Classic Zambia Safari - Lower Zambezi and The Kafue 2026

Day notes

Today you set off  on a captivating 1-1.5 hour game drive as you make your way to Kutali Camp,   on Kulefu Island, a serene sanctuary separated from the mainland by the meandering Kulefu channels. As you journey through the wilderness, be prepared to for encounters with constantly present elephants and a rich diversity of birdlife.

Nestled on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River, Kutali Camp is enveloped by a  Winter Thorn Albizia forest, creating a magical ambiance. The camp's tents offer the same exceptional facilities as those at the Chula Fly Camp, ensuring your comfort and providing a serene retreat amidst the wilderness. Each tent is thoughtfully designed to harmonize with the natural surroundings, offering a peaceful haven where you can relax and rejuvenate.

The central dining area, lounge, and bar at Kutali Camp offer panoramic views of the Zambezi River, inviting you to indulge in delicious meals while basking in the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Sip on a refreshing drink and unwind after an exhilarating day of exploration. The captivating Winter Thorn forest forms a picturesque backdrop, further enhancing the enchantment of your stay.

Activities :Guided walks, led by knowledgeable guides who will unveil the secrets of the surrounding wilderness, sharing their wealth of knowledge about the flora and fauna that call this region home. Morning, afternoon, and night game drives (into the night!), offering opportunities to witness the captivating wildlife in action during different times of the day. From majestic elephants to elusive predators, Kutali offers an abundance of fascinating creatures.

You can explore the Zambezi River itself through various activities. Set off on a canoeing adventure, gliding along the stunning riverine scenery. Or take a boat cruise, immersing yourself in the tranquillity of the Zambezi as you navigate between the islands of Papyruss. If you're an angling enthusiast, try your hand at fishing.

No matter which activity you choose, Kutali Camp provides the perfect base to connect with nature, embrace adventure, and create unforgettable memories. Immerse yourself in the pristine wilderness and allow the enchanting beauty of the Zambezi region to captivate your senses.

Day notes

Your journey to the remote Busanga Plains begins with a scenic light aircraft flight from the Lower Zambezi. As you soar over the Kafue Flats and winding river systems, the scale and beauty of this untouched wilderness gradually reveal themselves—a powerful prelude to what lies ahead.

Upon landing, you’ll be welcomed by your specialist Kafue guide and begin the short journey to Ntemwa-Busanga Bush Camp. The drive offers your first taste of the plains: vast open spaces, stands of fig and palm trees, and the possibility of early wildlife encounters. Once at camp, a cold drink and a warm welcome await. Recently rebuilt, Ntemwa blends traditional bush-camp charm with comfort—simple yet stylish chalets offer en-suite bucket showers and flushing toilets, making it an ideal base for this wild corner of Zambia.

Over the next two days, your time will be spent immersed in one of Africa’s most extraordinary ecosystems. From sweeping grasslands to scattered tree islands and seasonal marshes, Busanga supports an astonishing variety of life. Red Lechwe move in great herds across the wetlands, while the stately Roan antelope roam the drier fringes—surprisingly relaxed and wonderfully photogenic.

This is also Zambia’s best location for cheetah sightings, with the open terrain lending itself to memorable encounters. Waterholes brim with hippos, elephants move purposefully across the plains, and each day brings the chance to witness something entirely new. The lions of Busanga are legendary—often seen atop termite mounds or resting in the shade of fig trees, their presence here is commanding and unforgettable.

Birdlife thrives, with wattled cranes, crowned cranes, and vast flocks of storks among the highlights. Whether you’re watching a sunrise over the misty plains, enjoying lunch beneath the trees, or sipping sundowners as the sky turns gold, each moment at Ntemwa is shaped by the rhythm of the wild.

For those seeking deeper exploration, your stay includes the option of a full-day adventure with a remote sleep-out on the plains. This allows you to reach further corners of Busanga and follow seasonal wildlife movements. Sleep-outs are not compulsory but highly recommended—especially when the herds are further afield. When wildlife is close to camp, as is often the case from mid-October to mid-July, the magic can unfold just steps from your tent.

Whether you’re tracking cheetahs through grasslands, listening to lions call across the night, or simply absorbing the silence of the plains, Busanga leaves a lasting impression. It is a place where Zambia’s wild heart beats loud and clear—and where each safari day is a story waiting to unfold.

Day notes

Musekese Camp, an idyllic destination. Embracing an intimate and authentic ambiance, the camp offers chalets that effortlessly blend into the surrounding bush on Muskese Island, within the enchanting Eden Lagoon. From your chalet, you can constantly immerse yourself in wildlife sightings. These unique accommodations are crafted using a combination of local materials and traditional canvas, while the hot water supply is environmentally conscious, using gas-fired heating to minimize natural resource consumption and ensure you can enjoy a hot shower whenever desired.

At the heart of Musekese Camp lies a tented 'boma' featuring a bar, a library, and a refreshing breeze that welcomes you. Meals are served in this central area or in the shade of majestic old trees on the deck, offering picturesque views of wildlife and birds right in front of the camp.

The entire camp team is not only friendly and welcoming but also deeply connected to the neighboring villages along the Kafue, directly benefiting the local communities through tourism. Some team members have been with Jeffery & McKeith since the inception of the Musekese Conservation area, assisting in building the track and receiving training in various roles, from safari guides to chefs.

Wildlife frequently graces the camp, with elephants being particularly common visitors. As the camp is situated within the territory of a resident lion pride and several leopards, it is customary to be accompanied to and from your tent after dark and occasionally during the day, ensuring your safety and enhancing your wildlife encounters.

Your days at Musekese revolve around your personal preferences for activities. All activities are guided by highly respected and knowledgeable experts, considered the finest guides in the Kafue. You can embark on game drives in custom-built open vehicles, equipped with camera supports and charging points, during both morning and afternoon. For a unique perspective, indulge in boat safaris along the nearby Kafue and Lufupa river system. Enchanting walking safaris allow you to immerse yourself in every small sign and sound of the bush, and if fortune smiles upon you, you might even encounter some of the larger animals. Additionally, you may wish to explore beyond the camp by visiting Musekese Conservation, an Anti Poaching Unit (APU) established and funded by Jeffery & McKeith safaris, offering a captivating day of discovery.

A typical day at Musekese begins with an early wake-up call around 5:15 am, followed by a light breakfast of fruit, porridge, cereals, and freshly toasted bread over the fire. Then, you embark on a game drive or walking safari, as the early morning provides an excellent opportunity to observe animals when they are most active. As the morning progresses, a refreshing break with tea or coffee is provided. Based on sightings and activities, you return to camp in time for a delectable lunch prepared by skilled cooks using fresh local ingredients. The meals draw inspiration from Zambia's rich culture and feature imaginative and mouthwatering dishes, including an array of fresh salads and savory delights.

After lunch, you have a few hours to unwind and relax. You can catch up on rest, spend time in the tranquil treehouse hide,  the view from your private deck, or enjoy a cool drink and a book in the lounge. At around 3.30 pm, following a traditional afternoon tea and cake, you embark on the afternoon activity, venturing into the bush through a different route. As darkness falls, you return to camp unless you choose to extend your adventure in search of nocturnal species.

Before retiring for the night, indulge in a warm shower and savour an aperitif by the fire. You then gather under the starlit sky with your hosts for a delightful dining experience.