I’ve stayed at 20 safari lodges, and this is the one I can’t stop thinking about

Somalisa Camp leaves a lasting impression as a standout Zimbabwe safari experience.

After visiting around 20 safari lodges across Africa, travel writer Olivia Liveng reflects on her stay at Somalisa Camp in Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park as the one that continues to resonate most deeply.

Part of the African Bush Camps portfolio and the brand’s first-ever camp, Somalisa is praised not for excess or spectacle, but for its sense of authenticity, balance, and connection to place. Set in the wildlife-rich landscapes of Hwange, the camp is described as seamlessly blending comfort with its surroundings, allowing the bush to remain the true focus of the experience.

A defining element of the stay is the people. The review highlights the warmth, attentiveness, and genuine hospitality of the Somalisa team, noting that the human connection elevated the experience far beyond traditional luxury service.

Wildlife encounters, particularly the close presence of elephants moving through camp, are described as natural and unforced integrated into the rhythm of daily life rather than confined to scheduled game drives. Guests remain constantly connected to the wilderness, even in moments of rest.

The guiding experience is also praised for depth and storytelling, transforming sightings into meaningful understanding of the ecosystem.

Ultimately, Somalisa Camp is recognised as a rare safari experience where people, place, and wildlife exist in quiet harmony, creating a stay that feels grounded, sincere, and unforgettable.