About Zungulila
Zungulila is a small and incredibly isolated bushcamp in the remote southern sector of South Luangwa National Park.
Owned by the Bushcamp Company and built in a more traditional style, the property is positioned on a raised bank above a natural spring, with views over an open plain to the Kapamba River beyond.
Zungulila Bushcamp is in a beautiful, remote location within the park. The style of the camp sits in the middle when compared to the other Bushcamp properties – it’s simple and we love its eclectic, traditional feel, yet it’s also quite stylish with a few unexpected comforts like the mini sunken plunge pool on each private deck. With a slightly limited road network drives are possible in the area, but it’s the excellent walking safaris where the camp really shines.
Our view
Zungulila Bushcamp is in a beautiful, remote location within the park. The style of the camp sits in the middle when compared to the other Bushcamp properties – it’s simple and we love its eclectic, traditional feel, yet it’s also quite stylish with a few unexpected comforts like the mini sunken plunge pool on each private deck. With a slightly limited road network drives are possible in the area, but it’s the excellent walking safaris where the camp really shines.
Accommodation
4 safari tents
Children
Best for 16+
Open
20 April to 06 January
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Cultural excursion
Guided walking safari
Night drive
Traveller reviews of Zungulila
3 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
Arrived 1 Nov 2019, 2 nights
"Zungulila review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 20 Aug 2014, 3 nights
"Great 3 nights at Zungulila"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 29 Sep 2008, 2 nights
"A beatuiful spot to relax"
Overall rating: Good



















Expert Africa's gallery
When we travel we take lots of photos ourselves to give you a real and un-edited view of the safaris. See our 35 pictures and 1 videos of Zungulila to get the candid view.
View galleryZungulila: Our full report
Zungulila is a small and incredibly isolated bushcamp in the remote southern sector of South Luangwa National Park.
Owned by the Bushcamp Company and built in a more traditional style, the property is positioned on a raised bank above a natural spring, with views over an open plain to the Kapamba River beyond.
Zungulila Bushcamp has just four safari tents, each erected on a concrete platform, strengthened by a wooden pole frame and covered with a thatched roof to help keep them cool. Two of the tents, west of the main area, overlook a natural spring and the surrounding lush green vegetation. The other two, east of the main area, sit along a ridge and look out onto the flood plains of the Kapamba River.
Zungulila's safari tents are not overly large, but are relatively spacious. Each has four-poster king-size or twin beds, draped with mosquito nets. Thick Persian carpets cover the floors, and fabrics in bold natural colours such as russet and sienna add colour, without appearing gaudy. Simple, practical furniture carved out of rosewood includes bedside tables, a dressing table, storage chests and a standing storage unit. This ceiling high unit also acts as the divider between the bedroom and the en-suite bathroom. Here, you'll find a flush toilet and handbasin inside, as well as an outdoor handbasin, shower and even a mini sunken plunge pool on the deck – a welcome treat on a hot day.
Zungulila's thatched main area is set on a raised bank, enclosed on three sides by a waist-high reed wall, but open to the view at the front. The sitting area is furnished with an eclectic mix of furniture: old fashioned leather armchairs, wicker sofas with brightly coloured cushions, a rather modern-looking leather-lined bench and sturdy wooden travel trunks. The sandy floors are covered in persian-style carpets, which make it an incredibly comfortable area to lounge with your shoes off in the afternoon or evening. To the other side is a communal dining table, where guests might sit down to meals on very smart leather directors' chairs.
Off to the side of the main area is a 'boma' area with a firepit, while in front of that, where the bank falls away to the open plain, a large wooden deck extends out over the plain. It's a natural vantage point to watch animals that come to drink from the river or the spring that trickles directly below this bank – and in fine weather, it's also a great spot to dine under the stars.
The focus of the activities here is on walking safaris, and it’s even possible to walk between Zungulila and its sister bushcamp Kapamba. However, Bushcamp Company have put considerable effort into improving the road network in the area so it’s now possible to do proper day and night drives in the area. There are typically two safari activities a day such as walking in the morning when it’s cooler, and an afternoon drive which can continue into a night drive. Your activities can be flexible to a certain degree though, so not everyone has to agree on the same itinerary for the day. Each activity is accompanied by a professional guide, and walks also by an armed game scout.
Geographics
- Location
- South Luangwa National Park, Zambia
- Ideal length of stay
- We suggest two or three nights at Zungulila. For a longer safari, consider combining it with one or more of its sister camps in the South Luangwa, such as Kapamba, Bilimungwe, Chamilandu, Chindeni and Kuyenda.
- Directions
- Most guests fly to Mfuwe Airport (about an hour from Lusaka), then the game-drive transfer through the park to Zungulila Bushcamp takes approximately 3–4 hours.
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board & Activities
- Food quality
- We only stopped at Zungulila for a short visit in October 2013, so didn't have any meals here, but from our experience at the other camps run by The Bushcamp Company, we'd expect delicious food.
The meals follow a similar format to these other camps.
Breakfast is eaten around the campfire or on the open deck in front of camp before the early-morning activity.
A buffet brunch is served at around 11.00am, after the morning activity.
Expect a treat for afternoon tea, which will usually be home-made cookies or a freshly baked cake.
A three-course dinner is served after the evening game drive, usually around 8.00pm. - Dining style
- Group Meals
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Drinks included
- A good variety of soft drinks, juices, local beers, spirits and house wines are available at Zungulila Bushcamp, and all are included in the accommodation rate.
Special interests
- Walking safaris
- South Luangwa National Park’s terrain, relaxed wildlife and excellent guiding make it the perfect destination for walking safaris in Zambia. The area around Zungulila is particularly good, as it’s remote with limited road access, and the environments are varied.
- See ideas for Walking safaris in Zambia
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Zungulila welcomes children over the age of 12 years.
- Property’s age restrictions
- Children aged 12 years and older are welcome at Zungulila. Younger children may be accepted by prior arrangement, but children under the age of 12 are not allowed to walk in the South Luangwa National Park. Children between the ages of 12 and 16 may join guided walks at the discretion of the camp manager.
- Special activities & services
- None
- Equipment
- None
- Generally recommended for children
- The emphasis at Zungulila is on walking and because children under the age of 12 are not allowed to walk in the South Luangwa, and older children allowed to walk only at the discretion of the guides and managers, we recommend this camp for children over the age of 16 years.
- Notes
- Zungulila is unfenced, so dangerous animals can and do roam through the camp. Children must be under the supervision of their parents at all times.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Zungulila
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Zungulila 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.

100% success

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0% success

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Communications
- Power supply notes
- There are very limited battery-charging facilities but, in the event you need a battery charged, the manager would do this for you in the office. Some lights are solar powered; otherwise lighting is by paraffin lamps.
- Communications
- Zungulila has 24-hour radio contact with its sister camps in the South Luangwa and with its base camp at Mfuwe Lodge. There is no cellphone reception or internet available here.
- TV & radio
- None
- Water supply
- Borehole
- Water supply notes
- The showers in all four tents are plumbed in with hot and cold running water, as well as flushing toilets. The water is solar heated.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- The guides are trained in first aid. The nearest doctor is in the Mfuwe area, about 3–4 hours’ drive away. In the event of a medical emergency, guests would be evacuated by air to Lusaka.
- Dangerous animals
- High Risk
- Security measures
- Guests are escorted to their chalets after dark by a member of the team.
- Fire safety
- Fire extinguishers are available in the tents and main area in case of fire.
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Cultural excursion
Guided walking safari
Night drive
Extras
- Disabled access
- Not Possible
- Laundry facilities
- A complimentary laundry service is included, but for cultural reasons this does not include ladies' underwear; soap for this is provided in the tents. Clothes are hand washed and coal ironed, and will usually be returned the same day if weather permits.
- Money
- There are no safes in the tents and the camp does not offer any currency-exchange facilities.
- Accepted payment on location
- The usual currency for tips is Zambian kwacha or US dollars. In the unlikely event that payment for anything else is needed, this would be arranged through Zungulila's sister camp, Mfuwe Lodge.
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Zungulila's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Zungulila.
Excursions from Zungulila
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Zungulila. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.

Tribal Textiles Tour
One - two hours
Visit the Tribal Textiles workshop, where hand-painted textiles are produced by more than a hundred local people. The workshop is close to Mfuwe Airport, so is ideally placed for a stop en route to/from the South Luangwa. With products ranging from cushion covers to bags and T-shirts, it's a great place for souvenir shopping while at the same time supporting the local community.
More about Tribal Textiles TourOther lodges in South Luangwa National Park
Alternative places to stay in this same area.

Tafika
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Kaingo Camp
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Nsefu
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Mwamba Bushcamp
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Tena Tena
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Chikoko Tree Camp
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Mchenja Bushcamp
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Kakuli Bushcamp
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Luwi Bushcamp
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Lion Camp
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Robin Pope mobile
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Chindeni
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Robin's House
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Kawaza Village
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Chamilandu Bushcamp
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Mwamba Camp-out
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Shawa Luangwa
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Luwi Riverbed Sleepout
For an adventurous night in South Luangwa National Park, come and sleep out in the bush, around a campfire, with an experienced guide and game scout.

Chichele Lodge
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Nkonzi Camp
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Chikunto
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When to go to South Luangwa National Park
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Zungulila in South Luangwa National Park
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
South Luangwa National Park in January
January marks the height of the wet season in South Luangwa. Expect frequent downpours, often lasting a few hours, with intermittent sunny periods. The mercury regularly climbs above 30°C, accompanied by high humidity. The park's landscape is verdant and lush, with crystal-clear air.
However, the abundance of water causes most larger animals to disperse, and the thick vegetation can hinder game viewing. Walking safaris are largely impractical during this time. Migratory birds, many in breeding plumage, boost the area's avian diversity. Most lodges close and the few that remain open offer their lowest rates. Only the central network of all-weather roads is reliably passable for 4WD safaris. Low numbers of visitors ensuring a tranquil park experience for those who do visit.
- Wet season peak, frequent showers
- Most lodges and all bush-camps are closed
- Lush vegetation, ideal for photography
- Large wildlife is scattered, can be challenging to spot
- Few tourists, budget-friendly rates
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in January
South Luangwa National Park in February
February continues the ‘green season’ trend in South Luangwa National Park, with impressive thunderstorms delivering short bursts of rain most days, punctuated by clear skies. The park remains awash with water, affecting wildlife distribution and lodge operations.
Dense vegetation limits game viewing opportunities on safari and walking safaris aren’t usually possible. However, the swollen Luangwa River allows for unique boating experiences unavailable during drier months. Despite challenging conditions, patient visitors may be rewarded with sightings of animals caring for their young. The handful of operational lodges maintain low rates, and the park sees few visitors during this period.
- Continued wet season, regular downpours
- All bush-camps and most lodges are closed
- Verdant scenery, photogenic landscapes
- Game viewing challenging due to thick foliage
- Low visitor numbers, economical pricing
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in February
South Luangwa National Park in March
March signals the tail end of South Luangwa's rainy season, with heavy showers still frequent. Water levels peak, so driving off the park’s all-weather road network remains challenging. Daytime temperatures consistently exceed 30°C, with rain-induced humidity remaining high.
Most lodges are still closed, and thick vegetation continues to impact game viewing and walking safaris. However, this period can offer exceptional sightings of animals with their offspring, and predator activity often increases. Wild dogs have historically been particularly active in the park during this time. The combination of clear air and increasingly blue skies provides excellent photographic opportunities. Birdwatching remains superb as migratory species prepare for their winter journey.
- Wet season persists, intermittent rain
- Many lodges remain closed
- Abundant greenery, picturesque settings
- Young animals plentiful, but hard to see
- Minimal crowds, cost-effective travel
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in March
South Luangwa National Park in April
April represents a transitional period in South Luangwa National Park as the rains shift from intense downpours to lighter, less frequent showers. The park's scenery remains incredibly green and vibrant, though larger wildlife can be harder to spot on safaris.
Some lodges begin to reopen while seasonal bushcamps remain closed as they prepare for the upcoming dry season. The Luangwa River reaches often its highest level in April, creating a spectacular sight. Despite the challenges, this period can offer unique experiences for those willing to brave the unpredictable conditions – and accept a greatly reduced choice of places to stay.
- Wet season waning, occasional showers
- Some lodges begin reopening
- Landscape still lush, great for photographers
- Wildlife viewing slowly improving
- Few visitors, attractive off-season rates
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in April
South Luangwa National Park in May
May is a lovely month; it typically heralds the start of the dry season in South Luangwa. While occasional showers may occur, most days are clear and sunny. As winter approaches, temperatures begin to drop, with daytime highs around 26°C.
The drying landscape improves access within the park, and most lodges reopen. Some standing water remains, but game viewing noticeably improves as the vegetation thins out. The clear air continues to benefit photographers. Late May is very popular among the Luangwa’s ‘safari regulars’ who seek to capitalise on good weather, improved wildlife sightings, newly-opened camps (including some seasonal bush-camps) and the final weeks of low-season rates at many lodges.
- Dry season onset, clearer skies
- Most lodges and some bush-camps operational
- Vegetation still green, crisp air
- Game viewing conditions improving
- Last month for lower accommodation prices
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in May
South Luangwa National Park in June
June in South Luangwa National Park is characterised by virtually rainless days and abundant sunshine. Humidity levels plummet, and winter's approach brings cooler temperatures, with nighttime lows around 10°C and daytime highs of 25°C.
The landscape remains lush, but the thinning vegetation significantly enhances visibility for game viewing, the conditions are ideal for walking safaris. All the lodges and bushcamps in the park are operational by early June. While some offer shoulder season rates, others are already running with high-season pricing. Wildlife begins to concentrate around water sources, setting the stage for excellent game viewing in the coming months.
- Consistently sunny, cooler nights
- All South Luangwa lodges open
- Wildlife sightings becoming more frequent
- Ideal conditions for walking safaris
- Viewing of the Victoria Falls at its best
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in June
South Luangwa National Park in July
As the dry season progresses in South Luangwa, July sees vegetation and grasses dying back, with water becoming increasingly scarce. Wildlife congregates around remaining water sources, most notably along the Luangwa River, leading to excellent game viewing opportunities.
July marks the heart of winter, with daytime temperatures in the 20s Celsius, whilst nighttime lows can drop to single digits. Early morning and late evening game drives can be particularly chilly, with lodges often providing blankets and hot water bottles. Bring your hats, coats and gloves! Visitor numbers rise significantly, and space at popular small camps can become limited. Nearly all properties now charge their highest rates.
- Warm days, chilly evenings
- Game viewing notably improved
- Excellent visibility for walking safaris
- High season prices for most camps and lodges
- Comfortable daytime temperatures
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in July
South Luangwa National Park in August
August in the national park offers some of the year's best game viewing opportunities. South Luangwa’s vegetation has largely died back, and wildlife clusters around remaining water sources.
Rain is extremely unlikely, with sunny days largely guaranteed, though a haze may sometimes appear on the horizon due to dust and smoke in the air. Nighttime temperatures can dip below 5°C, but daytime highs reach the 20s Celsius. Warm clothing is essential for morning and evening drives. This is one of the most popular months to visit the park for a safari, with lodges and camps charging peak rates and often booking up far in advance.
- Very dry warm days and cold nights
- Prime wildlife viewing near water sources
- Perfect weather for walking safaris
- Peak season means highest prices
- Some haze may affect photography
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in August
South Luangwa National Park in September
September is arguably the very best time to visit South Luangwa National Park. It probably hasn’t rained for many months, humidity is low, and temperatures are just beginning to climb.
Mornings are more comfortable for 4WD safaris, rising to daytime typical highs in the low 30s Celsius. Water scarcity forces the wildlife to congregate around remaining sources, particularly around the Luangwa River, where most of the camps and lodges are situated. There high game densities lead to increased chances of inter-species interactions. It’s peak season for lodges and camps charge which are often fully booked. A little haze may affect long-distance views and photography. The Luangwa River's water levels continue to drop, concentrating hippos and crocodiles life in the remaining stretches.
- Dry and hot, clear skies
- Exceptional month for wildlife observation
- Landscape sometimes hazy due to dust and smoke
- Peak season, lodges often fully booked
- Higher prices for accommodation
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in September
South Luangwa National Park in October
October sees the dry season peak in South Luangwa at its most intense, with the landscape increasing parched. Occasional showers may occur as the promise of rain approaches. Temperatures can soar above 40°C during the day, rarely dropping below 20°C at night.
This heat can be draining, so walking safaris will set off early in the morning to beat the heat and sitting in an open 4WD on safaris can feel like facing a large hair-drier. Heat-haze and smoke may obscure the horizon as the Luangwa River becomes a series of pools, crowded with hippos and crocodiles. Other wildlife cautiously approaches these water sources, leading to thrilling predator-prey interactions. Game viewing is at its absolute best with the best chance of witnessing hunts.
- Optimal wildlife viewing conditions
- Very hot days and nights
- Dusty, hazy atmosphere is challenging for photos
- Some lodges start lowering their rates
- Less crowded than previous months
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in October
South Luangwa National Park in November
November typically witnesses the end of the dry season in South Luangwa. While the onset of rains is unpredictable, temperatures remain consistently high and humidity builds as the wet season approaches.
Early November may still be dry, but spectacular thunderstorms usually arrive, often later in the month, triggering rapid green growth when they do come – and an explosion of life from insects and smaller animals. Everything seems to come to life! When pools of water becomes more readily available away from the Luangwa River the wildlife quickly disperses. Some camps and all the seasonal bush-camps camps close; those that remain open reduce their rates. The rains quickly clear the air of dust and smoke, improving visibility and photographic conditions.
- Unpredictable month: depends on the rains
- Hot and humid – then the set season begins
- Wildlife dispersing as vegetation thickens
- Lower accommodation rates, fewer tourists
- Improved conditions for landscape photography
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in November
South Luangwa National Park in December
December usually marks the first full month of South Luangwa's wet season. Heavy thunderstorms become frequent, interspersed with sunny intervals. Daytime temperatures often exceed 30°C, accompanied by high humidity.
The rainfall transforms the landscape, encouraging lush vegetation growth. It’s a time renewal when insects, birds and smaller wildlife abound. While the larger species of wildlife remains in the park, wildlife viewing becomes more challenging due to the thick greenery and dispersed animal populations. Many lodges and all seasonal bush-camps are now closed as access to the park’s outlying areas becomes difficult. The few lodges that remain open offer lower rates and see few visitors. The rains clear the air, restoring vibrant blue skies and crystal-clear air which delights photographers.
- Rainy season in full swing
- Most lodges closed or offering low rates
- Wildlife harder to spot in thick vegetation
- Few visitors, budget-friendly period
- Lush green scenery, very photogenic landscapes
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in December

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