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Sausage Tree Camp
Sausage Tree Camp
Sausage Tree Camp
Sausage Tree Camp
Sausage Tree Camp
Sausage Tree Camp
Sausage Tree Camp
Sausage Tree Camp
Sausage Tree Camp
Sausage Tree Camp
Sausage Tree Camp
Sausage Tree Camp
Sausage Tree Camp
Sausage Tree Camp
Sausage Tree Camp
Sausage Tree Camp
Sausage Tree Camp
Sausage Tree Camp
Sausage Tree Camp
Sausage Tree Camp
Sausage Tree Camp
Sausage Tree Camp
Sausage Tree Camp
Sausage Tree Camp
Sausage Tree Camp
Sausage Tree Camp
Sausage Tree Camp

About Sausage Tree Camp

Holding a picturesque Zambezi Riverside location, overlooking reed islands where elephant and buffalo graze, Sausage Tree Camp combines luxury and safari impeccably.

Having undergone various transformations since its inception as a bushcamp in 1996, the most recent version of Sausage Tree Camp is stylish, luxurious and extremely well run. Named after the instantly recognisable Sausage Tree, for its large sausage shaped fruit, lush green canopy and striking red flowers, the camp is set under a shady cover of sausage and mahogany trees on the banks of the Zambezi River. It’s a haven for guests and the wildlife that often ambles through camp.

Sausage Tree Camp’s centre is a large teak deck, overlooking the Zambezi River and its reed islands. Plush leather sofas, a social bar and umbrella shaded tables are all comfortable vantage points from which to watch yawning hippos, elephants crossing, buffalo grazing and kingfishers fishing. Nearby a 25-metre lap pool lined with cane sunloungers also face this spectacular and ever interesting view.

Spaced out along the riverbank, leaving plenty of room for elephant highways, seven suites and a two-bedroom house sit up on raised decks, each under a Bedouin style canvas canopy. Clean lines, a contemporary colour scheme and individual furniture pieces exemplify bush chic in these spacious and well thought out rooms. A private plunge pool is particularly welcome in the hotter months.

What sees travellers return to Sausage Tree Camp time and time again is the excellent service and genuinely warm welcome. The variety of activities and safari experiences is also stand out here, with a choice of game drives in search of big game, informative walks through palm woodlands, tranquil canoe trips along the picturesque Chifungulu Channel, scenic boat cruises and exciting fishing forays. All interspersed with surprise bush experiences creating lasting memories.

Accommodation
7 Suites, 1 Family House
Children
Best for 12+
Open
1 April to 30 November

Activities

4WD Safari

4WD Safari

Birdwatching

Birdwatching

Boat trip

Boat trip

Canoeing

Canoeing

Fishing

Fishing

Guided walking safari

Guided walking safari

Night drive

Night drive

Sausage Tree Camp: Full Report

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Traveller reviews of Sausage Tree Camp

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


98%
44 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
40
Good
3
Average
1
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Dr S.fromUSA

Arrived 15 Jun 2024, 2 nights

"Sausage Tree Camp review"

"the setting on the Zambezi was beautiful....I wish we stayed more days …" Read Dr S.’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Ms Andrea LfromUSA

Arrived 25 May 2024, 4 nights

"Sausage Tree Camp review"

"Everything was exceptional! …" Read Ms Andrea L’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Ms DfromIreland

Arrived 22 Aug 2023, 4 nights

"Sausage Tree Camp review"

"..the whole team make you feel "at home".. Absolutely excellent guiding.. …" Read Ms D’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs CfromBristol

Arrived 1 Sep 2023, 4 nights

"Sausage Tree Camp review"

"The accommodation at Sausage Tree Camp was fabulous.. …" Read Mr & Mrs C’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs BfromSingapore

Arrived 11 Aug 2023, 7 nights

"Sausage Tree Camp review"

"my 4th time to visit Sausage Tree.. awesome meal choices.. Wildlife was great …" Read Mr & Mrs B’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs HfromPrestbury

Arrived 1 Apr 2022, 4 nights

"Sausage Tree Camp review"

"delightful.. excellent accommodation.. most genuinely friendly camp we visited.. …" Read Mr & Mrs H’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs BfromSingapore

Arrived 14 Oct 2021, 2 nights

"Sausage Tree Camp review"

"This was my 3rd visit to Sausage Tree Camp.. wished I stayed a few nights longer …" Read Mr & Mrs B’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mrs J.fromGulf Shores

Arrived 19 Jun 2021, 4 nights

"Sausage Tree was exceptional in all ways. "

"We were indulged …" Read Mrs J.’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Lee & MichelefromPHX AZ

Arrived 15 Aug 2021, 5 nights

"Sausage Tree Camp review"

"Sausage Tree is stunning. …" Read Lee & Michele’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Ms GfromFlorida

Arrived 17 Oct 2020, 4 nights

"Hospitable, friendly camp in lovely location"

"Lots of interesting guests & great ambiance... thanks for the great memories... …" Read Ms G’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

See all Sausage Tree Camp reviews

Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Sausage Tree Camp

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


Buffalo

100% success

Elephant

100% success

Hippo

100% success

Lion

93% success

Leopard

85% success

Zebra

54% success

Spotted Hyena

46% success

Wild dog

31% success

Sable antelope

8% success

Aardvark

0% success

Cheetah

0% success

Eland

0% success

Pangolin

0% success

Sausage Tree Camp's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Sausage Tree Camp.


When to go to Lower Zambezi National Park

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Sausage Tree Camp 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

Zambia fact file

Useful information and advice to help you prepare for a trip including Sausage Tree Camp


Other lodges in Lower Zambezi National Park

Alternative places to stay in this same area.


Old Mondoro Bushcamp

Old Mondoro Bushcamp

For an intimate safari in the Lower Zambezi, with superb guiding, Old Mondoro is up there with the best.


99% (129 reviews)
Chongwe River Camp

Chongwe River Camp

A blend of the stylish and traditional in a most picturesque site in the Zambezi Valley, Chongwe River Camp offers an excellent safari experience and real value for money.


96% (122 reviews)
Chiawa Camp

Chiawa Camp

One of Zambia's top safari camps, Chiawa is family owned and run, offering superb service and a flexible approach from a location well inside the Lower Zambezi National Park.


98% (93 reviews)
Potato Bush Camp

Potato Bush Camp

Potato Bush is located right in the heart of the Lower Zambezi National Park, with privately guided activities taking you on game drives, walks, boat trips and canoeing.


100% (19 reviews)
Anabezi Luxury Tented Camp

Anabezi Luxury Camp

Anabezi Luxury Tented Camp offers a high degree of understated luxury in a very lovely, quiet part of the Lower Zambezi with outstanding wildlife.


98% (21 reviews)
Amanzi

Amanzi

Opened in 2015, Amanzi is an intimate and rustic yet luxury camp in a very quiet area of the Lower Zambezi, with plenty of wildlife and good birding.


96% (10 reviews)
Kutali Camp

Kutali Camp

Kutali Camp offers the opportunity to experience the wilderness of Zambia’s Lower Zambezi National Park, in this simple tented camp located on Kulefu Island.


95% (8 reviews)
Chongwe River House

Chongwe River House

Chongwe River House is a stylish four-bedroom house designed for the exclusive use of families and small groups, affording the ultimate in flexibility on safari.


100% (8 reviews)
Kasaka River Lodge

Kasaka River Lodge

Kasaka River Lodge is a relatively simple, family-friendly camp. It's outside the Lower Zambezi National Park and, with a recent change of ownership for the better, it offers a great-value safari destination.


93% (6 reviews)
Chula Island Camp

Chula Island Camp

Chula Island Camp offers the opportunity to experience the wilderness of Zambia’s Lower Zambezi National Park, in this simple fly-camp located in a natal mahogany grove on a small island on the Zambezi River.


95% (4 reviews)
Lolebezi

Lolebezi

A chic safari spot, luxurious Lolelbezi is the Lower Zambezi’s newest camp and offers a mix of walking, canoeing and game drives led by excellent guides.


100% (2 reviews)
Royal Zambezi Lodge

Royal Zambezi Lodge

This family-friendly lodge is located just on the outskirts of the Lower Zambezi National Park, in a great location overlooking the river.


No reviews yet

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