges in zambia

Luxury Zambia and Victoria Falls Journey

safari lodges in zambia

Ultimate African Taster

15 days from victoria falls to cape town, zambia's best safaris, popular highlights & hidden gems.

Zambia’s protected wildlife areas cover roughly 38% of the country’s land mass. Combine that with wide open spaces, diverse wildlife and Zambia’s exceptionally high standards of guiding and you have a fantastic safari destination.

Walking safari in North Luangwa

Walking safari in North Luangwa

North Luangwa is remote, hard to reach, and therefore blissfully quiet and crowd-free. A walking safari in North Luangwa is among my absolute favourite things to do anywhere in Zambia. The last time I set out – always with a seasoned (and armed!) guide in the lead – we saw tracked elephants and antelope rustling in the bush. A word of caution though: this is no armchair safari. Much patience is needed, and of course you’ll need to be reasonably fit to hike in the Zambian heat. If your idea of a safari is racing from place to place in a jeep trying to tick off all the Big Five, this one probably isn’t for you.

Fishing on the Lower Zambezi

Fishing on the Lower Zambezi

I’m definitely no fisherman, but every now and again it’s nice to take a break from the safari jeep and get out on the water. Serious sport anglers come from all over the world to try their hand at the Zambezi’s famous tigerfish, so maybe skip one of the morning or afternoon game drives and try your hand at fishing. Tigerfish are too bony to eat and fishing in the Lower Zambezi National Park is strictly catch and release, but it’s still pretty exhilarating to reel one in, and they put up a heck of a fight! Even if you don’t catch anything, spending a few hours on the water is fantastic, and you’re bound to spot some wildlife on the river banks.

See a lunar rainbow at Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls

See a lunar rainbow at victoria falls.

Lunar rainbows are formed by the light of the moon rather than the sun and are much fainter and more elusive than a regular rainbow. Victoria Falls is the only place in Africa, and one of only a handful of places in the world, where this incredible natural phenomenon occurs – and something surprisingly few people know about!

You can see the lunar rainbow between April and July during the full moon. I find there’s something magical sitting at one of the vantage points and waiting for the moon to rise. They’re far less vibrant than a regular rainbow but lunar rainbows show up clearly in photos taken with a long exposure.

Walk with rhinos in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park

Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park

Walk with rhinos in mosi-oa-tunya national park.

I love strolling with these giants In Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. Escorted by two armed rangers, you’ll walk in single file through the bush, maybe getting hit by branches or scratched by thorns, you’ll sweat and perhaps wonder if you’ll ever see the rhinos. But when you see them, it will all be worthwhile. The tour usually lasts for two hours, but sometimes you get lucky and find them within the first 10 minutes, either way, it’s definitely worth it!

See the black lechwe in the Bangweulu Wetlands

See the black lechwe in the Bangweulu Wetlands

Set your alarm and wake early to paddle by canoe through the papyrus of the Bangweulu swamps, to the floodplains. Stand on the causeway that runs through the middle of the floodplain, and as the sun comes up you’ll be surrounded by thousands of black lechwe, a type of endangered antelope that is endemic to this part of Zambia. Having come into the water overnight for safety, the lechwe are slowly heading towards the tree line, grazing on the semi aquatic grasses as they go. You need to get up early for this as once the sun has risen the lechwe will have all but disappeared, heading into the tree line where they will spend the day.

Think beyond the classic 'Big Five' safari

Robert Zgozi

Robert Zgozi

First-time safari goers are often fixated on seeing the so-called Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino and leopard). This might seem like strange advice coming from a safari operator, but to be honest I think there are better places to see the Big Five elsewhere in Africa. Zambia is home to all five, but they're hard to find all together in any one park, and poaching has made the rhino populations especially threatened.

In my personal opinion, the real gems of a Zambia safari are the species and experiences that you can't easily find elsewhere on the continent. Zambia is especially fascinating for its wetlands which provide a precious ecosystem for numerous bird species, most notably the rare and bizarre-looking shoebill storks of the Bangweulu Wetlands.

Another unique aspect of a Zambia safari is the different range of safari types. In East Africa you can spend all day in a jeep chasing the Big Five, while in Zambia's Lower Zambezi National Park you can see lions, elephants, buffalo and leopards, hippos and crocodiles on a canoe safari. Zambia is also famous for its walking safaris, most notably South Luangwa, the birthplace of the walking safari. I can't think of any better way to explore the bush than on foot walking through big game country.

Explore colossal Kafue

Explore colossal Kafue

Often overlooked in favour of Zambia’s smaller parks, Kafue is a sleeping giant. One of Africa’s oldest and largest parks and one of its wildest, it’s a place of vast, remote landscapes, spectacular rivers, open plains, woodlands and stunning scenery.

The Busanga Plains to the far north of the park are one of Kafue’s highlights. Accessible only during the dry season, I love heading out onto the plains early in the morning, to see puku and red lechwe, in their hundreds, visible in the early morning mist that cloaks the plain just before sunrise.

Equally special, but seldom visited are the Nanzhila Plains in the park’s south. This is a superb place for bird watchers. For me, the star of Nanzhila is the beautiful black-cheeked lovebirds, endemic to Zambia and only found in a small area in the southwest of the country. If you have the time and an accommodating safari operator, try to include both the far north and the far south of Kafue into your trip.

Spot leopards in South Luangwa

Spot leopards in South Luangwa

South Luangwa National Park has one of the highest densities of leopards in the world. Experts say there are three leopards for every square kilometre, which is how the park got its nickname the Valley of Leopards. Some of my most memorable leopard encounters have happened in South Luangwa, particularly on foot, but also from game drive vehicles. Watching as a leopard, completely unaware of our presence, descended from a tree, only spotting us standing there once she’d reached the ground, was an encounter to remember. Leopards love to drag their kills up into trees for safekeeping, so don’t forget to look up from time to time when you’re out on a drive.

Birding in Liuwa Plain

Birding in Liuwa Plain

The birdlife in Liuwa is extraordinary, and it's easy to spend hours watching the various comings and goings of white bellied bustards, crowned cranes, sooty chats, pink pelicans, fish eagles and more. Threatened waterbirds include slaty egrets and whiskered terns – Liuwa is the only breeding ground for these birds in Zambia. This is also a prime destination for migrating species and massive flocks of birds can be seen in the skies above Liuwa between May and July. Keep your eyes open for the Black-winged pratincoles, individually these might not be the most exotic of birds, but trust me: a flock of 100,000 swooping over the plains like a giant swarm of bees is pretty breath-taking! Don’t forget to pack your binoculars for birding at Liuwa.

Witness the bat migration at Kasanka

Witness the bat migration at Kasanka

I love standing high on the viewing platform overlooking the tiny bat forest at Kasanka and peering into trees that drip with thousands upon thousands of straw coloured fruit bats. As dusk falls, they begin to depart, flocking into the sky and filling the air with their chatter. Millions of bats dart in and out of the trees, like a swarm of overgrown bees, before flying over your head and off to spend the night looking for food. By the time they’re done it's almost too dark to see the ladder down from the hide, so don’t forget to bring a torch!

Canoe safari on the Zambezi River

Canoe safari on the Zambezi River

Zambezi means Great River in the local Tonga language. At 2,574 km long, this is the fourth largest river in Africa and flows from its little-visited source, in remote northwest Zambia all the way to the Indian Ocean in Mozambique. The river runs through many of Zambia’s top safari destinations and most itineraries will call at the Zambezi. You can take a canoe safari in Lower Zambezi National Park, including multi-day expeditions staying at bush camps along the riverbank.

Zambia’s hidden gems

Zambia’s hidden gems

You'd have a hard time calling anywhere in Zambia "touristy" but if you want to get truly off the beaten path there are some hidden gems to be found.

Of all the country's national parks, Luambe, Lukusuzi, West Lunga, Sioma Ngwezi, and Nyika Plateau have wildlife, but are relatively undeveloped in terms of tourist infrastructure and accommodation.

Isangano, Lavushi Manda, Lusenga Plain and Mweru Wantipa have little management, very few facilities, and limited wildlife populations. If you're very intrepid or a super keen birder and can find a specialist to make your travel arrangements, they may be worth considering.

Lusaka National Park, just outside the capital, opened in 2015 and is the country’s newest park.

Low impact walking safaris

Low impact walking safaris

Remote Africa Safaris operate two camps for walking safaris in North Luangwa, these are designed to be low impact on the environment, leave minimal trace and are dismantled at the end of every season and rebuilt the following year.

Kaingo Camp

Kaingo Camp

My pick for South Luangua is probably Shenton Safaris' Kaingo Camp, which has a collection of incredible photographic hides and guides who are specialised in getting guests into the perfect position for great photos, both in the hides and out on drive.

South Luangwa lion

A lion in South Luangwa National Park

Zambia safari: Need to know

Everything you wish you'd know before you booked.

Journey distances and patchy infrastructure can pose a challenge, and it’s easier to fly between parks than drive, which pressures your budget and the environment. The country’s focus is skewed more to high cost/low volume tourism, so accommodation tends to be more on the expensive side, with less options for backpackers and those on a tight budget.

Getting around

You’ll almost certainly arrive at Lusaka, Zambia’s capital city. Lusaka International Airport is 22 kilometres from the city centre, where there are plenty of hotels and guest houses to choose from. Adjacent to the international terminal is the domestic terminal, where you can connect with flights to the main national parks.

Lusaka is the central point of Zambia and all major roads heading north, south, east and west pass through the city. Livingstone and Victoria Falls are 470 km away, so I highly recommend flying. Kafue National Park is located 591 km from Lusaka, if you wish to fly here a charter flight will be needed. South Luangwa National Park is 527 km from Lusaka but best accessed by plane, and there are both scheduled and charter flights on this route.

How to avoid (too much) flying

If you want to avoid too much domestic flying, I’d highly recommend South Luangwa National Park which pretty much has everything you’d want to see. Alternatively Kafue National Park has lots of diverse landscapes such as the Busanga swamps and floodplains, you can stay here for at least a week, travelling from lodge to lodge by road.

Driving in Zambia is a challenge. The distances between the various safari areas and national parks are huge and the roads are often poor. While many of the roads are getting an upgrade, in most cases the easiest is still to fly between parks in light aircraft. Many routes offer fixed schedules, but if you intend to travel away from the main parks, you’ll need to fly on a charter plane. When transferring from one camp to another, within the same national park, you’ll usually be transferred by 4WD (effectively like a bonus game drive). In some specialist walking camps in South Luangwa, you may be able to walk between the camps.

If you are intending to drive, avoid travelling after dark and be aware that potholes, pedestrians and animals occur at random and other drivers can be erratic. If you’re not driving a 4x4 vehicle, don’t drive.

If you book your trip as an organised tour, either private or group, all your transport logistics will be arranged for you.

Zambia safari pro tip

If you’re booking a safari tour that’s longer than six or seven days, your itinerary will likely include multiple national parks with domestic flights between them. A good question to ask your operator is whether these are scheduled flights via Lusaka, or if they’re direct flights between the national parks. Going via Lusaka each time significantly adds to the stress, time and environmental cost of your trip, try to book an itinerary with direct flights where possible.

Safari In South Luangwa National Park

About the author.

The best safari in Zambia

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveller, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides climbing and trekking trips worldwide, including taking climbers up Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.

Featured tours

South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi Safari

Discover Luangwa & Luambe National Parks

Safari lodges in zambia's national parks.

The Best Of Lower Zambezi

Zambezi Canoeing & Kafue National Park

Canoe, safari and boat cruise in kafue national park.

Ultimate African Taster

Botswana & Zambia Safari

Luxury Zambia and Victoria Falls Journey

Other guides you might like

Safari in kenya, kenya's best safari reserves and camps.

Stuart Butler

Stuart Butler

Gorilla safaris, an expert guide to seeing gorillas in the wild.

Philip Briggs

Philip Briggs

South africa safari, an expert guide to safaris in south africa.

Anthony Ham

Anthony Ham

Wildebeest migration safaris, an essential guide to planning a migration safari in tanzania and kenya.

Hans Cosmas Ngoteya

Hans Cosmas Ngoteya

Safari in zambia, safari in tanzania, tanzania's top safari parks and game reserves, safari in botswana, an expert guide to botswana's best safari reserves, camps and experiences, where and how to see the big 5 on safari in africa, safari in africa, our travel writers' top africa safari picks, zimbabwe safaris, an expert guide to the best safari camps in zimbabwe, chimpanzee trekking, an expert guide to seeing chimpanzees in the wild, namibia safari, an expert guide to the best safaris in namibia.

Melanie van Zyl

Melanie van Zyl

Featured tours view all.

South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi Safari

Why Horizon Guides?

Impartial guidebooks

Impartial travel guides

Our guides are written by the leading experts in their destinations. We never take payment for positive coverage so you can count on us for impartial travel advice.

Expert itineraries

Expert itineraries

Suggested itineraries and routes to help you scratch beneath the surface, avoid the tourist traps, and plan an authentic, responsible and enjoyable journey.

Specialist advice

Specialist advice

Get friendly, expert travel advice and custom itineraries from some of the world's best tour operators, with no spam, pressure or commitment to book.

Our guides are 100% impartial and are written by independent, professional travel journalists. We make money by charging carefully-screened travel companies to list their business on our website. Our advertisers have no influence on our editorial content and we never accept payment for positive coverage.

Read more about how we work and what we believe in here .

  • Travel guides
  • Work with us

Sitemap , Privacy Copyright © 2024 Horizon Guides

The Bespoke African Safari Co. Logo

Lodges in Zambia

All-inclusive lodges in zambia: resorts, hotels & camps.

When it comes to choosing the best luxury lodges in Zambia. But that’s why we’re here! As Africa’s Leading Safari Company, we’ve stayed at all the top lodges to handpick the best ones. There are many enormous private game reserves and a host of luxury safari lodges in Zambia to choose from. So, whether you want a luxurious honeymoon dripping with romance or a fun-filled family safari, this list (in no particular order) is the perfect guide to assist you.

Exclusive safari Lodges in Zambia

Both experienced and inexperienced safari travelers like Zambia. A Zambia safari has plenty to offer every kind of traveler thanks to wonders like South Luangwa National Park, which is famed for walking safaris across its wildlife-rich plains, and the legendary Victoria Falls .

The top Zambia safari lodges and camps have been compiled to help you choose a location to stay because we know that organizing your African adventures can be a little overwhelming:

Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp

The &Beyond Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp in Botswana is renowned for its luxurious lodging and breathtaking views of the surrounding Okavango Delta.  Nxabega  offers its visitors a unique and exclusive  African safari experience  together with some of the best game drives and birding possibilities in the region.

Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp (Botswana)

Duba Plains Camp | Okavango Delta

Duba Plains Camp is a small camp located in the remote northern region of the  Okavango Delta  in Botswana. Duba Plains Camp is surrounded by vast grasslands that are abundant in the game and seasonal floodplains. The camp, which can only be reached by light aircraft, is well known for its resident lion pride and their never-ending conflicts with the numerous buffalo that roam the area.

Sanctuary Chief’s Camp | Moremi Game Reserve

Sanctuary Chief’s Camp is a super-luxurious bush lodge situated on Chief’s Island in the exclusive Mombo Concession of the  Moremi Game Reserve  in Botswana’s Okavango Delta. The indisputable “predator capital of Africa” is the Moremi Game Reserve, a part of the  Okavango Delta  that has been walled off. The wild dog, lion, cheetah, and leopard all inhabit this region.

Sanctuary Chief's Camp - Moremi Game Reserve.

Vumbura Plains | Okavango Delta

In the far north of the Okavango Delta, Vumbura Plains is a wonderful camp that is located in a private concession that borders the Moremi Game Reserve. The Vumbura Reserve has a huge crossing area of about 24,000 hectares with a wide range of habitats and species.

Explore Our Favourite Safaris in Botswana

Not sure where to start? Our best-selling Botswana safari tours are here to get you going

Tailor-Made is Our business

Our Safaris in Botswana are like the spots on a leopard’s coat – each one is different. We’ll tailor-make your Botswana Safari to suit your individual needs rather than simply asking you to choose. LET’S START PLANNING

Need More Inspiration?

Explore more of our Tailor-Made Botswana Tour Packages curated by our Travel Experts

Family Safaris in Botswana

This 18 Days Safari in Rwanda, Botswana, and Mozambique (Gorillas & Wildlife).

Okavango Delta

9 Days in Botswana into the wilderness and traverse a series of diverse landscapes.

Unique by Nature

MUKAMBI LOGO

Mukambi Safaris, situated in the untouched Kafue National Park, offers a variety of safari options for the discerning traveller. Escape to Mukambi Safari Lodge, Busanga Plains Camp or Fig Tree Bush Camp, for a unique African experience in the heart of Zambia. Enjoy walking safaris and game drives where you are likely to encounter elephant, lion, leopard, cheetah and hippo as well as an incredible variety of birdlife. Try your hand at fishing or relax on a sunset boat cruise. Although you’re still guaranteed a truly unique safari with shorter stays we highly recommend you book with us for at least a week to explore this incredibly vast park and experience our different camps.

2024 Early Bird Special 

safari lodges in zambia

Mukambi Safari Lodge

Welcome to Mukambi Safari Lodge, gateway to the Kafue National Park, one of the largest areas of unspoiled wilderness in the world.

safari lodges in zambia

Fig Tree Bush Camp

safari lodges in zambia

Busanga Plains Camp

Busanga Plains Camp is situated in the heart of the beautiful Busanga Plains, the unique wetland ecosystem of the park.

There is plenty to see and do in Kafue National Park with Mukambi Safaris.

safari lodges in zambia

Game Drives

Game drives offer the best opportunity to cover large expanses of the park and it’s various habitats. From the big cats to the small, the highly qualified guides will ensure an unforgettable experience.

safari lodges in zambia

Walking Safaris

Often the best way to experience nature is on terra firma with a walking safari. Use all your senses to learn about the surrounding flora and fauna with our expert trackers.

safari lodges in zambia

Boat Cruises

Float down the Kafue River on a relaxing boat cruise and take in the magical scenery along the riverbank. From chortling hippos to thirsty elephants there is always something to see.

safari lodges in zambia

Fishing Safaris

A great way to relax and immerse yourself in nature is with a fishing trip. Try your hand at catching bream, barbel and fresh water pike along the Kafue River and its tributaries.

safari lodges in zambia

A Night Under the Stars

There is nothing quite as mesmerizing as gazing up at a star-studded African night sky. Listen to the soothing sounds of nature as you drift off to sleep beneath the Milky Way.

WHAT MAKES US UNIQUE?

safari lodges in zambia

Conservation

Conservation is key for responsible tourism and is a huge part of what we do in Kafue National Park. At Mukambi we work closely with several NGOs, including Panthera and Zambia Carnivore Programme (ZCP), and the Department of National Parks and Wildlife and African Parks where we support anti-poaching and other conservation goals. The Zambian Carnivore Programme (ZCP) is a non-profit Zambian registered organization dedicated to the protection of Zambia’s large carnivores and their ecosystems.

safari lodges in zambia

A family-run lodge, Edjan, Robyn and their daughters have been dedicated to making a difference for the park and local communities since embarking on their Mukambi adventure twenty years ago.

safari lodges in zambia

Community is at the core of Mukambi. In the remote area of Kafue National Park, Mukambi Community School provides a high standard of education to over 80 local children and permanently employs 5 community teachers and 5 government teachers. Plus there are a number of other community projects making a difference.

safari lodges in zambia

Environment

Mukambi recognises the importance of responsible tourism. All three camps run 100% off renewable solar energy with Mukambi Safari Lodge being one of the first in Zambia to install eco-friendly battery technology LiFePO4. We also constantly strive to be plastic free.

WANT TO STAY WITH US?

Awards & accolades.

safari lodges in zambia

The Luxury Safari Company

WhatsApp or Call Anytime:

+44 1666 880 111 +44 7539 508 880

Email *please check your junk mail for our emails, or provide a phone number so we can confirm you received them*: [email protected]

Best Zambia Luxury Safari Lodges

Best Zambia Luxury Safari Lodges

Zambia is not very well known when it comes to Africa’s luxury safari lodges, something we are desperately trying to change. Our MD recently completed one of her many Zambia explorations and was once again blown away by the areas one can visit, and the luxury lodges one can stay in. There is so much wilderness at your fingertips in Zambia – it is even wilder than Botswana and the Zambia luxury safari lodges we use are all quirky, unique, welcoming and brilliantly placed to see some of the best game viewing in all of Africa – and all that for half the price of Botswana too. Here are some of the best Zambia luxury safari lodges there are:

Tongabezi – Victoria Falls

Tongabezi is literally heaven on earth, this amazing luxury safari lodge sits on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River, which flows down into the majestic Victoria Falls. The lodge is owner run and as such has such a welcoming atmosphere about it that you will be sure to never want to leave. This luxury lodge has houses, which are enormous spoiling suites with river views, or cottages which also have river views and often have hippos grazing on the lawns outside.

Luangwa River Lodge – South Luangwa

This lodge is at its best between April and June when there are fewer people in this area of the South Luangwa – it is small, intimate and very luxurious and you will be eating gourmet food, and will probably end up with a leopard relaxing outside your room. The game viewing in this section is unreal and this intimate little lodge does it huge justice with excellent guides who know the area like the back of their hands.

Tena Tena – South Luangwa

Tena Tena is one of the jewels of the luxury safari industry and it is no surprise that it appears under this list of Zambia’s top luxury safari lodges and camps. This luxury camp is located in it’s own private conservancy which has prime South Luangwa wildlife viewing opportunities within it – so good is the game viewing from this luxury camp that the BBC come and film here. The camp has wonderful views of the Luangwa River which when dry attracts all kinds of wildlife.

Best Zambia Luxury Safari Lodges gallery

Chindeni Bush Camp – South Luangwa

Chindeni is one of the most remote locations of all of the South Luangwa – here you will not see another soul but can enjoy lazy days in this luxury Zambia lodge, watching the lagoon from your hammock, with views of the purple Chindeni Mountains in the distance. Nothing can compare the feeling of remoteness one gets at this luxury lodge and it’s something one can never take for granted.

Zungulila – South Luangwa

Again Zungulila is even more remote than Chindeni – taken on exclusive use this is certainly one of Zambia’s most luxurious and exclusive lodges, with a feeling of space that is virtually unrivalled in all of Africa. It is one of Africa’s top private safari camps and certainly one of Zambia’s most luxurious and sought after lodges.

Sausage Tree Camp – Lower Zambezi

This luxury safari camp in Zambia’s wild Lower Zambezi will give you one of the best luxury lodge or camp experiences one could hope to have. The vast tents have white roofs to keep the heat out or in and wonderful views of the Zambezi with it’s elephant grass islands. Elephants will often use the path by your luxury tent to get down into the river. Hippos paddle happily in front of the lodge and the swimming pool is the perfect place to relax. Here you can while away the hours in between extremely exciting game drives.

Anabezi – Lower Zambezi

Anabezi is wonderfully luxurious and this lodge comes with suites all complete with private plunge pools and views of a small plain below, which is often covered with wildlife. The wooden walkways which connect each suite keep you safe from the big game which is often seen around the property. Here game drives from this luxury Zambia lodge will take you into areas with abundant birdlife and tonnes and tonnes of wildlife – all of which is just for your eyes, and no one elses.

Royal Zambezi Lodge – Lower Zambezi

Last but not least this friendly and luxurious Zambia safari lodge is certainly due a mention, especially due to it’s wild location and wonderful spa. This luxury lodge really does have it all. Royal is homely and welcoming as well as having those extra touches which make it feel exclusive and private. Here you certainly know you’re on holiday and the staff will spoil you rotten.

Latest Blog

New Flight Routes

New Flight Routes

Wolwedans Desert Lodge

Wolwedans Desert Lodge

More Hotels 2024

More Hotels 2024

Feline Fields 2024

Feline Fields 2024

  • Cookie Settings
  • Essential Cookies
  • 3rd Party Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

These cookies are strictly necessary to provide you with services available through our website and to use some of its features. These must be enabled at all times, so that we can save your preferences.

If you do not enable essential cookies, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

This website uses Google Analytics to collect anonymous information such as the number of visitors to the site, and the most popular pages.

Keeping this cookie enabled helps us to improve our website.

Please enable Essential Cookies first so that we can save your preferences!

  • Find & Reserve
  • Special Offers
  • Meetings & Events
  • Our Credit Cards
  • About Marriott Bonvoy
  • Careers at Marriott

Travel with confidence during Covid-19

Welcome to Protea Hotel Lusaka Safari Lodge

Safari lodge accommodation 40km from lusaka.

Protea Hotel Lusaka Safari Lodge is synonymous with quality accommodation and a relaxing atmosphere. Located within its own private game reserve of approximately 2, 500 acres, Protea Hotel Safari Lodge is set within beautiful gardens, with separate open-sided buildings for the restaurant and bar and a lovely swimming pool. It’s an ideal retreat for business and leisure travelers who want comfort, tranquility and convenience only 40km away from Lusaka’s city center.It’s a hotel that complements your travel style. The hotel has an outdoor pool, business amenities and meeting rooms, a stunning restaurant and a lovely garden where guests can relax and view wildlife.

Rooms & Suites

Featured amenities on-site, hotel information.

Check-in: 2:00 pm

Check-out: 11:00 am

Pets Not Allowed

No pets allowed

Complimentary On-Site Parking

Mutete Restaurant - Seating Area

Mutete Restaurant

We are proud of the culinary skills we have brought to Protea Hotel Safari Lodge. Our restaurant offers international cuisine with a large open sided terrace area overlooking the gardens where guests can relax and survey some wildlife.

safari lodges in zambia

Outdoor pool

Getting here, protea hotel lusaka safari lodge.

Plot 1887 Kamaila Road, Chisamba, Zambia, 10101

On-Property

Local Shuttle $60

Property Details

For more information about the physical features of our accessible rooms, common areas or special services relating to a specific disability please call +260 211-842 843

Accessible on-site parking

Service Animals are Welcome

Van Accessible on-site parking

Accessible Entrance to On-Site Pool

Entrance to On-Site Business Center is Accessible

Main Entrance is Accessible

Meeting Spaces are Accessible

On-Site Restaurants are Accessible

Accessible Vanities

Alarm Clock Telephone Ringers

Bathtub Grab Rails

Deadbolts on Guest Room and Suites Doors

Electronic Room Key

Lever Handles on Guest Room Doors

Lowered Electrical Outlets

Mobility accessible rooms

Roll-in Shower

Room Windows Open

Safety Chains and/or Latches on Guest Doors

Toilet Seat at Wheelchair Height - Toilet for Disabled

Frequently Asked Questions

The check-in time at Protea Hotel Lusaka Safari Lodge is 2:00 pm and the check-out time is 11:00 am.

The pet policy at Protea Hotel Lusaka Safari Lodge is:

Pets Not Allowed (No pets allowed)

The parking options at Protea Hotel Lusaka Safari Lodge are:

The property amenities at Protea Hotel Lusaka Safari Lodge are:

Yes, Protea Hotel Lusaka Safari Lodge has free Wi-Fi available to hotel guests.

Unlock your stay with the Marriott Bonvoy™ App

Protea Hotels

  • Experiences

PROTEA HOTEL BY MARRIOTT® LUSAKA SAFARI LODGE

Plot 1887 Kamaila Road,

Chisamba, Zambia, 10101

Fax: +260 211-252 384

Top Destinations

Our company.

© 1996 – 2024 Marriott International, Inc. All rights reserved. Marriott Proprietary Information

Please select your preferred language

The americas, asia and oceania.

  • Bahasa Indonesia

INTERNATIONAL

Advertiser Disclosure

Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). However, the credit card information that we publish has been written and evaluated by experts who know these products inside out. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market. See our advertising policy here where we list advertisers that we work with, and how we make money. You can also review our credit card rating methodology .

The 9 Best Countries in Africa for a Safari in 2024

Lori Zaino's image

Senior Content Contributor

Countries Visited: 58 U.S. States Visited: 40

Michael Y. Park's image

Michael Y. Park

Countries Visited: 60+ U.S. States Visited: 50

Keri Stooksbury's image

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

Countries Visited: 45 U.S. States Visited: 28

The 9 Best Countries in Africa for a Safari in 2024

Where To Go and What To See on a Safari in Tanzania

Best time to go on a safari in tanzania, where to go and what to see on a safari in kenya, ‌best time to go on a safari in kenya, where to go and what to see on a safari in botswana, ‌best time to go on a safari in botswana, where to go and what to see on a safari in namibia, best time to go on a safari in namibia, where to go and what to see on a safari in uganda, best time to go on a safari in uganda, where to go and what to see on a safari in rwanda, best time to go on a safari in rwanda, where to go and what to see on a safari in south africa, best time to go on a safari in south africa, where to go and what to see on a safari in zambia, best time to go on a safari in zambia, where to go and what to see on a safari in zimbabwe, best time to go on a safari in zimbabwe, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

While Kruger National Park in South Africa is one of the most popular destinations on the African continent to see the Big 5 — lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and African buffalo — many other African countries offer incredible safari experiences and once-in-a-lifetime wildlife sightings, assuming you’re willing to think a bit outside the box and get off the beaten path.

These are some of the best places to go on a safari in Africa, from Botswana’s Okavango Delta to fan favorites like the Serengeti and Kruger to a safari you can do just outside of Kenya’s capital at Nairobi National Park.

1. How To Plan a Tanzania Safari

Wildabeest and zebra

Most people planning a safari trip in Tanzania should head to Serengeti National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its massive migrations of zebra and wildebeest . Start by organizing travel to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK). From there, you can travel by land to the Serengeti or fly to one of the park’s 7 airstrips and transfer to your desired safari lodge.

Most people take a safari trip to Tanzania to see the wildebeest migration, but you can also expect to spot the Big 5, cheetahs, hyenas, and leopards in the Serengeti.

Some of the best lodges in the Serengeti National Park are the Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti (which can even arrange a hot air balloon safari) and various tented camps and luxury lodges from Singita , a company focused on sustainable exploration of the region. But start saving up Marriott Bonvoy points, as Marriott announced the opening of JW Marriott Serengeti Lodge in 2026 , an ideal spot to view the Great Migration between the Grumeti and Mbalageti rivers.

Travelers can also head to the Ngorongoro Crater , one of the world’s largest intact volcanic calderas, where you can also view the Big 5, zebras, impalas, hippos, and more. You may also spot flamingos there.

Birders or those who want to avoid larger crowds should consider Tarangire National Park , which has one of the largest elephant populations in Africa, more than 500 bird species, and a wildlife migration that’s not as large as the Serengeti’s but impressive nonetheless.

Besides taking more traditional safaris, visitors can go chimpanzee trekking in Tanzania in Gombe Stream National Park , one of Africa’s smallest national parks (and only accessible by boat).

The best time to visit Tanzania for a safari is June to October, the dry season in the Serengeti . This is when the bush is thin and you can see more wildlife, including the Big 5. However, May through June is when visitors can see the wildebeest migration in the Serengeti. Those who want to view wildebeest calving should visit in January and February . And if you’re looking for a Tanzania safari on a budget, months like April and early May can offer better prices and fewer crowds.

See the most wildlife at Ngorongoro Crater from December to February and June to September, which are the months with the driest weather, when you can spot herds out in search of water. For Tarangire National Park, the best time for migrations is the June to November dry season , where you can spot many different animals grazing around and drinking from the Tarangire River.

When it comes to chimpanzee trekking, it’s best to go between May and October in the dry season, when the forest flora is short and trails are less muddy. Keep in mind these experiences require permits, and most companies require visitors to be over the age of 15 .

2. How To Plan a Kenya Safari

Hot air balloon kenya

Some of the best African safaris in Kenya allow you to see the Great Migration and the Big 5 (just as you can in Tanzania). Masai Mara National Reserve is probably the most popular spot . Start by flying into the main airport, Jomo Kenyatta International (NBO) in Nairobi , then pop over to the nearby Nairobi Wilson Airport (WIL) for shorter, domestic hops to airstrips closer to the park.

Besides the Big 5, you can also expect to see animals like cheetahs, hyenas, gazelles, and wildebeest on a safari. Our top pick for lodging would be the  JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge , one of the few safari accommodations in Africa you can book using points and miles. The all-inclusive property features 20 luxury tents overlooking the Talek River.

Another iconic riverside camp is the Governor’s Camp , a collection of luxury tents overlooking the Mara River, where you can spot hippos and crocodiles. Both hot air balloon safaris and walking safaris are popular in the region, offering unique ways to enjoy the region’s flora and fauna. As the Maasai are one of the largest tribes in Africa, don’t forget to visit local villages and experience some of the tribe’s unique cultural practices.

Amboseli National Park at the base of Kilimanjaro is another Kenyan destination to experience a safari. Here, you can see the Big 5 and more than 600 types of birds. You can also get close-up views of large elephant herds. Samburu National Reserve  is another popular safari destination, known as one of the best Kenyan destinations to spot leopards.

And if you’re extra short on time, remember that Kenya is one of the only countries in Africa where you can spot wildlife just a short drive from a capital city. Nairobi National Park is just a few miles outside of Nairobi, home to animals such as leopards, lions, black rhinos, and giraffes.

If you’re dying to stay at the famous Giraffe Manor (a hotel where the resident giraffes poke their heads into your bedroom window each morning) but it’s too expensive or fully booked, you can visit the Giraffe Center instead.

In most cases, the best time to take a safari in Kenya is between June and October, the dry season . You’ll be able to catch the wildebeest migration in Masai Mara in September . November and December can offer lower prices and fewer crowds. March through May is also a more affordable time to visit, but heavy rain or flooding may disrupt your trip.

There aren’t many opportunities to use your points and miles for safari lodges, but if the JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge is on your list (or you want to start saving up for the JW Marriott Serengeti for a 2026 safari), building up a stash of Marriott Bonvoy points is a great plan. Consider getting a co-branded Marriott Bonvoy credit card . Amex Membership Rewards points from a card like The Platinum Card ®  from American Express  and Chase Ultimate Reward points from cards such as the  Chase Sapphire Reserve ®  or the  Chase Sapphire Preferred ®  Card transfer to the Marriott Bonvoy program at a 1:1 ratio.

‌3. How To Plan a Botswana Safari

Those looking for a more remote, intimate safari experience should consider Botswana. The country is a bit more difficult to get to, making it feel far-flung and offering an authentic African safari experience. As tour operators need to adhere to strict conservation requirements, safaris in Botswana are often smaller and more exclusive, which is why safari prices in Botswana can also be more expensive . Anyone in the market for a water safari will likely appreciate Botswana, as some of the best ways to spot wildlife are by boat or even canoe.

If you’re coming from abroad, you may fly into Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE), just outside of Gaborone. Still, many safari camps are much closer to the Maun Airport (MUB) or Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI), which you can get to from hubs in South Africa .

Lions Drinking

One of the most unique and popular destinations for a Botswana safari is the Okavango Delta , grassy flood plains home to the Big 5 and more. Here, you can explore the area by water safari on small boats or even canoes, as well as on land — both walking safaris and driving safaris. Make sure to keep an eye out for African wild dogs. There are less than 6,600 left in the wild, and many reside in this area. Stay at Xigera Safari Lodge in Moremi Game Reserve, an intimate lodge with just 12 suites and the stunning 32-foot baobab treehouse suite.

Chobe National Park is another emblematic destination in Botswana for a safari, especially if you’re in the market to support female guides. Guests at the Chobe Game Lodge can book a female guide as part of an all-female safari guide team, the Chobe Angels . Boat up and down the Chobe River, spotting lions, buffalo, elephants, and more along its banks.

For something different, consider a safari in the Kalahari Desert. Here, you can ride horses through salt pans, sand dunes, and savannas, go fishing, ride camels, hike, or even take a cycling safari. Keep an eye out for oryx, giraffes, and meerkats.

Similar to the aforementioned countries, the dry season in many areas of Botswana runs from May to October and is one of the best times to visit, as much of the wildlife comes out in search of watering holes. However, December to April is the rainy season, turning the Kalahari Desert into a green and blossoming paradise , making it the perfect time to visit this unique region.

‌4. How To Plan a Namibia Safari

Namib Desert Antelope

Namibia is a special place for a safari because not only can you see 4 out of the Big 5 in places like Etosha National Park, but you can also see a distinct collection of wildlife in the Namib Desert in Namib-Naukluft National Park. Namibia is more difficult to get to than many other safari spots, especially from Europe and the U.S., so most visitors come from destinations like South Africa first.

The most popular place in Namibia for a more traditional safari is Etosha National Park . One of the largest game reserves in Africa, it’s home to large populations of elephants, lions, cheetahs, giraffes, leopards, black rhinos, and black-faced impalas, among many others. There are several accommodations within the park, but the more luxurious, like Mokuti Etosha and Ongava Lodge (built into a rocky enclave), can be found just outside the park. Ongava Lodge is also home to an airstrip, and you can fly there from Namibia’s capital airport, Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH), in Windhoek.

Sossusvlei is where the landscape changes , so don’t expect a traditional experience in this red-dune salt and clay pan. Part of Namib Naukluft National Park and Desert , it’s so vast you may want to explore it by hot air balloon to take it in from above. Hike dunes like Big Daddy, explore the ancient trees at clay pan Deadvlei, or traverse the entire area by 4×4 or quad.

While this desert landscape may seem barren, keep an eye out for wildlife like hyenas, jackals, foxes, ostrich, and geckos. Sossusvlei offers accommodation for all budgets, but luxury travelers should plan to stay at the andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge , home to 10 glass suites from which you can admire the sparkling, starry night sky (the NamibRand Nature Reserve is an International Dark Sky Place ).

And don’t discount Namibia’s barren Skeleton Coast — you may spot desert elephants, cheetahs, black rhinos, ostriches, lions, hyenas, and more. Named for the whale and seal bones once scattered on its beaches but now known for its numerous shipwrecks, it’s also home to Cape fur seals, too. Explore the area on foot, boat, surfboard, or quad.

June through September is the driest and best time to visit Etosha , as animals are crowding around sparse watering holes. The same goes for Sossusvlei when the dry season (May to October) brings crisp, blue skies that juxtapose beautifully against the ochre desert sands. However, those heading to the Skeleton Coast may prefer to travel between May and December . Although November and December bring some showers and fog, the weather also gets warmer at this time of year.

There’s a lot to know when planning a safari. Our safari adventure guide has updated tips on finding accommodation, booking travel, and packing for your upcoming African safari.

‌‌5. How To Plan a Uganda Safari

gorilla Uganda

Although visitors can see animals like elephants, hippos, and lions on a Uganda wildlife safari, the main call of this African country is gorillas in the wild . About 400 mountain gorillas call Uganda home , which is about half of the mountain gorilla population left in the world. Gorilla safaris are different from more traditional safaris. In lieu of driving around in a Jeep-style vehicle, gorilla trekking is all about getting up into the hills to see these giant creatures in their natural habitat .

Chimpanzee trekking is also popular in Uganda, as are birding safaris. Most travelers start their adventure by flying into the Entebbe Airport (EBB) and then taking a quick domestic flight to smaller airports. However, visitors planning to gorilla trek in Uganda may find it faster to fly to Kigali International Airport (KGL), Rwanda’s capital, then drive to the national parks .

The most popular location for a safari in Uganda is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park , known for birding, forest elephants, chimpanzees, and, of course, mountain gorillas. There is some gorilla trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park , but your chances of spotting gorillas are higher in Bwindi, as this park has more gorilla groups.

For gorilla trekking in general, many visitors are stuck between Uganda and Rwanda. When it comes to Rwanda versus Uganda for gorilla trekking , budget travelers ready for an adventure should select Uganda , where gorilla trekking permits for either park cost $800 per person per day . (It’s nearly double in Rwanda, as we’ll outline below). You must be at least 15 to get a permit.

However, those heading to Uganda should be ready for an adventure, as the treks can be tougher and longer . Always book permits well in advance .

If you go to Bwindi, stay within the park at cozy lodges like Buhoma or just outside the park at Mahogany Springs , perched along the Munyanga River. Birders may want to visit Queen Elizabeth National Park , home to more than 600 bird species, plus tree-climbing lions .

Visit UNESCO World Heritage Site Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for gorilla trekking between June and September and December and February . Since you’ll be hiking along hilly, forested trails, it’s better to go during the dry season, when it’s less muddy and slippery . The same times of year are best for visiting Queen Elizabeth National Park, though March through May are some of the best times for birding.

6. How To Plan a Rwanda Safari

Nyungwe National Park

Rwanda safaris can be on the expensive side , and they’re best for adventure travelers who are also ready to splurge. The country offers some of the most accessible gorilla trekking but also some of the most costly.

Start with a flight into Kigali (KGL), then take the 2.5-hour drive to reach the country’s most renowned destination for viewing mountain gorillas, Volcanoes National Park . The park itself is stunning, home to 5 volcanoes and a lush, hilly rainforest, home to mountain gorillas, elephants, buffalos, and nearly 200 bird species. Permits start at $1,500 per person per day , and they only issue 96 per day, so it’s important to book in advance. Stay at one of the 6 conical, luxury bird nest villas at Bisate , which overlooks an amphitheater formed by volcanic cones.

And yes, if you’re in the market to see the Big 5 after you’ve spotted the elusive mountain gorillas, head to Akagera National Park . It borders Tanzania and is one of the largest protected wetlands in Africa. Spot elephants, lions, black rhinos, buffalos, hippos, hyenas, zebras, antelopes, and more than 500 different types of birds, including the shoebill stork.

Down south, aid in rainforest conservation by visiting Nyungwe National Park , a UNESCO-listed site that’s home to 13 of Africa’s primates (including chimpanzees) and a stunning canopy bridge where you can walk amid the towering treetops

The best time to visit Volcanoes National Park is during the dry seasons, which run from mid-December to early February and June to mid-September . However, if you find yourself there from March to May, make sure to view the many butterfly species that come along with the heavy rains . The dry periods are also the best times to visit Nyungwe National Park and Akagera National Park.

Some countries on this list require U.S. citizens to obtain a visa. Others, such as South Africa, require 2 full, consecutive blank pages in your passport per entry. Some require your passport to be valid for at least 6 months after your visit. Some require you to have certain vaccines, or you may need to take malaria medication. Check passport, permit, visa , and vaccination requirements before booking travel.

7. How To Plan a South Africa Safari

Giraffe in South Africa

South Africa is the most popular African country for a safari, but that doesn’t necessarily make planning any easier. With so many different game reserves, tour companies, and other options, it can be difficult to decide exactly where to go. The good news is, because there are so many choices, it’s easy to find a safari that fits your budget and travel style. Start by flying into either Cape Town (CPT) or Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo Airport (JNB). From there, many safaris have private airstrips, but you can also fly into smaller airports like Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) or Hoedspruit (HDS) and be on your way to viewing the Big 5.

Start by deciding if you’d like to visit a state-run or private game reserve. Popular state-run game reserves include Kruger National Park and Addo Elephant National Park , which is actually home to the Big 7 (the Big 5 plus the great white shark and the southern right whale, found within the park’s marine section). Pilanesberg National Park also features the Big 5, while Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is known for its big cats . These larger parks often offer more budget-friendly safaris, though they can get crowded during peak season.

Luxury travelers may prefer a more exclusive safari experience, where a lodge or tented camp on a private game reserve includes all the safari excursions. Some of the best private game reserves for a luxury African safari experience include Sabi Sand, Phinda, Timbavati, Kwande, MalaMala, Amakhala, and Phinda, among many others. Choosing a game reserve and safari lodge may come down to where you want to base your trip: You can start in Johannesburg or Cape Town. While Johannesburg is the most convenient hub for visiting Kruger, Cape Town is known for its immense beauty and unique cultural offerings and is a favorite among seasoned travelers.

‌Go on a South African safari during the dry season, where less vegetation makes it easier to spot animals, which you can often find gathering near rivers and watering holes. Most of the country’s wildlife parks see their dry season between May and September. However, this is when the Western Cape sees rain , so if you’re heading to that area of the country, it may be best to go to this region in the other months.

‌8. How To Plan a Zambia Safari

Hippos in river

If you’re in the market for something a bit more off the beaten path, consider a safari in Zambia. Start by flying into the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN) in the nation’s capital, Lusaka. Then, catch a short flight to Mfuwe Airport (MFU), which is the hub for South Luangwa National Park , the most popular area in the country for a Zambia safari, where you can spot wildlife such as leopards, hippos, and rare Thornicroft giraffes. Or, fly to the Royal or Jeki airstrips to visit Lower Zambezi National Park .

‌South Luangwa National Park is the ideal destination for walking and driving safaris, as the Luangwa River can be unpredictable, so boat safaris aren’t common. Those who want to see wildlife by boat should visit Lower Zambezi National Park, where you can paddle through the Zambezi River via canoe with expert guides who can help you spot all kinds of wildlife, including elephants, hippos, and birds.

The nice part about a safari in Zambia is that it’s appropriate for any budget . Stay at cozy river lodges, in luxury tents, or open-air villas. The Old Monodoro camp in Lower Zambezi has 5 chalets — and don’t be surprised if you find an elephant sipping water out of your outdoor tub in the morning. Elephants also regularly walk through the open-air lobby at Mfuwe Lodge in South Luangwa.

Most lodges in South Luangwa National Park and Lower Zambezi National Park are only open during the dry season between March and October. To have the full Zambia safari experience, booking your trip during this period is best.

‌9. How To Plan a Zimbabwe Safari

Elephant mom and baby

Most travelers combine a visit to Victoria Falls with a Zimbabwe safari . The best way to do this is to fly to Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA), which is about a 20-minute drive to the falls .

Just a short drive from Victoria Falls, you’ll find Zambezi National Park (a completely different park than the aforementioned Lower Zambezi National Park in Zambia ). This park features the Big 4 (everything but rhinos). You can also cross the border into Zambia via a quick drive to visit Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park , where you can spot elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and white rhinos.

If you’re hoping to spot the Big 5, Hwange National Park is just over an hour’s drive away , though you’ll have to look hard to find rhinos, as they’re few and far between. You can even do horseback safaris through this park, getting up close and personal with wildlife on your horse. Plan to stay at Davidson’s Camp , where the en suite tents look out over a watering hole for prime wildlife-watching from your room.

Victoria Falls is also just an hour’s drive from Chobe National Park in Botswana , home to one of the world’s largest elephant populations.

June to September is the best time for a safari in Zimbabwe , and June is an especially beautiful time to see Victoria Falls , as you may catch the tail end of the rainy season, bringing powerful sprays and cascades. However, those visiting Hwange to birdwatch should visit from November to April , when the migratory birds return from the north.

When planning a safari, you have endless possibilities to consider. But knowing you can visit other countries besides just Tanzania or South Africa may make it easier to create a safari trip that fits your timing, budget, and travel style. Whether gorilla trekking, birdwatching, or a traditional safari searching for the Big 5, these African countries have got you covered.

For rates and fees of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here .

Frequently Asked Questions

Which african country has the most wildlife.

Tanzania has an estimated 4 million animals, but countries like South Africa, Botswana, and Kenya are also excellent places to view wildlife or take a safari vacation.

Which African country is the safest for safaris?

Botswana is considered one of the safest African countries. It’s politically stable and has low crime rates. Rwanda is also safe for tourists, and Namibia is also a safe country for a safari.

What country in Africa has the most safaris?

South Africa has numerous public and private game reserves, making it an easy place to find a safari, no matter what part of the country you’d like to visit. The top safari destination in South Africa is Kruger National Park.

Is Tanzania or Kenya better for safaris?

Both Tanzania and Kenya are excellent destinations for a safari. Tanzania is often considered better because it has so many animals, but Tanzania safaris can often be very expensive. However, seeing the Masai Mara villages and embracing Kenyan culture is a wonderful addition to seeing wildlife in Kenya. You can’t go wrong with a safari in either destination!

Was this page helpful?

About Lori Zaino

Lori is an intrepid traveler who loves creating itineraries that exude “luxe on a budget.” She’s written for CNN, NBC, The Infatuation, and more, and loves to muse about points-fueled trips to Sri Lanka, Sicily, and Myanmar.

INSIDERS ONLY: UP PULSE ™

Deluxe Travel Provided by UP Pulse

Get the latest travel tips, crucial news, flight & hotel deal alerts...

Plus — expert strategies to maximize your points & miles by joining our (free) newsletter.

We respect your privacy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA. Google's privacy policy and terms of service apply.

UP's Bonus Valuation

This bonus value is an estimated valuation calculated by UP after analyzing redemption options, transfer partners, award availability and how much UP would pay to buy these points.

TravelAwaits

5 Best Safari Tours In Zambia, Africa

Z ambia has been my home for over 30 years and one of the things I love most about the country is its amazing safari destinations. With its pristine landscapes, diverse wildlife, and exceptional conservation efforts, Zambia has emerged as one of Africa’s best safari spots. Whether you’re looking for the Big Five or just seeking the unspoiled African wilderness, Zambia has it all. 

Let’s head on an adventure together, through the heart of Africa, and explore five of the country’s top safari destinations. Prepare to be captivated by the beauty of Zambia. 

1. Lower Zambezi National Park

Game drives, fishing, and canoeing .

The Lower Zambezi National Park is one of Africa’s greatest wildernesses featuring 2,542 square miles of unspoilt nature. With no paved roads, it’s rare to encounter another safari vehicle, and night time here is all about sitting out by the fire, under a sky full of stars. 

The Zambezi, Africa’s fourth longest river, forms the boundary of the Lower Zambezi National Park.  The area is an incredible wildlife sanctuary — herds of elephants, buffalos, lions, leopards, wild dogs, and over 400 different bird species. Most of the wildlife is concentrated along the river, so a great way to experience the park is to board a boat, or drift silently past the riverbank in a canoe. You’ll see plenty of hippos peeking curiously above the water’s surface. Look out for the magnificent carmine bee-eaters who nest in the riverbanks from September to November. The river is also home to the coveted tiger fish — highly prized by serious sport fishermen. 

Where To Stay: Sausage Tree Camp is the epitome of bush chic, set in a stunning location along the Zambezi River right in the heart of the Lower Zambezi National Park. The guides are friendly and knowledgeable; the rooms are well designed, opening onto private plunge pools that overlook the river; and the cocktails are so good you may never want to leave!

2. South Luangwa National Park

Game drives.

The 3,500-square-mile South Luangwa National Park is renowned as one of Africa’s greatest wildlife destinations, with 60 animal species and over 450 different species of bird. Often referred to as “The Valley of Leopards,” the main predators here are leopard, lion, spotted hyena, and wild dog — with the leopard population among the densest in the world. Expect to see large herds of elephants, sometimes up to 70 strong. South Luangwa is also home to the endemic Thornicroft’s giraffe, Cookson’s wildebeest, and the near-endemic Crawshay’s zebra.

The best way to see South Luangwa’s wildlife is on a morning or afternoon game drive from your lodge. Expect early wake-ups as most morning drives set off at around 6 a.m. You’ll return to camp for a middle-of-the-day siesta and then head out again in the afternoon; the animals are more active at these cooler times of day.

Where To Stay: Shawa Luangwa is a small, eco-friendly bush camp overlooking the Luangwa River in one of the park’s most untouched areas with excellent year-round game viewing.

3. North Luangwa National Park

Walking safaris.

The remote, 2,880-square-mile North Luangwa National Park is synonymous with walking safaris. The beauty of this park is the opportunity to experience Africa as it once was — wild and untouched. No game drives are permitted in a majority of the park and access is primarily for walking safaris. You’ll leave the four-by-four game-drive vehicle at camp and set out on foot with your guide and an armed park ranger. You’ll walk among elephants, antelope, zebras, and even the occasional predator, always maintaining a safe distance from the magnificent wildlife. In addition to strong populations of buffalo and elephants, there’s a number of black rhinos, making it the only Big Five park in Zambia.

Where To Stay: Remote Africa Safaris operate two camps that specialize in guided walking safaris. For the more adventurous, the Samala and Ituba Community Camps offer self-catering, and for the intrepid, there’s the Amatololo Experience , a self-drive camping route.

4. Kasanka National Park

Bats and beyond.

Kasanka National Park is one of Zambia’s smallest national parks. But it’s one of the country’s hidden treasures and has an incredible 480 bird species and 114 mammals; there is a lot for you to see.  

Kasanka is best known as home to the annual migration of straw-colored fruit bats — the largest bat migration in the world and, in fact, the world’s largest mammal migration. From October to December each year, about 10 million bats descend on a tiny patch of forest in the park. They migrate from thousands of miles away, some from as far away as West Africa. The migration is one of the natural world’s best-kept secrets; even scientists don’t know exactly where the bats come from or where they go when they leave the park. 

Beyond the bats, Kasanka gives you excellent opportunities to find and photograph one of Africa’s rarer antelopes, the shy, secretive, and semi-aquatic sitatunga. The park is home to more than 500 of them, making it Africa’s densest and most visible population of sitatunga! The elusive blue monkey and the little-known Kinda baboon also call Kasanka home. It’s unlikely you’ll encounter either of these species anywhere else in southern Africa.

Where To Stay: Kasanka has two basic lodges — Wasa and Luombwa — and a seasonal self-catering tented camp.

5. Liuwa Plain National Park

Wildebeest migration.

The 2,274-square-mile Liuwa Plains National Park in Zambia was once the traditional hunting ground of the Litunga (King) of the Lozi people. Liuwa Plain is home to the second largest wildebeest migration in Africa but yet it’s hardly known. Each year in November, with the start of the rainy season, massive herds of blue wildebeest, 45,000 strong, migrate to Liuwa Plains, often mingling with zebras along the way. It’s an incredible sight to witness.

Other unusual antelope found here include oribi, red lechwe, steenbok, duiker, tsessebe, and roan. Predators include wild dogs, lions, and hyenas. The bird life is abundant and the dramatic lightning and storms at the start of the rains make for spectacular views and fantastic photography opportunities.

Where To Stay: King Lewanika is the only permanent camp in Liuwa Plain National Park. It has six stylish, open-front safari tents that are the epitome of luxury.

As a safari destination, Zambia is one of Africa’s best-kept secrets — an amazing, game-rich, unspoilt destination. On safari in Zambia, you’ll get a taste of the real Africa: wild and untamed.

This article originally appeared on TravelAwaits

Achim Mittler, Frankfurt am Main / Getty Images

2025 Africa's Wildlife: On Safari in Botswana, Zambia & Victoria Falls

Lions

Glimpse a world primeval on this singular 14-day safari through some of Southern Africa’s great wildlife sanctuaries in Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Zambia. On this small group tour limited to 24 travelers, encounter one of the planet’s last unspoiled natural refuges–the African savannah. The adventure begins with sightseeing in Johannesburg’s renowned Soweto district, and visits to Nelson Mandela’s and Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s homes. Leaving urban life behind, spend three nights near Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls. Experience the spectacular falls–among the world’s largest–up close on a guided walk and take a game drive in search of the elusive black rhino. A relaxing “Sundowner” Zambezi dinner cruise offers another opportunity to observe wildlife. For a window on local life, visit Victoria Falls town and a local village. Continuing on to Botswana’s Chobe National Park, which boasts one of Africa’s largest concentrations of wildlife, embark on sensational boat safaris and game drives with three nights here. Then take a privately chartered flight to Zambia for a small group tour highlight: unparalleled wildlife viewing at South Luangwa National Park, an untouched region of eastern Zambia along the meandering Luangwa River. During a relaxing three-night stay at the Mfuwe Lodge, enjoy a variety of activities, including open-vehicle game drives, walking safaris, a local school visit, and community performances, before transferring to Lusaka for the flight home. Discover South Africa’s sparkling “Mother City,” Cape Town, with an optional 4-day/3-night post-tour extension, including a full-day Cape Peninsula tour and a full-day Cape Town and Winelands tour.

Bookings open soon! 

Trip details

Travel vendors, get insured now.

USI Travel Insurance Services

IMAGES

  1. 19 Best Zambia Safari Lodges & Camps

    safari lodges in zambia

  2. Ila Safari Lodge

    safari lodges in zambia

  3. Most luxurious safari lodge in Zambia: Time + Tide Chinzombo (full tour)

    safari lodges in zambia

  4. Luangwa Safari House

    safari lodges in zambia

  5. LION CAMP SAFARI LODGE

    safari lodges in zambia

  6. Stanley Safari Lodge

    safari lodges in zambia

COMMENTS

  1. The Best Zambia Luxury Safari Lodges

    Offering an unhurried safari experience alongside a wide selection of more active pursuits, Chiawa is one of Zambia's best luxury safari lodges. Eight luxurious safari tents showcase a perfect blend of form and functionality that's enhanced by furnishings crafted by local artisans. What's more, the lodge's safari suites enjoy commanding ...

  2. 19 Best Zambia Safari Lodges & Camps

    10. Chiawa Camp. The safari-chic Chiawa Camp sits on the banks of the meandering Zambezi River. Ideal for those seeking a romantic getaway, the camp offers an authentic safari experience perfect for couples - from canoeing on the river to sunset cruises and night drives through Lower Zambezi National Park.

  3. 11 Best places to stay for safari in Zambia

    Proflight Zambia offers scenic flights to most safari destinations in Zambia like Kafue National Park, Lower Zambezi National Park, South Luangwa, and North Luangwa. Mukambi Safari Lodge in Kafue. A 4 to 5-hour drive from Lusaka takes you to Mukambi Safari Lodge, on the doorstep of Kafue National Park. Driving down to Kafue, also known as ...

  4. Best Safari Lodges In Zambia 2023 (Chosen By The Experts)

    Sunset House at Kafunta River Lodge (in 2023!), South Luangwa NP By Kafunta Safaris. By 2023 we will offer an upscale two-bedroom, two-bathroom cottage geared towards families and friends (up to 5 people) with views of the Luangwa floodplains, a private pool and exclusive dining and activities.

  5. Top 10 best hotels & safari lodges in Zambia

    Hotel website: Shumba Camp by Wilderness Safaris. 8. TONGABEZI LODGE, MOSI-OA-TUNYA NATIONAL PARK. Set in the shade of a towering grove of ebony trees, Tongabezi Lodge is set on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River. Warm and exclusive, the lodge consists of five river cottages and six private houses.

  6. Top 10 Best Zambia Safari Lodges & Camps

    Chinzombo, with its award-winning designer villas, is South Luangwa's most luxurious safari camp. It is made up of six spacious units with private plunge pools and panoramic views over the Luangwa River. Contemporary design, mixed with natural materials offer a touch of sophistication to this 5-star bush retreat.

  7. 71 Best Zambia Safari Lodges, Game Lodges & Tented Camps

    Zambia accommodation in the park offers travellers plenty of options for places to stay in between safaris, from Zambia safari lodges to Zambia game lodges and Zambia tented camps. Kasanka National Park is Zambia's only privately managed park, run by the Kasanka Trust charity in partnership with the local community. At slightly less than ...

  8. Zambia's Newest Safari Lodge Is Within a UNESCO World ...

    Zambia's Newest Safari Lodge Is Within a UNESCO World Heritage Site — and Gets You Closer to the Wildlife Than Ever Before. Opened in June, Lolebezi is located in Zambia's remote Lower Zambezi ...

  9. The Top 5 Zambia Safari Lodges

    So let's get started with the top 5 Zambia Safari Lodges. The Royal Zambezi Lodge, Lusaka, Zambia. Nestled in the untamed wilderness of Zambia's heartland lies the remarkable Royal Zambezi Lodge. The lodge offers you an oasis of luxury and adventure beckoning safari lovers the world over. As a distinguished safari operator, the lodge has ...

  10. Luxury Safari Lodge in Zambia

    A nest of solitude and natural beauty. Voted as Zambia's Leading Safari Lodge by the World Travel Awards for several years running, Royal Chundu is a celebration of hospitality, happiness and homeliness, in a location that is full of wonder, goodness and inspiration. The first, and only Relais & Châteaux property in Zambia, Royal Chundu is a private immersion in the Zambezi and the spirit of ...

  11. Zambia Safari Experience: Chikunto Safaris

    Luxury Boutique Safari Lodge inside Zambia's South Luangwa National Park. Chikunto Safari Lodge & Camp is ideally located inside South Luangwa National Park, a 50-minute game drive from the National Park's Mfuwe gate, itself just a 40-minute drive from the nearest airport at Mfuwe, which in turn is a 1-hour flight from the capital, Lusaka.

  12. 10 Best Luxury Safari Lodges in Zambia

    3. Tongabezi Lodge. Tongabezi Lodge is a fine example of luxury safari lodges in Zambia leading the way in eco-tourism. Charming individually-designed cottages and houses line the Zambezi River upstream from Victoria Falls. A warm, intimate and thoroughly welcoming lodge, Tongabezi not only offers a fantastic range of activities from game drives to tours of Victoria Falls but also engages in ...

  13. Kafunta River Lodge

    Kafunta River Lodge is a classic Zambian safari lodge, combining all the essentials for a great safari, including its spectacular location at the edge of the floodplain. Beyond the plain, lies the Luangwa River - one of the best game viewing areas in the magical South Luangwa National Park.This is indeed the premier park in Zambia and one of the best national parks in Africa.

  14. Zambia Safari

    The Finest Safari Lodges in Zambia. Find the ideal accommodation that suits your pocket and style in Zambia's finest safari lodges and bush camps. We recommend staying in premium game viewing areas for unbeatable luxury accommodation in private lodges and chalets or choosing more rugged camps immersed in the bush where 5-star service is still ...

  15. Top 10 Best Luxury Safari Lodges in Zambia

    4. David Livingstone Safari Lodge and Spa, Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park. The David Livingstone Safari Lodge is situated in Livingstone in Zambia. The lodge is set inside Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park, home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, rhinos, buffalo, giraffes, and baboons. The lodge has 77 en-suite rooms and a lovely pool.

  16. Top 10 Safari Lodges In Zambia

    Top 10 Safari Lodges In Zambia - Updated 2024. Home to the mighty Luangwa, Kafue, and Zambezi rivers, landlocked Zambia is amongst the most underrated and unexplored countries in the world. Featuring as many as 20 national parks, it's also one of Africa's best safari destinations. If you want to spot the big five animals of Africa such as ...

  17. Zambia Safari Lodges

    5. Shumba Camp. Image by Africa's Eden on Facebook. Located in the infinite Busanga Plains of the Kafue National Park, this is the ideal lodge to look at when planning your safari to Zambia. Shumba gets its name from a local pride of lions and is one of Africa's finest lodges.

  18. The best safari in Zambia

    Canoe safari on the Zambezi River. Sarah Kingdom. Zambezi means Great River in the local Tonga language. At 2,574 km long, this is the fourth largest river in Africa and flows from its little-visited source, in remote northwest Zambia all the way to the Indian Ocean in Mozambique.

  19. All-inclusive Safari Lodges in Zambia. Hotels & Camps

    As Africa's Leading Safari Company, we've stayed at all the top lodges to handpick the best ones. When it comes to choosing the best beach safari lodges in Zambia. But that's why we're here!

  20. Mukambi Safari Lodge

    Mukambi Safaris, situated in the untouched Kafue National Park, offers a variety of safari options for the discerning traveller. Escape to Mukambi Safari Lodge, Busanga Plains Camp or Fig Tree Bush Camp, for a unique African experience in the heart of Zambia. Enjoy walking safaris and game drives where you are likely to encounter elephant, lion ...

  21. 6 Best Safari Lodges In Lusaka, Zambia

    Protea Hotel by Marriott Lusaka Safari Lodge. Address: 1887 Kamaila Road. 37.18 km (23.1 mi) from Home. Parking Restaurant Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Garden Terrace Non-smoking rooms Airport shuttle. from USD.

  22. Best Zambia Luxury Safari Lodges

    Here are some of the best Zambia luxury safari lodges there are: Tongabezi - Victoria Falls. Tongabezi is literally heaven on earth, this amazing luxury safari lodge sits on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River, which flows down into the majestic Victoria Falls. The lodge is owner run and as such has such a welcoming atmosphere about it that ...

  23. Safari Lodge Hotel in Zambia

    Fax: +260 211-252 384. prod16,54D27DCE-E66D-52FA-8F83-173A6A82E72E,rel-R24.2.2. Protea Hotel Safari Lodge is set within beautiful gardens, with separate open-sided buildings for the restaurant and bar and a lovely swimming pool. This Zambia Safari hotel is ideal for a family holiday 30 minutes from Lusaka.

  24. The Rare Walking Safari in Zambia—and Tips for First-Time ...

    The Bushcamp Company operates nine different camps and lodges in the park. I went to five of them: Mfuwe Lodge, where elephants walk through reception and a lagoon thick with hippos sits right outside your door; Bilimungwe, with a breathtaking stargazing deck and thatched-roof chalets (where I woke from a nap to a herd of elephants splashing around); Chindeni, with its private verandas ...

  25. The 9 Best Countries in Africa for a Safari in 2024

    Best Time To Go on a Safari in Zambia. Most lodges in South Luangwa National Park and Lower Zambezi National Park are only open during the dry season between March and October. To have the full Zambia safari experience, booking your trip during this period is best. ‌9. How To Plan a Zimbabwe Safari

  26. 5 Best Safari Tours In Zambia, Africa

    2. South Luangwa National Park Game Drives. The 3,500-square-mile South Luangwa National Park is renowned as one of Africa's greatest wildlife destinations, with 60 animal species and over 450 ...

  27. 2025 Africa's Wildlife: On Safari in Botswana, Zambia & Victoria Falls

    Glimpse a world primeval on this singular 14-day safari through some of Southern Africa's great wildlife sanctuaries in Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Zambia. On this small group tour limited to 24 travelers, encounter one of the planet's last unspoiled natural refuges-the African savannah. The adventure begins with sightseeing in Johannesburg's renowned Soweto district, and visits to Nelson ...