Shumba is a smart, luxury camp on Kafue’s picturesque Busanga Plains. Designed to harmonize with the surrounding landscape, Shumba has a gentle and welcoming atmosphere and offers a wealth of activities for both dry and wetter months.
Awarded: Silver
Location
The camp sits on the edge of an island of fig trees in Kafue National Park’s Busanga Plains. Busanga is an important wetland resource in Zambia, one which remains untouched and teeming with game, including lion prides, cheetah and wild dog. Often compared to the plains of Serengeti over Zambia’s regular bush landscape, this seasonal camp offers a unique addition to any Zambia trip.
Rooms
Six spacious tents are built high on wooden platforms and kept cool by tall wooden roofs covered in grass. There are four-poster beds draped in mosquito nets, armchairs facing the front of the tent and canvas walls which can be rolled up for seamless views of the plains. Interiors also include a small desk, a wooden shelving unit and en suite bathrooms with outdoor showers.
Communal areas
The elevated communal area is built around three large fig trees and is positioned for sublime sunrise views. The space is decorated in soft colours of sand and aqua, housing a lounge with a small library, a bar and a dining area with folding glass doors to provide an open and airy atmosphere. A split-level wooden deck offers plenty of space to relax with a cushioned sunken area where the campfire is lit during the evenings and a pool with loungers. For souvenirs and clothes, a curio shop is also onsite
Activities
Explore the plains on day and night game drives and during wetter months, a swamp boat is available to traverse the marshy wetlands. Guided walks are also on offer, though a little shorter when the plains are submerged, to discover the surrounding flora and fauna. Hot-air balloon safaris provide a unique view, flying over the plains at sunrise followed by a champagne bush breakfast.
Fully inclusive
When to go
Find out when is best to visit
- Excellent
- Good
- Poor
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
Wettest time of the year, with rain falling most days of the month, although rarely prolonged in nature. Temperatures are a very pleasant, averaging 30°C/86°F midday, while the Busanga Plains flood. Nights average 20°C/68°F. During this period the park transforms into a lush green landscape and the a stark contrast to the dry season.
Like the rest of Zambia, Kafue has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that much of the park is flooded and inaccessible during the wet season, it would, therefore, be unusual to see properties operating during this period.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
Wettest time of the year, with rain falling most days of the month, although rarely prolonged in nature. Temperatures are a very pleasant, averaging 30°C/86°F midday, while the Busanga Plains flood. Nights average 20°C/68°F. During this period the park transforms into a lush green landscape and the a stark contrast to the dry season.
Like the rest of Zambia, Kafue has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that much of the park is flooded and inaccessible during the wet season, it would, therefore, be unusual to see properties operating during this period.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
Wettest time of the year, with rain falling most days of the month, although rarely prolonged in nature. Temperatures are a very pleasant, averaging 30°C/86°F midday, while the Busanga Plains flood. Nights average 20°C/68°F. During this period the park transforms into a lush green landscape and the a stark contrast to the dry season.
Like the rest of Zambia, Kafue has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that much of the park is flooded and inaccessible during the wet season, it would, therefore, be unusual to see properties operating during this period.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
Wettest time of the year, with rain falling most days of the month, although rarely prolonged in nature. Temperatures are a very pleasant, averaging 30°C/86°F midday, while the Busanga Plains flood. Nights average 20°C/68°F. During this period the park transforms into a lush green landscape and the a stark contrast to the dry season.
Like the rest of Zambia, Kafue has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that much of the park is flooded and inaccessible during the wet season, it would, therefore, be unusual to see properties operating during this period.
DRY SEASON
May is the beginning of the dry season, although the landscape will still be many shades of green following the rains. Midday temperatures are average around 28°C/82°F, the mornings can, however, be surprising cool at around 10°C/49°F, so be sure to pack a warm fleece.
Like the rest of Zambia, Kafue has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that much of the park is flooded and inaccessible during the wet season, it would, therefore, be unusual to see properties operating during this period.
DRY SEASON
The landscape continues to dry up, with game wildlife sightings becoming more common. The Busanga Plains remain largely flooded. Midday temperatures average around 25°C/77°F, the mornings can, however, be surprisingly cold at around 6°C/43°F, so be sure to pack a warm fleece.
Like the rest of Zambia, Kafue has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that much of the park is flooded and inaccessible during the wet season, it would, therefore, be unusual to see properties operating during this period.
DRY SEASON
The landscape continues to dry up, with game wildlife sightings becoming more common. The Busanga Plains remain largely flooded. Midday temperatures average around 25°C/77°F, the mornings can, however, be surprisingly cold at around 6°C/43°F, so be sure to pack a warm fleece.
Like the rest of Zambia, Kafue has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that much of the park is flooded and inaccessible during the wet season, it would, therefore, be unusual to see properties operating during this period.
DRY SEASON
Clear skies still dominate, the landscape has now become quite parched; ultimately making this the perfect time for game viewing. The Busanga Plains have now largely dried up revealing short grass plains which draw in dense wildlife concentrations from the surrounding regions. Midday and night temperatures are a little warmer during these months, averaging 31°C/88°F and 13°C/55°F respectfully.
Like the rest of Zambia, Kafue has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that much of the park is flooded and inaccessible during the wet season, it would, therefore, be unusual to see properties operating during this period.
DRY SEASON
Clear skies still dominate, the landscape has now become quite parched; ultimately making this the perfect time for game viewing. The Busanga Plains have now largely dried up revealing short grass plains which draw in dense wildlife concentrations from the surrounding regions. Midday and night temperatures are a little warmer during these months, averaging 31°C/88°F and 13°C/55°F respectfully.
Like the rest of Zambia, Kafue has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that much of the park is flooded and inaccessible during the wet season, it would, therefore, be unusual to see properties operating during this period.
DRY SEASON
Game viewing can be spectacular during October; however, temperatures continue to rise before the start of the rains, with midday temperatures over 35°C/95°F not uncommon. The Busanga Plains have now dried up revealing short grass plains which draw in dense wildlife concentrations from the surrounding regions. We suggest early morning starts during this time to make the most of the cool temperatures!
Like the rest of Zambia, Kafue has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that much of the park is flooded and inaccessible during the wet season, it would, therefore, be unusual to see properties operating during this period.
WET SEASON
The first rains arrive, usually in the form of sharp afternoon showers. The temperatures still however remain hot, while the humidity adds an extra level of discomfort. Game viewing can still be great, but just be prepared for a little heat.
Like the rest of Zambia, Kafue has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that much of the park is flooded and inaccessible during the wet season, it would, therefore, be unusual to see properties operating during this period.
WET SEASON
Wettest time of the year, with rain falling most days of the month, although rarely prolonged in nature. Temperatures are a very pleasant, averaging 30°C/86°F midday, while the nights average 20°C/68°F. During this period the park transforms into a lush green landscape, a stark contrast to the dry season.
Like the rest of Zambia, Kafue has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that much of the park is flooded and inaccessible during the wet season, it would, therefore, be unusual to see properties operating during this period.
Explore Kafue National Park Properties
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What People Say
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The personalised service provided was far beyond my expectations. A three week trip visiting four countries in Africa, multiple game reserves, wineries and much, much more was flawless. While a close encounter with a leopard and her cubs…
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We got in touch after hearing about Hide & Seek from a friend. Have to say hats off to Jamie, he was so patient throughout, even through our indecisiveness! Ultimately we ended up with the most incredible holiday of our lives. Thank you again, we will be back!!
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Thank you for arranging our Safari holiday in Kenya and Tanzania for us. It was to celebrate our 40th. Wedding anniversary which was on July 1st. 2018, and through your arrangements, we have had a holiday that we will never forget...
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Thanks so much for a truly unforgettable once in a life time holiday. Hopefully we will be in touch again soon!
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Spot on in terms of itinerary . We not disappointed by any of the suggestions and had the best holiday ever! Thank you!
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Jamie was very helpful throughout the booking process and recommended the perfect holiday. There was nothing we would change having now been out to Tanzania. I would highly recommend Hide & Seek to friends and relatives.
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Jamie was excellent. Once I described what we wanted I knew he would come up with the business. ..and he did!!! 5 stars
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We spoke to numerous travel agents over the period we looked at booking our honeymoon and only hide and seek gave me the confidence I was looking for. Really pleased with our decision.
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Hide and seek dealt with our last minute travel plans extremely well. Obviously, our accommodations shifted as availability diminished but ultimately they came up with a vacation that we will never forget.
