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Zambia’s Ultimate Hidden Gems Safari
In the heart of Africa lies a land of hidden gems and unparalleled safari opportunities. Zambia, with its vast wilderness and remote locations, has emerged as a coveted destination for intrepid travellers wanting an authentic safari experience. This 9-day trip takes you through Zambia from the majestic Victoria Falls to the pristine plains of Kafue National Park and the wildlife-rich South Luangwa National Park.
The journey begins at the captivating Tongabezi Lodge, where the Zambezi River flows past on its way to the Victoria Falls. An overnight at Sindabezi Island Camp is added on for the unique experience of staying in an off-grid luxury eco-lodge on an island just upstream from Victoria Falls. The pristine landscapes of Kafue National Park are next. Stay at Chisa Busanga Camp in the Busanga Plains, enjoying scenic game drives and tranquil fire-lit evenings. End off in South Luangwa National Park, where Shawa Luangwa Camp beckons. Its prime location along the Luangwa River is popular with a thriving leopard population.
This unforgettable safari is perfect for anyone looking for authenticity without compromising on luxury and comfort. It can be tailored for families traveling together, with each destination offering a family-friendly accommodation option. The lodges' seclusion and romantic touches also make this the perfect escape for couples and honeymooners in search of a romantic getaway.
Expert Opinion: The sprawling grounds provide a tranquil oasis with beautiful riverfront views. This hand-built & owner-managed lodge is serviced by the most hospitable team and their philosophy of giving back, creating jobs and empowering the locals is inspiring.
Upon your arrival at Livingstone International Airport, a driver will be ready to transfer you to the enchanting Tongabezi Lodge. Set alongside the majestic Zambezi River, upstream from the Victoria Falls. The lodge boasts panoramic views of the Zambezi's graceful flow, contrasting with its thunderous cascade at the Falls' precipice. The tranquil surface of the river hiding its powerful nature creates a serene ambiance at the lodge, occasionally enlivened by the calls of hippos and fish eagles.
Victoria Falls offers a plethora of activities year-round, including scenic helicopter rides, zip-lining over Batoka Gorge, bungee jumping, serene sundowner cruises, guided tours of the Falls, indulgent high tea at the iconic Victoria Falls Hotel, and exploring local craft markets. Back at the lodge, leisurely strolls through the gardens, poolside relaxation, and soothing spa treatments provide a perfect way to unwind after a day exploring this wonderful destination.
Fantastic Zambezi River location, close to Victoria Falls
Extraordinary views from The Lookout Island
This romantic hideaway is a great choice for honeymooners
Honeymoon House won Travel Africa's 'Best Room in Africa'
Experience a range of activities, like a boat trip to Livingstone Island
The Dog House private villa available for families
Fully Inclusive Plus (All Meals, Selected Beverages, Selected Extras)
Expert Opinion: The sprawling grounds provide a tranquil oasis with beautiful riverfront views. This hand-built & owner-managed lodge is serviced by the most hospitable team and their philosophy of giving back, creating jobs and empowering the locals is inspiring.
I cannot even tell you how much I loved it here! We basically had a private island to ourselves since there were no other guests! The manager, Timothy, really took care of us, he makes an amazing Old Fashioned, and it was nice talking to him by the fire. He did trick us about being able to see a hippo from our room, we were surprised and delighted by the foam hippo in the rose-filled bath that was drawn for us!
It’s cool that you can only get to the chalets by boat, we saw so many hippos! The sunset boat ride is a must-do! And so convenient, with yummy snacks! The falls were beautiful, we actually got double rainbows the day we went! Angel’s pool though, was a major hig...
A night at Tongabezi's sister property, Sindabezi Island Camp, takes you to an idyllic island on the river. Hop on a boat to be whisked away to a luxury eco-lodge where an island picnic lunch awaits. Your charming open-fronted thatched chalet, crafted from locally sourced materials, offers a perfect blend of indoor-outdoor living.
With the day at your leisure, immerse yourself in off-the-grid paradise. Take a refreshing dip in the plunge pool, indulge in an island picnic, try your hand at fishing, take a walk on the island, drift off on a leisurely sunset cruise. End your day with a signature Sinda Sand Bar stopover before savouring a scrumptious dinner back at the lodge.
Close to the iconic Victoria Falls, the adventure capital of Africa
Romantic open-fronted chalets overlooking the great Zambezi River
Sustainable eco-camp supporting the local community & wildlife
Off-the-grid for a complete refresh of body & soul
Exclusive & authentic bush camp experience in a unique setting
Plunge pool to cool off in after a day of exploration
Abundant birdlife for superb birdwatching
Fully Inclusive (All Meals, Selected Beverages)
I cannot even tell you how much I loved it here! We basically had a private island to ourselves since there were no other guests! The manager, Timothy, really took care of us, he makes an amazing Old Fashioned, and it was nice talking to him by the fire. He did trick us about being able to see a hippo from our room, we were surprised and delighted by the foam hippo in the rose-filled bath that was drawn for us!
It’s cool that you can only get to the chalets by boat, we saw so many hippos! The sunset boat ride is a must-do! And so convenient, with yummy snacks! The falls were beautiful, we actually got double rainbows the day we went! Angel’s pool though, was a major highlight of our trip! It is not to be missed! Coolest thing I’ve done in a long time! We walked with rhinos, which was super cool and was the last of the big 5 we had left to see.
It was a nice treat to have a complimentary massage. Again, very nice of them to make a birthday cake for Matt! Our last night there, Horris the Hippo came to visit (I have a recording of him eating by our chalet and jumping into the water). I would like to come back here in the summer, it’s a lovely place but I think it would be more enjoyable in hotter weather. The visit to Tongabezi School was definitely a highlight, the kids were so cute and it’s really great to see how the company gives back to the local community.
Expert Opinion: Situated in the phenomenal Busanga Plains with an abundance of game and less than a handful of camps, staying in the treetop ‘nests' at Chisa Busanga will be the wow factor of any trip.
Enjoy a last morning on the island before a quick boat trip takes you back to Tongabezi Lodge from where you'll continue by road to Livingstone's airport. Board your charter flight and enjoy the views of rural Zambia below as you make your way to Busanga Airstrip. You'll be met again upon landing and driven the short distance to your base for the next two nights, Chisa Busanga Camp.
Perched on a serene, tree-lined island amidst the vast Busanga Plains in Zambia's Kafue National Park, Chisa Busanga Camp is a true hidden gem within Zambia's largest and most pristine wilderness areas. Embracing eco-conscious practices, the camp operates solely on solar power. This includes the electric game drive vehicles and bicycles for exploring nearby dambos (grassland, which becomes marsh in the wet season). Beyond its idyllic location and eco-friendly ethos, Chisa Busanga Camp is also a marvel of architecture. Inspired by the weaver bird nests adorning the trees, the camp's unique suites flaunt an intricate and fascinating design, living up to its name ‘Chisa,' meaning ‘bird's nest' in Nyanja.
Spend your days tracking wildlife and admiring the landscape on game drives and when you are back at camp lounging at the plunge pool, soaking up the sun sipping a cool drink. The camp's remote location lends a unique and ethereal atmosphere, while the outdoor fire pit offers a cosy spot for sharing tales of the day's adventures.
Rooms are raised pods resembling weaverbird nests
One of the most unique safari accommodations in Africa
Eco-friendly and completely off-the-grid
Silent safari experiences take place in electronic game viewers
Professionally guided walking safaris & mountain bike safaris
Main camp area has a boma and a plunge pool
Guides are employed from the local community
Kafue National Park exceptional lion sightings
Fully Inclusive (All Meals, Selected Beverages)
Expert Opinion: Situated in the phenomenal Busanga Plains with an abundance of game and less than a handful of camps, staying in the treetop ‘nests' at Chisa Busanga will be the wow factor of any trip.
Expert Opinion: If you want to feel like you are in Africa, be close to nature, hear hippos and monkeys from your tent, and experience some of the best guiding, walking and game viewing in Africa but without the crowds, I invite you to stay here. Perfect for a relaxed, adventurous, ‘warm-hearted’ experience. And every stay has a direct Positive Impact on various solutions to local education, women’s health and entrepreneurial empowerment.
After a hearty breakfast, head back to Busanga Airstrip with your guide, where you will board your light aircraft flight to South Luangwa National Park. Upon arrival at Mfuwe Airport, your new guide will meet you for a road transfer to your South Luangwa safari home, Shawa Luangwa Camp.
Nestled along the tree-lined banks of the seasonal Luangwa River, in South Luangwa's Nsefu sector, Shawa Luangwa boasts a prime location for exceptional wildlife encounters. Explore on foot, in an electric game viewer vehicle or on the solar-powered boat should water levels allow. Aside from being kinder to the environment, electric vehicles enhance the game viewing experience as they are almost silent. This means less chance of startling wildlife at a sighting, and you can tune into more of the natural sounds around you.
Your eco-tent offers a comfortable retreat, blending seamlessly with the surroundings. Elevated on stilted platforms, you have an excellent opportunity to spot passing wildlife from the comfort of your private deck. Following an exhilarating day of safari activities and a delicious dinner under the stars, the open-air bathtub awaits, providing the perfect spot to unwind.
Sustainable eco-camp supporting the local community & wildlife
Swimming pool with an expansive view of the river
Solar-powered electric game viewing vehicles for a ‘silent safari'
Outdoor shower & sunken bathtub in each suite for a touch of romance
Incredible leopard sightings in ‘The Valley of Leopards '
Game drives in Nsefu sector & South Luangwa National Park
Walking safaris for an up-close experience of the surrounding habitat
Float along the tranquil Luangwa River on a boat-based safari
Fully Inclusive Plus (All Meals, Selected Beverages, Selected Extras)
Expert Opinion: If you want to feel like you are in Africa, be close to nature, hear hippos and monkeys from your tent, and experience some of the best guiding, walking and game viewing in Africa but without the crowds, I invite you to stay here. Perfect for a relaxed, adventurous, ‘warm-hearted’ experience. And every stay has a direct Positive Impact on various solutions to local education, women’s health and entrepreneurial empowerment.
Savour your last breakfast surrounded by pristine Zambian wilderness before heading back to Mfuwe Airport for a flight to Lusaka Airport where you will continue your journey onward.
Date | Price |
---|---|
2025-07-01 - 2025-09-30 | $10,790 |
2025-10-01 - 2025-10-31 | $10,390 |
2025-11-01 - 2025-11-30 | $8,600 |
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This trip unveils Zambia's hidden gems, beginning at the iconic Victoria Falls, where you'll experience the awe of the falls and enjoy river-based activities. Next, explore the remote Kafue National Park, including the stunning Busanga Plains, known for its rich wildlife and sweeping landscapes. Conclude your journey in South Luangwa, renowned for its walking safaris and up-close wildlife encounters, offering a truly unique and immersive safari adventure.
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