Ila Safari Lodge

In the eastern sector of the Mosi Oa Tunya National Park and about 12 kilometres from Victoria Falls, Wilderness Toka Leya gets immediate and fantastic views over the Zambezi River, and taking advantage of these are its twelve tented rooms. Each comes with a large decking area at the front leading out from large glass sliding doors, behind which is your large stylish open plan lounge area and bedroom. The camp’s main area is situated on a large decking area, and underneath a canopy of trees right beside the main channel of the Zambezi River. Perfect for atmospheric campfires on the bank and spotting the resident wildlife. Here there is also a very spacious open-plan lounge and dining room, set beneath an enormous canvas roof and with open sides to maximise the views. The wall at the back of the living area is a really great feature; it’s made of “log tiles”, which gives the room a very natural feel. Each tent has its very own solar panel, water geyser and batteries in keeping with the camp’s aim to lessen its environmental footprint.

A more contemporary and certainly deluxe addition to the safari lodges of South Luangwa, Chinzombo is an ambitious property that cleverly maintains its authenticity on a secluded bend of the Luangwa river. Within sixty acres of private land, its six standalone and geometrically-designed villas are incredibly spacious and brings together modern innovation with the atmospheric style of camping. One of the villas can accommodate a family of five, and these are all connected by a winding path lined with Msikzi trees leading you towards the main lounge and dining area complete with firepit, spa facilities, yoga and exercise areas. Enjoy day and evening game drives in this pristine wilderness, along with the signature walking safaris.

Largely untouched by crowds and paved roads, Liuwa Plain National Park boasts one of the oldest conservation histories in Africa; it was proclaimed a protected area by the lodge’s namesake, King Lewanika of the Lozi tribe in the early 1880s. The camp is a beautifully modern take on the traditional safari camp, retaining features and simple materials such as canvas drops, leather and wooden decks overlooking the wilderness with local thatch and grass in the main area in a refreshingly simple, sustainable, and meaningful way. There are just six spacious tents here sat on platforms which open up dramatically to the surrounding plains and feature both indoor and outdoor showers. One is a family suite which features one double and one triple room. The communal thatch building has lounge, dining and bar areas, with stairs leading down to a fire pit. King Lewanika Lodge has experienced guides for intimate safari excursions with unrivalled access and absolute exclusivity to this unspoiled region. Unique wildlife experiences include witnessing hyenas hunt in packs of up to 50, the second biggest wildebeest migration in Africa, rare birds, a growing cheetah population and its famed lion pride. Explore on guided walks as well as day and night game drives, with boating and canoeing possible between December and March, depending on water levels.

Nestled within a tree island in the game-rich and utterly beautiful Busunga Plains, Shumba Camp fuses its wild and remote location with stylish design for a superior safari experience. Soak up these fabulous sweeping views of a wide array of animals including wild dog, antelope and prides of lion, from your elegant tent or the camp’s wide deck. The spacious tents here are perched on raised wooden platforms and enjoy both indoor and outdoor showers. After a day of wildlife spotting, whether it’s been from a hot air balloon, 4×4 or boat, return to Shumba for some relaxing moments. Take a dip in the pool, dine on delicious food, indulge in a massage and spend a cultural evening around the boma.