Guest area with pool and viewing deck at Wilderness Shumba in Zambia

Wilderness

The best safari lodges in Zambia

From the banks of the Zambezi River close to the Victoria Falls, to the remote Busanga Plains in Kafue National Park, discover some of the best safari lodges in Zambia.

Itinerary
Tailor-made

Personalised safaris including Wilderness camps, partner properties, city stays, transfers, activities and experiences to suit your dates and interests.

Upliftment Employment
Award-winning

193 awards since 2020, with our safari lodges consistently voted among the top in the world, as well as recognition for our positive Impact initiatives.

Game Drive
Exclusive

With small guest numbers, we provide access to remote concessions in some of Africa’s wildest safari destinations, with the option of private vehicles and guides for additional flexibility.

Binoculars
Diverse

We operate in eight African countries, with 55+ camps promising a range of activities from boating, to walking, game drives and more, for a full immersion in nature and local culture.

We opened our first safari camp in Zambia over 25 years ago, pioneering the luxury lodge experience in Kafue’s Busanga Plains with Wilderness Shumba. Not too long after this, Busanga Bush Camp was opened. It has that same special Wilderness touch while expressing a more rustic, seasonal, on-the-ground appeal. Offering a contrasting experience to the wild plains of Kafue, Wilderness Toka Leya sits on the banks of the Zambezi River upstream from the Victoria Falls, beside a natural spring that draws myriad wildlife, including elephant and bushbuck. All three camps are consistently ranked among Zambia’s best safari lodges due to their remote settings, excellent wildlife experiences and authentic, down-to-earth atmosphere.

 

In addition, Wilderness’ camps in Zambia are consistently recognised for their experienced teams, conservation ethos and the breadth and quality of the experiences they offer. Exceptional guiding and cuisine are equally central to the experience. Some Wilderness team members have been with the company for close to 20 years, with resident chefs, guides and other staff bringing decades of knowledge to the camps. Add an all-inclusive experience, excellent wine, varied activities and a strong commitment to conservation, and it is easy to see why guests return to these camps again and again. 

Best safari lodge for first-time travellers to Africa

Wilderness Toka Leya

 

For those visiting Africa for the first time, Wilderness Toka Leya offers one of the most accessible introductions to a luxury safari. Its setting on the banks of the Zambezi River means a stay here combines classic game drives with river-based experiences, while its proximity to the Victoria Falls makes it possible to pair a safari with a visit to one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

 

It is also a particularly good choice for travellers who want a comfortable introduction to safari life. The camp offers comfortable tented suites raised on wooden decks, a spa and gym overlooking the river, a beautiful pool and range of dining decks, so you can relax at the lodge between a range of activities including boat trips, guided walks, game drives, cultural excursions and visits to the Falls. 

 

 

 

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Best camp for big-cat safari enthusiasts

Wilderness Shumba

 

For true safari enthusiasts, Wilderness Shumba is a great choice for a Zambian safari, particularly for lovers, and photographers, of big cats. The camp is set in the Busanga Plains, a vast seasonal plain in Kafue National Park renowned for its concentrations of wildlife and predators. Lions are a major attraction, while cheetahs and leopards can also be encountered, alongside the plains' abundant antelope. The open landscape is especially rewarding for watching and photographing lions as they can be seen at a distance, while the remote position of the camp means that you’ll share sightings with few other vehicles.

 

The lodge itself has six spacious luxury tented suites, positioned on elevated wooden decks, with views of the plains and the rising sun. A small, raised swimming pool overlooks the busy floodplain too and provides a place to cool off, while the elegant main area includes a firepit, lounge, bar and dining space. 

 

 

 

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Best lodge for adventurous, intrepid travellers

Wilderness Busanga Bush Camp

 

For travellers who would happily trade some of the trimmings of a conventional luxury lodge for a wilder experience, Wilderness Busanga Bush Camp is the best choice. This intimate four-tent camp has its roots as a seasonal fly camp, and while modern comforts have been added it is still reminiscent of this. A stay here is deliberately less about elaborate facilities and more about the experience of being in nature.

 

The four rustic tented suites are complemented by an authentic canvas main area, a raised swimming pool and deck area overlooking the plains, and a communal firepit where guests can gather before or after dinner. Meals are served in the open dining area and focus on relaxed, home-style Zambian cuisine, with brunch, dinner and afternoon tea enjoyed against the backdrop of the plains. 

 

 

 

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When we say we’re there every step of the way, we mean it, literally. From planning the perfect circuit, to private inter-camp transfers on Wilderness Air, and easing you through Customs. We’re with you on the ground, at your side, 24-7, from start to finish. Ready to take the road less travelled? Contact our Travel Designers to plan an unforgettable journey.