safari lodges kafue national park

Ila Safari Lodge, Kafue National Park Lodge

Tongabezi Lodge

Sindabezi Island Lodge

Ila Safari Lodge

Chisa Busanga Camp

Shawa Luangwa Camp

Sausage tree camp, potato bush camp.

Livingstone Island Experience

Victoria Falls

Kafue national park, busanga plains, south luangwa national park, lower zambezi national park, likoma island, our philosophy, sustainability, conservation, community development.

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The first lodge in Zambia to offer electric game drives and river cruises

Ila Safari House

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Welcome To Ila

As a luxury tented lodge sensitive to the pristine ecosystem of Kafue National Park, Ila Safari Lodge is intimately woven into the stillness of its place on the Kafue River.

From environmentally friendly, locally sourced building materials and solar-powered electricity to development of Zambia’s first electric game drive vehicle, Ila is a truly environmentally conscious safari experience. Yet it still manages to effortlessly infuse modern African style, elegance and comfort to make this your unique bush retreat in the heart of Kafue.

Green Safaris’ sustainability ethos began with Ila Safari Lodge. Ila’s history though is much older and a fascinating story we love telling.

Accommodation

Our 10 Luxury Safari Tents are individually designed to mesh with their wild surrounds and open to sweeping views of the Kafue River. Families can also enjoy a private space of Kafue wilderness in our two larger suites.

Ila Safari Lodge is open from 2 March 2024.

Luxury Couples Tents

Luxury Family Tents

Kafue National Park Zambia

The heart of western zambia.

Kafue National Park, the largest and oldest park in Zambia, is one of the last great expanses of remote and unspoiled wilderness in Africa. The possibility of a wildlife moment awaits you around the next tree or bend in the Kafue River.

It's Even More Wonderful Than Before

I've stayed at Ila Safari Lodge before (three years ago when it had just opened) and I'm very glad I went back… I really appreciate that they do everything in their power to reduce their carbon footprint, from the electric boat and vehicles to aluminium and glass water bottles. I would definitely recommend everyone who wants to go to the Kafue National Park to stay at Ila to enjoy the luxury and wildlife.

Spectacular wildlife literally at your doorstep

Ila Safari Lodge simultaneously breathes adventure and comfort. Driving up to the lodge, we already saw a huge, majestic kudu, which proved to be a good omen for the rest of the trip. In one of the extremely comfortable tents that Ila offers, the mornings may start by being woken up gently at the sounds of hippos, elephants or a lion's growl. It is not unlikely to see wildlife at the premises of the lodge. If that sounds scary, don't worry - you're in the best possible hands.

Inclusive Activities

E-cruiser game drive.

Walking Safari

Infinity Pool

Adventure Game Drive

E-Boat Safari

Bush Breakfast

Sunset & Lunch Cruise

Community Experiences

With conservation and community in our hearts, we dedicate resources towards developing and supporting various related initiatives. We encourage you to join us on this journey by being actively involved in these projects during your stay.

Ila Community Farm

Lukanga Community School

Carnivore Conservation

What is ila best for.

We know all about electric romances: our Silent Safari game vehicles and eBoats run on solar power, after all. Let us spoil you and your loved one with endless wildlife sightings and tranquil riverside moments.

There is no age limit at Ila Safari Lodge, and in fact we have en-suite family rooms designed to maximise luxury and peace of mind. Our guides are experts at adapting their incredible wildlife knowledge to appeal to a younger audience, and you can be sure your family will have a safari experience they will never forget.

Solo Travel

Ila Safari Lodge is easily accessed by road from Lusaka, despite sitting in one of the largest national parks in Africa. This makes it an excellent solo destination for adventurous travellers who want to experience one of the most untouched wild spaces in the world... whilst being pampered, of course.

Pair Ila With These Dreamy Properties

Ila + Tongabezi Lodge

Ila + Chisa Busanga Camp

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Stay up to date about developments happening within our community and conservation projects as well as new offerings and specials at our properties.

Take a stroll within the lodge grounds and learn about our sustainability practices, including a state of the art solar system, tree-planting programme, and how the lodge was built with sandbags.

Learn how local food and livelihood sustainability thrive from this community farming project, which was started by Green Safaris Conservation Foundation and is now run by Nalusanga community.

Visit Lukanga community and see how much the teachers and students are achieving for education in Zambia on a daily basis.

Meet the people of Zambian Carnivore Programme and Panthera that research, manage and protect carnivores and their habitats, and establish community support for wildlife.

Blend into the quiet of nature in our e-Cruiser, which allows you to experience all the sights and sounds of the bush in near silence and with a deep sense of environmental care.

Slow down to nature’s pace as your knowledgeable guide and armed scout leads you on a bush walk that immerses you in the beautiful and biodiverse landscapes of Kafue.

Take a dip in our rim flow infinity pool while enjoying stunning views of the Kafue River and bush beyond.

Explore Kafue at dawn and dusk in one of our three standard 4 x 4 game drive vehicles that are sturdy enough allow you to venture through less explored parts of the park.

Cruise quietly along the Kafue River in our solar-powered e-Boat and watch as birds dive for fish, crocodiles bask in the sun and elephants splash in the shallows.

Meals In The Bush

If you feel like extending your safari-viewing , why not eat out in the bush? Our team know the best spots to relax between wildlife sightings and can bring a delicious feast along with you. This is available for breakfast and lunch, as you must return to the lodge before dark.

Get treated to a fabulous lunch or watch the sun set on the banks of the Kafue River from the comfort of our solar-powered e-Boat.

Enjoy a couple of hours with a rod and reel down at the Kafue River, surrounded by birdsong and a cool breeze.

• Plains Camp
• Classic Kafue Safari
• Extended Classic Kafue

NANZHILA LAKE & PLAINS CAMP

Your closest safari destination in zambia to victoria falls, remote wilderness, diversity of wildlife, close proximity to vic falls.

Nanzhila Safaris operates in the closest true safari area in Zambia to the Victoria Falls and enjoys nearly 3000 sqkm almost to itself. An incredible variety of wildlife and birding species are to be found across our 2 magnificent camp locations that compliment each other perfectly. Our original Plains Camp and her rolling grasslands has recently been joined by our Lake Camp on the game rich shorelines where the Musa River joins Lake Itezhi-tezhi.

What you will love about Lake and Plains Camp:

Safari accommodation.

Both Plains and Lake Camps are small, intimate bushcamps beautifully set overlooking game rich areas.

DIVERSE WILDLIFE

Game drives and safari walks at both camps are bound to reveal a wide variety of wildlife and bird species including 4 of the Big 5!

OWNER RUN EXPERIENCE

Your hosts are also the owners,  which means you’re assured of faultless attention to detail and hours of stories about life in the bush.

“THE BEST BUSH EXPERIENCE WE’VE HAD!”

We were so happy with our stay, definitely the highlight of an already great trip. steve, cindy and the team made our stay probably the best bush experience we’ve had in zambia or ever game viewing was excellent . lots of leopard (including 2 in camp) and lion. we saw 41 mammal species between the 2 camps. “, – mark bennet, august 2021, the nanzhila camps offer an all-round kafue experience.

The ability to link up Livingstone with the Southern Kafue using Nanzhila Safaris’ Plains Camp has allowed safari enthusiasts to combine the Victoria Falls and a safari experience in a smoother way than any other safari region in Zambia.  However, with the addtion of Lake Camp – it means that more of the 3000 square kilometre region known as the Southern Kafue is available for safari lovers heading south through the Kafue from Lusaka to Livingstone or enjoying a safari in the Kafue after having spent a few nights at Victoria Falls.

What the addition of Lake Camp means for safari goers:

Plains & lake combination.

A combination of the wide open plains in the South and verdant shorelines around Lake Itezhi-tezhi is going to offer an all round Southern Kafue wildlife experience.

GREATER VARIETY OF WILDLIFE

The water dependant mega herbivores like hippo, elephant and buffalo around the lake shorelines will complement the staggering grassland and antelope species common on the plains with the big cat sightings being consistent from both camps.

BETTER ACCESS

With the Livingstone to Dundumwezi gate road a mere 3 hours, the development of Lake Camp and improved road to Itezhi-tezhi means getting to the Southern Kafue from Lusaka or the more central river based properties is quicker than ever before!

“A HIDDEN GEM”

“this gem of lodge is beautifully designed and overlooks a waterhole that is alive with wildlife throughout the day. food is miraculous, particular note to  our guides for arranging a full blown lion hunt with cubs on our first outing. this followed by six cheetahs.  we will return”, – marc b, sep 2019,   tripadvisor, don’t fall for a commercialised safari experience, you deserve a personal encounter with the wilderness, “we are experienced safari goers and cannot understate the benefit of a more rural and different location away from the crowds. very different species to  see under an expert guide. wonderful”,  – bruce d, july 2018,  tripadvisor, enquire about rates & dates for nanzhila safaris.

Please use the form below or send an email to: [email protected] *Please note that there is  no campsite facility at Nanzhila.

3 great ways to combine the Southern Kafue with Victoria Falls

Not QUITE ready to enquire with us?   That's not a problem, we don't want to rush you! But before you go, why not take this FREE download to find out to get the best out of your safari with these 3 potential package combinations.

EVERWILD GROUP

Nanzhila Safaris is a part of the Everwild portfolio. TO find out more about Everwild, click here.

EXPLORE THE SITE

Contact details.

Alison: 0027 79 979 9681  Email : [email protected] Follow us on Instagram

EMERGENCY CONTACTS

WhatsApp Only Steve & Cindy Smith : +260 963 006 202

Pinnon Safari Lodge

Pinnon Safari lodge is located in huge untouched wilderness of Kafue National Park, Zambia. The lodge is located straight on the Kafue river, home to all the iconic African wildlife. As a small family run business we are able offer to offer a unique and personal touch for our guests. Safari game drives, boat trips and more are on offer at the lodge with home cooked meals to suite. Click THE LODGE to learn more about us and what we have to offer.

See The African Wild

Pinnon Safari Lodge lies on the Kafue river in the heart of the huge Kafue National Park. The park is host to a wide variety of animals including Lion, Leopard, Cheetah, Wild dog, elephant, crocodiles, 19 species of antelope and over 400 birds.

Discover Pinnon Lodge

Explore Pinnon and what to expect when visiting us in the Kafue National Park.

Activities and things to do

At Pinnon Safari Lodge we have a wide variety of activities and things to do. Choose from safari drives, boat trips, walking safari, fishing, bird watching. Or simply relax and enjoy the view.

https://www.instagram.com/pinnon.lodges/

Rates and Packages

Take a look at the different options we have at the lodge.

All inclusive

Includes all meals, accomodationn two activities per day, park fees and drinks.

Safari Package

Accomodation, all meals and one activity per day

Bring your own vehicle and opt to salf drive with our chef to cater for all your meals.

Enquire about our special honeymoon packages

Exclusive Offer

Book before april 1st for a special 10% discount.

Who doesn’t like a discount? Book with us your first trip today and receive an exclusive offer.

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THE 10 BEST Kafue National Park Lodges

Kafue national park lodges, property types, distance from, traveler rating, hotel class.

• Best Value Properties ranked using exclusive Tripadvisor data, including traveler ratings, confirmed availability from our partners, prices, booking popularity and location, as well as personal user preferences and recently viewed hotels.
• Traveler Ranked Highest rated hotels on Tripadvisor, based on traveler reviews.
• Distance to city center See properties located closest to the center first with confirmed availability for your dates from our partners

1. Ila Safari Lodge by Green Safaris

2. Kaingu Safari Lodge

3. Konkamoya Lodge

4. Musekese Camp

5. Nanzhila Plains Safari Camp

6. Pinnon Safari Lodge

7. Wilderness Busanga Bush Camp

8. Hippo Lodge

9. Lufupa Bush Camp

10. Mukambi Fig Tree Bush Camp

11. Busanga Plains Camp

12. Leopard Lodge

13. Mu-Fungata Safaris

14. Bongwe Kafue Camp

15. Mufungata Safari Lodge

16. Lunga River Lodge

17. Mukambi Safari Lodge

Kafue national park hotels information.

• Ila Safari Lodge by Green Safaris
• Kaingu Safari Lodge
• Konkamoya Lodge
• Musekese Camp
• Nanzhila Plains Safari Camp
• Pinnon Safari Lodge
• Wilderness Busanga Bush Camp
• Hippo Lodge
• Lufupa Bush Camp
• Mukambi Fig Tree Bush Camp

ENJOY YOUR WONDERFUL HOLIDAYS WITH A GREAT LUXURY EXPERIENCE

Mwamfushi Safari Lodge

BOOK NOW OUR RATES

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Comfortable Chalets

The Lodge has 9 all thatched chalets all facing the river. 

Exciting Activities

Game drives, boat cruise, sunset cruise, fishing, mountain hiking and more!

Unwind At Mwamfushi Safari Lodge

Mwamfushi Safari Lodge is Located in Zambia’s Kafue National Park which is approximately 310km from Zambia’s capital City Lusaka. The lodge sits on the remote banks of the Great Kafue River one of the longest rivers in Africa surrounded by abundant wild life with animals such as Lions, Leopards, Cheaters, Elephants, Buffalos, Antelopes such as Impalas, Pukus, Sables, Kudus, Elands, Waterbucks, Wilder beats, and etcetera. Also available are Warthogs, Wild dogs, porcupines, Hyenas etcetera

READ MORE OUR RATES

UNWIND SERVICES

Explore Our Safari Services

Game Drives

Enjoy a drive through our scenic safari

Grab a catch at our serene fising spots

Boat Cruise

Explore our safari in an adventurous boat cruise.

Walking Safari

Get up close to nature on our walking safaris!

Explore our scenic lodge with the best view

Come and view Zambia's wildest birds

COME AND UNWIND WITH US

Book Your Stay

Explore our packages, ensuite standard chalets.

Deluxe twin or double thatched chalet facing the river. With ensuite bathroom.

Ensuite Family Cottage

3 bedroom house with kitchen and living room. Self catering facility with a deck facing the river

Ensuite Tented Chalets

Luxurious tented chalet facing the river with ensuite bathroom

Explore Our Scenic Lodge

OUR HAPPY CLIENTS

Testimonials

This place is a home away from home. The service i...

Chanda Chaile Ntenga

Loved my stay! The hospitality was great! Welcome ...

Chabu Kunda

Beautiful place and their hospitality is topnotch ...

Lily Promise Nanyangwe Mumba

Excellent customer service. everything on point, G...

George Boston Zimba II

The lodge has friendly staff and the services are ...

# of Happy Guests

# of Chalets

# of Restaurant Patrons

# members of staff

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Leopard Lodge, Kafue National Park, Zambia

Experience an authentic African wildlife safari in total solitude at our elegant Kafue National Park game lodge on the banks of the Kafue River.

Enjoy Excellent Game Viewing: Kafue National Park is well known for its excellent game viewing with vast herds of antelope, lions, leopards, buffalo and elephant, that are often seen around the Game Lodge. Birdwatching in Kafue National Park, Zambia is a highlight for anyone wanting to go birding in Africa

Experience Total Solitude: Being distant from any other human development , you have miles and miles of wilderness to explore without bumping into anybody.   Be Part of Nature: Game walks through the Lodge. Elephants are common visitors, antelopes graze the lawns, and lions and leopards regularly find their prey here.   Be Spoilt: Let our friendly staff pamper you whilst you relax in one of our 5 individually sited en suite stylish chalets, or whilst you soak up the environment from our deck that extends over the Kafue River.

Stay at Leopard Lodge and explore the Kafue National Park be it by game drives, birding, fishing, boat cruises, walking safaris or just absorbing the beauty of this game reserve. River Fishing is excellent with many fishing spots in the Kafue River with many fish species.

Leopard Lodge is committed to Responsible Tourism and hence is dedicated to the conservation and protection of the environment, whilst creating opportunities for the local people and businesses.

As far as African Lodges go, and in particular Zambia safari Lodges, Leopard Lodge offers a truly authentic wildlife experience.

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Tailor Made Safaris

Popular safaris, east & central africa, southern africa, set departures, top destinations, indian ocean islands, kafue river lodge, “the heart of safaris in the kafue national park”.

Why we like it

• Experience the full range of safari activities that provides something for everyone.
• The guiding and management team of Kafue River Lodge are known amongst the best birders and guides in Zambia.
• Combines seamlessly with our the other camp in the heart of the Busanga Plains

Kafue River Lodge is your reward at the end of your journey into the North-Eastern Kafue. The stretch of the Kafue River where the lodge is located is varied, gentle and favoured by wildlife. The 4 ensuite chalets overlook the river and the sounds of hippo carry clearly across the grounds with the miombo woodland behind camp also playing home to a steady stream of game and birds.

Kafue River Lodge is located inside the Lunga Luswishi Game Management Area bordering Kafue National Park. The easiest way of getting to us is to fly to Lusaka, we will then meet you and drive you into camp.  Your 2nd option will be more expensive but shorter on travel time – you will fly via charter plane to Hippo Airstrip where we willmeet you and transfer you into camp.

Kafue River Lodge has 4 ensuite chalets and 2 central areas – an open, riverside “fire pit” for starlit dining and early morning coffee and the beautiful main lapa area which is built on a deck over the river offering cool shade and 180 degree river views.

The Kafue River Lodge cottages have been designed in a way that allows you to settle into this little piece of paradise for an extended stay. Each of the four ensuite chalets consists of two queen beds, a fireplace, freestanding bath, outdoor shower and teak decking.  The entire lodge is run on solar power and so there are plugs in the chalets for charging equipment.

The game drives take place in the Lunga Luswishi, Kafue National Park and Mushingashi Conservancy. The advantage to the game drives is that one can cover a lot of ground whilst searching for those special sightings. We have good road networks around us which allow a far reach for the drives and covers the diversity of vegetation in our area.

We couldn’t think of a better way to kick off or end your stay at Kafue River Lodge than a gentle boat cruise. At the beginning of the season, this tends to be more focused on birding and botany but as we move further into winter and the river becomes the primary water source, we do start to have better mammal sightings along the banks of the Kafue. Come September / October, we have experienced some great cat sightings and occasional elephant crossings as many animals go there to escape the heat of the day by the cool water under the foliage of the waterberry trees.

The Kafue offers outstanding fishing for a wide variety of bream species, pike and yellowfish. The stretch of river that they offer is considered by many to be one of the finest along the entire Kafue and anglers of all skill levels can have incredible fun targeting the rapids, rocks and flooded timber with lures, spinners and bait for the numerous fish species on offer.

The walking safaris typically take place in the Lunga Luswishi. After an early breakfast, we depart from the fire pit on a walking safari. Often having heard the calls of animals during the night, the guides follow up on those calls whilst engaging the guests on the smaller wonders of the bush. Walking safaris are very educational, a great opportunity for the guests to really immerse themselves in the bush.

Bush Bikes: Sometimes beginning the cycling trips from the lodge. They also do drop off the guests in the park or to locations around the game management area to embark on their trips. There is a beautiful hot water spring that is often visited where the bush is open – a large dambo surrounded by miombo woodland which creates excellent cycle “territory.” They use fat tyre bicycles and they are very comfortable, especially in the more sandy areas. The cycling is a great opportunity for the guests to indulge in a little physical activity and get the blood going – a welcome change from the sometimes sedentary traditional safari approach!

Places to stay

Related accommodation.

Nanzhila Lake Camp

Shumba Champ

Busanga Bush Camp

KaingU Safari Lodge

Lunga Kikuji Camp

Nanzhila Plains Camp

Chisa Busanga Camp

Kasonso Busanga Camp

Ntemwa Busanga Camp

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The Kafue is one of the last true wilderness areas. Covering 22,440km², its unmatched variety of species and being able to enjoy the wildlife almost on your own, makes this park one of the last secrets of Africa. This is a place to unwind, enjoy our chefs’ cuisine and be spoiled with an abundance of activities or, if you prefer, just relax and feel the heartbeat of Africa.

Our Lodge is situated in the Namwala Game Management Area (GMA) on a spectacular and remote stretch of the Kafue River, approximately 400 kilometres north of the majestic Victoria Falls. The Kafue National Park, just opposite the lodge and only a 10-minute boat trip away, offers magnificent game that you can enjoy viewing from our comfortable open game drive vehicles.

The Kafue River, with all its myriad of channels, rapids and islands, lends itself to a range of exciting river-based activities, which include boat cruises, fishing, birding, canoeing and river trails. From the top of one of the large granite boulders in the Namwala GMA, you will get a 360° view over nothing but nature! A visit to the KaingU Trust School can be organised. Situated on a plateau 1030 meters above sea level, KaingU enjoys a year-round moderate climate (coldest in July, hottest in October).

You’ll arrive in a small paradise.

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KaingU Safari Lodge, Kafue National Park

• Itineraries
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KaingU Safari Lodge

KaingU Safari Lodge is an intimate lodge, absolutely stunning river, rock and island location; expert field guides and unmatched variety of activities tailored to individual wishes; a paradise to relax and rewind with delicious cuisine and caring service; owner run and sustainable (eco and socially) establishment.

KaingU Safari Lodge is set in an area of pristine wilderness, on the most spectacular stretch of the Kafue River, with a myriad of channels, rapids and islands, and access to the remote middle section of the Kafue National park.  The Lodge is just 1 hour drive from Chunga Airstrip or 4 ½ hour drive from Lusaka or a 7-8 hour drive from Livingstone.  Guests enjoy a spectacular arrival by a short boat cruise through islands and granite boulders to the lodge.

• Camp Features

KaingU Safari Lodge has 6 Tented Chalets (2 doubles and 4 twin rooms), the lodge also has 1 Finfoot Safari house with 1 double room and 1 twin  lounge), and lastly 3 sleep-out Tonga-baskets

KaingU Safari Lodge has private wooden decks, overlooking the Kafue River, en-suite bathrooms and an open-air shower (“Honeymoon-tent” with open-air bath), thatched roofs providing cooling,  lights solar powered, plugs for charging in the central area of the lodge, drinking water, tea & coffee facilities, walk-in mosquito netting.

KaingU's sleep-out features are kept simple to reflect the close to nature experience, comfortable bedding & light double mattress, mosquito netting, bucket-basin & ash-pit drum toilet.

KaingU Safari Lodge Camp features include:

Yoga-mats provided in rooms

Gift shop with all local & ‘Made in Zambia’ arts & crafts

Bar/Dining options – private or hosted dining as per guests wishes on deck overlooking the river, special dining options include Island breakfast & Rapids dinner, traditional evening

KaingU Safari Lodge offers activites such as;

Guided game drives

Nature & rock walks

Canoeing tours

River cruises and fishing

Visit to a rural farm and community school

Birding (seasonal highlights: nesting White-fronted Bee-eaters,   congregation of Meyer’s Parrots, November migratory birds)

Children’s activities for young adventurers 

KaingU Safari Lodge accepts children from 5 Years and above. 

Finfoot Safari House has two en-suite bedrooms, a lounge and outdoor deck and is ideal for families of 4 or 5

Activities for young adventurers include: 

Spoor identification

Hippo-bread making

Bow & arrow making and archery

Bush skills & rope making

Entomology 

Seed jewellery making 

Nature walks & rock hopping

1st March -19th December 

Community Projects  - ‘KaingU Community Trust’ supports two schools (Itumbi and Keela school) and projects benefiting the local community (community warehouse, treadle pumps for water)

Social Responsible - local labour wherever possible, providing training and sponsorships, sourcing material and farm produce from the local community as much as possible

Environmental Responsible - designed and built to minimize the impact on the local environment, using natural and local building material as much as possible (bush-poles, thatching, mudbricks); power, lighting and water reticulation all powered by solar panels; waste is separated, composted or recycled wherever possible; environmentally friendly septic tanks and soakaways for waste water

Conservation Projects – Supporting the anti-poaching work done by ‘Game Rangers International’ as well as the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW).  Assistance is also given on an ongoing basis to research organisations operating in the Park – Zambia Carnivore Programme and Panthera.

Power Source - Solar

Wifi – available in the central area of the lodge

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Ila Safari Lodge

About Ila Safari Lodge

Ila Safari Lodge sits in an idyllic location on the banks of the Kafue River in the centre of Zambia's largest ...

... national park. Just off the main road from Lusaka, this modern lodge is more easily accessed than the majority of the camps in Kafue National Park, and works well as a springboard for reaching some of the parks more isolated areas. Ila Safari Lodge is a stylish and smart property with an impressive dedication to sustainability. While it's not in the most remote areas of Kafue, it's convenience from Lusaka and high levels of comfort make it a superb spot for one or two nights at the beginning or end of a trip exploring Kafue's more isolated regions.

Birdwatching

Guided walking safari

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Ila Safari Lodge: Full Report

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Expert Africa's gallery

When we travel we take lots of photos ourselves to give you a real and un-edited view of the safaris. See our 15 pictures of Ila Safari Lodge to get the candid view.

Ila Safari Lodge's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Ila Safari Lodge.

When to go to Kafue National Park

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Ila Safari Lodge in Kafue National Park

Zambia in January

At the peak of Zambia’s rainy season, you can expect heavy rainfall for a few hours most days, with sunny spells in between. Temperatures remain high, reaching over 30ºC, with high humidity. The rainfall is yet to make a significant difference to the Victoria Falls, and the flow of water here remains low. The landscapes are green and lush and the air crystal clear, but with the abundance of water the wildlife disperses, and the thick bush can restrict sightings. It severely limits walking safaris too. Migrant birds boost the species count at this time. With seasonal rivers in flood and dirt roads and airstrips unusable, many camps in Zambia become inaccessible, and close. Only a few lodges in the central Kafue and the South Luangwa remain open. Few people visit in January, so the parks are incredibly quiet and the camps charge their lowest rates.

• Peak of rainy season: hot & humid, with rain for a few hours most days
• Majority of camps closed throughout the month
• Bush incredibly green & lush, with clear air – great for photography
• Big game dispersed & thick bush makes sightings difficult
• Very few visitors: the cheapest time to visit

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in January

Zambia in February

February remains in the heart of the rainy season, with dramatic thunderstorms delivering a few hours of rain most days, interspersed with clear sunny skies. There is still an abundance of water in the environment, dispersing game and closing camps. With the thick bush, game viewing is limited and walking safaris restricted, but the swollen rivers allow some activities that would be unavailable in the dry season, such as boat trips on the Luangwa River. After a couple of months of rain, water will once more be making its way to the Zambezi River, and the flow of water over the Victoria Falls will start to pick up. Visitor numbers and costs at the few open camps remain low.

• Peak of rainy season: hot & humid with rain for a few hours most days
• Most camps closed throughout the month
• Bush lush & green: good for photography but poor for game viewing
• Very few visitors, & the cheapest time to visit
• Water levels at Victoria Falls still low, but starting to pick up

Weather in February

Zambia in March

March is the last month of the rainy season in Zambia, and there are still heavy downpours most days. Water levels are at their highest making it difficult to get around the country. Temperatures still reach over 30ºC most days, too, with the rain causing high levels of humidity. Many camps remain closed, and the thick bush limits game viewing and walking safaris. However, many animals are raising young at this time of year, with predators taking advantage of the easy prey, so sightings can be incredible, if sporadic. Wild dogs in the South Luangwa are particularly active at this time of year. With clear air and increasingly frequent blue skies as a backdrop, photography can be spectacular. The birding remains excellent as thousands of birds prepare for their winter migration.

• Peak of rainy season, hot & humid, with rain for a few hours most days
• Bush remains green & lush: good for photography but poor game viewing
• High abundance of animals with young

Weather in March

Zambia in April

As the rains change from intense downpours to lighter and sporadic showers, April is very much a transitionary period in Zambia. The landscape remains exceptionally green and lush, with sparse viewing of larger wildlife. Although camps start to reopen in April, most remain closed, and others that were open at the start of the year may shut to prepare for the coming dry season. This is the first month of the year when it’s possible to visit the Lower Zambezi. The Zambezi River will be at its highest level with the Victoria Falls in full flow, but with huge amounts of spray kicked up views of the waterfall are often obscured.

• Tail end of the rainy season; hot & humid with light rain most days
• Some camps reopen; possible to visit the Lower Zambezi
• Bush still green & lush: good for photography; poor for game viewing
• Victoria Falls in full flow but with poor views

Weather in April

Zambia in May

May is typically the first month of the dry season. While there is the chance of an odd shower, the majority of days are clear and sunny. As winter approaches, temperatures start to drop, with most days reaching highs of around 26ºC. As the landscape dries out, access to the parks improves, and all but the most remote bushcamps reopen. After five months of rain there is still a lot of standing water, but despite the thick bush May marks a distinct improvement in game viewing, and clear air is a continuing bonus for photographers. The end of the month can be a popular time for visitors, taking advantage of typically good weather, improved game viewing, and the last of the low-season rates offered by the camps.

• Start of the dry season in a typical year, with mostly clear & sunny
• Majority of camps open
• Bush still green & lush, with clear air for photographers
• Game viewing starts to improve
• Last month of low rates at the camps

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in May

Zambia in June

Zambia sees virtually no rainfall in June, with a strong chance of sunny days throughout. The humidity drops dramatically and, as winter approaches, temperatures reduce, falling to around 10ºC at night but still warming to 25ºC during the day. The landscape remains lush but the bush starts to die back significantly, improving visibility for game viewing and walking safaris. All the camps in the South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi are open by the start of June. While some have a ‘shoulder season’, others start charging their highest rates. The water coming over the Victoria Falls starts to recede, reducing the mist and spray kicked up, providing better views of the waterfall itself.

• Reliably sunny days, but dropping temperatures, especially at night.
• All camps in the South Luangwa, southern Kafue & Lower Zambezi open
• Wildlife viewing continuing to improve
• Increased visibility & cool weather perfect for walking safaris.
• Viewing of the Victoria Falls at its best

A very good time to visit

Weather in June

Zambia in July

As the dry season continues, vegetation and long grasses have mostly died back and water starts to become scarce. Wildlife starts to cluster around the major sources of water and the game viewing approaches its best. July is the first month of winter, and while daytime temperatures are in the 20s Celsius, temperatures at night can drop to single digits. Early morning and late evening drives in open vehicles are particularly cold, and blankets and hot water bottles are often provided. Visitor numbers increase significantly and space at popular/small camps can get tight. Nearly all properties are now charging their highest rates. Even floodwaters on northern Kafue’s Busanga Plains have now receded, and all camps in Zambia are open.

• Warm, dry days; cold, crisp nights
• Significantly improved game viewing
• Walking safaris are unrestricted by vegetation, with good temperatures
• Approaching peak season, so significant increase in costs
• Northern Kafue now accessible

Weather in July

Zambia in August

By August, the vegetation has died back and wildlife is now congregating around the remaining water sources, providing excellent game viewing. With virtually no chance of rain you are almost guaranteed sunny days, although dust and smoke in the air means a visible haze starts to appear on the horizon. Temperatures can drop below 5ºC at night but climb to the 20s Celsius during the day. Jackets and gloves are recommended for morning and evening drives. This is one of the most popular – and most expensive – months to travel. European school holidays have little impact on travel within Zambia, but they do increase international flight costs, and all camps are charging their highest rates.

• Very dry with warm days but cold nights
• Excellent wildlife viewing, as animals congregate around water holes.
• Haze developing on the horizon, potentially affecting photographs
• Cool temperatures & clear sightlines: ideal for walking safaris
• Peak season: camps & flights at their most expensive

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in August

Zambia in September

September is the most popular, and arguably the best, time of year to travel. Rain is almost unheard of so humidity is low, and temperatures are starting to climb. Morning drives are more comfortable, with daytime temperatures normally in the low 30s Celsius. Water is scarce, so wildlife clusters around the few remaining sources. Game viewing is very nearly at its best, with a good chance of seeing interactions between species. Camps are charging their highest rates and are at their busiest, with popular camps often fully booked more than a year in advance. A significant haze sometimes appears on the horizon, impacting on landscape views and affecting photography. Depending on the rainfall in the wet season, the Victoria Falls can start looking dry, with more cliff face than waterfall on show.

• Dry hot days with clear skies, & warm nights
• One of the best months for wildlife viewing
• Dust & smoke creates a haze over the landscape
• Peak season: camps are expensive & often full
• Victoria Falls starting to look dry

Weather in September

Zambia in October

As the dry season peaks, the landscape in October is brown and barren, with little ground-level vegetation, though the promise of rain may bring the occasional shower. Temperatures can be uncomfortably hot, reaching over 40ºC in the daytime and rarely dropping below 20ºC at night. This is particularly challenging on walking safaris and in camps without air conditioning. A thick haze on the horizon sometimes turns photographic backgrounds grey-brown rather than sky-blue. The lack of water sees hippos and crocodiles cram themselves into the few remaining shallow rivers, with other wildlife carefully skirting around them in order to drink. Game viewing is at its absolute best, and you’re most likely to see hunts in October. On the Zambian side, stretches of the Victoria Falls become a dry cliff face.

• The best month for wildlife viewing
• Very hot both night & day, with little chance of rain
• Air can be very hazy with dust & smoke, so not great for photography
• Victoria Falls largely dry on Zambian side
• Camps less busy & some start to drop their rates

Weather in October

Zambia in November

November typically marks the end of the dry season. Although the timing of the rains is always uncertain, temperatures remain reliably high and the humidity builds as the rains approach. While you may avoid the rains in the first week of November, it’s not unusual to see some spectacularly heavy thunderstorms, followed by an explosion of green growth. Wildlife disperses rapidly after the rains, no longer restricted to limited waterholes closely monitored by predators. However, Kasanka’s bat migration is at its peak, and wildebeest gather on Liuwa Plains. Many remote camps close, and those that remain open significantly drop their rates. The initial rains have little impact on the Victoria Falls, but do significantly reduce the atmospheric haze.

• Typically the start of the wet season; very hot and humid
• Increased chance of heavy rain as the month progresses
• Greatly diminished game viewing once the rains arrive
• Bat migration in Kasanka, and wildebeest migration in Liuwa
• Camp rates lower, & visitor numbers reduced

Weather in November

Zambia in December

December is typically the first month in Zambia’s rainy season, with heavy thunderstorms most days interspersed by sunny spells. Temperatures start to fall, but still reach over 30ºC in the daytime, with high levels of humidity. As the rainfall increases it brings plentiful water into the landscape, encouraging the growth of thick green vegetation. Wildlife remains in the national parks and sightings are possible, but overall game viewing is poor. Access to the parks becomes problematic and all but a handful of camps around the entrance to the South Luangwa and the centre of Kafue national parks close. Those that do remain open charge their lowest rates and are very quiet. The rain removes any smoke and dust from the air, returning the sky to a dazzling blue that is great for photographers.

• Start of rainy season, with hot, humid & wet days
• Poor game viewing as wildlife disperses & bush thickens
• Majority of camps close; others charge their lowest rates
• Landscape green with blue skies; photographic opportunities improve
• Victoria Falls still dry

Weather in December

Other areas in Zambia

South Luangwa

Livingstone

Lower Zambezi

Lusaka area

North Luangwa

Northern Zambia

Liuwa Plain

Zambia fact file

Useful information and advice to help you prepare for a trip including Ila Safari Lodge

Flights to Zambia

How to get there & on to safaris camp destinations

LGBT travel in Zambia

Attitude, the law & our experiences

Tipping in Zambia

Expectations & guidelines for tipping

Zambia general info

Essential travel information

Weather & climate

The best time to visit Zambia

Other lodges in Kafue National Park

Alternative places to stay in this same area.

Musekese Camp

Musekese is a small owner-run tented camp, offering great guiding and a high degree of personal service in a stunning wilderness area, with modest game.

Busanga Bushcamp

Busanga Bushcamp is a small but comfortable tented bushcamp (max 8 guests) which makes a great base for a wildlife safari to the Busanga Plains.

Shumba Camp

Shumba is a high-spec camp built on a tree island in the magical Busanga Plains. It opens in May, when the birdlife is particularly amazing; as the dry season progresses, the game can become remarkable.

KaingU Lodge

KaingU Lodge, in the centre of the southern part of Zambia's vast Kafue National Park, is in a great location for exploring this section of the Kafue River

Ntemwa Busanga Camp

Ntemwa Busanga Camp is a simple but comfortable camp on the southern tip of the Busanga Plains which combines well with its sister camp, Musekese.

Chisa Busanga

Opened in mid 2021, Chisa Busanga Camp is a beautifully designed, small, intimate and rustic camp.

Mukambi Safari Lodge

Mukambi Safari Lodge is a solidly built, comfortable property just off the main road from Lusaka, making it one of the most convenient camps in Kafue.

Mukambi Plains Camp

Mukambi Plains Camp is a rustic, tented property located in the middle of the vast Busanga Plains in Kafue National Park.

Fig Tree Camp

Fig Tree camp is in the centre of Kafue National Park, and in addition to having a stunning location is well placed to start or end your trip in the park.

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MWAMFUSHI SAFARI LODGE - KAFUE NATIONAL PARK

• Secure parking available
• Shared outdoor pool (unheated)
• Internet access
• 100% refund within 24 hours after booking (provided the stay is at least 60 days away).
• 100 % refund* if you cancel at least 2 weeks before check-in
• No refund available once booking is confirmed

MWAMFUSHI SAFARI LODGE - KAFUE NATIONAL PARK - UPDATED 2024 - Holiday Rental in Kafue - Tripadvisor

Unique by Nature

THE MUKAMBI FAMILY

In 2002 Edjan and Robyn van der Heide decided to leave the comforts of their Netherlands lifestyle in search of a real adventure. Robyn was born in Africa and together they had always longed to go back so they took a leap of faith and headed to Zambia. And the rest is history…

They moved not only to a country so far removed from what they had known, they moved to the remote wilderness of Kafue National Park. Their two eldest children, Eva and Ellen, were only 4 and 3 years old and in 2002 their youngest daughter, Lara, was born in Livingstone, close to the Victoria Falls (her full name is Lara Victoria).

A six hour drive from the capital Lusaka, over bad roads, and with no neighbours within a couple hours’ drive, the family were well and truly in the middle of nowhere, and Mukambi resurrected. A Dutch television producer visited Mukambi and decided it was worth filming their new lifestyle and the trials and tribulations of running a safari lodge. The result was a two-year Dutch television series, called ‘From Amstelveen to Zambia’.

The family lived at and managed Mukambi Safari Lodge for 5 years, during which time the children were home-schooled. It was a wonderful experience for the kids to grow up in the African bush with pets like warthogs, impalas, and bushbuck. When their two eldest daughters moved back to The Netherlands to study, Edjan and Robyn moved back to the lodge full-time with all three daughters studying in The Netherlands.

Looking back, Edjan says “We still enjoy the life we chose and never regretted the big step of moving to Zambia. For the next few years we also want to further improve the quality of life of the local people through the Mukambi Community School, and to conserve Kafue National Park for the next generation.”

Meet The Team

Transfer Driver, Grandfather and agriculture expert

• Spends most of his days ferrying guests back and forth between Lusaka and the lodge
• But has spent most of his working life as a commercial farm manager, making use of his 3 diplomas in agriculture, marketing and wildlife forest conservation
• Comes from Chipata and has worked at Mukambi since 2013
• Was the assistant manager for The Chongwe River Camp in the Lower Zambezi National Park
• Spends his spare time reading wildlife books and studying hard for his guiding licence as he has a passion for wildlife
• He has 4 grown children, one of which lived many years in Russia where he qualified as an ecologist

Front of House

• Purity has been with Mukambi since 2012 and likes to drive the boat across the river taking guests to the harbour
• She values education above everything else and even went back to school in 2008 to finish her studies
• She has 2 children and loves shopping in Mumbwa
• Not only is she a trained masseuse, but hopes to one day set up a Mukambi spa with professional massage service
• She is also called upon often to braid her friends hair in her spare time
• She once mistook Impala for Lions and ran for her life

From Head Barman to Qualified Safari Guide!​

• Brian enjoys being the referee for local football matches and is a devoted Manchester City supporter.
• He is a very good swimmer and at the age of 15, he saved a friend from drowning in the river.
• A keen birder, Brian loves the humble Namaqua Dove and loves taking a boat out on the river to go birding.
• Best thing about the Kafue NP is the abundance of bird and animal species.
• He can speak 7 different languages.
• Brian dreamed of becoming a safari guide and his determination and hard work made that a reality. He is now (and has been for a while) a valuable member of our Safari Guides Team, with guests always complimenting his genuine and inspiring passion and enthusiasm for his job.

Boyd & Malcom

• Boyd Longwane and Malcom Phiri join the guiding team with a wealth of enthusiasm and knowledge.
• Local Zambians, they have spent much of their lives in and around our National Parks, but would both love to one day travel to the USA and experience the wildlife in their famous Yellowstone National Park.

Reservations Manager

Meet Rita, a dynamic and committed team member who embraces the daily adventures of her role. With a rich 16-year background in office administration and specialization in tourism reservations, she boasts expertise in industry-specific software and all standard office programs. Rita became part of our Mukambi family in August 2023, drawn by her deep love for nature and the bush. Perhaps her connection to nature is rooted in her birthplace – the pristine Kafue National Park. At Mukambi, we fondly call her “Honey Badger”, a testament to her bravery and spirit, just like the fearless creature itself. Welcome to the journey, Rita!

In Memoriam

For 14 years Basil, Mukambi’s house hippo, made it clear to humans and animals alike that Mukambi Safari Lodge was his territory. He paraded around the bar, investigated the meals in the dining area, grazed among the chalets and luxury tents, and took in the rays, cooling off in the Kafue next to our jetty. We are sorry to announce to all his dedicated followers that Basil passed away recently. We suspect it was his fierce defense of his territory against other local hippos that may have finally got the best of him. Unfortunately, it is not the survival of the finest, but of the fittest…..

Please do share any memories and photos of Basil from visits to Mukambi, so we can all remember him, as he deserves. A legend will always be remembered.

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Kafue Safari Tours & Holidays

11-Day Best of Zambia's Wildlife Safari

$11,676 to $15,340 pp (USD)

Zambia & Eswatini: Private tour Luxury Tented Camp & Bush Camp

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

4.9 /5  –  149 Reviews

4-Day Central Kafue Get Away

$1,870 to $2,200 pp (USD)

Zambia: Private tour Mid-range Tented Camp

You Visit: Lusaka (Start) , Kafue NP, Lusaka (End)

Zamsato   Tour operator has an office in Zambia

4.9 /5  –  28 Reviews

10-Day South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi and Kafue

$4,367 to $4,906 pp (USD)

Zambia: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

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

Wilderness Horizon Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Zambia

4.9 /5  –  16 Reviews

4-Day Authentic Bushcamp in North Kafue National Park

$1,172 pp (USD)

Zambia: Private tour Mid-range Bush Camp

Ntanda Ventures   Tour operator has an office in Zambia

5.0 /5  –  22 Reviews

4-Day Kafue National Park

$1,815 to $2,123 pp (USD)

Zambia: Private tour Mid-range Lodge

You Visit: Lusaka (Start) , Kafue NP, Lusaka Airport (End)

Adventure Purists   Tour operator has an office in Zambia

4.8 /5  –  13 Reviews

7-Day Luxury Zambia Fly in Safari

$5,280 to $6,578 pp (USD)

Zambia: Private tour Luxury Tented Camp & Bush Camp

Kingfisher Safaris

4.7 /5  –  51 Reviews

9-Day Enjoyable Kafue Travel Expedition Safari Adventure

$2,464 pp (USD)

Zambia: Shared tour (max 10 people per vehicle) Budget Lodge

You Visit: Livingstone (Start) , Kafue NP, Lusaka (End)

Lochinvar Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Zambia

4.4 /5  –  5 Reviews

7-Day Kafue National Park and Victoria Falls

$4,015 to $4,334 pp (USD)

Zambia: Shared tour (max 10 people per vehicle) Luxury Lodge & Hotel

You Visit: Lusaka (Start) , Kafue NP, Victoria Falls, Livingstone Airport (End)

Vanaway Travel & Tours   Tour operator has an office in Zambia

5.0 /5  –  1 Reviews

9-Day Ultimate Zambian Safari

$6,243 to $8,490 pp (USD)

Zambia: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Tented Camp

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

Off2Africa Travel

5.0 /5  –  96 Reviews

5-Day Safari Serenity in Kafue

$2,299 to $2,739 pp (USD)

6-Day Liuwa and Kafue National Park

$3,388 to $3,562 pp (USD)

Zambia: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Guest House

You Visit: Lusaka (Start) , Mongu (City) , Liuwa Plain NP, Kafue NP, Lusaka (End)

3-Day Bush Safari in Kafue National Park

$1,073 pp (USD)

7-Day Kafue and South Luangwa National Parks

$3,575 pp (USD)

You Visit: Lusaka (Start) , Kafue NP, South Luangwa NP, Mfuwe Airport (Mfuwe) , Mfuwe (End)

7-Day Zambia Kafue & Livingstone Luxury Safari

$12,073 pp (USD)

Zambia: Private tour Luxury Tented Camp

3-Day Short Safari to Kafue National Park Central Part

$924 pp (USD)

Zambia: Shared tour (max 10 people per vehicle) Budget Camping

8-Day Ultimate Kafue Safari

$6,056 to $8,330 pp (USD)

You Visit: Livingstone (Start) , Kafue NP, Busanga (Kafue NP) , Lusaka Airport (End)

4-Day Kafue National Park Luxury Safari Package

$2,200 to $2,530 pp (USD)

Zambia: Shared tour (max 8 people per vehicle) Luxury Lodge

5-Day Safari to Livingstone and Kafue National Park

$902 pp (USD)

Zambia: Private tour Budget Lodge & Guest House

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

7-Day Kafue & Lower Zambezi National Parks

$2,750 to $2,915 pp (USD)

You Visit: Lusaka (Start) , Kafue NP, Lower Zambezi NP, Lusaka Airport (End)

8-Day Plains and Rivers - Busanga and Kafue

$4,004 pp (USD)

Zambia: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Tented Bush Camp

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