About Pioneer Camp
Pioneer Camp is situated just outside Lusaka, approximately a half hour drive from the international airport ...
... - and this location is key to why we sometimes recommend it. If you have an early morning flight out of Lusaka, then spending your last night here might make sense. It's in a fairly rural setting, which contrasts sharply with the city-based hotels as an option for a stop-over.
Pioneer Camp is a simple, laid-back camp which works well for an inexpensive stopover in Lusaka. If you prefer quite simple, rustic accommodation to the larger, less personal hotels, then this is a good option.
Our view
Pioneer Camp is a simple, laid-back camp which works well for an inexpensive stopover in Lusaka. If you prefer quite simple, rustic accommodation to the larger, less personal hotels, then this is a good option.
Country manager: Zambia
Traveller reviews of Pioneer Camp
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View galleryPioneer Camp: Our full report
Pioneer Camp is situated just outside Lusaka, approximately a half hour drive from the international airport ...
... - and this location is key to why we sometimes recommend it. If you have an early morning flight out of Lusaka, then spending your last night here might make sense. It's in a fairly rural setting, which contrasts sharply with the city-based hotels as an option for a stop-over.
The camp is a simple, rustic camp, with comfortable en-suite accommodation, about a half an hour drive from the airport. As this is generally used as an overnight stopover, either as a night to rest on your arrival, or before heading home on one of the earlier flights from Lusaka, don't expect it to be on the same level as the camps in Zambia's national parks. It's a simple, inexpensive camp that works well for a night stay in Lusaka.
Set in 25 acres of miombo woodland, eight thatched ‘miombo chalets’ have comfortable twin or queen beds, with mosquito nets, and en-suite bathrooms. Each chalet differs slightly, but there’s a small seating area, space for your luggage, a fan, blankets for colder evenings, as well as charging points. All of the chalets have a shower in the en-suite, and some have a bath as well. It’s worth noting that some of the bathrooms are a little more open plan, so if you’re travelling with a friend and looking for a little more privacy, do ask for one of the rooms with a closed bathroom! A family chalet can sleep up to six guests, and
Pioneer also has some smaller en-suite chalets, and two tents (with shared ablution facilities), but we feel that the miombo chalets offer the best value and amenities for a night’s stay.
The camp has a large main area with a long bar and a few comfortable sofas and chairs. The camp managers can often be found behind the bar and are affable and friendly hosts, always ready for a chat or to help travellers. The beer is cold, there's a good selection of soft drinks and spirits, and there is a fire pit outside the main area with chairs. There are plenty of outdoor seating areas (some down towards Pioneer’s adjoining campsite), and also a decent sized pool, with a small boma, a TV screen and sun loungers nearby.
A few steps down from the bar is the restaurant area. Pioneer has a small menu for lunches and evening meals – vegetarians are catered for, and there are various pasta dishes, or you could try the famous Pioneer T-bone steak – which is enough to feed a small army!
It's worth mentioning that there are a couple of friendly dogs around the camp.
Geographics
- Location
- Lusaka area, Zambia
- Ideal length of stay
- There isn’t much to do in Lusaka, so we’d suggest that just one night is fine here, as a stopover before or after your safari.
- Directions
- Your driver will meet you at Lusaka Airport to drive you to camp. It’s only 16km away, but the last five kilometres are down a dirt track and so the drive will usually take around 30 minutes, depending on traffic and police blocks.
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Half Board
- Food quality
- The food at Pioneer Camp is simple but tasty, with a range of vegetarian and meat dishes available. The camp is able to cater to a range of dietary requirements.
Breakfast is served between 7.00am and 9.30am, and is ordered from a set menu that has a variety of hot and cold options, including a full English breakfast, omelettes, muesli and fruit salad. If you are leaving on an early flight, an early breakfast can be prepared if you place your order the evening before. On our last visit in October 2018, we enjoyed poached eggs on toast, along with a fresh fruit salad. Tea and coffee are complimentary and self-service.
For lunch we had a simple but tasty cheese and tomato toasted sandwich with salad and there were also pasta dishes, samosas and omelettes on offer. Most guests are on a half-board package, but if you are there for lunch the meals cost between 60 and 85 kwacha (approximately GB £4 – £8 / US $5 – $8).
Dinner is also ordered from a set menu and is served between 6.00pm and 9.00pm, with last orders at 8.30pm. You can choose between soup or samosas to start, and then there are meat, fish and vegetarian curries on offer, pizzas, local stew with nsima, or the infamous Pioneer steaks – we enjoyed a delicious steak (though only managed the standard size!) with chips, green beans, butternut and creamed spinach. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Drinks included
- Filtered bottled water is provided in the rooms, and water is also for sale at the bar for 8 kwacha / 50p-£1. Drinks are not included – a glass of wine is K40 / £3 or a local beer is K20 / £1.50.
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Children are very welcome.
- Property’s age restrictions
- Pioneer Camp has no age restrictions.
- Special activities & services
- There are some good walks around the camp, a swimming pool and a rope swing. If you wish to have your children looked after there is a member of staff who can do so, though do be aware that these staff may not have childcare qualifications you may expect from a childminder in your home country.
- Equipment
- The camp has one cot available.
- Generally recommended for children
- Pioneer is a safe and friendly environment, and thus we're happy to recommend it for children. However, parents and guardians should be aware that Lusaka is a malarial area, and should bear this in mind for travel with children.
- Notes
- The pool is unfenced, children should be supervised at all times.
Communications
- Power supply notes
- Pioneer has a back up generator to provide power to the main area if there is a power outage. There is a portable solar light in each room if there should be a power-cut.
- Communications
- There is a camp phone that clients are able to use, free WiFi access at the camp, and good mobile reception throughout camp.
- TV & radio
- There is a DSTV by the pool.
- Water supply
- Borehole
- Water supply notes
- Water is from the camp's borehole. Toilets are plumbed with flush toilets and hot showers.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- Staff are first aid trained, and there are first aid kits on site. If a client needs urgent attention the camp provides transport to the nearest hospital in Lusaka which is 20 mins away.
- Dangerous animals
- Low Risk
- Security measures
- There is an electric fence surrounding the property, and a a guard on duty 24 hrs. The fence alarm is connected to an armed security company which is contracted to arrive within 10 minutes of any disturbance.
- Fire safety
- Staff are trained for a fire situation. There are fire extinguishers placed around the camp.
Activities
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Laundry facilities
- A laundry service is available, at extra cost. Clothes are machine washed and line dried.
- Money
- The rates fluctuate a lot. Pioneer always offers a good rate which averages the banks and exchange bureaus.
- Accepted payment on location
- Currently Pioneer don't accept credit cards. Payment in cash is accepted in Zambian kwacha, US dollars, British pounds and euros.
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Pioneer Camp's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Pioneer Camp.
Other lodges in Lusaka area
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
Latitude 15
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Lilayi Lodge
Lilayi is a boutique lodge on the outskirts of Luaska, located on its own game farm in a lovely rural setting.
Ciela Resort
Ciela Resort and Spa is a smart, luxurious hotel close to Lusaka’s International Airport, with substantial grounds, a golf course and several dining options.
When to go to Lusaka area
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Pioneer Camp in Lusaka area
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Lusaka area in January
Lusaka experiences its wettest period in January, with frequent heavy showers punctuating sunny intervals. The capital city sees temperatures soaring above 30°C, accompanied by high humidity. While the rains rejuvenate the urban greenery, they can cause localised flooding in some areas.
The city's parks and gardens burst with life, but outdoor activities may be limited due to the unpredictable weather. Despite the rain, Lusaka's streets remain bustling, though visitors should be prepared for sudden downpours. Many indoor attractions offer respite from the heat and rain, making it an ideal time to explore museums and galleries. Hotel rates in the city tend to be lower during this period, offering good value for those who don't mind the wet conditions.
- Lusaka experiences frequent downpours
- City parks lush and vibrant
- Fewer tourists, bargains available
- Outdoor events often rescheduled
- Roads may flood, affecting traffic
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in January
Lusaka area in February
February continues the rainy trend in Lusaka, with impressive thunderstorms often occurring in the afternoons. The city's green spaces are at their lushest, with parks and gardens in full bloom. While the rain can disrupt outdoor plans, it also brings a refreshing coolness to the hot days.
The city's drainage systems are put to the test, occasionally leading to waterlogged roads. Indoor venues like shopping malls and cinemas see increased foot traffic during this month. Despite the wet conditions, Lusaka's markets remain vibrant, offering a glimpse into local life. Visitors should pack rain gear and be flexible with their itineraries. Hotel occupancy is generally low, resulting in slightly more competitive rates for accommodations throughout the city.
- Rainy season continues in Lusaka
- Urban gardens in full bloom
- Low season for city hotels
- Indoor attractions more popular
- Umbrella essential for city exploration
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in February
Lusaka area in March
March marks the tail end of Lusaka's rainy season, with precipitation gradually decreasing as the month progresses. The city's vegetation is still lush and green, creating picturesque scenes in parks and residential areas. Temperatures remain warm, often exceeding 30°C, but humidity levels start to drop.
As the rains subside, outdoor activities become more feasible, and city tours gain popularity. The occasional shower may still occur, so it's wise to carry an umbrella. Lusaka's cultural calendar begins to fill up with events and exhibitions taking advantage of the improving weather. The city's outskirts, with their farms and nature reserves, are particularly appealing this month as the landscape is verdant and teeming with life.
- Lusaka still sees regular rainfall
- City's vegetation at its greenest
- Cultural events move indoors
- Local markets less crowded
- Ideal time for museum visits
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in March
Lusaka area in April
April sees a significant shift in Lusaka's weather patterns, with rainfall becoming sporadic and less intense. The city starts to dry out, though its parks and gardens retain their greenery.
Daytime temperatures remain warm but become more comfortable, typically hovering in the mid-20s Celsius. This transitional month offers pleasant conditions for exploring Lusaka's outdoor attractions, such as the Lusaka National Museum's grounds or the Kalimba Reptile Park. The city's social scene picks up, with more outdoor events and markets taking place. As the tourist season approaches, some hotels may increase their rates, though deals can still be found.
- Rain lessens in Lusaka
- City starts to dry out
- Some outdoor venues reopen
- Hotel prices begin to rise
- Pleasant weather for city walks
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in April
Lusaka area in May
May heralds the start of Lusaka's dry season, with clear skies and sunshine becoming the norm. The city experiences cooler temperatures, especially in the mornings and evenings, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. Lusaka's parks and green spaces begin to lose some of their lushness but remain pleasant for picnics and walks.
The comfortable weather encourages more outdoor dining, with restaurants and cafes setting up alfresco areas. Cultural events and festivals start to populate the city's calendar. The numbers of travellers begin to increase, and hotel prices may rise a little accordingly. This month offers a good balance of pleasant weather and pre-peak season value for visitors to Lusaka.
- Lusaka enters dry season
- Comfortable daytime temperatures
- Outdoor cafes become popular
- City parks ideal for picnics
- Increase in business travellers
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in May
Lusaka area in June
June brings consistently dry and sunny days to Lusaka, with virtually no rainfall expected. The city experiences its coolest month, with nighttime temperatures occasionally dropping to around 10°C, while daytime highs remain comfortable in the low 20s Celsius.
This pleasant weather makes it an excellent time for city tours and outdoor explorations. Lusaka's markets are particularly enjoyable in the cool mornings. The dry conditions mean less greenery in the city's parks, but the clear skies offer great visibility for sightseeing. Hotels enter their peak season rates as more travellers arrive. The cool evenings are perfect for enjoying Lusaka's growing nightlife scene, with many venues offering outdoor seating.
- Cool, crisp air in Lusaka
- Perfect for outdoor activities
- City hosts more open-air events
- Busier streets and markets
- Nights can be chilly
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in June
Lusaka area in July
July in Lusaka is characterised by cool, dry conditions with consistently clear skies. The city's vegetation continues to dry out, creating a stark contrast to the lush wet season. Daytime temperatures are mild, but nights can be quite chilly, sometimes dropping to single digits Celsius.
This weather is ideal for exploring Lusaka's outdoor attractions. The dry air and cool temperatures make it a popular month for sporting events and marathons in the city. Lusaka's hotels are often busy during this period, with many international visitors arriving. The cool weather also sees an increase in indoor cultural activities, with theatres and concert halls hosting events.
- Lusaka at its coolest
- Peak season for city tourism
- Higher hotel occupancy rates
- Outdoor concerts common
- Light jacket needed at night
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in July
Lusaka area in August
August maintains the dry, cool weather pattern in Lusaka, with virtually no chance of rain. The city's landscape is at its driest, with parks and gardens showing signs of the long dry spell. Daytime temperatures start to climb, reaching the mid-20s Celsius, while nights remain cool. The clear skies and lack of humidity make this an excellent month for photography in Lusaka.
Outdoor cafes and restaurants are particularly popular during this time. The city hosts several festivals and events, taking advantage of the reliable weather. Tourist numbers are at their highest, and accommodations across Lusaka often charging higher rates. Despite the dry conditions, the city's tree-lined streets provide welcome shade for daytime explorations.
- Warm days, cool nights in Lusaka
- City bustling with activities
- Parks and gardens less green
- Dust may affect air quality
- Popular time for city festivals
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in August
Lusaka area in September
September sees temperatures rising in Lusaka as the hot season approaches. The city remains dry with clear skies, but a haze may appear on the horizon due to dust and distant bush fires. Daytime temperatures often reach the low 30s Celsius, making early morning or late afternoon the best times for outdoor activities.
Lusaka's parks and green spaces are at their driest, with many trees shedding leaves. This month is popular for cultural events and outdoor concerts in the city. The warm evenings are perfect for enjoying Lusaka's rooftop bars and restaurants. Hotels are often fully booked, especially on weekends, as this is considered one of the best months to visit the city.
- Lusaka heats up
- City life moves outdoors
- Increased urban foot traffic
- Dry conditions prevail
- Evening socialising picks up
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in September
Lusaka area in October
October brings intensifying heat to Lusaka, with temperatures regularly exceeding 35°C during the day. The city's landscape is parched, with most vegetation looking brown and dusty.
Despite the heat, October is a busy month in Lusaka, with many outdoor events and festivals taking place. The warm nights, often not dropping below 20°C, encourage a lively nightlife scene. Air conditioning becomes essential in hotels and restaurants. The high temperatures can make daytime sightseeing challenging, so early morning activities are recommended. Some light showers may occur towards the end of the month, bringing brief relief from the heat and hinting at the approaching rainy season.
- Hottest month in Lusaka
- City pools and fountains busy
- Outdoor dining in full swing
- Air can be hazy and dusty
- Last month of peak tourist season
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in October
Lusaka area in November
November marks the transition from dry to wet season in Lusaka. The month often starts hot and dry but ends with increasing humidity and the likelihood of spectacular thunderstorms. Temperatures remain high, frequently surpassing 30°C.
The first rains bring rapid changes to the city's landscape, with dormant vegetation springing to life. Lusaka's parks and gardens begin to green up, offering a preview of the lush wet season to come. As the rains become more frequent, outdoor activities may be interrupted by sudden showers. Hotel rates decrease a little as the peak tourist season ends. The mix of hot days and occasional rains creates a steamy atmosphere in the city.
- Lusaka awaits first rains
- City parks prepare for wet season
- Humidity rises in urban areas
- Some outdoor events wind down
- Hotel rates start to decrease
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in November
Lusaka area in December
December usually sees Lusaka fully embracing the rainy season, with frequent heavy downpours interspersed with sunny periods. The city's vegetation responds dramatically to the rains, with parks and gardens becoming lush and green. Temperatures remain warm, often exceeding 30°C, but the rain provides some relief from the heat.
The wet conditions can cause traffic congestion and occasional flooding in some areas of the city. Indoor attractions like museums and shopping malls become popular retreats during rainy spells. Despite the wet weather, Lusaka maintains a festive atmosphere with holiday decorations and events. Hotel rates offer slightly better value for visitors who don't mind the unpredictable weather.
- Rains return to Lusaka
- City adorned with holiday decorations
- Shoppers crowd urban markets
- Occasional thunderstorms
- Year-end festivities in full swing
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in December
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