Reviews of Chula Island Camp
Wildlife sightings and reviews
4 independent comments and wildlife information from our travellers who have visited Chula Island Camp and kindly agreed to share their thoughts. They do not necessarily represent the views of Expert Africa
75% success
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33% success
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"Chula Island Camp review"
It should be noted that due to the length of the boat ride to the island, no night drives are offered here, so the game drive ends with sundowners on the boat ride, but this was fine for me to skip night drives for 2 nights. Also, as there is only one scout shared between the two camps, walking needs to be coordinated between the two camps, although I understand they hope to have a scout for each camp next season. Again, this wasn't an issue for me as the camps were quiet and I walked one morning at each camp.
I very much like the simple (but very comfortable) mobile style of both this camp and Kutali." See all these reviews: 15n in Zambia
Regarding the guiding and scouting issues, there has been a shortage of scouts (and guides) in Zambia in 2022 following the covid epidemic. This was certainly a factor behind some of the problems that this traveller experienced at Chula Island and its sister camp Kutali.
We’ve had extensive discussions with the owners about this issue and they hope that this will be rectified for 2023.
Going forward into 2023, it’s likely that all guests in camp will be doing the same activity, whether it be a game drive, boat trip or walking safari – and that the choices will be limited by the availability of scouts and guides. However, the owners have assured us that travellers should always be able to experience their full range of activities during their stay.
"Senior Africa Specialist"
Buffalo
10 sightings
Elephant
10 sightings
Hippo
10 sightings
Leopard
2 sightings
Lion
2 sightings
Zebra
10 sightings
"Chula Island Camp review"
On one afternoon game drive, we saw a pack of 25 wild dogs playing and trying to chase down pretty much everything (warthog, guinea fowl, impala, waterbuck) that they came across. Later one of the dog was chased by an elephant not far from a bull buffalo. It was one of the highlight of our trip.
Similar comment for improvement on organization and service as Kutali Camp but nevertheless a very enjoyable stay." See all these reviews: 14n in Zambia
Buffalo
3 sightings
Elephant
10 sightings
Hippo
10 sightings
Lion
2 sightings
Wild dog
1 sighting
Zebra
3 sightings
"Wonderful riverside camp"
"Chula Island Camp review"
If possible, I enjoyed Chula even more than Kutali despite the similarity in food, service and facilities all of which were excellent. The bird life was amazing, but this may have been due to the birders also staying at the camp.
The drives were adrenalin-fuelled. Here we saw leopard and a huge pack (24) of wild dogs attempting to make 2 kills. Our guide Josh was a super guide. He handled the boat and game vehicle superbly and was a gun in spotting and following game. The hours flew by even though the days (from 5.30am to 7.30pm) were long.
I would definitely return to Chula for both the outdoor camping and rich game viewing experience." See all these reviews: 14n in Zambia
Buffalo
2 sightings
Elephant
2 sightings
Hippo
3 sightings
Leopard
2 sightings
Spotted Hyena
1 sighting
Wild dog
2 sightings
Zebra
2 sightings
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