When you picture a safari, you might imagine vast, open plains stretching endlessly into the horizon, with charismatic animals and iconic trees silhouetted against a dramatic sky. While many safari landscapes are more diverse than this, with a mix of rivers, forests, and swamps, there is one place in Zambia that comes remarkably close to this quintessential vision: the Busanga Plains.
A Unique Corner of Kafue National Park
Tucked away in the northwestern reaches of Kafue National Park, the Busanga Plains offer a mix of Serengeti-esque savannah scenes and elements reminiscent of the Okavango Delta. Here, you’ll find swamp-adapted Red Lechwe grazing near herds of zebra and wildebeest—a combination that’s hard to come by in Zambia’s major parks. Despite its similarities to more famous destinations, Busanga is refreshingly devoid of the crowds that flock to places like the Masai Mara or Serengeti.
Spanning over 500 square kilometers, Busanga may be smaller than these other parks, but with just a handful of small, seasonal camps, it remains one of Africa’s last truly wild and serene landscapes. This makes it a dream for photographers looking to capture the perfect shot without being jostled by a dozen other vehicles.
Why Wildlife Photographers Love Busanga
No Crowds, All the Time You Need:Â One of the greatest frustrations for wildlife photographers in busier parks is having to work around a "three-car policy" or simply sharing space with dozens of vehicles. In Busanga, you have the freedom to position yourself for the perfect angle without other cars blocking your shot. The solitude means you can take your time, focus on the scene, and capture moments that might otherwise slip away.
Open Vistas, Clean Backgrounds:Â With its wide-open landscapes, the Busanga Plains are a canvas waiting to be captured. The lack of dense bush and trees means you get those coveted clean backgrounds that make wildlife subjects pop. Think majestic lions standing tall against a pastel sunrise, or herds of antelope silhouetted against an expansive, golden sky.
Plentiful Wildlife and Predators: While the large herds of antelope, buffalo, and elephant are a given, Busanga is also home to a rich variety of predators. The southern part of the plains, where our Ntemwa-Busanga Camp is situated, boasts resident cheetah, wild dog, and leopard—something that’s rarer in the northern reaches. Plus, you’ll have the chance to spot typically rare-to-see species, such as roan and sable antelope, and elusive serval cats. With so much space to explore, you have endless opportunities to find and photograph these iconic and rare creatures.
Why Ntemwa-Busanga Camp is Perfect for Photographers
At Classic Zambia, we’re proud to have our very own Ntemwa-Busanga Camp nestled in this spectacular wilderness. Over the years, we've seen the growing interest from wildlife photographers and decided to tailor our offerings to meet their needs. Here’s what sets us apart:
Photographer-Friendly Guides: Our guides are not just experts in wildlife; they’re trained to understand the needs of photographers. From knowing how to position the vehicle for optimal lighting to recognizing key moments in animal behavior, they are there to help you get the perfect shot.
Specialized Safari Vehicles: We’ve designed our vehicles with photographers in mind—think camera lens mounts, open profiles, charging stations, removable roof options, and even in-built fridges to keep you refreshed on those long shoots.
Get Out Before Sunrise: We know the best light often comes at the crack of dawn, so we make sure you can be out in the field well before sunrise. With packed breakfasts and lunches, you won’t miss a moment of that early morning magic.
In-House Photo Editing Room: For those who want to perfect their shots, we offer a quiet, darkened space dedicated to photo editing. Our in-house editing room comes equipped with charging ports, allowing you to review, edit, and play with the day’s shots in comfort.
Plenty of Power for Your Gear:Â Our camp is equipped with ample solar power to keep your batteries charged and ready. And for those who want to practice their settings before heading out, we even have a bird/camera practice hide right in camp!
Add Busanga Plains to Your Bucket List
Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife photographer or an enthusiastic hobbyist, the Busanga Plains should be high on your list of places to visit. It’s a place where the rhythm of the wild takes over, where the skies stretch endlessly, and where every sunrise feels like a fresh canvas. At Ntemwa-Busanga Camp, we’re ready to make your photographic dreams come true in this little-known gem of Zambia. So, grab your camera, and come and explore the magic of Busanga with us!
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