Budget Zambia Camping Safari Lodges, Camps & Guide 2027

Budget Zambia Camping Safari Tours

Why should I choose Zambia for a budget trip?

“You should consider a budget Camping safari in Zambia as it provides a fantastic and distinct wildlife experience. Rural Zambia is extremely off the beaten track and here you encounter ‘raw Africa’ in all its beauty. If you were to sum up this land-locked, off-the-beaten-track area in one word it would be ‘wild’.

Most Zambian camps have no fencing. They are also carefully sited on traditional wildlife paths, which encourages animals to spend time in and around the campgrounds. It’s all part of the Zambian journey.

A budget Camping safari in Zambia’s vast protected regions is all about wildlife encounters in pristine African bush. And if you are on a budget Zambia safari package you will probably be camping for much, if not all, of the trip. The sense of adventure is heightened when you sleep in a tent with wild animals grunting and snuffling outside your tent.

What is included in a Zambia budget safari?

“A budget camping safari in Zambia will generally include park fees and activities (such as game drives and walks). The trip includes your lodging, camping kit and a driver/guide. Transport, airport transfers and basic lunches are frequently included too. There is some variety across operators so it is always worth checking what you are getting for your money.

Inclusions: International flights, alcoholic beverages, tipping, shopping (handicrafts or souvenirs), increases in taxes or park fees are often not included.

It’s always a good idea to look into what’s included. E.g. Does camping equipment contain a sleeping bag, cooking equipment? Are tax or park charge increases in the future? Some trips will toss in beer and wine too (spirits not included). “A good operator should make that obvious.”

What are the pros and cons of a self-drive Zambia budget trip?

“Autonomous driving can be a lot of fun. It fuels your adventurous spirit and provides you amazing versatility. It also offers other sleeping possibilities (in the back of the car or in a tent on top). This is a terrific way to see wild Africa.

But a holiday might be spoilt by irresponsible or inexperienced driving. If you have never driven a 4WD before then Africa (Zambia included) is not the place to learn. Gravel roads or roads that have big potholes that are hard to see can get the best of you. At the absolute least try to go with someone with 4wd experience.

Generally, 4WDs are highly expensive to hire and may be out of reach for those looking for an inexpensive safari in Zambia. Otherwise, the biggest bummer is getting caught in a remote corner of the nation when your wheels break down. Take a local sim card that you know will work and see if there is cell reception where you are going. “Alternatively, you could rent a satellite phone (another expense!).”

Can you describe a typical day on a Zambia budget safari?

“When you wake up in your tent you will feel the delicious cool of early morning time in Zambia. You will undoubtedly hear bird music and maybe some grunting hippo close by. You’ll enjoy a brief breakfast (provided for you or you make yourself, depending on your budget safari package). It’ll be time to climb into a car and head out on an early morning game drive as the first light of dawn begins to light up your surrounds.

Or depending on the park you might be able to join a walking safari, or do some kayaking. At this time of the morning you have a chance of witnessing huge cats on their way back from a hunt. You may see Hyenas trotting over the terrain and even nocturnal (active at night) animals like as Genet. Elephant and buffalo herds might be heading to the next waterhole for their morning drink.

Everyone flakes out until late afternoon, when you return to camp in the late morning and the heat is increasing. Flaking out might be reading a book or dozing. Or it might be going through your pictures, or sitting in the general areas talking to whoever is present.

The late afternoon game drive starts at about 4pm. Later, if you do a night drive, the guides normally carry strong hand flashlights to assist them in locating wildlife. It is an excellent chance to watch nocturnal wildlife. “See if the guides will let you have a go, it’s great fun.”

What type of accommodation can I expect?

When going on a cheap safari in Zambia you can normally expect to sleep in a tent. Tents will be provided and you can either set it up yourself or have it done for you depending on your package. In other areas such as South Luangwa National Park there is a greater variety of housing alternatives. You can find a bed in a budget lodge, cottage, chalet or simply a modest room. Accommodation in these instances is usually basic but clean and comfortable. Another option is safari tents. They are used at the affordable and luxury segments of the market. At the budget end you will receive a bed, maybe a bedside table and a light, and not much more. The bathrooms are shared.

Sleeping beneath canvas is undoubtedly a very thrilling choice, whether camping or staying in a safari tent. The noises of the African wild at night seem that much nearer in a tent.”

How much will this safari cost?

The Zambia budget/camping safaris begin at about US$150 per person per day. However, you’ll probably be spending upwards of US$200 a day each person. And on top of that you have to add your flights here, your personal shopping and advice for your guides. (Usually work for tips for US$10 to US$15 per day).

As a general rule of thumb, a Zambia safari will be less expensive for the better-known and more accessible parks and attractions. This is due to the fact that there are far more places to stay. The widest range of facilities, including accommodation, is available at South Luangwa NP and Livingstone (for Victoria Falls and Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park). These destinations will be included in most budget safaris. Kafue National Park has a large highway that runs right through it and is also suitable for cheap safaris. “Great camping options and cheap lodges right off the highway.”