For seasoned safari goers and those who like authentic adventure, the small country of Zambia packs a mighty punch. Not only does it offer access to the magnificent Victoria Falls but it is also home to two major national parks, South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi. If that still is not enough to entice you, then throw in superb birding, down-to-earth accommodation and endless opportunities to leave the 4x4 at camp and set out on foot or by boat or kayak. Walking and paddling you give you a completely different perspective on wildlife sightings, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in Africa.
This 11-day trip sees you undertake a comprehensive journey through Zambia. Starting at Victoria Falls, you make your way by light aircraft to not one or two but four different camps in South Luangwa National Park, walking between each one during the day to savour all that this astounding park has to offer. Look out for puku, giraffe, elephant and smaller animals like monitors, honey badgers and tortoises.
After giving your hiking boots a good workout, your legs get a welcome break on the next part of your safari, which takes you to Lower Zambezi National Park. A pretty park fronted by the Zambezi River and a small escarpment, the Lower Zambezi offers exciting activities like boating amid the hippos and crocodiles, as well as canoeing the channels in search of shy elephants and energetic vervet monkeys. Your home here is an idyllic lodge river on the water with fantastic staff, lovely views and a laidback atmosphere.
Set up to be seamless, this itinerary includes light aircraft flights between each of the major destinations, which gives you more time on the ground, savouring your safari.