Your Royal Gateway
to
Zambia's Wild West
Welcome to Royal Barotse Safaris. We are so excited to show you the beauty of Barotseland, which we have been privileged enough to call our home for the past 30 years.
ROYAL BAROTSE SAFARIS
Begun in 1996, Royal Barotse Safaris has operated and served in Western Zambia for more than three decades. Centered on belief, family and a love for people, RBS strives to better the lives of those around us and to share meaningful and memorable experiences with those who come to visit.
We would love to welcome you next…
The Johnson family
We call it Home
Rooted in Barotseland (the Western Province of Zambia), our journey begins 30 years ago on a pioneering adventure to “find a place to build a life in the bush…” – which we as a family now call home.
We didn’t move here to build a business. We built a business because we couldn’t imagine living anywhere else.
"When guests arrive, we don't hand them off to a stranger. Gavin is your guide. I'm your host. You'll leave knowing us — and we'll remember you long after you're home."
Every safari we plan is custom. Every itinerary reflects who you are — whether you’re here for the legendary tiger fishing, the extraordinary birdlife, or simply the beauty of the Upper Zambezi at sunset.
Personally Hosted
Every Royal Barotse lodge and safari has been carefully curated and developed by our owners and founders Gavin and Penny Johnson who continue to personally host every one of guests.
Exclusive Adventures
We enjoy the rare luxury of exploring the exclusive rivers and wild places of Barotseland — for the most part without another boat or person in sight. We are not just away from the crowds — the crowds don’t exist here.
Remote Access
Every journey is thoughtfully adapted to match your interests, pace, and sense of adventure. We are here to make your safari experience everything you’ve dreamed of.
Tailored to You
Every journey is thoughtfully adapted to match your interests, pace, and sense of adventure. We are here to make your safari experience everything you’ve dreamed of.
Safari Experiences
Every Experience is built around you
Our Home Base
Mutemwa Lodge
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Fishing Safaris
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Ngonye Falls Safari
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Discover The Beauty of Barotseland
Choose a Safari By Experience
THE ROYAL BAROTSE SAFARIS
Foundation
The newly established RBS foundation is changing lives and uplifting communities in Western Zambia and beyond. Explore the different projects you can support to see our vision for our region and people come to pass.
Why Royal Barotse Safaris?
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Mutemwa?
The best time of year to visit Mutemwa depends on what you want to do:
Traditionally July to December have always been the best months for fishing. The river has dropped, water cleared up and temperatures begin to rise – making for ideal tiger conditions!
For those less enthusiastic fishermen who enjoy birding, photography, or simply soaking in the beauty of the Zambezi, March and April are amongst some of the most stunning months to visit Mutemwa. With the rainy season having just ended the river is full and flowing, the bush is lush and green, and the birdlife is at its peak — making for truly breathtaking surroundings.
Where does RBS operate?
Royal Barotse Safaris has been based in the Western province of Zambia, or more commonly known as Barotseland, for over 30 years. Home to the Lozi people, RBS has become an integral part of the land and community over the years. Situated in the center of the Kavango-Zambezi TFCA our location is perfectly suited to our expanding tourism operation and we are so excited for what is still to come.
How do I get to Mutemwa?
There are three main ways to reach Mutemwa Lodge:
- Private charter flight – fly from Livingstone International Airport directly into our private airstrip – the most comfortable and seamless option.
- Kasane – Rd Transfer – Fly into Kasane Airport (Botswana) and take a road transfer to the lodge.
- Self-drive – possible without a 4×4, though border crossings can present some challenges.
For ease, Mutemwa can arrange both private charter flights and road transfers. Please contact us for more details and assistance with planning your journey.
Do you provide fishing tackle?
Yes. Guests are encouraged to bring their own gear and tackle but each of our four boats are fully equipped with both trolling and spinning setups for those wanting to travel light.
Please note that any lost or broken lures or gear will be charged to the guests account. A selection of Rapalas and Afrijigs are available for purchase at Mutemwa Lodge.
Do I need a fishing license?
No. Fishing licenses are not required in this stretch of the Zambezi River.
Fishing Safaris
Explore our exclusive safari itineraries—crafted for true adventure. Whether you’re an angler, passionate birder, or safari enthusiast, discover an experience unlike anywhere else.
Lodges
Discover the quiet luxury of Mutemwa Lodge—an intimate riverside escape where world-class fishing, personal hosting, and exclusive river access come together in a truly unique experience.
Blog
Stay up to date with life at Royal Barotse Safaris —explore our latest stories, insights, and behind-the-scenes moments, fresh from the heart of Barotseland.
Fishing Safaris
Explore our exclusive fishing safaris, designed to meet every anglers freshwater dreams.
Lodges
Discover our range of intimate safari lodges that already are and also the ones to come.
Blog
We keep it fresh and exciting with the latest Zambezi news. Check out our latest blog posts for an inside scoop.
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We’d love for you to follow along with us as our vision for wildlife and tourism in Western Zambia continues to grow.