Fly-in safaris in Zambia

At 2.25 million hectares (5.5 million acres), Kafue National Park is one of the largest protected areas in Africa, and Zambia’s oldest. The northern sector, known as the Busanga Plains, is remote and wild with vast tracts of pristine wilderness. It is here where Wilderness operates some of the best fly-in safari camps in Zambia. Here, diverse habitats support a wide range of wildlife, including puku, lechwe, zebra, and elephant but above all, the area is known as a stronghold for predators, including lion, leopard, cheetah, and African wild dog.

Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI) in Livingstone is the main arrival airport for many leisure travellers visiting Zambia, particularly those including Victoria Falls as the start or end of their safari itinerary. Located just outside Livingstone town, LVI offers easy access to Falls-based activities and seamless road connections to Zimbabwe (Victoria Falls) and Botswana (Chobe). From here it is also easy to connect to Wilderness’ fly-in safari lodges in Kafue National Park while Lusaka is another entry-point for safari-focused itineraries. Flights to Kafue National Park are conducted in light aircraft, typically seating no more than 10 passengers, with a flight time of around an hour and a half from both Livingstone and Lusaka. 

How does a fly-in safari in Zambia work?

Wilderness safari camps in Kafue National Park are only accessible via light aircraft. Flights here are operated from Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI) in Livingstone and Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN), Lusaka, Zambia’s main international hub and capital city airport. Wilderness operates dedicated meet-and-greet services at all major entry points. You will be met in the arrival’s hall by a uniformed Wilderness representative, and then transferred to your onward flight connection or to your transfer driver depending on your destination. Flights to the Busanga airstrip do not operate at set times so guests will be advised in camp the night prior regarding times for the following day. 

What are the luggage restrictions on a fly-in safari?

For your fly-in safari in Kenya, luggage should not exceed 15 kg (32 lb) per person, including hand luggage and camera equipment. Only soft-sided bags are allowed. Excess luggage may be able to pre-booked at an additional charge, depending on your itinerary and flight provider. Speak to your Wilderness Travel Designer prior to travel if you would like to arrange this.

How much does a fly-in safari in Zambia cost?

As far as fly-in safaris go, the remote camps in Zambia are among Africa’s most affordable option. Rates for Wilderness lodges in the Busanga Plains range between USD1,400 and 1,800 pppn for your lodge stay inclusive of all meals, accommodation, house drinks and activities with flights and transfers added in to your final itinerary cost. For a six-night itinerary combining both Wilderness Toka Leya close to Victoria Falls and either a fly-in safari at Wilderness Shumba or Busanga Bush Camp in Kafue National Park you can expect to pay between USD8,000 and 10,000 pp inclusive.

Are the light aircraft safe?

Yes, Wilderness partners with Zambian charter operators with unparalleled expertise in bush flying. The aircraft are designed for safe and smooth landings on remote airstrips and the bush pilots have decades of experience between them. Our airstrips are also inspected regularly and all aircraft are maintained to strict Civil Aviation and manufacturer standards.

When is the best time for a fly-in safari in Zambia?

The best time for a fly-in safari in Zambia is during the dry season, from June to October. Wilderness camps in Busanga Plains are only open in these months when wildlife viewing is at its best. With hardly any rainfall, there are fewer weather-related disruptions, while good visibility means flying between remote camps is comfortable and reliable.