The Best Safari Lodges & Camps in Zambia

There are plenty of phenomenal places to stay near Victoria Falls, but Wilderness Toka Leya is at the top of our list. Located right on the banks of the Zambezi River within Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, it has a dozen spacious tented suites – three of which are designed for families. In addition to visiting Victoria Falls, you can go on game drives and river cruises nearby.

Need to know: As part of our Positive Impact Collection, Wilderness Toka Leya is firmly committed to reducing its environmental footprint through recycling, upcycling, renewable energy usage and design principles that minimise its impact on the ecosystem around it.

Zambia is the birthplace of walking safaris, and it was right here in South Luangwa National Park that this concept was pioneered more than 70 years ago. Today you can stay at the sumptuous Chinzombo Lodge to combine the classic walking safari experience with a decidedly modern ambience. Its six villas are chic, cosy and open to the stunning wilderness around them.

Need to know: Chinzombo Lodge is located on 60 acres of private land, so you’ll have a slice of the legendary South Luangwa National Park nearly all to yourself. It also accepts children of all ages, with one two-bedroom tent for families.

Wilderness Shumba Camp is located on a leafy island in Kafue National Park’s Busanga Plains, offering unparalleled access to the area’s famous predators, antelope and ‘flying lions’ (known for their dramatic leaps across the plains’ water channels). It’s one of the most remote safari camps in Zambia and an ideal choice if you’re looking to get a bit farther off the beaten track.

Need to know: Wilderness Shumba Camp is only open for five months of the year, when seasonal floodwaters recede to reveal the plains’ full majesty. This coincides with the dry season from May to October, which is the best time to visit Zambia for safaris.

Whether your priority is first-rate wildlife viewing or world-class luxury (or both), Lolebezi leaves absolutely nothing to be desired. The surrounding area of the Lower Zambezi abounds with leopards, elephants and wild dogs, while the lodge itself is outfitted with a gorgeous blend of contemporary furnishings, local artwork, elegant marble and other natural materials.

Need to know: For a bit more privacy, you can book the exclusive-use villa with space for up to four people, which includes your own dedicated safari guide and private vehicle.

Another of our favourite spots in South Luangwa National Park, Mfuwe Lodge is tucked into the trees beside two tranquil lagoons. That means you’ll have front-row seats to the spectacle of hippos and crocodiles going about their daily business, as well as many other species that come to drink from the lagoons. There’s also a fantastic spa if you’re in the mood for some pampering.

Need to know: Every year from late October to mid-December, ripe fruits fall from the lodge’s mango tree, attracting hordes of hungry elephants onto the grounds for a sweet feast.

For total immersion and impeccable exclusivity, Sausage Tree Camp is the place to be in the Lower Zambezi. This bright and airy camp is set beside the Zambezi River, promising lovely views from each of its seven suites and the two-bedroom family house (not to mention private plunge pools). Guaranteed private guides ensure that your experience is perfectly customised.

Need to know: Sausage Tree Camp is open during the dry season from April to November every year; June through October is considered the high season for safaris here.

One of the most intimate accommodation options in Zambia, Wilderness Busanga Bush Camp has just four tents and a few common areas hidden amid the sycamore fig trees of Busanga Plains in Kafue National Park. It’s an incredibly authentic and romantic spot, ideal for couples who want to combine a luxurious getaway with spectacular game viewing and birdwatching.

Need to know: Like Wilderness Shumba Camp, Busanga Bush Camp is only open during the dry season (June–October). From August to September you’ll have the option to embark on an exhilarating hot air balloon safari to get unforgettable views of the plains from above.

Ila Safari Lodge offers the same extraordinary safari experiences and luxurious amenities as the lodges above, but with an even stronger focus on sustainability. It’s the first lodge in the country to use fully electric vehicles and boats for game drives and river cruises, respectively, and each of its ten tents runs on solar power. The delicious cuisine is also locally sourced.

Need to know: This is our only Positive Impact property in Kafue National Park. Beyond its environmental efforts, the lodge is also deeply involved with the local community through social projects. For example, it runs an organic garden that promotes sustainable farming practices.