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Chisa Busanga Camp
Chisa Busanga Camp
Chisa Busanga Camp
Chisa Busanga Camp
Chisa Busanga Camp
Chisa Busanga Camp
Chisa Busanga Camp
Chisa Busanga Camp
Chisa Busanga Camp
Chisa Busanga Camp
Chisa Busanga Camp
Chisa Busanga Camp
Chisa Busanga Camp

About Chisa Busanga Camp

Imagine a giant weaver bird's nest: a luxurious bubble, shaded in the branches of a fig tree overlooking an expanse of green plains.

You're in your room at Chisa Bushcamp, overlooking the floodplains and watery dambos of Kafue's Busanga Plains.

Built in a great location, on a small tree-island close to the centre of the Busanga Plains, Chisa is small, smart and innovative - both in its design and your activities.

This bushcamp's four tree-house nests are comfortable and stylish: cosy bubbles with luxurious creature comforts and great views. Watch the sunrise before heading down for breakfast, saving a dip in the plunge pool until the middle of the day.

Perhaps the biggest innovation here is Chisa's game-viewing vehicles, which look like normal, open-air 4WDs - but are powered by solar electricity. These are the first electric game-drive vehicles on the Plains and they allow an almost 'silent safari'. They create minimal disturbance to the wildlife as they glide around, allowing you to get close to the wildlife.

Accommodation
4 rooms
Children
Best for 16+
Open
Jun to Nov

Activities

4WD Safari

4WD Safari

Birdwatching

Birdwatching

Guided walking safari

Guided walking safari

Hot air ballooning

Hot air ballooning

Night drive

Night drive

Chisa Busanga Camp: Full Report

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Traveller reviews of Chisa Busanga Camp

7 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.


97%
7 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
6
Good
1
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Mr & Mrs JfromChepstow

Arrived 7 Sep 2024, 3 nights

"Chisa Busanga Camp review"

"the view out to the waterhole and beyond was expansive... cheetah and lion …" Read Mr & Mrs J’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs HfromUK

Arrived 25 Jun 2024, 3 nights

"Chisa Busanga Camp review"

"22 lion sightings incl 2 kills.. a pack of 10 wild dogs.. a fantastic few days. …" Read Mr & Mrs H’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mrs WfromUK

Arrived 11 Oct 2023, 3 nights

"Chisa Busanga Camp review"

"Fantastic camp.. Great food.. good game sightings …" Read Mrs W’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr J & Ms DfromUK

Arrived 15 Sep 2023, 3 nights

"Chisa Busanga Camp review"

"Great location & brilliant place to stay. Loved the nests.. Very helpful staff.. …" Read Mr J & Ms D’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

A&SfromNorthampton

Arrived 3 Sep 2023, 2 nights

"Chisa Busanga Camp review"

"Lodge was superb... loved the open landscape and wildlife viewings …" Read A&S’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs BfromSingapore

Arrived 8 Aug 2023, 3 nights

"Chisa Busanga Camp review"

"Super liked the Bird Nest, an absolute stunner.. Chisa crew was very friendly.. …" Read Mr & Mrs B’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

Mr PaulfromDoha

Arrived 18 Jun 2023, 3 nights

"Chisa Busanga Camp review"

"Great small camp with the famous birds nest rooms …" Read Mr Paul’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

See all Chisa Busanga Camp reviews

Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Chisa Busanga

Click an animal to see our traveller's success in sighting them.
How we work this out.


Hippo

100% success

Lion

100% success

Wildebeest

100% success

Elephant

86% success

Roan antelope

86% success

Sable antelope

83% success

Zebra

83% success

Spotted Hyena

60% success

Cheetah

57% success

Leopard

33% success

Buffalo

29% success

Eland

17% success

Wild dog

17% success

Aardvark

0% success

Pangolin

0% success

Sitatunga

0% success

Chisa Busanga Camp's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Chisa Busanga.


When to go to Kafue National Park

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Chisa Busanga in Kafue National Park


Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Kafue National Park in January

January marks the peak of Kafue National Park's wet season. Expect frequent heavy downpours, often lasting for hours, punctuated by brief sunny intervals. The mercury soars above 30°C/86°F, accompanied by high humidity.

The park's landscapes are verdant and lush, with crystal-clear air. However, the abundance of water causes wildlife to disperse, and thick vegetation can hinder sightings. Migratory birds boost the park's avian diversity. Many areas of Kafue become inaccessible as seasonal rivers flood and dirt roads turn impassable. Only a few lodges, near all-weather roads in the centre of the park, remain operational. Visitor numbers are low, and accommodation options offer their most competitive rates.

  • Wet season peak: frequent showers, steamy conditions
  • Most lodges shut, verdant scenery ideal for photos
  • Wildlife scattered, challenging to spot in thick foliage
  • Minimal tourists, budget-friendly rates available
  • Lush greenery dominates the landscape

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in January

Kafue National Park in February

February continues the wet season trend in Kafue National Park. Dramatic thunderstorms deliver brief but intense rainfall most days, interspersed with clear, sunny periods.

The park remains awash with water, dispersing wildlife and limiting access to certain areas. Dense vegetation restricts game viewing and walking safaris, but swollen rivers allow for unique boating experiences in some parts of the park. As the month progresses, water levels in the park's rivers begin to rise noticeably. The few operational camps continue to see low visitor numbers and offer reduced rates.

  • Continued wet season: daily downpours, muggy atmosphere
  • Majority of safari lodges and camps closed for the season
  • Verdant surroundings, but wildlife sightings limited
  • Rivers in flood and excellent for bird-watching
  • Scarce visitors, economical pricing for adventurers

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in February

Kafue National Park in March

March signals the final month of Kafue's rainy season, with heavy showers still common. Water levels peak, making navigation within the park challenging. Daytime temperatures consistently exceed 30°C/86°F, with rain-induced humidity remaining high.

Most camps are still closed, and thick vegetation continues to limit wildlife viewing and walking safaris. However, this is a prime time for observing animals with their young, and predator activity can be high. The combination of clear air and increasingly frequent blue skies creates excellent conditions for photography. Birdwatching remains exceptional as migratory species prepare for their winter journey.

  • Wet season climax: regular showers, high humidity
  • Abundant newborns, but animals hard to spot in greenery
  • Few tourists, low-season rates at lodges
  • Lush vegetation persists across Kafue
  • Most lodges remain closed

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in March

Kafue National Park in April

April marks a transition in Kafue National Park as the rains shift from intense downpours to lighter, sporadic showers. The landscape remains lush and green, but large wildlife sightings are still limited.

Most safari camps still remain closed; only those central camps near all-weather roads have reliable access. The park's rivers and wetlands are at their fullest, creating a picturesque setting. Despite improving conditions, game viewing can still be challenging due to the dense vegetation.

  • Rainy season waning: occasional showers, humid days
  • Many bush roads are still impassable
  • Verdant scenery continues, wildlife viewing improving
  • Most safari camps and lodges remain closed
  • Low visitor numbers; attractive low-season rates

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in April

Kafue National Park in May

May typically heralds the start of the dry season in Kafue. While occasional showers may occur, most days are clear and sunny. As winter approaches, temperatures begin to drop, with daytime highs around 26°C/79°F.

The drying landscape improves access throughout the park, and some camps reopen – though access across the Busanga Plains remains challenging. Standing water is still prevalent, but game viewing noticeably improves as the vegetation thins. The month's end can be popular with visitors taking advantage of pleasant weather, better wildlife sightings, and the last of the low-season rates at many camps.

  • Dry season onset: clearer skies, pleasant temperatures
  • Many safari camp and lodges now operational
  • Landscape still green, excellent for photographers
  • Wildlife sightings improving as vegetation thins
  • Final month for off-season lodge rates

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in May

Kafue National Park in June

June in Kafue National Park sees virtually no rainfall and a high likelihood of consistently sunny days. Humidity drops significantly, and winter's approach brings cooler temperatures, with nighttime lows around 10°C/50°F and daytime highs of 25°C/77°F.

The landscape remains relatively lush, but thinning vegetation greatly enhances visibility for game viewing. The park's rivers and wetlands start to recede, leading more wildlife to appear around the remaining water sources. Even the camps on the Busanga Plains are usually operational by June. Some still offer shoulder season rates, whilst others begin charging peak season prices.

  • Consistently sunny days, cooler nights setting in
  • All Kafue lodges open and welcoming visitors
  • Wildlife viewing noticeably better, animals more visible
  • Lovely conditions for walking safaris in Kafue
  • Almost all tracks now passable, even on the Busanga Plains

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in June

Kafue National Park in July

As the dry season progresses in Kafue, vegetation continues to thin and water becomes scarcer. Wildlife begins to cluster around major water sources, improving game viewing opportunities.

July marks the heart of winter, with daytime temperatures in the 20s Celsius/70s Fahrenheit , but nighttime lows can drop to single digits. Early morning and late evening game drives can be particularly chilly, with camps often providing blankets and hot water bottles. Visitor numbers increase significantly, and popular small camps can fill up quickly. Properties now charge high season rates. The floodwaters in the Busanga Plains have receded to the north, opening up further areas for exploration.

  • Warm days, chilly nights: bring layers for comfort
  • Wildlife congregating near water sources, easier to spot
  • Walking safaris popular, vegetation less dense
  • End-July is the start of the busy season
  • Lodge and camp rates now at peak season rates

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in July

Kafue National Park in August

By August, Kafue's vegetation has significantly thinned and wildlife congregates around remaining water sources, offering excellent game viewing opportunities. Rain is rare, with sunny days almost guaranteed, though dust and smoke can create a haze on the horizon.

Temperatures climb into the 20s Celsius/70s Fahrenheit the day, but dip below 5°C/40°F during nights which feel very cold. Warm clothing (hats and gloves!) is essential for morning and evening activities. One of the most popular months to visit Kafue so safari camps charge peak rates and availability can be limited, especially in sought-after locations.

  • Very dry conditions, warm days but cold nights
  • Excellent wildlife viewing
  • Slight haze may affect long-distance photography
  • Perfect weather for walking safaris in the park
  • Peak season: lodges at high season rates

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in August

Kafue National Park in September

September is arguably the prime time to visit Kafue National Park. Rainfall is virtually non-existent, humidity is low, and temperatures begin to rise. Morning game drives become more comfortable with daytime highs typically in the low 30s Celsius/80s Fahrenheit; nights are less bitter.

Water scarcity concentrates wildlife around remaining sources, providing excellent viewing opportunities and increased chances of inter-species interactions. The wildlife on the Busanga Plains reaches its zenith as safari camps charging peak rates are often full – often having been booked up well in advance. A noticeable haze can affect distant views and photography.

  • Dry, hot days with clear skies and mild nights
  • Prime time for wildlife viewing in Kafue
  • Often dense wildlife on the Busanga Plains
  • Dusty conditions may create hazy landscapes
  • High season continues, lodges often fully booked

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in September

Kafue National Park in October

October sees Kafue at its driest, with the landscape appearing barren and brown. Occasional showers may occur as the promise of the wet season looms. Temperatures can soar above 40°C/104°F during the day, rarely dropping below 20°C/68°F at night.

A smoky, dusty haze can be seen in distant photographs, even obscuring the horizon. The scarcity of water leads to great competition at remaining sources, with excellent opportunities to observe predator-prey interactions. Game viewing is at its peak, though the animals are feeling the stress of the dryness. Most smaller, more remote camps, and all of those on the Busanga Plains, close at the end of October.

  • A prime month for wildlife viewing
  • Lots of ‘fishing parties’ of birds feeding in drying pools.
  • Very hot days and nights, rain unlikely
  • Landscape increasingly dusty and harsh
  • Hazy conditions may impact photography

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in October

Kafue National Park in November

November typically marks the transition from dry to wet season in Kafue – which makes this month unpredictable. Temperatures remain high and humidity builds until it rains. Spectacular thunderstorms then increase in in frequency later in the month, triggering rapid green growth.

Wildlife begins to disperse as water becomes more readily available. Increasing numbers of migratory birds arrive and antelope species gathering for calving. Most more remote camps are closed, including those on the Busanga Plains; camps remaining open reduce their rates. With the rains comes crystal-clear air – perfect photographic conditions.

  • Transition from dry to wet season begins
  • Wildlife viewing declines as animals disperse
  • Landscape turns green, everything comes alive
  • Clearer air means better photographic conditions
  • Lodge rates decrease; most safari camps close

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in November

Kafue National Park in December

December usually sees Kafue fully in the grip of the wet season. Heavy thunderstorms occur on most days, interspersed with sunny periods. Temperatures begin to drop but still exceed 30°C/86°F during the day, accompanied by high humidity.

The rainfall transforms the landscape, encouraging lush vegetation growth. While wildlife remains in the park, sightings become more challenging due to the thick foliage and dispersed animal populations. Many areas become difficult to access, and all but a few centrally located camps close for the season. Open camps offer their lowest rates. The rains clear the air, restoring vivid blue skies that delight photographers.

  • Rainy season in full swing: hot, humid, wet days
  • Wildlife harder to spot as vegetation thickens
  • Many Kafue lodges close; others offer low-season rates
  • Green landscape and clear air perfect for photography
  • Many birds in breeding plumage

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in December

Zambia fact file

Useful information and advice to help you prepare for a trip including Chisa Busanga Camp


Other lodges in Kafue National Park

Alternative places to stay in this same area.


Musekese Camp

Musekese Camp

Musekese is a small owner-run tented camp, offering great guiding and a high degree of personal service in a stunning wilderness area, with modest game.


95% (40 reviews)
Busanga Bushcamp

Busanga Bushcamp

Busanga Bushcamp is a small but comfortable tented bushcamp (max 8 guests) which makes a great base for a wildlife safari to the Busanga Plains.


93% (20 reviews)
KaingU Lodge

KaingU Lodge

KaingU Lodge, in the centre of the southern part of Zambia's vast Kafue National Park, is in a great location for exploring this section of the Kafue River


90% (16 reviews)
Shumba Camp

Shumba Camp

Shumba is a high-spec camp built on a tree island in the magical Busanga Plains. It opens in May, when the birdlife is particularly amazing; as the dry season progresses, the game can become remarkable.


96% (14 reviews)
Ntemwa Busanga Camp

Ntemwa Busanga Camp

Ntemwa Busanga Camp is a simple but comfortable camp on the southern tip of the Busanga Plains which combines well with its sister camp, Musekese.


98% (12 reviews)
Mukambi Safari Lodge

Mukambi Safari Lodge

Mukambi Safari Lodge is a solidly built, comfortable property just off the main road from Lusaka, making it one of the most convenient camps in Kafue.


80% (3 reviews)
Mukambi Plains Camp

Mukambi Plains Camp

Mukambi Plains Camp is a rustic, tented property located in the middle of the vast Busanga Plains in Kafue National Park.


70% (2 reviews)
Fig Tree Camp

Fig Tree Camp

Fig Tree camp is in the centre of Kafue National Park, and in addition to having a stunning location is well placed to start or end your trip in the park.


100% (1 review)
Ila Safari Lodge

Ila Safari Lodge

Ila Safari Lodge is a comfortable lodge just outside Kafue National Park, with convenient access from Lusaka.


80% (1 review)

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