Red lechwe leaping across shallow wetlands, lions hunting in golden grasses, and elephants emerging out of morning mist – this is the Busanga Plains experience.
Found in the northern region of Zambia’s Kafue National Park, this remote wilderness is distinct from the miombo woodlands of the park. Instead, flat grassland dambos are dotted with date palms and sausage and fig trees.
As the flood waters recede over June to November, the Busanga Plains become accessible for safaris characterised by outstanding game-viewing, predator action and colourful birdlife.
Kafue National Park is Zambia’s largest and oldest national park, and is quite possibly one of Africa’s last great expanses of well-protected remote and pristine wilderness.
ExploreThe Busanga Plains are an official Ramsar-recognised wetland system that support a variety of antelope, including puku, roan, sable and sitatunga. Look out for hefty pods of hippo hanging about in the channels, while lowering water levels will bring out wildebeest, zebra and buffalo.
A stronghold of Africa’s largest cat, large lion prides thrive in game-rich Busanga. They share it with cheetah and African wild dog, which benefit from the wide, open territory. Serval and side-striped jackal are some of the smaller carnivores to look out for too.
The endemic Chaplin’s barbet and endangered grey crowned and wattled cranes find sanctuary within the Busanga Plains, along with over 450 other bird species. The lesser kestrel and Montagu’s harrier are summer migrants, while Ross’s turaco and black-backed barbet are some of the area’s ‘specials’. Secretary birds – a Green Team favourite – are abundant.
These are the experiences that are included when you stay at our Busanga Plains camp.
Find out moreBlend into the quiet of nature in our e-Cruiser, which allows you to experience all the sights and sounds of the bush in near silence and with a deep sense of environmental care. Go unnoticed as you watch elephants walking through the mist at dawn, water-loving lechwe jump the streams, and a mother lion feed her little cubs.
Slow down to nature’s pace as your knowledgeable guide and armed scout leads you on a bush walk that immerses you in the natural beauty of Busanga Plains. Our guides are from neighbouring communities and know the secrets of Busanga in every detail. A maximum of six people can go on a walking safari and the minimum age is 14.
Experience the wonders of Busanga quietly and at a comfortable pace from the seat of an electronic mountain bike, with an experienced guide sharing their knowledge of the bush.
Keep your eyes and ears open because you don’t want to miss seeing some of the 470 bird species that call the Busanga Plains home. This includes Africa’s endangered crane species, the colourful saddle-billed stork and a variety of other water birds. It’s always exciting to spot Pel’s fishing owl, which is often found perched in the trees waiting to make its next catch in the stream below.
Cool off in our camp pool during the hottest parts of the day and look out for an elephant or puku that just may be passing by the camp.
