Green Safaris is a new company, formed in 2015 by a few like-minded individuals, some with experience in managing tourism operations here in Zambia and some from Europe but with a passion for Zambia and for the Kafue, they all share an interest in sustainable and ecologically aware tourism.
Ila Lodge was completed and opened its doors in July 2016 it is on the east bank of the Kafue River and so outside of the Park on privately owned property, it is close to the Hook Bridge which lies on the road running due west out of Lusaka and gives access to the central part of the Kafue National Park. This area now hosts several camps, although you are unlikely to feel the presence of other tourists this slow increase in presence does impact positively on the wildlife sightings in the area which have improved in recent years. Whilst the Kafue would not necessarily compare favorably against the South Luangwa or Lower Zambezi in terms of the quantity of animals one sees on an average drive, it is well renowned for the diversity of species that can be found and it is fast becoming an ‘essential tick‘ for any properly seasoned visitor to Zambia.
The camp itself will accommodate a maximum of 24 people in large, luxurious and well fitted-out tents on raised decks over-looking the river. The rooms could be compared to the newer safari tents at its neighboring camp Mukambi, a few kilometers downstream but the fact that this is newly constructed gives it a slight edge which is reflected in the price being charged.
Game-drives and walks in the Park are offered as are cruises on the river, access to the Park will usually be gained across the river as vehicles are kept Park-side for game-drives although the proximity of the camp to the Hook Bridge means that sometimes that route will be chosen.
Most guests will arrive at Ila Lodge from Lusaka by road which is a 3 - 4 hour drive, Chunga Airstrip is 20minutes drive away so charter flights are also possible. We would usually recommend combining some time in the central area of the Park with a few days on the Busanga Plains in the north. It is possible to drive up through the Park towards the Plains or alternatively to take a seat-in-plane shuttle flight from Chunga strip to the Busanga strip which will naturally be quicker and more expensive.
