The Bushcamp Company: A Zambian Safari Experience

One night at the Mfuwe Lodge

Our journey began with a warm welcome at Mfuwe Airport in Zambia, followed by a thrilling drive to Mfuwe Lodge, where we spotted hyenas along the way. Upon arrival, we were greeted by a curious hippo visitor at the lodge, setting the tone for an extraordinary adventure. Dinner that night on the deck was nothing short of spectacular. We settled into our private villa, waking the next morning to the lively sounds of monkeys playing around the lodge during breakfast.

Two nights at Bilimungwe Bushcamp

The next stop was Bilimungwe Bushcamp, about an hour’s drive from Mfuwe, with our fantastic guide. Even though we didn’t book a private tour, we somehow had the place to ourselves — and every safari, too! When we arrived, the staff welcomed us with juice and a cheerful song. The camp, with its rustic treehouse-boho vibe, sat by a pond where animals wandered in and out all day. A family of elephants even greeted us on arrival!

Our private bungalow had an outdoor shower right by the water, and I still can’t get over how amazing it was to feel so close to nature. Every time we ventured out, there was a ranger on the truck with a gun — just in case — but the guides were so skilled at reading wildlife that it never felt scary.

We went on an evening safari that first night and saw zebras, elephants and even a lion snoozing in a field. Our guide made it even better with sundowners by the river — he’d brought a mini bar with him so we could sip cocktails while watching the sunset. Later, as we relaxed in our bungalow, we could hear hippos laughing along the trail outside.

The next morning’s safari was action-packed, with tons of giraffes and elephants, including one that charged us. We even saw a leopard! For lunch, our guide surprised us by taking us to a jungle spot where the staff had set up a build-your-own pizza buffet with a wood-burning stove — right in the middle of the trees. It was surreal! That evening, we enjoyed drinks by the pond, followed by another safari and a fun dinner where everyone shared stories.

Andrew Mikkola

We ended our stay with a serene sunrise coffee by the river and a crackling fire, which was the perfect farewell to Bilimungwe.

Two nights at Zungulila Bushcamp

Even the drives between camps were safaris, with endless sightings of elephants, zebras, giraffes, monkeys, birds and hippos. Zungulila Bushcamp was just as incredible as the last. Our private tent had the most picturesque outdoor shower overlooking open space where we spent hours watching elephants wander by. Showering while elephants stroll 200 yards away? Unforgettable. The first morning here, we woke up to some broken teacups around because some hyena wandered through and caused some mischief!

Our safaris continued to blow us away. One night, when the best sundowner spot was taken, the staff surprised us by setting up a full cocktail bar and snacks right there in the river the next night. It was pure magic. Dinner was a live stir-fry station, cooked fresh in front of us. When I wasn’t feeling great one night, the staff went above and beyond with special tea and even put a heating pad in my bed. Seriously, the kindest touches from the kindest people.

The next morning, we stopped by a cliff overlooking a river full of hippos. When one started grunting, the others joined in. The guide told me it was because they were cracking jokes! I still think about that and smile.

Two nights at Kuyenda Camp

Our final camp, Kuyenda, felt like a home away from home, with its luxurious yet casual ambiance. Our private bungalow faces an expansive area perfect for wildlife watching. Though joined by another couple for the first time on our trip, the intimate experience continued.

Our evening safari included a sighting of lion cubs playing under a bush, followed by a serene sundowner near a pond under the full moon. On our final full day, we witnessed a family of elephants crossing right in front of us, including adorable babies. We even saw a newborn giraffe chasing after its momma with its umbilical cord still attached!

The last sundowner, which was on a hill overlooking the national park, was the perfect way to reflect on this magical journey. On the way back, we witnessed the excitement of a lion trying to take down a cape buffalo, an unforgettable sight even from a distance.

Before leaving, we squeezed in one final safari, where we saw a kudu, which is becoming one of my favorite animals, and a lion family just 10 feet away. Making eye contact with a momma lion was both exhilarating and a tad scary!

This journey was a testament to the beauty of the South Luangwa National Park and the African wilderness. You will feel the magic of personalized service, and the power of sustainable tourism. I truly believe this is an experience everyone should have at least once in their lifetime because it’s nothing short of life-changing.

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