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Lolebezi
Lolebezi
Lolebezi
Lolebezi
Lolebezi
Lolebezi
Lolebezi
Lolebezi
Lolebezi
Lolebezi

About Lolebezi

Superb panoramic vistas across the mighty Zambezi from swish, contemporary suites, a warm welcome and a focus on laid-back safari chic.

Lolebezi, the newest lodge in the Lower Zambezi (opened in June 2022) is a superb addition to this excellent national park.

Its architecture is a striking fusion of African craftsmanship and modern design with an eco-conscious use of recycled materials.

Wide decks with the most magical river views, beautiful woven ceilings, funky furniture and handcrafted beadwork details abound. And from a shady spot under the private thatched ‘sala’ or the infinity plunge pool, it's easy to see how a holiday here could happily be spent on the deck of the suite alone.

But to do so would be to miss the wonderful central deck, social bar and a host of wonderful activities into the national park. From action-packed game-drives to the tranquility of boat cruises, or a canoe paddle at eye-level with antelope, thirsty elephants and statuesque waterbirds. There are myriad ways to explore the park and its wildlife, before sitting back to watch the sun dip over the escarpment whilst enjoying a waterfront G&T.

Our view

We expect Lolebezi to be a beautiful camp with a unique style all of its own, in what we know is a superb location in a fantastic national park: a real riverside gem. Stylish accommodation is matched with strong African roots and great guiding.

We have plans to visit Lolebezi in its first few months of opening, so do get in touch for the latest information. Knowing its sister camps well though, we’d expect this camp to deliver excellent safaris for all, be you honeymooners or families.

Lara Webster

Lara Webster

Zambia expert

Accommodation

6 Suites

Children

Best for 12+

Open

All year

Traveller reviews of Lolebezi

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


100%
2 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
2
Good
0
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Mr R.fromMalmesbury

Arrived 15 Oct 2024, 3 nights

"Lolebezi review"

"The guiding was superlative, some of the best we've ever had. …" Read Mr R.’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Ms DfromIreland

Arrived 26 Aug 2023, 2 nights

"Lolebezi review"

"Outstanding guiding by James! The game drives were epic.. …" Read Ms D’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

See all Lolebezi reviews

Lolebezi: Our full report

Tucked in an acacia forest, beside the broad Zambezi, Lolebezi is an alluring camp with a distinctly luxurious décor.

Located within Zambia’s marvellous Lower Zambezi National Park, Lolebezi is the park’s newest safari lodge (opened in June 2022), and consciously set out to be an enticing, contemporary safari destination. International architects and designers, talented local craftspeople and the experienced team from Africa Bush Camps combined their skills to create this striking riverfront camp, and the result is terrific: youthful, edgy, stylish and rooted in in African stories.

Stylish accommodation is in four signature suites and two double family suites.

The four signature suites are wonderful, glass-fronted, contemporary spaces. Their calming, air-conditioned interiors, filled with beautiful Zambian basketry and weaving, plush fabrics and comfortable furniture, are extremely stylish. A muted palette of green and neutral hues is easy on the eye, with sumptuous beds featuring a halo of hand-crafted beads, a mini-bar, lounge seating and ample space.

There’s a huge timber and sage-coloured bathroom complete with a glorious green bath, an indoor and outdoor shower and a beautiful stone vanity unit.

But the ultimate ‘wow’ is the panoramic river view. A opening, glass wall runs along the whole front of each suite affording a stunning waterfront vista and easy access onto the wide, private deck. Spanning the length of the suite, and complete with loungers, a thatched ‘sala’ seating area, and a spectacular infinity plunge pool overlooking the Zambezi River, not to mention the passing elephants who regularly come to drink and cool off at the river’s edge.

The open-sided main area is the hub of social activity at Lolebezi. A cool, cushioned riverfront lounge, quirky sculptural lights, a dining room and a striking, green-marbled bar perfect for selecting sundowners and enjoying a nightcap. Just beckoning you to pull up a jade velvet bar-stool and chat about the day’s safari sightings, it’s a great hangout before heading down to the intimate, waterfront firepit for some Milky Way star-gazing, or taking the spiral stairs to the raised walkway for some splendid canopy views.

Activities at Lolebezi are varied and flexible. There are opportunities for game drives, guided river excursions by boat or canoe, walking safaris and fishing. For guests keen to exercise, there’s a gym, whilst those keen to be pampered can enjoy spa treatments. Open-air cinema evenings can be arranged, bird-watching trips are possible and catch-and-release fishing for the Zambezi’s finest tiger fish, bream and vundu.

Children of all ages are warmly welcomed at Lolebezi (though only over 16s can go canoeing and on walking safaris). The Ngwana Club offers some engaging safari activities for the youngest visitors, with camp nature walks, cookery and bushcraft all on the agenda.

Almost all of the camps in the Lower Zambezi National Park are seasonal: closing when the rains make the roads impassable. Lolebezi plans to open year-round, but driving is unlikely to be possible during sections of the Green Season (November – April), when activities will be limited to boating safaris.

During this time, when the river is high and fast, we recommend that travellers do not go canoeing because of the speed of the current.

Geographics

Location
Lower Zambezi National Park, Zambia
Ideal length of stay
Three or four nights would be a usual stay, though longer would be possible. Travellers will often visit the Lower Zambezi after spending time in South Luangwa.
Directions
Lolebezi is accessed by light aircraft from Lusaka (30mins) or Livingstone (1.5-2hr); it is then a 15min game drive from Jeki Airstrip or a 1.5hr boat cruise from Royal airstrip to camp.
Accessible by
Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Full Board & Activities
Food quality
At the time of writing, Lolebezi is just opening so we have not had a chance to sample the food.

Our experience of other camps run by African Bush Camps suggest that it will be fresh and delicious though, with meals served in various locations and afternoon tea available before the afternoon activity.

All food served is Halaal-friendly and special dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice.
Dining style
Individual Tables
Dining locations
Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Drinks included
All drinks that are stocked in camp, including premium brand spirits and champagne.

Guests are given a water bottle that is filled up for them before activities etc. Bottled water is available on request.

Special interests

Honeymoons
A stylish spot putting an African twist on a contemporary camp in a stunning riverfront location. Private plunge pools, romantic starlit dinners, indulgent suites and a raft of memorable activities.
See ideas for Honeymoons in Zambia

Children

Attitude towards children
Children of all ages are welcomed by Lolebezi, though they must be over 16 years old to take part in walking activities.
Property’s age restrictions
No minimum age
Special activities & services
Lolebezi make a point that it has guides who are great with children and can offer alternative and slightly tailored activities such as fishing, cookery or nature walks around camp.

They can also offer child-minding from one of their housekeeping team, but note that this will not be someone who is specially trained in child care.
Generally recommended for children
Yes – but it's really best for older children who are also sensible and careful, ideally at least 12 years old. The rooms are completely open to the river and the camp is unfenced so parental supervision is necessary at all times.
Notes
Children must be supervised at all times by their parents/guardians, as dangerous big game, including large predators, wander freely through camp. The camp is adjacent to the river which is home to many large hippos and crocodiles.

Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Lolebezi

Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Lolebezi have kindly recorded their wildlife sightings and shared them with us. The results are below. Click an animal to see more, and here to see more on our methodology.

Buffalo

100% success

Eland

100% success

Elephant

100% success

Hippo

100% success

Leopard

100% success

Lion

100% success

Spotted Hyena

100% success

Wild dog

100% success

Zebra

100% success

Aardvark

0% success

Cheetah

0% success

Pangolin

0% success

Sable antelope

0% success

Communications

Power supply notes
Each tent has individual solar panel to power lights. However there is also a generator for battery charging.
Water supply
Borehole

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended
Yes
Medical care
Senior staff and guides have medical first-aid training. The nearest medical facility is in Lusaka and the camp has links to a flying- doctor service.
Dangerous animals
High Risk
Fire safety
There is a fire extinguisher in each tent.

Activities

    Extras

    Disabled access
    On Request
    Laundry facilities
    Lolebezi has a good laundry service.
    Money
    There is no currency exchange here. There are safes in the tents.
    Accepted payment on location
    If you wish to tip, which is optional, then bring cash with you. Cash is accepted in any major currency and the camp has an old-fashioned swipe card machine for Visa and MasterCard, but not Amex.

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    Lolebezi's location

    Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Lolebezi.


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    When to go to Lower Zambezi National Park

    Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Lolebezi in Lower Zambezi National Park


    Jan

    Feb

    Mar

    Apr

    May

    Jun

    Jul

    Aug

    Sep

    Oct

    Nov

    Dec

    Lower Zambezi National Park in January

    At the peak of Lower Zambezi's green season, expect heavy rainfall for a few hours on many days with sunny spells in between. Temperatures remain high, reaching over 30°C/86°F with high humidity. The landscape is lush and green, but wildlife disperses, making game viewing challenging. The thick vegetation limits walking safaris. However, this is an excellent time for birdwatching as migrant species boost the park's bird count.

    Many camps close during this period, but those remaining open offer their lowest rates. The Zambezi River swells, creating spectacular scenes along its banks. Boat safaris can be particularly rewarding, offering chances to spot hippos, crocodiles, and various waterbirds. Despite the challenges, the park's beauty during this wet season is undeniable, with vibrant colours and dramatic skies.

    • Peak of rainy season, hot and humid
    • Most camps closed, limited accessibility
    • Lush green landscape, great for photography
    • Dispersed wildlife, challenging game viewing
    • Lowest visitor numbers, cheapest rates

    Our view

    This is not a great time to visit

    Weather in January

    Lower Zambezi National Park in February

    February remains in the heart of the green season in Lower Zambezi National Park. Dramatic thunderstorms deliver a few hours of rain most days, interspersed with clear sunny skies.

    The abundance of water disperses game, making wildlife viewing more challenging. However, the swollen Zambezi River allows for unique boat safaris, offering close encounters with hippos and crocodiles. Birdwatching is excellent, with many migratory species present. The lush vegetation creates a picturesque backdrop for photography.

    While game drives may be less productive, canoeing trips can be particularly rewarding, allowing quiet approaches to wildlife along the riverbanks. The few camps that remain open charge their lowest rates, providing an opportunity for budget-conscious travellers to experience the park's wet season beauty.

    • Continued rainy season, hot and humid
    • Many camps still closed, limited options
    • Green landscape, photographic opportunities
    • Difficult game viewing due to thick vegetation
    • Low visitor numbers, affordable rates

    Our view

    This is not a great time to visit

    Weather in February

    Lower Zambezi National Park in March

    March marks the last month of the green season in the Lower Zambezi. Heavy downpours still occur most days, with water levels at their highest. Temperatures reach over 30°C/86°F, with high humidity.
    While many camps remain closed, those few remaining open offer unique wet season experiences. Boat safaris are particularly exciting, with the swollen Zambezi River providing extended exploration areas. Wildlife sightings may be sporadic, but many animals are raising young, offering heartwarming scenes.

    Predators like lions and wild dogs are active, taking advantage of vulnerable prey. The lush, green landscape and clear air create stunning photographic opportunities. Birdwatching remains excellent as thousands of birds prepare for their winter migration. Despite challenges, March offers a different perspective of the park's ecosystem.

    • Late rainy season, occasional showers
    • A few camps begin to reopen
    • Landscape still green, good for photography
    • Improved wildlife viewing as vegetation thins
    • Few visitors; rates for camps low

    Our view

    This is not a great time to visit

    Weather in March

    Lower Zambezi National Park in April

    As the rains transition to lighter, sporadic showers, April marks a period of change in Lower Zambezi National Park. The landscape remains exceptionally green and lush. While larger wildlife viewing may be sparse, this is an excellent time for birding enthusiasts.

    The Zambezi River is at its highest, creating spectacular scenes along its banks. Boat safaris offer unique perspectives of the flooded landscape. As camps slowly start to reopen, visitors can enjoy lower off-season rates. The park's famous canoe safaris become increasingly viable as water levels stabilise.

    Night game drives can be particularly rewarding, offering chances to spot nocturnal animals like civets and genets. April's transitional nature provides a blend of wet and dry season experiences.

    • End of rainy season, drier conditions
    • More camps open, better accessibility
    • Landscape transitioning, good for photos
    • Improved game viewing, animals more visible
    • Visitor numbers rise, rates remain low

    Our view

    This is not a great time to visit

    Weather in April

    Lower Zambezi National Park in May

    May typically marks the start of the dry season in the Lower Zambezi. While there's a chance of an odd shower, most days are clear and sunny. As winter approaches, daytime temperatures reach highs of around 26°C/79°F. The landscape begins to dry out, improving access throughout the park.

    Most camps reopen, offering a wider range of accommodation options. Game viewing improves significantly as animals start to congregate around permanent water sources. Boat safaris on the Zambezi River become increasingly popular, offering close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species.

    Walking safaris resume, providing intimate wildlife experiences. May's pleasant weather and improved game viewing make it an excellent time to visit, with some camps still offering shoulder season rates.

    • Start of dry season, cooler temperatures
    • Most camps open, full range of activities
    • Landscape drying, clearer wildlife sightings
    • Excellent time for walking safaris
    • Visitor numbers increase, rates go up

    Our view

    A good time to visit, with pros & cons

    Weather in May

    Lower Zambezi National Park in June

    The Lower Zambezi sees virtually no rainfall in June, with sunny days predominating. Humidity drops dramatically, and temperatures range from 10°C/50°F at night to 25°C/77°F during the day. The landscape remains relatively lush, but vegetation starts to thin, significantly improving game viewing.

    All camps in the park are open, some offering shoulder-season rates. The Zambezi River's water levels begin to recede, concentrating wildlife along its banks. This is an excellent time for canoe safaris, offering unique perspectives of the park's ecosystem.

    Game drives become increasingly productive, with higher chances of spotting predators like lions and leopards. June's pleasant temperatures and improved wildlife sightings make it a popular month for visitors.

    • Dry season, cool days and cold nights
    • All camps open, peak activity options
    • Improved wildlife viewing around water sources
    • Prime time for walking safaris and game drives
    • High season begins, increased rates

    Our view

    A very good time to visit

    Weather in June

    Lower Zambezi National Park in July

    As the dry season continues in Lower Zambezi National Park, vegetation thins and water becomes scarcer. Wildlife is starting to cluster around major water sources, particularly the Zambezi River, leading to excellent game viewing opportunities.

    July marks the heart of winter, with daytime temperatures in the 20s Celsius / 70s Fahrenheit but dropping to single digits at night. Early morning and late evening game drives can be very chilly, with camps often providing blankets and hot water bottles.

    This is prime time for walking safaris, offering exciting wildlife encounters. Canoe trips on the Zambezi River are particularly rewarding, with high chances of spotting elephants coming to drink. Visitor numbers increase, and properties charge peak season rates.

    • Peak dry season, clear skies
    • Excellent game viewing, especially near river
    • Popular time for canoe and boat safaris
    • Night drives offer nocturnal wildlife sightings
    • Peak season, highest rates and visitor numbers

    Our view

    A very good time to visit

    Weather in July

    Lower Zambezi National Park in August

    August in the Lower Zambezi offers excellent game viewing as wildlife congregates around remaining water sources. With virtually no chance of rain, sunny days are almost guaranteed. Temperatures can drop below 5°C/41°F at night but climb to the 20s Celsius / 70s Fahrenheit during the day.

    The thinned vegetation provides clear views of animals, making this one of the best months for photography. Boat safaris on the Zambezi River offer close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and elephants. Tiger fishing is at its peak, attracting anglers from around the world.

    Walking safaris provide thrilling up-close wildlife experiences. This is one of the most popular months to visit, with camps charging their highest rates and often fully booked well in advance.

    • Very dry, animals concentrate near water
    • Outstanding wildlife viewing opportunities
    • Ideal for photography and walking safaris
    • Zambezi River cruises highly recommended
    • Peak season continues, advance booking needed

    Our view

    Fantastic: the very best time to visit

    Weather in August

    Lower Zambezi National Park in September

    September is one of the best times to visit Lower Zambezi National Park for wildlife enthusiasts. Rain is almost unheard of, humidity is low, and daytime temperatures climb to the low 30s Celsius / high 80s Fahrenheit.

    Water is scarce, concentrating wildlife around the Zambezi River and remaining water holes. Game viewing is at its peak, with high chances of seeing predator-prey interactions. Elephant herds are frequently spotted crossing the river.

    Canoe safaris offer thrilling close encounters with wildlife. Night game drives provide opportunities to spot nocturnal animals like leopards and genets. Birdwatching remains excellent, with many species nesting. However, this popularity comes at a price: camps charge their highest rates and are often fully booked far in advance.

    • Hot days, warm nights, very dry
    • Excellent month for wildlife viewing
    • Zambezi River at its lowest, great for canoeing
    • Increased elephant sightings near water
    • High season, camps can be fully booked

    Our view

    Fantastic: the very best time to visit

    Weather in September

    Lower Zambezi National Park in October

    October marks the peak of the dry season in the Lower Zambezi. Away from the Zambezi, the national park is brown and barren, with little ground-level vegetation. Temperatures can be uncomfortably hot, often exceeding 40°C/104°F during the day.

    Despite the heat, this is considered the best month for game viewing. The scarcity of water forces animals to congregate around the main river, leading to frequent wildlife sightings and predator-prey interactions.

    Boat safaris offer relief from the heat and excellent opportunities to observe elephants, hippos, and crocodiles. Walking safaris may be challenging due to the heat but provide thrilling wildlife encounters. October is prime time for spotting large predators like lions and leopards.

    • Hottest month, animals congregate at river
    • Peak time for wildlife viewing and photography
    • Excellent for boat safaris and fishing
    • Chance to see elephants crossing the river
    • End of high season, some rate reductions

    Our view

    A very good time to visit

    Weather in October

    Lower Zambezi National Park in November

    November typically marks the end of the dry season in the Lower Zambezi. While the timing of rains is uncertain, temperatures remain high and humidity builds.

    Early November may still offer excellent game viewing, with animals concentrated around water sources. As the month progresses, the arrival of rains leads to rapid vegetation growth and wildlife dispersal. This transition period can be fascinating to witness. The initial rains bring relief to the parched landscape, with new growth attracting grazing animals.

    Birdwatching improves as migratory species arrive in the valley. While some remote camps close, those that remain open significantly drop their rates. November offers a unique opportunity to experience both dry and wet season aspects of the park.

    • Start of rainy season, occasional showers
    • Wildlife disperses as water becomes available
    • Good birding as migratory species arrive
    • Lush landscapes return, photography improves
    • Shoulder season, lower rates and fewer visitors

    Our view

    A good time to visit, with pros & cons

    Weather in November

    Lower Zambezi National Park in December

    December marks the start of the green season in the Lower Zambezi National Park. Heavy thunderstorms occur most days, interspersed with sunny spells. Temperatures reach over 30°C/86°F with high humidity.

    The rainfall brings abundant water to the landscape, encouraging lush vegetation growth. While game viewing becomes more challenging due to the thick bush and dispersed wildlife, this is an excellent time for birdwatching. Migratory birds arrive, boosting the species count. Boat safaris on the swollen Zambezi River offer unique perspectives of the flooded landscape.

    Many camps close for the season, but those remaining open charge their lowest rates. Despite the challenges, December offers a green and vibrant aspect of the park, with dramatic skies and fewer visitors.

    • Rainy season in full swing, hot and humid
    • Some camps close, limited accessibility
    • Newborn animals, great for bird watching
    • Challenging game viewing, but lush scenery
    • Low season, cheapest rates, fewer tourists

    Our view

    This is not a great time to visit

    Weather in December

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