We're a bit undecided about Mfuwe Lodge - it is inside the main gate which is a huge bonus and means the wonders of the park are right on the doorstep. However, it also mean the entrance road is also on the doorstep to one stretch of the chalets - avoid the 'buffalo' line or you'll have safari traffic disturbing you when you're trying to siesta. Having said that, it's a great lodge - it's on the big side and not to everyone's taste, so depends what you're after, but it's got some great guiding and works well as an overnighter before heading into the bush camps. It's also famous for the elephants walking through the reception later in the year - quite a spectacle!
Mfuwe Lodge - The Details
Set just five minutes' drive inside the park, Mfuwe Lodge stretches along two lagoons. With a refurbishment in 2010 it shows huge and much needed improvements, now boasting a lovely airy interior. There isn't anywhere in the area that is quite like this lodge in terms of design and style.
There are eighteen chalets split between three 'lines' that all meet in the large main area. The rooms have been elegantly done, each with their own private vernadah to enjoy siesta time and watch the game pass through, these lagoons are teaming with wildlife throughout the seasons.. Mfuwe lodge is conveniently located next to a wonderful privately-run award-winning spa, offering numerous treatments for pure indulgence. This lodge is open year round and a great spot to come in the green season when the park is a bit quieter.
Mfuwe lodge is in the main Mfuwe area, of course (!), meaning there is more going on in terms of game viewing vehicle traffic, but this is only because the game is so prolific in this part of the park. It is a wonderful area for game drives, with some fantastic guiding, walks are also on offer, but if you're heading to a bush camp then save this experience for then.
If you are staying in any of the Bushcamp Company bushcamps without overnighting at Mfuwe Lodge, you will still come here for at least a cup of tea and stop over before you head south to the bush. The lodge is a very different set up to the bushcamps, so don't set your expectations on them from what you see at the lodge.
