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OVERVIEW:
Named after the prides of lion seen in the area, Wilderness Shumba is by far one of the best camps in Kafue. Set in the centre of the Busanga Plains, Wilderness Shumba is very remote; and with few travellers exploring this area, it is also very exclusive. Although it offers a luxurious experience, it places a lot of emphasis on the wildlife that surrounds the camp and on the activities available. Wilderness Shumba is operational between 1st June and 31st October each year. If you are after a more rustic option, you could consider sister camp Wilderness Busanga Bush Camp.
ACCESS & LOCATION:
Wilderness Shumba is located in the heart of Busanga Plains in the north Kafue National Park. To get here, guests can take a light aircraft flight lasting about 90 minutes from Lusaka to the Busanga Airstrip, which is followed by a road transfer to camp. Alternatively, guests can take a 2-hour flight from Livingstone to Kafue.
ACCOMMODATION & FACILITIES AT WILDERNESS SHUMBA:
Originally a bushcamp run by the outdoorsy safari company Busanga Trails, Wilderness Shumba has changed completely from its original rustic design. Built on an island of fig trees, the camp overlooks the seasonal floodplains in every direction. It is built high above the ground and is linked by wooden walkways, with grass roofs and long extended decking. The main area includes a swimming pool, and a lounge, dining, and bar area, as well as an outdoor sunken lounge with a star deck, great for stargazing into the night.
There are just six luxury suites at Wilderness Shumba, and all are raised on wooden platforms. With a focus on observing the wilderness from all angles, the camp boasts scenic views from the bed, the various seating areas, and even from the outdoor showers. All tents include Wi-Fi, large beds, and en-suite facilities comprising indoor shower, outdoor shower, double basin vanity, and toilet.
ACTIVITIES AT WILDERNESS SHUMBA:
Situated amidst various lion pride territories and large game, there are plenty of wildlife-viewing opportunities at Wilderness Shumba:
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Expertly guided game drives
- These take place during early morning and late afternoon, in the company of a knowledgeable and experienced guide. Wildlife highlights include lion, wildebeest, cheetah, wild dog, puku, red lechwe, oribi, and Lichtenstein’s hartebeest. -
Bird watching
- For birding enthusiasts, the park also boasts 491 species, including endemics such as Chaplin’s barbet. -
Water-based activities
- As Wilderness Shumba has a 6-seater boat, water-based activities are on offer, although these do depend on water levels. They will mostly be at the beginning of the season, so please speak to a member of the YZ team for more information.
*This property is unfenced and located in a wildlife area, so large and potentially dangerous animals do pass through. If you opt to stay here, always be alert when walking around the camp and request for a member of staff to escort you if you have any concerns. Any guest is escorted after dark as a matter of course.
