Extraordinary Africa>Zambia>Kafue>Ntemwa-Busanga Camp
The jewel in the crown of Kafue is the Busanga Plains. For a long time, the camps here were only at the super top-end (albeit lovely) so we were delighted when Ntemwa came onto the scene. Young and passionate, owners Phil and Tyrone have deep roots in the park. Their huge love for Kafue has created a camp that’s unfussy and entirely fitting for this remote wilderness.
What’s Ntemwa-Busanga really like?
Zambia is one of the last remaining bastions of the true bush camp- built for wildlife lovers who adore nature and would be horrified at the sight of a tv or air-conditioning unit. Ntemwa-Busanga perfectly fits this model. It’s tiny with just 4 thatched chalets, so you have a thoroughly intimate experience, immersed in the bush with your fellow guests. “Rooms” have comfortable beds and open-air, ensuite bathrooms behind. Each has a flushing loo and a safari shower, with hot water delivered to your tent as needed (please just give the staff 20 mins warning!) The communal areas of camp are simple- if you are coming here, it is certainly not for the glitz, but something far more memorable. A stretch canvas roof provides shade over comfy chairs looking out over the plains and tables are set out around the evening fire.
What can I do at Ntemwa-Busanga?
Game drives are the main activity. We’ve been impressed by the general game viewing on the Busanga Plains, but as a particularly special treat, this area is one of the only places in Zambia where you might spot a cheetah. The wide open plains mean they can make the most of the advantage their speed gives them. You can also do night game drives for the chance to spot more unusual nocturnal animals. In keeping with the camp’s strong ethical emphasis, they use red filters on the spotlights to protect the eyes of the animals. Lastly, a tip from us- we have met the odd tse tse fly in the Kafue, though not in the area around camp, so we’d recommend packing some decent bug spray in case you meet any on a game drive.
Giving back at Ntemwa-Busanga:
Musekese Conservation was set up by Phil and Tyrone to shield both the local people and the park from poaching. It aims to protect essential habitat for the wildlife and promote sustainable livelihoods for the people living alongside the animals. Their work varies hugely according to need, but so far has meant thousands of days on patrol in the park, hundreds of snares recovered, and tens of thousands of kilometres on foot covered to protect the wildlife.
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