KAFUE NATIONAL PARK, Zambia's Wild Heart

Sprawling across 22,000 sq km of pristine wilderness in western Zambia, Kafue National Park is the country's oldest and largest national park. Established in the 1950s by conservationist Norman Carr, Kafue protects vast stretches of miombo woodland, wetlands, riverbanks, and savannah. This diverse terrain makes it one of the most ecologically significant national parks in Africa.

Home to lions, leopards, cheetahs, and buffalo, four of the "Big Five" roam through Kafue's landscapes. The park has the highest population of endangered African wild dogs on the continent as well as almost 480 of Zambia's 733 recorded bird species. Nature enthusiasts will delight in sightings of rare birds like the wattled crane, saddle-billed stork, and Pel's fishing owl.

With its remote wilderness areas and wealth of wildlife, Kafue National Park represents one of Africa's last great wild frontiers. Adventurous travelers looking to get off the beaten path will find Zambia's premier national park delivers exceptional game viewing and birdwatching opportunities.

BUSANGA PLAINS, Remote Wilderness in the North

In the sparsely-visited northern region of Kafue National Park lies a true wilderness known as the Busanga Plains. Unlike the typical miombo woodland terrain of the park, Busanga is characterized by vast grassland floodplains dotted with date palm, sausage and fig trees.

As seasonal floodwaters steadily recede between June and November, the area becomes more accessible for wildlife viewing. During this period, safari goers can experience incredible game drives witnessing huge herds of red lechwe antelope and lions, leopards and cheetahs on the hunt.

The isolation of the Busanga Plains allows for exceptional sightings of species like puku, roan, sable, and oribi antelope. Keep an eye out for the endangered African wild dog as well as wetland birds like the colorful carmine and long-tailed bee-eaters. With its remote location and pristine habitats, Busanga offers a top-tier safari experience away from the crowds.

CHISA BUSANGA CAMP, A Secluded Island Retreat

Owned and operated by Green Safaris Hidden away on a small tree-lined island in the heart of the Busanga Plains lies Chisa Busanga Camp shaded by terminalia trees. Named after the Nyanja word for "birds nest", the camp celebrates the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the surrounding floodplains.

Chisa's four luxury accommodations are called "nests" as they take inspiration from the impressive weaver bird nests found in the canopy. Built four meters off the ground, the nests feature private viewing decks and scenic views.

Wooden steps lead you to your haven in the trees (a lift is available in some Nests), which is lined in canvas tenting inside, safari comforts like cozy luxurious King size beds, private outdoor deck, indoor/outdoor rain showers, and modern bathrooms create a romantic, eco-conscious escape into nature.

With the entire camp and also the safari drive vehicles running solely on solar power, Chisa aims to have as little environmental impact as possible while providing guests with superior service and amenities.

Waking up in the treetop nests, guests can enjoy front row views of elephants and other wildlife grazing on the plains below. The main lounge and dining areas feature local textures and materials to honour the natural environment and culture of the region.

EXPERIENCING BUSANGA PLAINS IN STYLE

Chisa offers several activities allowing guests to intimately experience the beauty of Busanga Plains. Guided nature walks lead by knowledgeable staff and security allow for learning about the local flora, fauna, and wildlife by foot.

For a different perspective on game viewing, Chisa offers eco-conscious solar powered vehicles called "e-cruisers." These silent electric 4x4 vehicles allow guests to blend into the quiet wilderness while observing wildlife undisturbed in their natural habitat.

For a truly memorable occasion, private bush meals can be arranged out in the wild surrounded by nature. Dining under the stars on a custom menu is a quintessential safari experience. Guests looking to extend their time enjoying the scenery and wildlife sightings opt for this unique opportunity.

Bold travellers looking to discover one of Zambia's last untouched wildernesses will find staying in the Chisa Busanga Camp  accommodations provides an unparalleled and sustainable luxury safari experience.

I hope the above has been helpful. If you have any specific questions please write to us. 

In addition to the safari tour packages we offer, as part of our services we help clients to plan their own itineraries. With intimate knowledge of the continent and our network of service providers we can help you in choosing the accommodation that best suits your requirements. 

We have partnered with a number of accommodation providers in various different countries in Africa. A feature post on each safari lodge will be available as we publish them. So be sure to keep checking our website and also subscribe to our African Safari Insider newsletter.

-Duncan Udawatta-

 

*Credits - Images used in this article belong to:

All images used in the article - The Nests, Green Safaris (Zambia)