Zambia is unique among Southern Africa’s safari destinations in that many lodges and camps still close for all or part of the summer rainy season from November onwards. With wildlife dispersing and some roads not being passable, this is the perfect time for staff to have well-deserved breaks, crucial maintenance to happen and planning to take place.

The beauty of highly seasonal camps is the fun in reopening them once the rains taper off and the bush thins out slightly. It is exciting to see wildlife that hasn’t really interacted much with humans or vehicles for months – they respond much more ‘naturally’ to visitors!

Closures vary from camp to camp with some reopening as early as February while others extend their breaks until June. Not all camps and lodges close, of course – many are open year-round. The Green or rainy season provides fantastic sightings for birders who want to tick off migrants and photographers who want the contrast between buff-coloured wildlife and intense emerald-green foliage.

Among the lodges that still close (with closing dates) are:

SOUTH LUANGWA

KAFUE

NORTH LUANGWA

LOWER ZAMBEZI

Don’t forget: because these camps have short opening seasons, places go fast and they’re often in high demand. Book early to ensure your first choice at lodges with limited seasons.