FAQ

Where is the South Luangwa National Park?

South Luangwa National Park is in eastern Zambia’s Luangwa River valley.
Address: South Luangwa National Park, Zambia
Area: 9,050 km²
Established: 1972

Where are Sungani Lodge and Kulandila Camp?

Sungani Lodge is the most Southerly Camp in the South Luangwa National Park, close to the river and fronted by an enormous lagoon. 6 kilometres further upriver is our beautiful Kulandila Camp which is nestled between the Luangwa River and a lagoon. The properties are roughly 70 kilometres from Mfuwe town.

How long should I stay at Sungani Lodge or Kulandila Camp?

We suggest staying 2/3 nights at Kulandila Camp and 3/4 nights at Sungani Lodge.

Should I stay at both properties?

Despite the proximity, we absolutely encourage you to stay at both properties and experience each. 5 nights would be a great option. Please talk to your travel designer.

The tents at Sungani Lodge are much bigger, private and each has a private plunge pool. Built on elevated decking equipped with amenities such as; AC, lower viewing deck, and a fully airconditioned gym.

Kulandila is an intimate but well-equipped camp that presents a more relaxed/rustic feel and is more communal. It is not built on elevated decking but has distinct pathways, the tents are 460 sq ft vs Sungani tents which are over 1000 sq ft. There is no AC, but each has a ceiling fan within the net which works well in the warmer months.

The activities are much the same throughout the Luangwa, however, the walking, game loops, and drives at Sungani are usually in a different area to Kulandila. Kulandila will use game loops around the area to the north of the camp. We close Kulandila during our ‘green season’.

What is included in my stay?

PPPN sharing rates include:

  • Luxury full board accommodation
  • Complimentary flights from Mfuwe Airport to Sungani and return
  • Professionally guided safari activities and wildlife hide network
  • All meals including a variety of dining experiences in the bush
  • Laundry and valet services
  • Drinks (excluding top-shelf beverages)
  • In-tent tea and coffee making facilities
  • Starlink WIFI (in tents at Sungani and only in main area at Kulandila)
  • Full use of photographic studio only at Sungani Lodge
  • VAT and service charge

 

PPPN sharing rates exclude:

  • Lusaka meet & greet – city transfers
  • Top-shelf beverages
  • Gratuities, visas and airport departure taxes
  • Flights (aside from Mfuwe Airport to Sungani airstrip and return)
  • Photographic equipment which can be hired across both properties
  • $115 PPPN tourism – conservation – DNPW fees and levies: which are non-commissionable. DNPW fees are subject to change. If an increase is levied by DNPW before the start of the safari this amount will be passed onto guests. This fee is applicable to all nights regardless of specials.

How many rooms are at each property?

Sungani Lodge – Limited to seven luxury guest tents that are comprised of 4 king rooms and 3 twins (queen beds). One Queen room configured to easily accommodate 2 adults and 2 children. Also, experience the luxury of the Directors’ Tent complete with WIFI, DSTV, Nespresso machine, outdoor sleeping, and more. +- Deck to tents 25M / between tents varies 24M / 45M / 50 M at Sungani Lodge.

Kulandila Camp – Limited to four guest tents. Each tent is made up of single beds, which can be configured to form a king and can easily be separated to form a twin. +- Deck to tent 20M / between tents 15M / 35M at Kulandila Camp.

How far are the properties from each other?

6kms by vehicle.

How do the transfers work?

Most international guests arrive via Lusaka, Zambia. It is also possible to fly via Lilongwe, Malawi. You then need to catch the scheduled domestic flight to Mfuwe International Airport. You will then fly to Sungani private airstrip in our plane – this is a 20 -minute flight. If preferred, collection can be done by road which will take around 3 hours.

Our plane is a Cessna 206 and holds 4 passengers. Chartering direct to Sungani from Lusaka is also an option. Please discuss this with your agent or our reservations team. Please note that you need to arrive during the day (morning flight) so that we can transfer you before dark.

Can I charter an aircraft?

You can land a Cessna, Baron, Caravan and up to a King Air at our airstrip. They would need to arrive with adequate daylight for landing and take-off. It is an all-weather gravel airstrip. The charter companies will be aware that there is a $15 landing fee payable to DNPW.

What are the activities?

Game Drives – AM & PM
Guided Bush Walks – AM & PM- There is an age restriction of 16 years for this activity. Maximum of 6 guests and these are always led by a Sungani qualified walking guide and an armed Department of National Parks Scout.
Hides – AM & PM get up close and personal for those memorable photographs
Bush meals
Boating – (green season)

Do you have hides?

• Viewing deck/platform at the end of Sungani Lagoon – would service both properties.

• Sunken hide at a waterhole by the river – would service both properties.

• Mobile carmine hide which would be erected depending on where the carmine bee-eaters nest – would service both properties.

When are you open?

Sungani Lodge

Shoulder Season
15th May – 15th June
16th October – 15th November

The Peak Season
16th June – 15th October

The Emerald Season

CLOSED FOR 2025 SEASON

Green Season is only at Sungani Lodge from late January – late March subject to:

  • A minimum of 6 pax.
  • Booking for this season must be confirmed/paid at least 4 months in advance.
  • Booking requires a 4 night minimum stay

 

Kulandila Camp 

Shoulder Season
15th May – 15th June
16th October – 31st October

The Peak Season
16th June – 15th October

The Emerald Season
Closed

We close during April to get ready for the peak season and redo our roads.

What are the activities in the green season?

Sungani Lodge will operate a green season which is late-Jan – to late-March. Guests can do boating (we have 2 boats), walking, sitting in hides, bush meals, and short drives. If weather permitting we couldn’t fly you in, then we would boat you in from our Mfuwe harbor. This is about 3 hours and a very pleasant way to come in. We would suggest boating and then flying out, it’s a great way to start the safari!

What does a typical day look like?

05.30 – the gentle wake-up call, a tray of tea or coffee. Please request flexibility if you fancy a slow start
06.30 – a light breakfast and the morning safari activity starts
06.30 – 08.30 – breakfast
12.00 – 13.00 – lunch
13.30 – 15.30 – relax
15.30 – afternoon Tea
16.00 – 18.30 – afternoon/evening activity with sundowners and snacks
19.00 – 20.30 – dinner
20.30 – 22.00 – relax until you wish to be escorted to your room

During a stay, every guest – providing they wish to – will be offered a bush brunch/lunch and a formal setup sundowner.

What are the check-in and check-out times?

Check-in: We endeavour to have your tent ready on arrival.
Should there be a turnaround, we will ensure you are not kept waiting long.
Check out: is 10:00 on the date of departure.
When availability allows early or late check-in / out are possible at no extra charge.

How much luggage can I bring?

When you fly in our aircraft, it is strictly soft bags only – 15Kg’s + 5Kg’s hand luggage. The pilot reserves the right to exclude overweight baggage to meet safety and legal requirements. Hardshell bags will not be loaded. If you require additional baggage to be collected by road this is subject to availability and there is a charge. If you need your luggage to be stored at Lusaka, please advise ahead of time and we will make arrangements.

What are the temperatures like?

May to August is pleasantly temperate and dry. September and October are hot and the humidity builds although these can be the best months to spot the game as the animals gather close to the river and watering holes. November to December is hot and humid. January to April is the rainy ‘emerald’ season when temperatures can vary from hot and humid to cool after a downpour. The rainy season is an incredible time for birdwatching.

What should I pack?

We suggest a small carry-on with essentials such as medications and documents in the event your bag is lost or delayed en route. Please see our suggested packing list below. We offer complimentary daily laundry service so bear that in mind when you are packing.

Is there a laundry service?

Yes, we provide a daily complimentary laundry service.

Is there a cleaning service?

Housekeeping will attend to your room each morning and a final check before you return in the evening.

How does the electricity work and what kind of plugs are there?

We are proud to say both camps are run on solar power with a back-up generator if required. Universal/square and USB plug sockets are provided in each guest unit and on our main deck in the library area.

What amenities are in the rooms?

You will be provided with shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, soap, body lotion, earbuds, face pads, a hairdryer, bathrobe, and slippers. Each guest tent also has stationery, tea & coffee and at Sungani Lodge a minibar. Bathing and swimming towels.

Is there a safe in the room?

There is a safe in each room for your valuables.

Is there internet?

Yes, both Sungani Lodge and Kulandila Camp have a Starlink system, so we ask guests to limit upload and download while in camp to ensure everyone can enjoy connectivity with family back home.

Do you have a gift shop?

Yes. This is located at Sungani Lodge and it also stocks some of the essentials you may have forgotten to pack such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, antihistamine cream, and sunscreen.

What is the cuisine like?

Clean and simple is the mantra while remaining sensitive to the traditional and delicious. We are extremely remote and we, along with other operations, endeavour to source/support as much as possible from our local suppliers.

What if I have a dietary requirement?

All our properties can accommodate specific dietary requirements. Please let us know in advance so that we can ensure you are catered for.

Can I book private dinners?

Yes, you can book these in your guest tent. Please just liaise with management and they will set this up for you.

Is dining communal?

No, we like to leave this to our guest’s discretion. Please ask the staff to create a table if you would like to join other guests.

Should I take a malaria preventative?

Please consult your physician.

Is there any other medical treatment I need before visiting Zambia?

Please consult your physician.

What if I get sick?

All guests are required to have full medical cover and evacuation insurance. The landing runway adjacent to the camp allows for emergency evacuation. Should you get sick in camp we carry basic medicines but do not advise. All safari guides are first aid trained and registered. There is also a local valley Doctor in Mfuwe.

Can I drink the water?

Both the Lodge and the Camp have a filtration plant to clean the borehole water. It is then further treated through reverse osmosis making it safe to drink. Sungani is committed to Reduce/Recycle/Reuse and encourages the use of reusable water bottles. Every guest will receive a complimentary water bottle on arrival. These bottles are available for purchase at our gift shop.

What is the local currency?

Zambian Kwacha. There are ATM/Cash Points at both Lusaka and Mfuwe airports. US dollars and Kwacha are generally both accepted in Zambia.

Do I need a visa?

Please consult your travel agent – visas are issued at arrivals in Zambia and some countries are exempt.

What is your gratuity policy?

Gratuities are at the guest/s discretion.

What is your child policy?

No children under 12 unless it is an exclusive use booking.

12-year-olds can walk in Zambia but always at the guide’s discretion based on guide approval, parental consent, height, maturity and time of year.

Can I have a private vehicle?

Private vehicle subject to availability $500 per night.

How many vehicles do you have?

Our fleet is comprised of 6 vehicles. Our vehicles have modified suspension, individual luxury seats, comfortable footrests, and nifty spaces and holders for an array of equipment. Each vehicle is equipped with Manfrotto camera rests, and the roof canopy is designed to be easily removed upon request. There are 4 at Sungani Lodge and 2 at Kualndila Camp, but again they would be moved depending on occupancy at either property. We can guarantee a window seat.

Four 6 seaters and two 4 seaters with the ability to add seats – if there was a big group that wanted to travel in the same vehicle.

PACKING LIST

Packing for an African Safari is quite unlike any other trip and can be a challenge for first timers. Weight restriction on a small flight is 15KGS in a soft bag.

SASAK is code for ‘Stocked at Sungani and Kulandila!’ – A range of African Earth natural guest amenities are provided in every guest tent.

Shampoo Plugs: Round/Square & USB/International
Conditioner Shower Cap
Shower Gel Hair Dryer
Soap Earbuds & cotton pads
Body Lotion Magnifying mirror
Insect Repellent Robe & Slippers
Foam Bath

Essentials

  • A copy of your itinerary. Emergency contacts stored in your phone. Travel insurance. eTickets. Any required inoculations and attendant certificates.
  • No ATM’s in the bush! So, a small amount of cash can be useful. US dollars are widely accepted.
  • Camera and binoculars – remember your memory cards and perhaps a spare USB flash drive.
  • A good torch (flashlight) is a great idea. You are guided back to your tent at night but having your own will come in handy.
  • Duffel or soft sided bag. Consider waterproof version during the wet season in Africa.

Clothing

At Sungani Lodge and Kulandila camp, we provide a complimentary laundry service which will help you minimise your clothing needs. Layering is just plain practical so plan to zip off or add and remove as the temperature changes throughout the day. Consider zip off trousers as your 2 in 1 space saver.

The winter months from June to August can be chilly when the sun goes down. If you are travelling during the wetter green season consider waterproof clothing, a duffel and dry bag.

The hat. It really should do a few things well.

  • Provide complete protection of your face and neck
  • Be lightweight and permeable so the heat can escape
  • Be absorbent inside and waterproof outside.

Minimal lightweight earth toned clothing. Avoid blue, black and purple because the insects are attracted to these colours. Avoid bright colours that make you very conspicuous to the wildlife and, as a safety measure are not permitted on bush walks. Some countries discourage camouflage print. White – well who wants to a) stand out b) get dirty before breakfast! Wicking tec fabrics that dry rapidly and keep you comfortable are a great plan. Oh, and think sun protection too.

Female Male
Safari shirts and tops Safari shirts and tops
Fleece or sweater Fleece or sweater
Lightweight hooded jacket Lightweight hooded jacket
Lightweight pants/slacks Lightweight pants/slacks
Shorts Shorts
Moisture wicking leggings (winter) Leggings
Sandals and/or flip flops Sandals and/or flip flops
Walking shoes and blister proof socks Walking shoes and blister proof socks
Bandana or buff Bandana or buff
Beanie and scarf for cooler months Beanie and scarf for cooler months
Swimming costume Swimming costume
Underwear – sports bras are great for comfort. Underwear
Sunglasses and your HAT! Sunglasses and your HAT!

Toiletries – just some suggestions!

  • Malaria medication (consult your physician if required)
  • Antihistamine tablets and cream (consult your physician if required)
  • Anti-nausea tablets (consult your physician if required)
  • Antacids (consult your physician if required)
  • Drops – cough drops, earache drops, eye drops and so on (consult your physician if required)
  • Cold remedy (consult your physician if required)
  • Basic 1st aid items SASAK
  • Sunscreen
  • Body Lotion SASAK
  • Insect repellent SASAK
  • Toothpaste and toothbrush
  • Hairbrush/comb
  • Shampoo and conditioner SASAK
  • Nail scissors/file/clipper/tweezers– remember only in checked baggage

Sundries

  • Phone, music, tablet or laptop and their respective chargers. Country specific adaptors. Universal, USB and square plugs are in every guest tent.
  • A travel journal. A great way to relax and document your experience with us Sungani Lodge and Kulandila Camp and the other amazing places you visit.
  • Ear plugs for travel … but not for missing out on the incredible sounds of the bush at night!
  • A book; which hopefully will remain unread as you spend every waking moment soaking in the sights and sounds.