Discover Zambia's Luxurious Safari Lodges: A Guide to Unforgettable Wildlife Experiences

Nov 07, 2025 0

From the spray of Victoria Falls to the remote plains of Liuwa and Busanga, Zambia’s lodges offer wild beauty with refined comfort. River journeys, walking safaris, and nights under vast skies create experiences as rich as the landscapes themselves. Zambia is home to some of the best quality safari experiences on the continent.

Accommodation in Zambia varies greatly from authentic bush camps with no access to the outside world, to luxury glass-fronted suites with private plunge pools and stand-alone bathtubs. Your list of must-haves will really help us decide where to send you. Many of the lodges in Zambia are unfenced, meaning that wildlife can (and most likely will) roam freely throughout camp. It is quite common for a herd of elephant to come parading through camp, or for you to wake up after a good night’s rest to fresh animal tracks on the path winding through camp.

The lodges are across the board more of a rustic barefoot luxury experience, than super glitzy. The essence of a Zambia safari though, is not in the added creature comforts like private pools, spas and gyms, but luxury can be found in the quality of the overall safari experience - a high bar which has been set across the country. Zambia is home to some of the most knowledgeable guides on the continent, and as such, it is a place for the seasoned safari goer who wants a wholly enriching wilderness experience.

Even though some of the rustic lodges are not flashy, Zambia’s excellent dedication to phenomenal high-quality safari and truly world-class wildlife areas means that even in their shabby-chic glory, lodges here still can come with a price tag. Not to the extent that, say, safari-ing in Botswana does, but it is not the most economical option either.

Topography of Zambia

Read also: Detailed Review: Nelspruit Lodges

Your journey begins with a personal bon voyage call, an opportunity to answer questions, offer guidance, and ensure you’re fully prepared. From that moment, every detail is managed with care, from tailored logistics to special touches along the way.

Featured Lodges and Camps in Zambia

Here are some of the lodges and camps that Zambia has to offer:

Victoria Falls Area

Here are some of the lodges near Victoria Falls:

Tongabezi Lodge: Set on the banks of the Zambezi just upstream from Victoria Falls, Tongabezi blends romance and adventure. Unique houses and cottages, private dining on a sampan, sunset dhow cruises, and rhino walks all come with thoughtful, personalised service.
Wilderness Toka Leya: A tranquil base on the Zambezi River, close enough for Victoria Falls adventures yet secluded in nature. Luxurious tents, river cruises, fishing, and wellness experiences combine relaxation with excitement.

South Luangwa National Park

Explore the lodges in South Luangwa:

Lion Camp: In the northern reaches of South Luangwa, Lion Camp offers exclusive game viewing away from the crowds. Thatched suites overlook floodplains alive with wildlife, while walking safaris and game drives showcase Zambia’s wild heart.
Takwela Camp: A simple and authentic bush camp at the confluence of the Luangwa and Mwaleshi Rivers. With just four chalets, Takwela provides walking safaris, game drives, and a deep sense of wilderness solitude.

Lower Zambezi National Park

Lower Zambezi National Park is one of Africa’s most underrated safari destinations. Set on the Zambian bank of the Zambezi River, it is one of the few parks where activities include day and night drives, bush walks, boat safaris and canoeing. Elephant and hippo viewing is exceptional, while lion, leopard and African wild dog are all pretty common. Lower Zambezi is serviced by many riverside camps and lodges.

Read also: Your Guide to Bulawayo Lodges

Here are some of the lodges in Lower Zambezi:

Dulini Anabezi: Set in a remote corner of Lower Zambezi, Anabezi is surrounded by Winterthorn forest and wildlife-rich floodplains. Spacious tents with plunge pools overlook the river, with safaris by vehicle, canoe, and boat offering endless discovery. Anabezi is arguably the ultimate Lower Zambezi camp. Combining stylish bush chic and a high level of comfort with a compelling bush atmosphere, it also benefits from lying deep inside the park, at least 50km/31mi past the main entrance gate. The 12 glass-and-canvas suites are spaced out along an 800m/2,600ft stilted wooden walkway overlooking the Zambezi and an associated floodplain. Each suite incorporates a walk-in net large enough to swallow an average-sized hotel room and leads out to a wooden deck with a private plunge pool. Plenty of wildlife can be seen from the lodge, and game drives are rewarding, thanks partly to the abundant wildlife but also to the remote location and low tourist traffic.
Baines’ River Camp: Enjoy a taste of timeless elegance at this luxurious small camp named after Thomas Baines, an explorer and artist who accompanied the explorer David Livingstone on the Zambezi Expedition of 1858 to 1864. Despite the name, Baines’ is more lodge than camp, comprising eight double chalets and one family unit, all with air conditioning, ceiling fan and private terrace. The chalets are strung out along the Zambezi about 30km/19mi outside the national park, but there’s still plenty of wildlife around, including elephants.
Kiambi Safari Lodge: Kiambi is a long-standing favorite with Lusaka-based residents thanks to its friendly management, mellow atmosphere and wallet-friendly rates. It boasts a wonderful stretch of Zambezi frontage in a game management area, 50km/31mi outside the national park. The lodge forms a great base for tiger fishing, bird watching and canoeing. Guided game drives take you to the park boundary by boat, a worthwhile adventure in itself.
Sausage Tree Camp: Established in 1996, Sausage Tree Camp is one of the oldest and most luxurious camps situated within Lower Zambezi National Park. Spaced widely along the Zambezi, the camp stands in an area of riverside forest dominated by mature sausage and mahogany trees. The seven customized safari tents have massive interiors decorated in a modern minimalist style, while sliding doors lead out to a private deck with a plunge pool and intimate river view. Common areas include an expansive teak deck and full-size swimming pool that look out to a cluster of reed-covered islands frequented by hippos, elephants and buffalo. Exclusivity is what it’s all about here.
Potato Bush Camp: Family-friendly Potato Bush Camp is under the same management as its near neighbor Sausage Tree Camp. Although slightly less luxurious, it offers a similarly unpackaged experience, comprising just three spacious and well-equipped safari tents and one family house, connected by elevated timber walkways. All units offer a superb Zambezi view, which can be enjoyed from a private plunge pool, outdoor lounge or hammock.
Chongwe River Camp: This stunning camp has a perfect location at the confluence of the Chongwe River, the national park’s western boundary, and the mighty Zambezi. It comprises eight classic safari tents, all decorated with locally crafted furniture and colorful African fabrics. The tents have a large open-air bathroom and terrace looking over the forest-fringed river. The camp lies immediately outside the national park, on the west bank of the Chongwe, but is well placed for game drives, boat safaris and other activities inside the park.
Chiawa Camp: Pioneering Chiawa, the oldest camp in Lower Zambezi, has been owned and operated by the Cumings family since it was established back in 1989. From modest beginnings, a succession of upgrades has transformed this labor of love into a modern bush retreat whose eight standing tents are among the largest and most luxurious in Zambia. Chiawa has received numerous awards over the years, and is renowned for its exceptional guiding standards and beautiful riverside location inside the park.
Chula Island Camp: Chula is distinguished from other camps in Lower Zambezi by its setting on a small island. Named after the frogs (‘chula’ in the local Goba tongue) whose atmospheric chorus often fills the night air, this small mahogany-shaded camp offers excellent in-house wildlife viewing and birding. The five tents cater for a maximum of 10 guests, and combine the wilderness ethos of a bush camp with all the luxuries one could reasonably expect under the circumstances.
Kanyemba Lodge: Community-minded Kanyemba Lodge stands on the forested bank of the Zambezi, some 50km/31mi outside the national park. It consists of six air-conditioned rondavels (round chalets) with slate floors, thatch roofs and large riverfront decks, as well as a three-bedroom house aimed at families. A large and blissful infinity pool looks out over a stretch of river frequented by hippos and elephants, while the Italian-influenced cuisine includes delicious artisan pizzas fresh from a wood-fired oven. Despite being somewhat far from the park, all the usual guided activities, including boat trips, bush walks and game drives, are on offer.
Lolebezi Safari Lodge: Despite being a relative newcomer to the scene, Lolebezi Safari Lodge (which opened in 2022) is rapidly gaining a reputation as one of Lower Zambezi’s top luxury lodges. Managed by Zimbabwe-based African Bush Camps, it consists of four double suites and two family units, all with air conditioning, private plunge pool and superb views over a wild stretch of the Zambezi. In addition to offering all the usual activities, the lodge incorporates a spa with qualified staff and a yoga deck.
Amanzi Camp: Anabezi's sister Camp, Amanzi is for those travellers who prefer a more rustic feel to their safari camp, then this is definitley the camp for you! Amanzi is situated on the banks of the Zambezi's Ngwenya channel just two kilometers down stream from Anabezi.

Liuwa Plains National Park

If you want the best of Zambia’s untouched and remote wilderness without compromising on every luxury under the sun, then Liuwa Plains and King Lewinika is one of the best experiences for this on the continent - truly fit for a king!

King Lewanika Lodge: The only permanent camp in Liuwa Plains, offering sweeping views of vast grasslands and wildebeest herds. Elegant safari tents and private verandas immerse guests in this remote and untouched wilderness. The spacious luxury safari tents have been tastefully designed to offer unrivalled luxury, whilst championing the beauty of the Liuwa Plain from every vantage point. As you open your door and enter the room, you feel as if you are walking directly into The Plain, as the open fronted rooms effortlessly draw the beauty of outside, in. Your eye is immediately tempted to scan the expansive panoramic view unfolding in front of you. Each luxury safari tent offers multiple seating areas, a large sofa is the perfect spot to sit with your binoculars and see what comes to drink during the heat of the day, or soak up the sun on your lounger chairs on the expansive veranda. The earthy tones of leather, steel and grass are wonderfully incorporated into the tasteful colour palette that reflects the golden hues of the grass that surround you. The luxury safari tents offer a choice of an indoor, or an outdoor shower, for the adventurous, a shower under the remarkable Liuwa night sky is the perfect way to end the day.

Liuwa Plain

Kafue National Park

Here are some of the lodges in Kafue National Park:

Chisa Busanga Camp: Known as the “Nest Camp,” Chisa’s elevated rooms resemble weaver bird nests above the Busanga Plains. Solar-powered and eco-conscious, it offers silent e-vehicle safaris, walking safaris, and unmatched wildlife encounters.

Other Notable Camps and Lodges

Here are some additional camps and lodges to consider for your Zambian safari:

Mwaleshi Camp: Tucked away in the wilds of the remote North Luangwa National Park; this is a very open wilderness experience, like camping, but with an ever so Zambia twist. The structure is made up of reed, and so it leaves absolutely no footprint on the surrounding nature. It is a unique experience, and although the accommodation is fairly basic - nothing about the experience ordinary. It offers the very best of the walking safari purity Zambia is so heralded for.
Norman Carr Walking Safari Lodges (Nsolo, Mchenja, and Luwi): Intrepid, authentic, and classic, this is a one of a kind barefoot luxury safari experience which is best done by those who are obsessed with untangling the mystery that is the African bush from a raw and authentic perspective - on two legs! The camp experience is all about immersing yourself in nature and an excellent guide to show you a safe way to navigate it on 7km walks, moving from lodge to lodge.
Chinzombo: Located not far from the gates to the South Luangwa National Park, and offers chic luxury in one of the best wildlife destinations in Africa.
Bilimungwe: Bilimungwe, owned by The Bushcamp Company is a great little walking camp, well regarded as one of the best walking camps in the Luangwa. Adventurous safaris are guaranteed with award-winning guides, often spending subsequently large chunks of the day walking out of camp.
Chamilandu: As with so many of the Luangwa camps, Chamilandu is a wonderfully authentic bush camp; a style of property more uncommon in Africa, and the only bushcamp with just 3 chalets in the area. It gets our vote for having the most mind-blowing views from everywhere in camp. Chamilandu makes a good starting point before heading further south in the park to the other Bushcamp Company walking camps. By designing the trips this way, Chamilandu is viewed as a less adventurous option.
Chichele Presidential Lodge: Chichele Presidential has brought a new standard of accommodation to Zambian safaris. While this country is known for its characterful bush camps, Chichele Presidential, as its name suggests, offers premium bricks and motar luxury - something that’s usually associated with neighbouring Botswana. If you want all the facilities, but still a family-run feel then this lodge is for you; Chichele is operated by the Cumings family, who are known for their personalised luxury lodges in the valley.
Chindeni Bushcamp: Recognised as one of the Luangwa’s more luxurious bushcamps, complete with writing desks and solid wooden furniture, Chindeni caters for a client who wants a secure tented camp, but one that also has a sense of adventure. In our view it lacks that sense of wild adventure that the Luangwa’s bushcamps are so famous for. Subsequently we prefer the other Bushcamp camps.

Activities and Experiences

Zambia safaris offer a range of activities that cater to different interests. Here are some of the highlights:

Game Drives: Explore the expansive plains and woodlands in open vehicles, with opportunities to spot lions, elephants, leopards, and a variety of other wildlife. The vehicles also boast roof top "vista" seats which, together with the under roof game drive seats ensure the ideal vantages to spot, observe and photograph Liuwa's wildlife and landscapes.
Walking Safaris: Experience the African bush on foot, accompanied by expert guides who share their knowledge of the flora, fauna, and local ecosystems.
River Cruises and Boat Safaris: Discover the Zambezi River and its abundant wildlife from a unique perspective, with opportunities for bird watching and close encounters with hippos and crocodiles.
Canoeing: Paddle along the Zambezi River for a more intimate and adventurous experience, exploring hidden channels and spotting wildlife along the banks.
Fishing: Enjoy tiger fishing in the Zambezi River, a popular activity for anglers seeking a thrilling challenge.
Community Visits: Visit local communities inside the park, to see and experience their generational traditional fishing methods. Learn the rich history and culture which continues to be celebrated today, a stronghold culture which continues today in an authentic environment.

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Enjoy our fresh and nutritious cuisine, with much sourced locally. Perhaps sample some wonderful local Liuwa delicacies.

Table of Lodges and Locations

Here's a summary table of some of the lodges mentioned, along with their locations and key features:

Lodge Name	Location	Key Features
Tongabezi Lodge	Victoria Falls	Unique cottages, private dining, sunset cruises, rhino walks
Wilderness Toka Leya	Victoria Falls	Luxurious tents, river cruises, fishing, wellness experiences
Lion Camp	South Luangwa	Exclusive game viewing, thatched suites, walking safaris
Dulini Anabezi	Lower Zambezi	Spacious tents, plunge pools, safaris by vehicle, canoe, and boat
King Lewanika Lodge	Liuwa Plains	Sweeping grassland views, elegant safari tents, private verandas
Chisa Busanga Camp	Northern Kafue	Elevated rooms resembling weaver bird nests, e-vehicle safaris
Takwela Camp	South Luangwa	Authentic bush camp, walking safaris, game drives
Chiawa Camp	Lower Zambezi	Exceptional guiding standards, beautiful riverside location