Our guide on where to stay in Zambia
A safari in Zambia is one of the most authentic and wild experiences across the continent. Of course, the wildlife populations and the safari activities play a huge part in the success of your Zambia safari. But the safari accommodation and the guide you are get given also contribute enormously.
The most important things to consider when deciding where to stay in Zambia is the type of safari accommodation you are looking for and that you will be comfortable with, the location of the camp, and your budget.
Most of the accommodation in Zambia is tented camps. These are canvassed tents, often with modern amenities like flushing toilets and ensuite bathrooms with hot showers. However, there are some camps which are a little more authentic, featuring things like a bucket shower. This is essentially a shower that is filled up with hot water before you plan to take your shower.
Other than canvas tents, a lot of the accommodation in Zambia is made with a local material called makuti. This is a thatch-like material and used for roofs or whole rooms in the camp.
The more luxurious camps will have more facilities, such as private verandas, plunge pools or free-standing baths. Some of these include Chinzombo Camp in the South Luangwa, King Lewanika Camp in Liuwa Plain National Park, and Sausage Tree Camp in the Lower Zambezi.
If you are interested and serious about the idea of a walking safari, it’s possible to do a circuit itinerary, which allows you to walk between different camps and experience different areas. The camp staff will make sure that your belongings arrive in each new camp, so all you need to take is a day bag for your walk (which usually lasts around 3-4 hours before breaks).
Our Africa specialists have stayed in the majority of safari camps and lodges in Zambia, so please feel free to get in touch to as their opinion, and to find out which safari accommodation they recommend to suit you.