As a luxury tented lodge sensitive to the pristine ecosystem of Kafue National Park, Ila Safari Lodge is intimately woven into the stillness of its place on the Kafue River.
From environmentally friendly, locally sourced building materials and solar-powered electricity to the development of Zambia’s first electrical game drive vehicle, Ila is a truly environmentally conscious safari experience. Yet it still manages to effortlessly infuse modern African style, elegance and comfort to make this your unique bush retreat in the heart of Kafue.
Green Safaris’ sustainability ethos began with Ila Safari Lodge. Ila’s history though is much older and a fascinating story we love telling.
The ensuite Ila tents are incredibly spacious and known for their iconic “bath on the deck” where guests enjoy a luxury sunset bath accompanied by nosey hippos below deck.
Luxury Tents
On the bank of Kafue River overlooking the National Park.
6 tents – King/twin. Indoor and outdoor showers.
2 tents – King – indoor shower and outdoor baths. Max 1 extra bed available.
Family tents
Sleep 4 with indoor shower and bath. King plus 2 single beds.
Room
Ensuite
Fan
Mosquito nets
Safe
Powered by solar panels
Camp
Infinity pool
Free WiFi
Free laundry
Bar and fireside
Open-air dining room overlooking the Kafue River
Food & Drink
Onsite organic vegetable garden
Private dining available
Adventure
Game drives
Walking safaris
Fishing
eDhow cruise
eCruiser – silent safaris
Kafue National Park
Culture
Chunga Community tour
Green Safaris community farm
Where is Ila Safari Lodge?
On the Kafue River, Central Kafue, within the Hook Bridge area, near Chunga Head Quarters.
How do I get there by air?
There are direct flights from Johannesburg/Nairobi/Dubai to Lusaka, which is approximately a three-and-a-half-hour drive away. Flights per seat are also available to the Chunga Airstrip (40 minutes away) from Livingstone, Lusaka and other parts of the Kafue.
Is there road access?
The drive from Lusaka to Ila Safari Lodge is approximately 3.5 hours.
The Chunga Airstrip is a 40-minute drive away from Ila. Chisa Busanga Camp, one of our other gorgeous properties hidden in the Busanga Plains is a 5-hour drive through the National Park from Ila Safari Lodge.
Should I be taking a malaria preventative?
This is a Malaria area and Ila Safari Lodge takes every precaution to ensure guests are not bitten by mosquitoes. We employ regularly maintained, amply sized and custom made mosquito nets, fans and supply repellent. Our guests are advised to cover their arms and legs as much as possible and certainly early in the mornings and late in the afternoons.
Please consult your health care professional regarding prophylactics for malaria at least 6 weeks before your trip or as early as possible.
What is the weather like?
The highs fluctuate between 25°C and 35°C throughout the year and the lows between 2°C and 5°C.
During summer: The months from August – April are warm (high 20°C’s) with temperatures reaching their upper limit for the area during October (around 35°C).
The rainy season: Zambia is prone to short, spectacular thunderstorms (usually late in the afternoon) and our rainy season generally starts towards the end of November/December and continues until around mid – March, but this does vary from year to year. Temperatures are still warm.
An African winter: May – July and into August. Winter is typically cool at night and in the mornings although you can expect it to be lovely and warm during the day. In winter months it is advised that you do bring warm clothes especially for the mornings and evenings.
Is there disabled access?
Accommodation and main building have ramp access and game drives can take place from the lodge where the client is made comfortable in the front of the vehicle so no steps or ramp is required. Family tents have ramp access and open showers/toilets. Shower chairs are also available. Boat access only if the client is carried by our willing staff.
Can I use a Credit Card?
Master and VISA only.
Do I need a Visa?
Visas are required for most passports. If you are interested in also visiting Zimbabwe or Botswana, we would suggest you research the Kaza visa before you land. Most visas can be purchased at the airport or border – please confirm with your embassy whether it is advisable for you to apply for a visa before departure.
What if I get sick?
Many of our staff members are 1st Aid trained. Please ensure your medical insurance is up to date – should serious medical attention be required Speciality Emergency Services will attend to guests. For Covid-19 specific information please head to our Covid-19 information page.
How much luggage can I bring?
Your luggage allowance will most likely be determined by the smallest carrier on your route. Please be aware that many charter flights (small planes) will only allow 12 kg per person. Luggage allowance on International flights (from Johannesburg for instance) will be anything between 20 and 30 kg on Economy tickets.
What wildlife can I expect?
Four of Africa’s Big 5 are found in Kafue (rhino is absent), with large numbers of buffalo and elephant seen near the Kafue River that has plenty of hippo and crocodile. Africa’s highest population of wild dog find refuge in Kafue as does another endangered predator species, the cheetah.
Is there internet connection?
WiFi is available in the main lodge areas.
Can I book private dinners?
Of course! Speak to our team for any requsts for private experiences and they will be more than happy to arrange something magical.
How long should I stay at Ila Safari Lodge?
Guests consistently recommend a minimum 3-night stay, but if you live closer to home we do have a number of people coming from Lusaka for the weekend.
Is there cell service?
You can generally find Airtel and MTN signal.
