Zambia has quickly become one of the top holiday destinations in Africa. A plethora of experiences await those seeking to travel to Zambia. Naturally there are the night game drives and safaris, the Victoria Falls etc. But what about staying in the most unique and unexpected accommodations in the country? From open air sleepouts to historic castles, there is somewhere to stay anywhere in Zambia.
Have you ever wondered how to make your next holiday more exciting than the last? With vast plains, diverse wildlife, and exquisite views, Zambia is already synonymous with beautiful and exciting travel destinations — but there is more to experience and see. Among some of the most luxurious accommodations Zambia has to offer, there are unique and remarkable lodges that will surprise even the most seasoned of travellers.
Spend the Night in a Bird’s Nest: Rooms with Views at Chisa Busanga Camp
You watch as the sun rises over the horizon, the silhouettes of mighty elephants marching slowly to the rhythm of nature. The night before, surrounded by the buzz of the safari, you enjoyed a sunset dinner in the middle of the grassy plains, after which you fell asleep under a glittering, star-filled sky. From your very own woven nest, just like the birds, you have an unobstructed view of the Busanga Plains, sipping on your morning coffee and basking in nature’s glow.
Chisa Busanga Camp is located in the Busanga Plains, in the northern part of Kafue National Park. Sitting on a small tree-lined island, the camp features the elaborate woven “bird’s nest” accommodation and is open annually from May to November.
Sleep Out Under the Stars: Open Air Sleep-Outs at Luambe Camp
The Luangwa River stretches out before you, and flocks of birds cross the orange glow of the sunset-painted sky, retreating to rest as the day comes to an end. Your own bush dinner is about to be served, and then you’ll experience a true night out in the wild, with only a single mosquito net separating you from the wilderness. As you lay down to sleep that night, you can feel your heart pounding, the cool breeze tickling your skin. In the distance, you hear the call of a lion cutting through the rustling trees. You calmly remind yourself that a wildlife scout is nearby and you are in no danger. Slowly, the hums of the safari, along with the brightly moonlit sky, soothe you into a restful and relaxing sleep.
Luambe Camp is located in the tiny and little known Luambe National Park, nestled between the South and North Luangwa national parks,on the banks of the Luangwa River. It offers a one of a kind, open-to-the-sky wildlife camping experience. Open from June to November, with no reception or Wi-Fi connection, it is the ideal location for a disconnected getaway.
Relive your Childhood in a Treehouse: Treehouse Living at Tongabezi by Green Safaris
Weaving through the tree trunks that erupt from beneath the floor, you approach your private deck. Taking in the fresh, crisp air, you step into your outdoor bathtub, the water scented with fragrant oils, calming bath salts, and spices. You enjoy a relaxing soak, watching the ripples chase each other through the Zambezi River. In the lap of luxury, elevated high above the ground, your treehouse offers the best views of the surrounding greenery.
Just 12 km upstream from Victoria Falls, Tongabezi Lodge by Green Safaris is the perfect location to immerse yourself in the riverside lifestyle and as the only property in the area offering private dining experiences, you will get an extra taste of its lavishness.
Travel Back in Time to and Old Manor: Relive History at Shiwa Ng’andu Manor House
Rolling green fields, manicured bushes and trees, the arches and peaks of 20th-century architecture — walking through the grounds at Shiwa Ng’andu, you can feel the essence of the past in the air. Hearing the song of the birds and the whisper of the wind, you understand why someone would fall in love with the area and want to spend the rest of their life here. The silent creaks in the floorboards and the arrangement of the dining room remind you of bygone eras. In your room, the lush old-fashioned furniture and sparkling antique chandeliers continue to fuel your imagination with images of the lives that have passed through here.
Shiwa Ng’andu lies nearly 800 km from Lusaka and hosts its own airstrip, making it easily accessible by charter flights. The estate is open all year round and is available for day visits from 9am - 11am everyday.
Live Out you Haunted House Fantasies: The Not So Haunted Lundazi Castle
Sky-high turrets cast pointed shadows along the ground, adorned with spiral staircases leading up into the towers and even its own dungeon. Walking through the halls, the click of your shoes against the stone floor echoes through the walls and bounces off the high ceilings. The creaks of the doors and the cold gusts of air almost make it seem haunted. Your simple room mirrors the lifestyle of the early 20th century, and you take in the mastery of architecture the castle portrays. During your stay, you have the opportunity to explore rooms filled with the history of grand visitors such as Queen Elizabeth and Kenneth Kaunda, adding to the castle's rich heritage. It is truly one of the most unique accommodations in the country.
Built in the 20th century, Lundazi Castle is fashioned in the Norman style, which is reflected in its grand layout. Situated in Lundazi District, in the Eastern Province of Zambia, its doors are open year-round.
