20 Safari Camps In Lower Zambezi National Park

The Lower Zambezi National Park is one of 20 national parks in Zambia. It is located in southern Zambia along the border with Zimbabwe, where the Zambezi River separates the two countries. After the Mosi oa Tunya, Kafue and South Luangwa National Parks, the Lower Zambezi is one of the most visited. The Lower Zambezi is known for having four of the “big five” safari animals: elephants, buffalo, lions, leopards, and a bonus…the African wild dog! You won’t even feel disappointed that you didn’t see rhinos because the game you do see will blow you away. Zambia is also known as the ‘birthplace of the walking safari’, an experience you cannot miss in the Lower Zambezi.

Lower Zambezi National Park

When To Visit Lower Zambezi

One of the best things about a safari in Zambia compared to other places is that it’s a little less popular.

If you travel to the Lower Zambezi in the off-peak season (but not when the rains start), you will not be surrounded by safari vans and hordes of tourists.

After all, the last thing you want when viewing nature is to see more people than is necessary.

Talking of seasons, when is the best time to go on safari in the Lower Zambezi?

Generally, lodges are open from mid-March to November.

The peak safari season is between July and October, but May, June (Zambia’s winter), and November can be good and more affordable months to visit. 

20 Best Safari Camps in the Lower Zambezi National Park

Here are the 20 best safari camps in the Lower Zambezi National Park for all budgets.

Luxury Safari Camps $$$$

1- Royal Zambezi Lodge

The Royal Zambezi Lodge is one of those Zambian lodges that will be recommended to you time and time again.

Everything from the accommodation to the safaris and the service is top-notch.
 
The Royal Zambezi allows you to safari in style.

The lodge has a wonderful restaurant, a large deck with a campfire, a lounge, a luxurious swimming pool looking out across the Zambezi to Zimbabwe, and even a spa.

Just imagine coming home from safari and relaxing with a massage overlooking the river while keeping your eyes peeled for elephants.
 
The lodge is located a stone’s throw outside the official boundaries of the national park.

This means you will have more game drive time and won’t have to travel to the park.

They offer open vehicle game drives (full day and half day), bush walks, hiking, canoeing safaris, angling and bird-watching tours.

Their expert local guides will know where to go for the best chance of seeing wildlife.

The safari guides are among the best things about a safari at Royal Zambezi.

Fun, friendly, informative, local Zambians with decades of experience in the bush.

2- Amanzi Luxury Tented Camp 

Want to feel like you are camping but with a good dolloping of luxury?

Well, Amanzi Camp is for you if you’re looking for a stunning luxury camping experience right in the heart of nature as you sleep.

Open-front canvas tents are decked out with all the amenities, including hammocks!

One of the best things about this camp is its exclusivity; there are only four tented suites.

You can walk along boardwalks to get to the lounge and dining room, and of course, they have a pool and deck.

Enjoy dinner or a dip in the pool as you watch the bobbing heads of hippos in the river.
 
Amanzi Camp is within the Lower Zambezi National Park, overlooking the Zambezi River.

They offer game drives, river safaris, walking safaris, and birding and fishing experiences.

For their vehicle game drives, you can choose an eight or six-seat vehicle where everyone gets a ‘window seat’.

During their morning game drives, you will head through the mopane and acacia forest.

Then, for afternoon sunset drives, you will go to the floodplains. Or how about a night drive?

You will feel the thrill of never quite knowing what’s around the corner.

3- Sausage Tree Camp

The sausage tree, also known as kigelia, is a plant that grows in tropical Africa.

It’s nicknamed sausage tree because of the poisonous fruit that dangles down from the tree.

They weigh around 7kg (15 lbs) and look like sausage in a casing. 

It feels important to know about kigelia if you are about to book a safari at Sausage Tree Camp.
 
This safari camp was established in 1996.

It prides itself on being “bush chic” and offering private safaris.
 
The lodge itself is beautiful, with a central lodge and deck overlooking the Zambezi River and a collection of islands.
 
Their luxury suites could not be more idyllic.

They have small plunge pools and look out at the river (often with elephants and other wildlife driving from the river).

If that isn’t enough, you can sit on your secluded deck and request that your private butler arrange your additional needs.

If you fancy a shower, then head outside for a cooling-off with monkeys swinging above you in the trees.
 
They offer all safaris, from river to land and walking, and they will even arrange private lunches in the Zambezi River itself.

Sit on their sandbank with your feet dipped in the water and enjoy their excellent bush meals.

4- Old Mondoro Bush Camp

For an intimate safari consider staying at Old Mondoro Bush Camp.

This safari camp has only five chalets and the lodge prides themselves on their “back to the bush” experience.
 
The camp is surrounded by large winterthorn trees bordering the Zambezi River.

Just at the lodge you can watch buffalo and elephants hopping from island to island and in this area hippo sightings are considered more common than spotting a dog on your street back home!
 
Campfires by the river, wildlife right in the camp, expert-led vehicle safaris, local and international cuisines, bush walks, canoe safaris, night safaris and comfort are what you can expect from a trip to Old Mondoro.

5- Chiawa Camp

Chiawa Camp and Old Mondoro Bush Camp are owned by the same company, Chiawa Safaris, which also has lodges in the South Luangwa National Park.
 
Chiawa Camp is located further south than Old Mondoro but still within the national park’s boundaries.

It is considered a pioneer on the Lower Zambezi safari scene as it was the first safari camp to be established.
 
This camp offers a luxury-tented safari experience.

Offering all types of safaris, Chiawa’s finishing touches make it a wonderful place to relax after a day of searching for wildlife.
 
From dipping pools at the dining table to elephant towel arrangements and high-quality cuisine, it’s always a pleasure to stay at Chiawa Camp.

6- Anabezi Camp

Anabezi is set away from many other safari camps, offering peaceful seclusion among winterthorn trees.
 
At Anabezi, they have really thought about the camp’s footprint and how people connect with nature.

Their elevated boardwalks around the camp allow animals to roam freely without much disruption.

When you are there, you might be lucky to see elephants, buffalo, and antelope (and even lions or leopards) pass through the camp.
 
The accommodation provides guests with their own slice of the Zambian bush.

You can sit on your private deck or in the plunge pool, but just be sure to have your camera close by when herds of buffalo or elephants wander past.
 
This safari camp offers land and water safaris and a notoriously fun night drive.

7- Lolebezi Lodge

Lolebezi Lodge is the newest kid on the Lower Zambezi safari block!

They opened in June 2022, and the lodge has been an instant hit with visitors.
 
The lodge is set on five hectares of protected land.

It is ideal for a romantic honeymoon safari or for families.

Each suite has its own private plunge pool, and there’s even a yoga deck and on-site spa.
 
In terms of experiences, they offer game drives (morning, afternoon, and evening), river cruises, fishing, and canoeing.

They also have the fabulous Ngwana Club, which is for children. Here, kids can enjoy nature walks around camp, crafts, cooking classes, and more.
 
Lolebezi Lodge is undoubtedly one to watch, as it has already become a popular spot on the Zambezi.

8- Zambezi Grande

The Zambezi Grande sits on the shores of the Zambezi River, overlooking some of the small river islands.

It is a little outside the Lower Zambezi National Park, but a short drive in a safari van will take you within the park’s confines.
 
As well as all the traditional safari activities Zambezi Grande also offers sundowner cruises and cultural village visits to help you learn more about local life in Zambia.
 
This safari camp offers superior suites that feel more like a house than a guest room.

Their luxury rooms are decorated in rustic chic style and seem to blend seamlessly with the nature outside.
 
Dine each evening at their restaurant (most people opt for a three-meal catered package) and truly unwind at their on-site spa.  

Mid-scale Safari Camps  $$$

9- Potato Bush Camp

The cutely named Potato Bush Camp is situated within Lower Zambezi National Park.

Though it is in the park, it is a wonderful value-for-experience destination.
 
Their accommodation consists of three luxurious and spacious safari tents and a family house with expansive views of the Zambezi River.

Each room has its own plunge pool and views of the river.
 
Potato Bush Camp is part of Green Safaris where sustainability and ethical tourism is at the heart of the operation.

They focus on wildlife conservation, community development and education programs.

It’s nice to know you are going on safari and contributing back to the local community, so often at large tourist destinations in Africa, much of the profit is not retained in the country, nor does it benefit local people.

10- Time + Tide Chongwe Camp

You must cross the Chongwe River to be within the boundary of the national park, and Time + Tide Chongwe Camp is located at the confluence of the Chongwe and Zambezi rivers.

It’s as close as you can get to the national park without being in the national park.
 
This camp has eight tents that are designed to blend with Mother Nature.

They all provide visitors with views of the Chongwe River. Facilities at the camp include a lounge, dining area, bar, campfire and a much-appreciated pool for when the heat gets too much.
 
While at the camp, you can try driving and walking safaris, boat cruises, canoeing safaris and even tiger fishing.

11- Baines’ River Camp

Baines’ River Camp is located just outside the Lower Zambezi National Park but is still close enough to be there quickly.
 
The camp has eight suites and a two-bedroom family suite.

With a maximum of 20 guests, the suites are intimate and provide much-appreciated peace and quiet.
 
Their regular packages include daily and twice daily game drives, but Baines’ River Camp also specialise in tiger fishing and fly fishing.
 
One of the things that’s great about Baines’ River Camp is that they offer an array of excellent specials, especially in the “green season” between March and June and in November.

12- Kutali Camp

Located almost in the centre of the southern part of the park, Kutali Camp is the perfect destination for exploring all parts of the national park.
 
If you want to feel like you’re camping in the bush but still want to have a good night’s sleep in a comfortable bed, consider Kutali Camp.
 
Something that is great about Kutali Camp is that they offer visitors a variety of package deals.

You can choose an experience that’s tailored to your wildlife interests.

Perhaps elements and lions are top of your sightings list or maybe you want to just get an overall feel on your first Zambian safari.

Budget Safari Camps $$

13- Nsofu Lodge

Nsofu Lodge is less than 20 km (12.4 mi) from Chirundu.

Because it’s further away from the national park, this is a wonderful lodge if you are searching for a more budget-friendly safari.
 
Nsofu has a wide range of accommodation options for all budgets.

There are family villas, chalets, riverfront cabins and even a campsite.

You can bring your own tent or use one of theirs which are basic but do come with a mattress inside.

This is one of the most affordable accommodation options if you want to safari on a budget.
 
At the main lodge, there’s a brilliant indoor dining space. Head down some stairs to the swimming pool, which looks out at the river.

Relax in the water while listening to the sound of hippos snorting in the river right in front of you.
 
Nsofu is well known for its fishing and offers guests the chance to catch tiger fish, bream, vundu and catfish to name a few.

Their fishing guides are experts in their field.

14- Winterthorn Lodge

Named after the deciduous African tree, Winterthorn Lodge is a lovely, budget-friendly place to stay in the Lower Zambezi area.

It is right next door to Nsofu Lodge.
 
This lodge provides self-catered and comfortable accommodation.

Each chalet has one double bed and two single beds.

The lodge has a chef, but you must bring your own groceries.

This needs to be planned. If you are travelling from Lusaka, you may consider buying food there, as there aren’t many chances to buy food as you head further towards the bush.
 
You always know the prices are cheaper when quoted in local Zambian Kwacha rather than US Dollar.

This is certainly a more local accommodation option, with many residents choosing to stay here because of the self-catered option.
 
They offer sunrise and sunset cruises and arrange game drives in the park.

It’s a beautiful and simple getaway destination that feels exceptionally peaceful.

15- Masau River Camp

Masau River Camp is another super affordable self-catering option for those looking to safari on a budget.

The lodge is 50 minutes from Chirundu in the Game Management Area.
 
There are three accommodation types: family cottages, tented chalets, and safari tents.

It’s a small camp but that’s the beauty of it.   
 
Its riverside location means you can watch elephants cooling off in the water, listen to hippos and see an array of birdlife.

You might even get close (but not too close) to their resident hippo, Elliot.
 
They offer boat safaris, sunset cruises, and game drives into the national park.

16- Bubezi Camp

Dive into life in the Lower Zambezi at Bubezi Camp.

Located outside of the national park, this is another affordable place to stay and experience peaceful rural Zambia.
 
Bubezi is a self-catered safari camp, so come prepared!

A chef will cook the food that you bring.
 
This is a very small camp with only three riverfront luxury tents built on a raised decking area.

The park’s safari activities are all-inclusive and include day and night safaris, game walks, fishing, sunset cruises, and self-drive safaris.

17- Gwabi River Lodge

Getaway to the Lower Zambezi at Gwabi River Lodge.

Gwabi was among some of the first lodges to be established in the Lower Zambezi.

This lodge is also close to the town Chirundu but is located on the banks of the Kafue River (the largest and longest river that is entirely in Zambia).
 
Aside from traditional safari experiences, Gwabi River Lodge also offers fishing tours, sandbank picnics, nature and community walks, and a wonderful half-day excursion exploring the baobab forest and a bat cave.
 
This lodge offers self-catered tented chalets, family and group cottages, and affordable safari tents.

18- Kanyemba Lodge

Kanyemba Lodge is quite a distance from the Lower Zambezi National Park and is closer to the main town of Chirundu than the park.

This location makes it more affordable and means you can save money, though, and the drive to the park is enjoyable.

The road to the Lower Zambezi National Park is flanked by banana trees, and you can see what rural Zambian life is like.
 
Kanyemba Lodge has six air-conditioned stone and thatched chalets, and the camp can accommodate a maximum of 20 guests.

The limited numbers give the place a unique and private feel.
 
Situated by the river, there is an almost English country house feel to the place.

The deck that leads to the boat launch feels like you are walking into paradise.
 
The infinity style swimming pool is enough to make any guest smile and you can sit there sipping G&T’s and spotting hippos and elephants that parade around nearby.

19- Kiambi Safaris

Kiambi Safari Lodge is just north of Nsofu and Winterthorn Lodges catering to a range of budgets and travelling styles.

If you want something higher-end, then their luxury air-conditioned chalets are for you.

There are also tented chalets with fans and a private deck.

Their cottages fit more people and are more basic but secure and cost-effective.
 
Kiambi offers boat cruises at all times of the day, canoe safaris, boat game cruises, game drives in the national park, birding experiences, village walks, fishing, and a fantastic banana farm tour.

20- Wildtracks Lower Zambezi Valley

Another excellent spot for budget-conscious safari travellers is Wildtracks.

This safari camp offers self-catered accommodation as well as camping.

Camping costs as little as 300 Kwacha (US$11.65) a night!
 
Wildtracks is situated outside the national park, further north of Kiambi and Nsofu.  
 
A large swimming pool overlooking the river is hard not to jump into when you arrive.

They provide all the facilities for cooking as well as dishwashing services.
 
It’s one of those places that really feels off the beaten track and offers a true back-to-the-bush experience.