Zambia's Walking, Boating and 4x4 Safari

Itinerary information

From Lusaka Airport, check into your light aircraft transfer to Lufapa Airstrip where a guide will meet you and drive you to camp, a one hour and 15-minute journey from the airstrip through beautiful Zambian landscape. Your adventure begins in the western region of Zambia, where you'll be captivated by the minimalist seclusion of the eco-friendly Musekese Camp. The lodge is nestled in the saddle of a low ridge and situated in one of Zambia’s oldest and largest reserves, Kafue National Park.

A three-night stay in a rustic roll-up canvas tent provides an intimate ‘armchair safari' experience. Wake up each morning to panoramic views of large herds of animals meandering along the thriving lagoon ecosystem. After enjoying a delicious breakfast, venture out for an afternoon game drive. The park’s dedicated conservation efforts have resulted in an increase in the diversity of year-round wildlife sightings, allowing you to spot an abundance of wildlife during your drives. Year-round sightings include large herds of ponderous elephants and a kaleidoscope of avian wildlife flitting between the reeds of the lagoon. Vehicles are equipped with mounts, making it ideal for capturing a shot of the rare leopards that are common to this region. Seasonal offerings include canoeing safaris along the floodplains.

The next full day can be spent venturing out onto the savannah plains for a walking safari with expert guides who will track nearby animals and provide informative tidbits about the region. Evenings at the camp are spent in cozy conviviality in a dining area overlooking the sweeping vistas, accompanied by hearty meals in the ambiance of nocturnal wilderness.

Itinerary information

After a last morning at Musekese Camp, you transfer back to Lufapa Airstrip for a chartered flight to Lusaka, followed by another flight which will take you eastward to Mfuwe Airport, the gateway to South Luangwa National Park. Three nights of classic safari living await you at Kafunta River Lodge. The lodge is dedicated to affording you only the most luxurious and authentic safari experience, from spacious chalets to a fabulous sunken fireplace overlooking the glossy floodplains.

Each day at the lodge is structured to provide you with the best opportunities for wildlife sightings and relaxation. An early-morning wake-up call will see you indulging in delicious tea and snacks before heading out for your first safari excursion of the day. You can opt for a bush walk with an expert field guide at your side, or simply hop into a game vehicle and set out along the vast savannah landscape. As you navigate the banks of the Luangwa River you'll encounter magnificent herds of elephants, as well as big cats in the aptly named ‘Valley of the Leopard'. A slot between your buffet brunch and afternoon tea will give you a chance to indulge in some of the on-site facilities, including a dip in the only natural hot tub in the Luangwa Valley or a visit to the Fig Tree Spa for a therapeutic massage.

Your safari excursions also include spotlit night drives, where you'll get the chance to see the nocturnal animals of this region emerge from their daytime hiding places. Keep an eye out for owls and nightjars scattered amongst the trees. Evenings also include a four-course candlelit meal followed by a nightcap next to the fireplace, before you settle into your plush bed for restful night's sleep.

Itinerary information

Indulge in a continental breakfast before heading out. A game drive transfer takes you further north in the park to your next stay, three nights at the intimate Chikoko Tree Camp. This lodge is located in the northern region of South Luangwa National Park and offers a more intimate safari experience, away from the noise of game vehicles. As an exclusive walking safari bush camp, Chikoko embraces the reserve’s proud history as the birthplace of the walking safari and celebrates its proximity to the famed David Livingstone river crossing. Your day-to-day activities will be filled with either long early morning walks or shorter afternoon strolls.

Follow in the footsteps of past explorers and experience the remoteness of the Luangwa Valley under the specialist guide of National Park scouts. These guides will lead you down winding animal paths, and as experts in traversing the uneven bush terrain, you'll learn about the fine art of animal tracking. Not only will you encounter an abundance of plains games but also get a closer view of Africa's famous Big 5.

These walks are ideal for those who are moderately fit as they typically last between three to four hours. A leisurely pace means you'll have plenty of opportunities to stop and share in the smaller secrets of the bush, including listening out for the subtle sounds of avian wildlife, or for larger sightings of giraffes, zebras, and elephants. At a halfway point, you'll have time for a tea break, and to refresh before you set out for the rest of your exploration.

The simplistic set-up of the camp exudes a unique and rustic charm that prioritizes an intimate bush camp experience. You'll not only enjoy taking in the panorama of the savannahs from your raised chalet but also indulge in quaint evening meals in the cadence of nocturnal wildlife, uninterrupted by the sounds of game vehicles or larger parties of explorers. In the off-season, Tafika Camp replaces Chikoko Tree Camp in this itinerary, upholding the intimate experience of a smaller bush camp offering walking safaris.

Itinerary information

After a revitalising breakfast, embark on a guided walk to Big Lagoon Camp, the sister trails camp to Chikoko Tree Camp. This safari walk includes stops for refreshments, scenic views, and wildlife sightings. Your luggage is transported by porters, so you only need to bring your water bottle, binoculars, and camera.

The camp is nestled in a forest of Ebony trees and overlooks the expansive Big Lagoon, providing a serene setting with excellent game viewing from the camp itself. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch and a siesta before heading out for an afternoon activity if desired. Conclude the day with leisurely sundowners and a three-course dinner under the stars.

Itinerary information

The next morning, it's back to Mfuwe Airport for your flight south to Royal Airstrip in Lower Zambezi. You'll be met by your guide and transferred to the luxurious Baines' River Camp for a three-night. This final stop offers a combination of outdoor excursions and relaxing spa treatments amidst the backdrop of the hilly Lower Zambezi National Park.

The lodge’s sublime placement along the banks of the Zambezi River offers you a variety of water-based activities to enjoy. On your first morning at the lodge, head out for a sunrise cruise to marvel as the mist rolls down the hill to meet the river’s edge. For your first full day, continue your water adventures by experiencing legendary tiger fishing (catch-and-release). Or simply opt for a canoeing safari that will bring you closer to sightings of waterbuck and buffalo hopping between the grassy alluvial islands that rise out of the river.

The next day, head out for game drives along the escarpment and behold the large concentration of animals on the valley floor. In addition to spotting some prized big cats, you'll see large herds of elephants. Enjoy a delicious packed lunch while out on your drive.

Cap off your adventurous days with a relaxing massage in the privacy of your luxury suite, then head for a refreshing cocktail at the bar or for some conviviality around the fireplace in an outdoor boma. Indulge in fine dining under the blanket of the African night sky.

Itinerary information

Savour a delicious breakfast before packing up to meet your driver for a road transfer to Royal Airstrip and flight back to Lusaka, where you'll continue your journey homeward.