Unique Stay: Chisa Busanga Camp

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Tour Description

Chisa Busanga Camp is nestled on an island in the heart of the Busanga Plains, one of Africa's most pristine wilderness areas, within the northern region of Zambia’s Kafue National Park.

The camp is accessible from Lusaka International Airport by a one-hour chartered flight or a three-hour road transfer. Open from May to November, Chisa Busanga Camp showcases the natural beauty of its surroundings through stunning architecture and eco-friendly design, providing a truly unique safari experience.

Tucked away among the trees and elevated four meters off the ground, the Chisa Busanga Nests offer an enchanting blend of luxury, romance, and immersion in the wilderness. Each of the four Nests is shaded by terminalia trees and inspired by the intricate weaver bird nests that adorn the area, reflecting the same loving detail and dedication in their construction. "Chisa," meaning "bird's nest" in Nyanja, is fitting, as these rooms are designed to resemble the cozy cocoons that weaver birds create. The Nests feature expansive views from your luxurious bed, private outdoor deck, and indoor/outdoor shower. Lined with canvas tenting, each Nest includes a modern en-suite bathroom and a king-size bed with soft linens. Wooden steps lead you to your treetop haven, and for those who may struggle with stairs, the Nest closest to the communal building is equipped with a lift for easy access.

The communal facilities are centered around a traditional boma, elevated to maximize vistas over the plains. A solar-powered plunge pool provides a tranquil spot for relaxation between activities. The camp operates solely on solar power, including the game drive vehicles, celebrating the natural and cultural heritage of the Busanga Plains.

ACTIVITIES AT CHISA BUSANGA CAMP:

Chisa Busanga Camp offers a range of classic safari activities, designed to immerse you in the beauty and tranquility of the Busanga Plains:

Walking Safaris: Embark on guided walking safaris, where expert guides lead you through the Busanga Plains, revealing the intricate details of its ecosystem. These walks provide an intimate exploration of the area’s flora, insects, and abundant birdlife. The plains are a haven for bird enthusiasts, with over 500 species recorded, including raptors, herons, egrets, storks, cranes, chats, and kingfishers, as well as a remarkable array of waterbirds.

Guided Game Drives: Explore the vast expanse of the Busanga Plains, which spans more than 13,000 square kilometers, during expertly guided game drives. In the dry season, when the camp is operational, the receding waters invite a diverse range of plains game like wildebeest, zebra, impala, and puku to graze, attracting predators such as the black-maned lion, cheetah, wild dog, and pangolin. These drives, conducted in the early morning and late afternoon, utilize electric vehicles for a quieter, more eco-conscious experience.

 

Top Tip: Chisa Busanga Camp combines well with Central Kafue, South Luangwa, and Victoria Falls. Speak with our Africa Specialists about incorporating this camp into your Zambian adventure for an unforgettable experience

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Located in one of Africa's most untouched wilderness areas, Chisa Busanga Camp provides unparalleled access to diverse wildlife. The tranquil wetland ecosystem of the Busanga Plains is teeming with life, offering a truly unique safari experience

The Nests are elevated four meters off the ground and inspired by weaver bird nests, blending seamlessly into the natural surroundings. This innovative design offers guests a luxurious yet immersive experience in the heart of the Busanga Plains.

Chisa Busanga Camp is committed to sustainability, operating solely on solar power, including the game drive vehicles. This eco-conscious approach ensures minimal environmental impact while allowing guests to enjoy the pristine wilderness.

Tour Itinerary

Customisable ? This tour can be customised to suit your tastes and timing. Enquire here for more information.
Day 1-4
Chisa Busanga Camp

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.

Your safari is tailored to you - Chisa stands out for its commitment to green innovation. As the only camp in the plains powered entirely by solar energy, we offer Silent Safaris—noiseless electric drives that provide intimate wildlife encounters and bring you closer to nature's heartbeat.

Your stay at Chisa Busanga Camp includes all meals, standard bar drinks, laundry, activities and park fees


A Typical Day at Chisa Busanga Camp

Morning:
As dawn breaks over the Busanga Plains, you're gently awakened by the sounds of the wild. Step out onto your private deck, elevated among the trees, to take in the sweeping views of the mist-covered plains. Enjoy a steaming cup of coffee as the sun begins to rise, painting the landscape in soft golden hues. After a light breakfast, set out on a guided morning game drive in an electric vehicle. The receding waters of the plains attract a variety of wildlife—wildebeest, zebra, and impala grazing peacefully, while predators like black-maned lions and cheetahs stealthily patrol the area. Your expert guide shares fascinating insights about the ecosystem and its inhabitants, making this an unforgettable start to your day.

Midday:
Return to camp as the heat of the day sets in, and indulge in a hearty brunch served in the elevated boma, where you can continue to enjoy the panoramic vistas. The midday hours are perfect for relaxation—take a dip in the solar-powered plunge pool or retreat to your Nest for a restful nap. For those with a curious mind, the camp’s library offers a collection of books and artifacts that delve into the rich natural and cultural heritage of the Busanga Plains. Or, simply sit back on your deck, letting the tranquility of the surroundings wash over you.

Afternoon:
As the afternoon cools, embark on a walking safari guided by local experts. This intimate exploration allows you to connect with the smaller wonders of the plains—from intricate insect life to the vibrant bird species that call this place home. With over 470 bird species recorded, including the endangered wattled crane and the elusive Pel’s fishing owl, this experience is a must for bird enthusiasts. For a different perspective, consider an electric mountain bike ride across the plains, guided by someone who knows the terrain intimately, revealing hidden gems and stunning viewpoints along the way.

Evening:
As the sun begins to set, casting a warm glow over the plains, return to camp for a sundowner on your deck. Enjoy a refreshing drink while watching the silhouettes of elephants and antelope against the fiery sky. Dinner is served under the stars, a delicious blend of local and international dishes prepared with fresh ingredients. Afterward, gather around the campfire or relax in the boma, sharing stories of the day’s adventures with fellow guests.

Night:
For those eager to continue exploring, a night drive offers the chance to witness the nocturnal wonders of the plains. Glide silently through the darkness in an electric vehicle, spotting lechwe, porcupines, and perhaps even a lion on the prowl. As the night deepens, return to your Nest, where the sounds of the African wilderness lull you to sleep, surrounded by the serenity of the Busanga Plains.

What’s Included

Accommodation
  • Included Copy 20 Accommodation in a suite
Food
  • Included Copy 20 All meals and standard bar drinks
Fees & Services
  • Included Copy 20 Activities and Laundry
  • Included Copy 20 Park and Conservation fees
  • Included Copy 31 Flights and/or transfers
  • Included Copy 7 Gratuities, insurance and anything not specified

Activities

  • Included Blend into nature on a e-Cruiser, which lets you silently observe the sights and sounds of the bush.
  • Included Slow down with a bush walk to explore Busanga's natural beauty led by a knowledgeable guide
  • Included Experience the magic of elephants wandering beneath the Nests at sunset
  • Included Explore the nocturnal side of the park, with a chance to see creatures like leopards and hyenas
  • Included Bird watching at its finest - try spot the rare wattled crane and the striking carmine bee-eater
Click here for dates & prices
Duration

4 days

Price from

$3,165 USD

Per person, sharing

based on green season

Seasonal Camp: Open May to November - Daily, on request