COVID-19: ACCOMMODATIONS
Ila Safari Lodge | Central Kafue
Ila Safari Lodge is a true eco-lodge providing facilities of the highest quality to a maximum of 24 guests. The lodge is located on the banks of the mighty Kafue River in an area of abundant wildlife and boasts 180 degree views out across the water. The central boma is best described by the phrase 'eco friendly meets dynamic design' and is the showpiece of our property. The lodge has 10 state of the art luxury safari tents perched each on their own deck reaching out over the banks of the Kafue River. Included in our 10 top-notch tenats are 2 larger family suites. Each tent has been individually designed to mesh with the flora surrounding it providing shade, privacy and your very own piece of Kafue wilderness.
The interiors as well as the private decks are furnished in chic, modern African style and every comfort has been considered. All tents feature en suite bathrooms and either outside showers or baths. Beds are extra length for the most comfortable nights sleep. Mosquito nets are spacious and billowing and are turned down for you each evening.
Tents have outside and inside showers and either twin or king beds, on the edge of the Kafue River overlooking the National Park. Rooms have ramp access.
2 Luxury tents are for families sleeping 4, with an indoor shower and bath on the edge of the Kafue River overlooking the National Park.
Accommodation has ramp access & family rooms have ramp access and open showers/toilets.
Tents have a bath on the deck and an inside shower. These tents have either twin or king beds, on the edge of the Kafue River overlooking the National Park. Rooms have ramp access.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Activity Desk, Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Disability Services, Eco Friendly, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Library, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Bath, Disabled Rooms, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah, Wheelchair Friendly
Services
Airport Shuttle (Available), Credit Card
Alongside our 3 game viewers we are the proud owners of Zambia's very first 'Electronic Landrover' (eLandy). This vehicle allows you to experience all the sights and sounds of the bush in near silence and with a sense of environmental care. The eLandy is kept close to camp and operates in the Game Management Area for short drives or the relatively common 'dinner table dash' to investigate what that sound in the night was or how close those lion calls are!
Our eLandy aside we have three top of the range game viewers which reside on the park side of the river. It's a quick float in a boat over to them which is always a nice way to start the morning!
Our guides are all masters of their craft, spend a morning or afternoon exploring the park with them and see what you can find. Regular sightings include lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, a wide range of antelopes including roan, sable and zebra, hippo, crocodile, warthog, genet, jackal, mongoose, every entertaining baboons and monkeys and a myriad of species of bird. Our rarer species are also on the cards including wild dog, cheetah, honey badger, civet, serval, bushpig, porcupine and bushbaby.
Had enough of the African massage?! Take a smooth and serene boat cruise either at dawn or for sunset on one of our boats. Staying on theme 1 of our boats are solar powered.
There is nothing quite like quietly drifting down the mighty Kafue river taking in the sights and sounds of the river with a breeze in your hair! Spend a relaxing few hours following the river bank to see what is living on the water or coming down to drink. Sunset from the water is particularly beautiful!
Want to be a bit more active?! Head out on a walking safari with one of our specialist walking guides and an armed Zambian Wildlife officer. Using footprints and spoor track game using your own two feet as power. Get up close and personal to nature and appreciate the smaller things that you may miss from a vehicle.
Set out on the river with rod, tackle and one of our fishing guides to show you all the best spots. For experienced fishermen we can target specific species or if you just want to try your hand see if you can land a big bream. We have basic equipment available on site but recommend professional fishermen bring their gear.
This project is situated at the Nalusanga Gate, the entrance to the Kafue National Park. The aim is to assist the community to grow a greater variety of fresh produce for their own consumption and for selling at the local market. Lodge owners and other travellers in the area will be able to purchase these products as they enter the park.
Ila Boma
The dining area at Ila Safari Lodge is set in the U-shaped boma on the edge of the Kafue River offering guests a beautiful view at Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
We serve flexible meals that revolve around activities and we serve primarily international fusion food with a local influence. A typical day will be as follows:
Kindly note times differ seasonally but this will be communicated to you on arrival.
Early Morning:
Wake to the gentle sounds of our night porter calling “knockie, knockie”. He would have delivered a flask of hot water to the rear of your tent in case you would like to take a moment and enjoy a hot beverage on your deck amidst the wakening calls of the birds. You will then be collected by your guide and escorted to the main building.
Here you will enjoy a sumptuous continental breakfast around a fire where fresh toast is prepared on the coals and a pot of porridge bubbles away. Shortly afterwards you will set off on your game drive or walking safari (available May to November).
For those of you enjoying a later activity a full African breakfast will be available in the main restaurant until 10h00.
The Lazy Midday Hours:
After returning from your adventure in the wilderness you will have a chance to freshen up after which a brunch/lunch will be served from around 11h30 until 14h00.
For those of you who don’t want to waste a moment please feel free to arrange a stroll around our green facilities or an energetic walk to the road with your guide. If you are booked on an all-inclusive basis you are welcome to book the boat for a midday boating safari or even try your hand at a bit of fishing.
For those who which to soak up the peace and tranquility either relax on your tent deck or join us in the main area for a swim or a catch up with friends and family over wifi.
At 15h30 an afternoon tea will be served to replenish your energy levels before starting off on your afternoon activity.
After dark:
Dinner is served in the main restaurant from 19h30 until 21h00. Dine by romantic candle light high above the river and listen to the night sounds while being spoilt by splendid cuisine proudly prepared by our team of chef.
Please feel free to invite either your guide or any member of the management team to join you if you wish to swop tales of your adventures and life away from the bush.
Retire to the crackling fireplace under the stars in the bar area for a night cap and feel yourself relax and unwind after a thrilling day in the African bushveld.
CHEFS
Our chefs are locally born and all have had many years experience living and working remotely. Morris heads up the kitchen and is a star chef.
DIETARIES
We cater for all dietary requirements including limited Halaal.
Your Stay
3 Nights
Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities
All Local Brands (Spirits, Wine and Beers) Included
Fast Facts
5 Star
Lodge
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 6
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Fishing, Flora, Gourmet, Hiking, History & Culture, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife, Wine
Chisa Busanga Camp | Northern Kafue
Immerse yourself in the heart of the Busanga Plains at Chisa Busanga Camp. Inspired by local weaver bird nests, our elevated Nest rooms blend seamlessly with nature, offering panoramic views of the vast plains. These architectural marvels are crafted sustainably to ensure minimal ecological impact while maximizing your connection to the wild.
Chisa stands out with its commitment to green innovation. As the only camp in the plains powered entirely by solar energy, we introduce guests to Silent Safaris. These noiseless electric drives promise intimate wildlife encounters, bringing you closer to nature's heartbeat.
Witness the magic as elephants wander beneath the Nests at sunset, and with more lions than beds for travellers, the plains promise an exclusive wildlife experience. Celebrated by global publications like Lonely Planet and National Geographic, Chisa Busanga Camp is where luxury meets sustainability.
The Nest
Hidden away in the trees, the Chisa Busanga Nests weave together luxury and romance while immersing you in the enchanting wilderness of the Busanga Plains.
The Nests have become part of the magic that is woven into the Busanga Plains. Wake up to elephants walking through the mist that rises off the drying floodplains below; fall asleep knowing that you sleep a little closer to the stars. It’s hard not to be captivated by this fairy-tale!
Each room has its own private deck, you can opt to dine privately overlooking to vast plains from your nest, and enjoy our complimentary laundry service.
One of our rooms is equipped with an electric lift to ensure it is accessible for anyone visiting our mini paradise.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Disability Services, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Meal on Request, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Disabled Rooms, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Wheelchair Friendly
Services
Credit Card
Experience the wonders of Busanga quietly and at a comfortable pace from the seat of an electronic mountain bike, with an experienced guide sharing their knowledge of the bush. Our guides know all Busanga’s secrets, including spots for breath-taking views and great birding opportunities. As you crisscross through this enchanting landscape on two wheels, you will be creating lifelong memories.
Slow down to nature’s pace as your knowledgeable guide and armed scout leads you on a bush walk that immerses you in the natural beauty of Busanga Plains. Our guides are from neighbouring communities and know the secrets of Busanga in every detail. A maximum of six people can go on a walking safari and the minimum age is 14.
Blend into the quiet of nature in our e-Cruiser, which allows you to experience all the sights and sounds of the bush in near silence and with a deep sense of environmental care. Go unnoticed as you watch elephants walking through the mist at dawn, water-loving lechwe jump the streams, and a mother lion feed her little cubs.
Keep your eyes and ears open because you don’t want to miss seeing some of the 470 bird species that call the Busanga Plains home. This includes Africa’s endangered crane species, the colourful saddle-billed stork and a variety of other water birds. It’s always exciting to spot Pel’s fishing owl, which is often found perched in the trees waiting to make its next catch in the stream below.
Your Stay
3 Nights
Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities
All Local Brands (Spirits, Wine and Beers) Included
Fast Facts
Campsite
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 4
Special Interests: Adventure, Big 5, Birding, Cycling, Flora, Gourmet, Hiking, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife, Wine
Tongabezi Lodge | Victoria Falls (Zambia)
The luxurious Tongabezi Lodge is situated on the banks of the Zambezi River, just upstream of Victoria Falls. The lodge features a lounge, a bar, two main area swimming pools, and a gym. Meals are served in the large dining room, on an outdoor deck overlooking the river, in the privacy of your room, or floating on the Zambezi River. The five houses and four river cottages are each individually styled and cater for two to five guests. Game drives, bush walks, and boating trips are all-inclusive. Victoria Falls can be viewed in close proximity to the lodge, on a short excursion with your guide.
Redefining life on the banks of the Zambezi River the River Cottages feature high ceilings, giant bespoke wood and glass windows and doors leading onto expansive sustainable pine decks. The signature African fusion Tongabezi style has been distilled to the best of 'Made in Zambia' in both the interior and outdoor spaces.
We are famous for keeping the romance of travel alive and our Cottages were designed to provide a private haven where your every whim just happens to be attended to by your very own valet.
The Nut House is a haven from the elements. It is entirely enclosed but has light streaming in through every wall. The best art, textiles, and textures have been collected and combined from all around the African continent - from Morocco, Mali, Zambia, and South Africa just to start. This creates a lusciously romantic setting for relaxation, without losing an inch of the incredible river-view.
The palette is easy on the eyes, seamlessly blending the house into Zambia's natural scenery. Folding doors open onto the elevated private garden and infinity plunge pool. Spectacular views over the Zambezi are guaranteed.
At the end of the swimming pool, a hidden path winds along the cliff face to our secluded Tree House. Set against the basalt rock bed, amongst the branches of a riverine Ebony tree, this house spreads out over a sustainable pine deck that guarantees incredible views of the Zambezi River.
The king size bed has a large, canopied mosquito net with air conditioning and the extensive space can also be used for private dining and lounging. The bathroom’s crowning glory is a perfectly positioned claw footed bath and from the Anatolian carpets to the Asian chests and West African artwork the Tree House invokes exotic day dreams.
All the inclusive Tongabezi activities are available... but this house is so much part of the surroundings that you can experience the beauty and majesty of Zambia without setting a foot outside.
The Bird House features an open-air claw footed bath and a private terrace for dining under the stars. Guests can go canoeing on the river, join game drives, bush walks and enjoy sunset boat trips. Luxury camps such as Tongabezi provide a perfect base to explore Victoria Falls and the stunning African bush surrounding it.
Built with the perfect view, indulgence and privacy in mind the Honeymoon House is the original blueprint for luxury Tongabezi accommodation. The private balcony overlooks the river, providing a perfect setting for a secluded candlelit dinner beneath the stars. Alternatively, you can choose to dine with our other guests on one of the river decks.
The Dog House personifies the Tonga ethos of exclusivity, romance and luxury with a twist of quirkiness. Located at the very end of the elevated garden path, this private haven sits on three large wooden decks over the Zambezi river. Recently extensively refurbished, the house remains magnificently proportioned and now has two beautiful bedrooms to accommodate small groups and families. The sprawling space includes a central designated chill zone with an infinity pool, extended deck, large lounge and cozy dining room. Whether you manage to venture out to enjoy the inclusive activities, dabble in serious adventure – or simply elect to order the massages in - the brand new Dog House is so much more than a beautiful, African Fusion style accommodation choice... it is the experience of a life time.
The result of a number of years of energy, imagination and many conversations with top travel specialists and our guests, the Garden House perfectly fills the family travel niche at Tongabezi. Set back from the river, seclusion and shelter are a happy swop for the sweeping Zambezi views that can still be enjoyed from any of the decks of the main lodge. It is a very private, very safe space where all the members of the family can spread out a little and indulge in an exclusive dining room, large lounge, two en-suite bedrooms and of course run around the garden and cool off in the private plunge pool. Tongabezi is proud of our crazily indulgent reputation and the Garden House is no compromise: Whether you are a wide eyed bush baby or parents who believe romance should always be a priority.
Tangala House
Tangala House is a luxurious family home on the banks of the Zambezi River, close to Tongabezi it lies 15km upstream of Victoria Falls. The house has four bedrooms, three with en-suite bathrooms, and a 12m private swimming pool. Stylishly designed and furnished, it has featured in House and Garden magazine in the UK and comes with a vehicle and boat, chef, waiters and private guide all courtesy of Tongabezi.
Ideal for a Zambia family safari, Tangala House sleeps up to 8 and has a children’s playroom and a spacious kitchen-dining room. The rooms are enclosed, with large glass fitted windows to keep out the insects and allow guests to enjoy magnificent views across the Zambezi. Over 145 species of birds have been spotted from the kitchen window and elephant herds can often be seen drinking on the opposite bank.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Activity Desk, Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Gym, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Private Vehicle Available, Restaurant, Secure Parking, TV Room
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Fireplace, Fridge, Hair Dryer, Heater, Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mini Bar, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Services
Airport Shuttle (Available), Babysitting Service, Chauffer Service, Credit Card, Foreign Exchange, Room Service, Room Service (24 hours), Travel Desk
Can you imagine a dining experience more private than having the entire Zambezi River to yourself whilst your food is paddled out to you, one course at a time?
The sampan dinner or early morning breakfast is available throughout the year, apart from during the highest river levels, which are usually from March to June.
A boat cruise at sunset or sunrise is a superb way to relax and enjoy the immersive beauty of the Zambezi, whilst keeping an eye out for wildlife on the river banks.
See one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World with a trip to Victoria Falls on the Zambian side
This is the only wildlife park in the area that provides refuge to white rhinos, which are closely protected by anti-poaching units. While on your game drive, keep an eye out for giraffe, buffalo, waterbuck, impala, wildebeest, zebra and diverse bird life.
Enjoy a short cycle to meet the friendly people from the Simonga village
All guests are invited to visit, engage with, and learn from the Tongabezi Trust School’s 280 bright, talented students, all of who receive free education and nutritious meals at Tujatane. In fact, if you are only going to do one happy thing during your stay at Tongabezi, we’d suggest it is a tour of this school.
The Maramba and Mukuni markets are visited daily by hundreds of people from Livingstone and surrounding areas. They come to buy everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to chitenge, the bright patterned fabric characteristic of Southern and East African fashion. One of our team will be there to guide you through the marketplace and will be there to help you with buying from vendors if you need.
A place to learn about Zambia's culture and natural heritage.
Safaris can be quite sedentary, so we like to give our guests spaces where they can get moving and keep their energy levels high for their daily adventures.
This is one of our signature Tongabezi experiences, and for guests who haven't spent much time researching us online, we keep the Sandbar as a marvellous surprise. Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of watching two sunsets -- above and within the water -- with sand in your toes and a drink in your hand.
Sit in the shallows of the Tongabezi Rock Pool with a cocktail in hand and the Zambezi River flowing before you, or spend some quality sunshine time by the Tongabezi Lap Pool a little further back from the river.
The Zambezi River, around Victoria Falls, is an excellent spot for both pole and fly fishing. There are over 75 species of freshwater fish in these warm, nutrient-rich waters, although it is usually one specific species that draws fishermen here – the tiger. Revered for their power and fierce set of teeth, landing a tiger fish is no easy task, even for a seasoned angler. Even an unsuccessful fishing outing on the Zambezi is still enjoyable if just for the beautiful scenery and tranquility.
Come and explore some of our 1,200 hectares of sweet veld, which is rapidly becoming a fully sustainable, organic community-run farm. You can personally compare our sustainable farming techniques with nearby traditional farming methods.
The Dining Room
We have an Air-Conditioned raised Dining Room with spectacular river views
Your Stay
3 Nights
Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities
All Local Brands (Spirits, Wine and Beers) Included
Fast Facts
Lodge
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 11
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Fishing, Flora, Gourmet, History & Culture, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife