Ila Safari Lodge is an eco-friendly luxury tented lodge ideally set on the banks of the Kafue River in Zambia’s largest and most remote wildernesses, Kafue National Park. The riverside position provides sweeping river views, and as a year-round water source, attracts a plethora of wildlife.

With knowledgeable guides and devoted staff, Ila Safari Lodge promises a luxury getaway with thrilling land and water-based activities. Enjoy game drives and tranquil river cruises in a solar-powered electric game viewer or boat. Walking safaris allow you to match nature’s pace and take in the intimate details of the surrounding landscape. For enthusiasts of the sport, or just for an excuse to relax and appreciate the views, head out for an afternoon of catch-and-release fishing.

Ila is perfect for anyone looking for off-the-beaten-track luxury while ensuring your travel spending has a positive impact on wildlife and the local community. Guests at Ila can engage in efforts supported by the lodge, such as a visit to the local community school and the Ila Community Farm. As well as learning about the efforts of key conservation projects active in Kafue - namely, Zambian Carnivores Project and Panthera - which focus on big cat conservation and research.

Highlights

• Remote location in Zambia’s largest national park
• Romantic open-fronted chalets overlooking the great Kafue River
• Eco-friendly & sustainable lodge is almost entirely solar-powered
• Infinity pool with expansive river views
• Outdoor shower or open-air bathtub for a soak under the stars
• Excellent food & service
• Electric vehicles and boats level up the game-viewing experience
• Supportive of various community & wildlife conservation efforts

Activities

• FISHING
• GAME DRIVES
• GUIDED WALKING SAFARIS
• SUNSET CRUISES

Rooms

Luxury Safari Tent

Expansive views of the Kafue River give you a sense of being immersed in nature, while comfortable indoor and outdoor furnishings make you feel right at home in your luxury tent. Enjoy your little piece of the Zambian wilderness nestled amongst the riverine greenery and shady trees, providing natural privacy. Each tent is comfortably outfitted with modern furnishings in contemporary African style, with the added romantic touch of an outdoor shower or bathtub.

There is a Luxury Family Tent comfortably furnished with a king bed and additional twin beds in an interconnected room. This option is perfect for a family with younger children wanting to stay close. It is spacious, with all the comforts of a luxury stay, and ensures quality time together as a family.

Facilities

The main lounge area and covered dining deck overlook the river for relaxed meals and a chance to connect with other guests. The lodge is built on raised decking—great for spotting elephants crossing the river or a pod of hippos keeping cool in the water below.

You too can cool off in the water, but from the safety of the large infinity pool overlooking the hippos’ domain. Sip on a refreshing cocktail from the well-stocked bar, relax in the lounge with a good book, or indulge in a massage after an exciting morning game drive.

The camp is solar-powered, with plug points for charging batteries and Wi-Fi internet access in the main lounge area keeping you connected when you need to be.

Dining

Expect hearty meals of great variety paired with award-winning South African wines. With different settings, dining at Ila Safari Lodge will not be a routine affair. Enjoy an immersive bush breakfast, a private candlelit dinner on your deck, and lunch on the boat as you float serenely along the river. These are some of the dining options available along with the beautiful dining deck, which boasts 180-degree views of the river. The chef at Ila Safari Lodge can accommodate your meal requirements and will ensure your dining experience at Ila is memorable.