Hwange, Victoria Falls and Kafue
3 x nights Davison's Camp
|
2 x nights Toka Leya Camp
|
3 x nights Busanga Bush Camp
|
Safari Season 2018 |
Safari Season 2019 |
7,750 |
7,800 |
per person sharing |
per person sharing |
1st June to 31st October only |
1st June to 31st October only |
Includes internal flights, activities, meals & local drinks. Excludes International flights, Insurance & Items of a personal nature. |
Includes internal flights, activities, meals & local drinks. Excludes International flights, Insurance & Items of a personal nature. |
Davison's Camp
Elephant and buffalo have right of way here
Nestled discreetly beneath a grove of false mopane trees, the remote Davison's Camp is found in the private Linkwasha Concession – one of the most prolific wildlife areas in Hwange National Park. Hidden within the shade of the treeline, this classic African tented camp, with eight tents and one family unit, overlooks an open plain and a productive waterhole.
The main area comprises a spacious lounge and dining room which leads out onto an expansive pine deck and an open campfire area, perfect for convivial evening musings or star gazing. The refreshing pool and its loungers are beautifully positioned for idle relaxation, while a small upper deck is an ideal location from which to watch wildlife at the waterhole.
Highlights
Davison's Camp Wildlife
Hwange’s mix of different veld and landscape types means that game viewing is productive year round. Wildlife frequently encountered in our area includes lion, large herds of elephant, buffalo, cheetah leopard, spotted hyaena, cheetah, giraffe, sable, roan, blue wildebeest, impala, waterbuck and reedbuck. In summer, wildebeest, zebra and eland are found in abundance on the open plains, while in winter elephant congregate in enormous numbers around the waterholes.
Birdlife in the area is prolific (400+) and varied.
Things to do at Davison's Camp
Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe’s largest and most popular national park; our private concession means that sightings of the prolific wildlife are exclusive and private.
Game drives
Game drives take place in open open 4x4 vehicles and are led by our highly experienced guides through our private Wilderness Safaris concessions which are situated in the most productive area of Hwange National Park. The varied habitats and vegetation types as well as countless waterholes mean that drives are exciting with diverse species to be seen.
Morning walking safaris
Hwange was proclaimed some 80 years ago and has served as a haven for one of the densest concentrations of game in Africa. There is no better way to experience this park than on foot with an experienced, qualified walking safari guide.
Evening drivesThe Hwange ‘night act’ includes nocturnal species such as lesser bushbaby, spotted hyaena, leopard, lion, Selous mongoose, pangolin, caracal, porcupine, scrub hare, springhare and even honey badger.
Village Visits
An authentic village experience takes place in a manner that is respectful to all parties. The experience is usually around four hours, with game drives to and from the village, and guided by one of the local villagers or a Wilderness guide. It often includes a guided tour of the school, meeting the headman or headwoman and enjoying cultural exchanges with the villagers.
Nestled discreetly beneath a grove of false mopane trees, the remote Davison's Camp is found in the private Linkwasha Concession – one of the most prolific wildlife areas in Hwange National Park. Hidden within the shade of the treeline, this classic African tented camp, with eight tents and one family unit, overlooks an open plain and a productive waterhole.
The main area comprises a spacious lounge and dining room which leads out onto an expansive pine deck and an open campfire area, perfect for convivial evening musings or star gazing. The refreshing pool and its loungers are beautifully positioned for idle relaxation, while a small upper deck is an ideal location from which to watch wildlife at the waterhole.
Highlights
- Davison’s Camp is located in one of the best game viewing areas of the entire Park.
- In winter, the waterhole in front of camp is a magnet for wildlife great and small.
- With over 100 mammal species, Hwange has some of the highest mammal diversity of any national park.
Davison's Camp Wildlife
Hwange’s mix of different veld and landscape types means that game viewing is productive year round. Wildlife frequently encountered in our area includes lion, large herds of elephant, buffalo, cheetah leopard, spotted hyaena, cheetah, giraffe, sable, roan, blue wildebeest, impala, waterbuck and reedbuck. In summer, wildebeest, zebra and eland are found in abundance on the open plains, while in winter elephant congregate in enormous numbers around the waterholes.
Birdlife in the area is prolific (400+) and varied.
Things to do at Davison's Camp
Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe’s largest and most popular national park; our private concession means that sightings of the prolific wildlife are exclusive and private.
Game drives
Game drives take place in open open 4x4 vehicles and are led by our highly experienced guides through our private Wilderness Safaris concessions which are situated in the most productive area of Hwange National Park. The varied habitats and vegetation types as well as countless waterholes mean that drives are exciting with diverse species to be seen.
Morning walking safaris
Hwange was proclaimed some 80 years ago and has served as a haven for one of the densest concentrations of game in Africa. There is no better way to experience this park than on foot with an experienced, qualified walking safari guide.
Evening drivesThe Hwange ‘night act’ includes nocturnal species such as lesser bushbaby, spotted hyaena, leopard, lion, Selous mongoose, pangolin, caracal, porcupine, scrub hare, springhare and even honey badger.
Village Visits
An authentic village experience takes place in a manner that is respectful to all parties. The experience is usually around four hours, with game drives to and from the village, and guided by one of the local villagers or a Wilderness guide. It often includes a guided tour of the school, meeting the headman or headwoman and enjoying cultural exchanges with the villagers.
Toka Leya Camp
Stay on the Mighty Zambezi
Overlooking the mighty Zambezi River and some of its islands, Toka Leya Camp is splendidly situated in the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. Twelve spacious en-suite safari-style tents (including three family tents) with expansive decks soak up the dramatic views and active wildlife. Wooden walkways snake between the units and main area, limiting our footprint on this pristine area.
The camp’s generous dining, lounge and bar areas offer scenic relaxation and are complemented by an infinity pool, a sundeck for sumptuous meals and a convivial fire pit for night-time gatherings. The novel pizza oven is a great hit with all our guests, especially the younger ones!
Highlights
Wildlife at Toka Leya Camp
Toka Leya overlooks the mighty Zambezi River where hippo, crocodile and elephant are often seen, as well as an incredible diversity of birdlife. It is also centrally located in the Mosi-oa-Tunya Park which hosts species such as buffalo, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest and white rhino. The occasional predator is also seen. Several sought-after bird species are found, including African finfoot, half-collared kingfisher, African skimmer (seasonal), Schalow's turaco and rock pratincole (seasonal).
Things to do at Toka Leya Camp
While Toka Leya’s location on the banks of the Zambezi River and proximity to Victoria Falls ensures a variety of exciting activities – including water- and land-based safaris and adventure pursuits – rest and relaxation is also a well-defined pastime here.
Wellness Centre
The Wellness Centre is a haven of tranquillity with a variety of spa treatments, such as massages, facials and nail care, while the gym and its panoramic deck is the ideal spot to practice inspired yoga or pilates.
Victoria Falls Tour*
A World Heritage Site, Victoria Falls straddles the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia and is the most expansive curtain of water in the world. View its roaring waters, spectacular spray and a small rainforest that clings to the Falls’ edge, with a variety of mammals and birds. *A tour on the Zambian side is included in your stay; the view from the Zimbabwean side is at extra cost.
Interpretive game drives
Game drives into Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park offer sightings of general game species such as elephant, buffalo, giraffe and white rhino. There is also rich birdlife, including sought-after species such as half-collared kingfisher and Schalow’s turaco.
River cruises
Whether a relaxing sunset cruise or a game viewing cruise, there are scenic views and exciting wildlife to be enjoyed from the comfort of a spacious boat. There's always an abundance of hippo and crocodile, as well as a few other surprises along the way.
Cultural community visit
Cultural visits to one of the nearby villages are respectful and insightful ways of learning about and interacting with the people and culture of this part of Zambia. The visit includes seeing one of the schools, a homestead and the village store. Guest donations have assisted with projects that focus on schooling and income-generating activities, ensuring that the community benefits from tourism in the area.
Rhino Tracking*
Tracking rhino at Toka Leya is an exciting way of getting up close and personal with these Endangered animals. Department of National Parks and Wildlife (previously ZAWA) scouts monitor the rhino 24 hours a day and therefore the animals’ whereabouts are always known. Travel to the location by vehicle and then track the rhino on foot, accompanied by the scout. *Subject to availability of a ZAWA Scout and on request
Catch-and-release fishing*
The Zambezi River hosts several varieties of bream (Tilapia) which are a good catch. Tiger fishing is an unforgettable challenge for keen fishermen, particularly during the warmer months (October - December). *Please note that a nominal park fee is applicable.
Back-of-house tour
Toka Leya’s back-of-house tour enables guests to gain an understanding of the camp’s eco-friendly initiatives. Energy saving is explained as well as how waste water is reused in the camp nursery which was established to rehabilitate the area. The camp’s worm farm not only assists in the degradation of organic waste but is the perfect fertiliser for the indigenous trees in the nursery – which are then planted in areas where they once grew.
Livingstone Town Tours
Visit the local museum, markets and shops to get a glimpse of historic and modern Livingstone town. Guests may also visit the local village and school to learn about the people and culture of this part of Zambia.
Adventure Activities*
Other activities on offer in the area include sunset cruises, helicopter flights, canoeing, jet boating and white water rafting.
*These activities are at extra cost.
Overlooking the mighty Zambezi River and some of its islands, Toka Leya Camp is splendidly situated in the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. Twelve spacious en-suite safari-style tents (including three family tents) with expansive decks soak up the dramatic views and active wildlife. Wooden walkways snake between the units and main area, limiting our footprint on this pristine area.
The camp’s generous dining, lounge and bar areas offer scenic relaxation and are complemented by an infinity pool, a sundeck for sumptuous meals and a convivial fire pit for night-time gatherings. The novel pizza oven is a great hit with all our guests, especially the younger ones!
Highlights
- Situated just 12 kilometres from the world-renowned Victoria Falls
- The area offers many activities including safaris, fishing on the Zambezi and adrenalin-pumping adventures
- Hippo, crocodile and elephant are regularly seen near camp
Wildlife at Toka Leya Camp
Toka Leya overlooks the mighty Zambezi River where hippo, crocodile and elephant are often seen, as well as an incredible diversity of birdlife. It is also centrally located in the Mosi-oa-Tunya Park which hosts species such as buffalo, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest and white rhino. The occasional predator is also seen. Several sought-after bird species are found, including African finfoot, half-collared kingfisher, African skimmer (seasonal), Schalow's turaco and rock pratincole (seasonal).
Things to do at Toka Leya Camp
While Toka Leya’s location on the banks of the Zambezi River and proximity to Victoria Falls ensures a variety of exciting activities – including water- and land-based safaris and adventure pursuits – rest and relaxation is also a well-defined pastime here.
Wellness Centre
The Wellness Centre is a haven of tranquillity with a variety of spa treatments, such as massages, facials and nail care, while the gym and its panoramic deck is the ideal spot to practice inspired yoga or pilates.
Victoria Falls Tour*
A World Heritage Site, Victoria Falls straddles the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia and is the most expansive curtain of water in the world. View its roaring waters, spectacular spray and a small rainforest that clings to the Falls’ edge, with a variety of mammals and birds. *A tour on the Zambian side is included in your stay; the view from the Zimbabwean side is at extra cost.
Interpretive game drives
Game drives into Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park offer sightings of general game species such as elephant, buffalo, giraffe and white rhino. There is also rich birdlife, including sought-after species such as half-collared kingfisher and Schalow’s turaco.
River cruises
Whether a relaxing sunset cruise or a game viewing cruise, there are scenic views and exciting wildlife to be enjoyed from the comfort of a spacious boat. There's always an abundance of hippo and crocodile, as well as a few other surprises along the way.
Cultural community visit
Cultural visits to one of the nearby villages are respectful and insightful ways of learning about and interacting with the people and culture of this part of Zambia. The visit includes seeing one of the schools, a homestead and the village store. Guest donations have assisted with projects that focus on schooling and income-generating activities, ensuring that the community benefits from tourism in the area.
Rhino Tracking*
Tracking rhino at Toka Leya is an exciting way of getting up close and personal with these Endangered animals. Department of National Parks and Wildlife (previously ZAWA) scouts monitor the rhino 24 hours a day and therefore the animals’ whereabouts are always known. Travel to the location by vehicle and then track the rhino on foot, accompanied by the scout. *Subject to availability of a ZAWA Scout and on request
Catch-and-release fishing*
The Zambezi River hosts several varieties of bream (Tilapia) which are a good catch. Tiger fishing is an unforgettable challenge for keen fishermen, particularly during the warmer months (October - December). *Please note that a nominal park fee is applicable.
Back-of-house tour
Toka Leya’s back-of-house tour enables guests to gain an understanding of the camp’s eco-friendly initiatives. Energy saving is explained as well as how waste water is reused in the camp nursery which was established to rehabilitate the area. The camp’s worm farm not only assists in the degradation of organic waste but is the perfect fertiliser for the indigenous trees in the nursery – which are then planted in areas where they once grew.
Livingstone Town Tours
Visit the local museum, markets and shops to get a glimpse of historic and modern Livingstone town. Guests may also visit the local village and school to learn about the people and culture of this part of Zambia.
Adventure Activities*
Other activities on offer in the area include sunset cruises, helicopter flights, canoeing, jet boating and white water rafting.
*These activities are at extra cost.
Busanga Bush Camp
A true original at the heart of the Plains
Busanga Bush Camp lies in the heart of the Busanga Plains, a vast mosaic of expansive grassy seasonal floodplains that extend to the horizon. When the mist rises off the floodplains as they dry up in winter, incredible sunrises and sunsets are experienced here, while the floodplains and dambos teem with wildlife and birds.
Hidden on a tree-island of sycamore fig trees, the camp has four well-appointed en-suite tents each with a veranda to take in the sweeping views. The lounge and bar area is under canvas with an uninterrupted view out over the plains. A little further back is the dining area, shaded by the canopy of a majestic tree from which an unusual lantern chandelier hangs, romantically lighting up dinner; most meals are served in the open air.
Highlights
Wildlife at Busanga Bush Camp
The Busanga Plains are famed for its productive prides of lion. Other predators seen here include wild dog and cheetah which are drawn to the prolific plains game of the area. Puku, red lechwe, buffalo and wildebeest are just some of these, while a special treat is the resident herd of roan antelope. As the floodplains dry out more and more game is attracted from the surrounding woodlands and it is then that zebra numbers increase and sable venture out onto the plains. Hippo are also abundant and often found in large pods in the channels. For those interested in birding, the park boasts 491 species, including as the endemic Chaplin's barbet.
Things to do at Busanga Bush Camp
Activities at Busanga Bush Camp include day and night game drives, led by qualified guides who are extremely knowledgeable about the area and its wildlife, as well as boating during the early part of the season while hot air balloon safaris run from August to October.
Game drives
Interpretive game drives in open vehicles allow guests to view large numbers of plains game such as puku, red lechwe, buffalo and wildebeest and even the rare roan antelope. The famous lions of Kafue, cheetah and wild dog are also to be seen.
Guided night drives
Led by a highly trained and knowledgeable guide, night drives offer a glimpse into Busanga Plains’ unique, nocturnal world. A diverse range of species may be seen at night, including genet, civet, owls and occasionally the elusive leopard.
Hot Air Balloon Safari
The most exclusive wildlife ballooning in all of Africa, this activity allows you to take to the skies in style. Gaze over scenic splendour, watch hippo playing far below and fly eye-to-eye with an eagle. This experience (complimentary for guests who stay three nights or more) ends with a champagne breakfast. (August to October)
Boating
Early on in the season, the Busanga Plains are still covered in much water. A boating excursion during this time allows for exploration of the channels and their life.
Specialist birding safari
Boasting 491 species, including the endemic Chaplin's barbet, birding enthusiasts will be spoilt for choice on a specialist birding safari. The area is also alive with rollers, bee-eaters, kingfishers, herons and large flocks of storks, to name a few.
Walking Safaris
Experiencing Kafue on foot is a remarkable way to enjoy the small wonders of the Park and to view general game and a variety of bird species. Walking safaris are always done with a Department Of National Parks And Wildlife Scout (DNPW) Scout.
*Seasonal and subject to availability of a DNPW scout and qualified walking guide.
Busanga Bush Camp lies in the heart of the Busanga Plains, a vast mosaic of expansive grassy seasonal floodplains that extend to the horizon. When the mist rises off the floodplains as they dry up in winter, incredible sunrises and sunsets are experienced here, while the floodplains and dambos teem with wildlife and birds.
Hidden on a tree-island of sycamore fig trees, the camp has four well-appointed en-suite tents each with a veranda to take in the sweeping views. The lounge and bar area is under canvas with an uninterrupted view out over the plains. A little further back is the dining area, shaded by the canopy of a majestic tree from which an unusual lantern chandelier hangs, romantically lighting up dinner; most meals are served in the open air.
Highlights
- The Busanga Plains provide some of the best lion viewing in Africa
- Hot air balloon rides over endless plains, with hippo and dashing lechwe to be seen far below
- At certain times, the rising mist over the floodplains creates spectacular photographic opportunities
Wildlife at Busanga Bush Camp
The Busanga Plains are famed for its productive prides of lion. Other predators seen here include wild dog and cheetah which are drawn to the prolific plains game of the area. Puku, red lechwe, buffalo and wildebeest are just some of these, while a special treat is the resident herd of roan antelope. As the floodplains dry out more and more game is attracted from the surrounding woodlands and it is then that zebra numbers increase and sable venture out onto the plains. Hippo are also abundant and often found in large pods in the channels. For those interested in birding, the park boasts 491 species, including as the endemic Chaplin's barbet.
Things to do at Busanga Bush Camp
Activities at Busanga Bush Camp include day and night game drives, led by qualified guides who are extremely knowledgeable about the area and its wildlife, as well as boating during the early part of the season while hot air balloon safaris run from August to October.
Game drives
Interpretive game drives in open vehicles allow guests to view large numbers of plains game such as puku, red lechwe, buffalo and wildebeest and even the rare roan antelope. The famous lions of Kafue, cheetah and wild dog are also to be seen.
Guided night drives
Led by a highly trained and knowledgeable guide, night drives offer a glimpse into Busanga Plains’ unique, nocturnal world. A diverse range of species may be seen at night, including genet, civet, owls and occasionally the elusive leopard.
Hot Air Balloon Safari
The most exclusive wildlife ballooning in all of Africa, this activity allows you to take to the skies in style. Gaze over scenic splendour, watch hippo playing far below and fly eye-to-eye with an eagle. This experience (complimentary for guests who stay three nights or more) ends with a champagne breakfast. (August to October)
Boating
Early on in the season, the Busanga Plains are still covered in much water. A boating excursion during this time allows for exploration of the channels and their life.
Specialist birding safari
Boasting 491 species, including the endemic Chaplin's barbet, birding enthusiasts will be spoilt for choice on a specialist birding safari. The area is also alive with rollers, bee-eaters, kingfishers, herons and large flocks of storks, to name a few.
Walking Safaris
Experiencing Kafue on foot is a remarkable way to enjoy the small wonders of the Park and to view general game and a variety of bird species. Walking safaris are always done with a Department Of National Parks And Wildlife Scout (DNPW) Scout.
*Seasonal and subject to availability of a DNPW scout and qualified walking guide.
A typical day on safari:
05:30 - Wake up call
06:00 - Light Breakfast
06:30 - Morning activity begins
11:00 - Return to camp for Brunch
12:00 - Siesta during the hot part of the day
15:30 - Afternoon Tea
16:00 - Afternoon activity
19:30 - Return to Camp
20:00 - Dinner
21:00 - Night Game Drive at selected camps
06:00 - Light Breakfast
06:30 - Morning activity begins
11:00 - Return to camp for Brunch
12:00 - Siesta during the hot part of the day
15:30 - Afternoon Tea
16:00 - Afternoon activity
19:30 - Return to Camp
20:00 - Dinner
21:00 - Night Game Drive at selected camps
Zambia & Zimbabwe Wildlife And National Parks
South Luangwa National Park
The South Luangwa NP is Zambia's premier National Park and is one of the greatest wildlife sanctuaries in the world. The concentration of game along the Luangwa River and its associated ox-bow lagoons is amongst the most intense anywhere in Africa. It is truly an un-spoilt wilderness.
The meandering Luangwa River teems with hippos and crocodiles and provides a lifeline for a great diversity of habitat and wildlife. With over 60 species of mammals and over 400 species of birds, the South Luangwa National Park has earned its excellent reputation. It is home to two endemic species, the Thornicroft Giraffe and Cookson's Wildebeest and is one of the best parks in Africa to view leopards in their natural environment.
One exciting success story of recent years is the resurgence of the African Wild Dog population. This species was almost wiped out by anthrax in the late 1980s but over the past decade has strengthened considerably in numbers. Today, although far from guaranteed, sightings of wild dog are common and Luwi and Nsolo bush camp are some of the best camps in the Park to see these special creatures; in recent years the dogs have been known to den between the two camps.
The National Park is 9,050 km² (3,500 square miles), un-fenced but bordered to the West by a steep escarpment and to the East by the Luangwa River. Once known as ‘The Valley of the Elephants', back in the early 1970s it was home to the world's largest population of elephant. Although ivory poachers reduced the population dramatically, the Park authorities and their fellow conservation outfits such as SLCS are taking control once more and the population is regenerating strongly. There are plenty of young to be seen and numbers are visibly on the increase once more.
Lower Zambezi National Park
The Lower Zambezi National Park is nestled between an impressive escarpment to the north and the mighty Zambezi River to the south. The escarpment acts as a barrier for the game, keeping it on the plains and in the rich woodland on the bank of the river. The Park is over 4,000 square kilometres in size and occupies 120kms of river frontage. It lies on the Zambezi River after it has plunged over the Victoria Falls and the Kariba Dam on its majestic way to the Indian Ocean.
Situated just south east of Lusaka, access by road is possible in the dry season but all our guests travel there by light aircraft. Flying time is approximately 35 minutes from Lusaka or 1 hour 45 minutes from Mfuwe.
The Park is rich in wildlife, with large herds of buffalo and great elephant viewing. Lions are quite numerous and leopard sightings pretty common. Perhaps the most exciting aspect of game viewing in the Lower Zambezi is the variety of river activities on offer. Unlike the Luangwa River, the Zambezi is navigable year round so most camps offer a full variety of water activities such as fishing and canoeing alongside their standard walking and driving options making it a good addition to a safari in the Luangwa Valley.
The National Park was only developed for tourism relatively recently. It was gazetted in 1983 and only became popular as a destination in the 1990s. As a result there are only a few camp sites inside the National Park and no network of all weather roads. Whilst being one of the region's charms, this does mean that the safari season is limited to those months where access is possible, and hence the time to visit the Lower Zambezi is between April and November. The season starts once the rains have subsided. The vegetation is lush at this time of year but as the months pass the bush dries out, the game gathers and the sightings improve.
Livingstone & Victoria Falls
The magnificent Victoria Falls are known by the local people as Mosi-oa-tunya - "The smoke that thunders". The Falls, discovered by David Livingstone in 1885 and named after his Queen, are the result of the mighty Zambezi River tumbling to a depth of 300 feet over a basalt fault line a mile wide. They are one of the greatest natural wonders of the world.
There is far more to do here than only to marvel at the Falls themselves; upstream where the Zambezi is calm and placid, sundowner cruises and gentle canoe trips along the game rich banks are on offer. But once the river has taken its plunge, there are some amazing “adrenaline” activities to be experienced. For those with the courage, the rapids immediately downstream offer some of the most exciting white water rafting anywhere in the world.
There is also a spectacular excursion to be made on foot. The rainforest on the lip of the chasm opposite the Falls is a unique swathe of dense tropical vegetation which thrives on the spray thrown up throughout the year.
But the ultimate view of this natural wonder is from the air. The 'Flight of Angels' provides a fabulous vista of the upstream river and its many islands, the spray from the Falls as it is kicked a thousand feet into the sky, and the tortuous zigzag of the gorge downstream.
A visit to Livingstone Island is another treat for guests to this area. The island sits atop the Falls themselves, access is by boat and for the extremely adventurous you can make your way to the Devil’s Pools on the very edge of the Falls which is a naturally formed pool with a rock barrier, preventing you from heading over the side!
Kafue National Park
Africa's third largest National Park covers an area of over 22,000 square kilometers in Western Zambia. It is very large by any standards and although it is Zambia's oldest Park it is still relatively undeveloped and always gives a feeling of true wilderness.
In the early years Norman Carr was the Kafue's first Warden before he moved his focus to the South Luangwa. Investment has returned to the Kafue in recent years and there are now several operators hard at work re-establishing the Park's great reputation although game is still skittish and access is challenging.
The Kafue River and its numerous tributaries supply water to a diversity of habitats, with extensive riverine woodland opening out at intervals to wide grassy plains. Termite mounds, palm islands and impressive fig trees punctuate these plains.
The Busanga is a vast floodplain system in the North West of the Park fed by the Lufupa River. For at least six months of the year (December through June) the area is inaccessible due to heavy summer rains, but outside of those months the fertile plains provide excellent grazing for a wide variety of antelope and of course the predators that feed on them.
North Luangwa National Park
"Wilderness" is the best single word to describe this National Park. The drama of its natural, unspoilt beauty is what strikes most visitors first. Walking safaris were first conducted here in the mid 1980s but since then only three safari operators have been adventurous enough to stake their territories here. All operate small, remote bush camps and there are no permanent lodges in the area. Even today you are not allowed into the Park unless escorted professionally and there is only one road in.
As with the South Luangwa, the National Park is sandwiched between the Muchinga Escarpment and the Luangwa River. The habitats vary from wide grassy plains, through Mopani woodland to rich riverine forests hosting Acacias, Mahoganies and Sausage Trees.
The Mwaleshi River is a tributary of the Luangwa that winds its way down the escarpment in a series of waterfalls and then across the valley floor, the river recedes during the dryer months of the year but remains attractive to many species of antelope and the herds of buffalo that are common in this Park. It is along this watercourse that walking safaris are conducted and accommodation is in small, remote camps. The game is not quite so plentiful in the North Park and no game drives are available. There is a successful black rhino introduction programme in the North Park but it’s unlikely that guests will be able to see them at this stage.
Liuwa Plain
Liuwa Plain National Park has a long and rich history and is homeland of the Lozi people; it is one of Africa’s last great untouched wilderness areas.
The traditional Monarch of the area is the Paramount Chief or King, called the Litunga, meaning 'keeper or guardian of the earth'. One of the earliest protected areas in Africa, Liuwa Plain was proclaimed a game reserve by the king in the early 1880’s and used as a royal hunting ground. It is the only National Park in Zambia where people live inside the Park as well as in the surrounding areas and the Lozi people of the area were originally placed in the park by the Litunga as his official gamekeepers. The Park was accredited with national park status in 1972.
This is a true remote wilderness area, managed by African Parks Zambia since 2003. It has an abundance of wildlife and is home to the continent’s second largest wildebeest migration or movement. Every year tens of thousands of blue wildebeest graze their way north (starting late June early July) and then when the rains build up in late October they head southwards again following the numerous pans and nutritious forage they offer.
Guests will be able to see first-hand how African Parks is securing the future of this recovering ecosystem. Often described as the photographers dream, along with thousands of wildebeest, guests will discover various species of rare birds (330 species; some in flocks of hundreds, like the wattled crane), follow cheetah or lion hunt on the plains or watch the apex predator of the area, hyena, in clans of up to 50 hunting or interacting at their den. The landscape also holds a special magic, with dramatic thunderstorms gathering on the horizon to build up to an awe-inspiring spectacle (Oct/Nov) and the stark contrast of green and gold grasslands against the dark and ominous blue of a rising storm. Flowers bloom in a variety of colours and are incongruent with the predators who roll and sleep amongst them.
Hwange National Park
This world famous National Park is known for its large number of Elephants and Predators. The Waterholes within the Park provide a multitude of opportunities to observe the interaction of the wild inhabitants of Hwange. Whilst enjoying a sundown drink at one of these waterholes you will be joined by a herd of Elephants enjoying a late evening drink and wash, whilst another herd will be waiting in the background for their opportunity.
The Lodges of Hwange are well established and provide a superb quality of accommodation to enjoy the park to its fullest from within. This is the ‘Classic’ Safari destination and you won’t be disappointed as the standard of the guiding within Zimbabwe is second to none and if you want to learn about the African bush then Zimbabwe is definitely the place to go.
Mana Pools National Park
This UNESCO World Heritage site brings the feeling of untouched Africa. The ancient landscape in the floodplains of the mighty Zambezi River will take you back to times of the great Explorers. Whilst here in Mana Pools it is highly recommended that you take a three night trip on the Zambezi in Canadian Kayaks, where you will drift with the fast running River and become part of the bush, no longer just the observer.
Mana Pools teems with wildlife and it is possible to get up close with many of the species there. This is a fantastic place to see large pods of Hippo lazing in the river as the heat of the day takes its toll and as the Sun goes down listening to calls of the Hippo as they get ready to come to land for their night time feeding.
The South Luangwa NP is Zambia's premier National Park and is one of the greatest wildlife sanctuaries in the world. The concentration of game along the Luangwa River and its associated ox-bow lagoons is amongst the most intense anywhere in Africa. It is truly an un-spoilt wilderness.
The meandering Luangwa River teems with hippos and crocodiles and provides a lifeline for a great diversity of habitat and wildlife. With over 60 species of mammals and over 400 species of birds, the South Luangwa National Park has earned its excellent reputation. It is home to two endemic species, the Thornicroft Giraffe and Cookson's Wildebeest and is one of the best parks in Africa to view leopards in their natural environment.
One exciting success story of recent years is the resurgence of the African Wild Dog population. This species was almost wiped out by anthrax in the late 1980s but over the past decade has strengthened considerably in numbers. Today, although far from guaranteed, sightings of wild dog are common and Luwi and Nsolo bush camp are some of the best camps in the Park to see these special creatures; in recent years the dogs have been known to den between the two camps.
The National Park is 9,050 km² (3,500 square miles), un-fenced but bordered to the West by a steep escarpment and to the East by the Luangwa River. Once known as ‘The Valley of the Elephants', back in the early 1970s it was home to the world's largest population of elephant. Although ivory poachers reduced the population dramatically, the Park authorities and their fellow conservation outfits such as SLCS are taking control once more and the population is regenerating strongly. There are plenty of young to be seen and numbers are visibly on the increase once more.
Lower Zambezi National Park
The Lower Zambezi National Park is nestled between an impressive escarpment to the north and the mighty Zambezi River to the south. The escarpment acts as a barrier for the game, keeping it on the plains and in the rich woodland on the bank of the river. The Park is over 4,000 square kilometres in size and occupies 120kms of river frontage. It lies on the Zambezi River after it has plunged over the Victoria Falls and the Kariba Dam on its majestic way to the Indian Ocean.
Situated just south east of Lusaka, access by road is possible in the dry season but all our guests travel there by light aircraft. Flying time is approximately 35 minutes from Lusaka or 1 hour 45 minutes from Mfuwe.
The Park is rich in wildlife, with large herds of buffalo and great elephant viewing. Lions are quite numerous and leopard sightings pretty common. Perhaps the most exciting aspect of game viewing in the Lower Zambezi is the variety of river activities on offer. Unlike the Luangwa River, the Zambezi is navigable year round so most camps offer a full variety of water activities such as fishing and canoeing alongside their standard walking and driving options making it a good addition to a safari in the Luangwa Valley.
The National Park was only developed for tourism relatively recently. It was gazetted in 1983 and only became popular as a destination in the 1990s. As a result there are only a few camp sites inside the National Park and no network of all weather roads. Whilst being one of the region's charms, this does mean that the safari season is limited to those months where access is possible, and hence the time to visit the Lower Zambezi is between April and November. The season starts once the rains have subsided. The vegetation is lush at this time of year but as the months pass the bush dries out, the game gathers and the sightings improve.
Livingstone & Victoria Falls
The magnificent Victoria Falls are known by the local people as Mosi-oa-tunya - "The smoke that thunders". The Falls, discovered by David Livingstone in 1885 and named after his Queen, are the result of the mighty Zambezi River tumbling to a depth of 300 feet over a basalt fault line a mile wide. They are one of the greatest natural wonders of the world.
There is far more to do here than only to marvel at the Falls themselves; upstream where the Zambezi is calm and placid, sundowner cruises and gentle canoe trips along the game rich banks are on offer. But once the river has taken its plunge, there are some amazing “adrenaline” activities to be experienced. For those with the courage, the rapids immediately downstream offer some of the most exciting white water rafting anywhere in the world.
There is also a spectacular excursion to be made on foot. The rainforest on the lip of the chasm opposite the Falls is a unique swathe of dense tropical vegetation which thrives on the spray thrown up throughout the year.
But the ultimate view of this natural wonder is from the air. The 'Flight of Angels' provides a fabulous vista of the upstream river and its many islands, the spray from the Falls as it is kicked a thousand feet into the sky, and the tortuous zigzag of the gorge downstream.
A visit to Livingstone Island is another treat for guests to this area. The island sits atop the Falls themselves, access is by boat and for the extremely adventurous you can make your way to the Devil’s Pools on the very edge of the Falls which is a naturally formed pool with a rock barrier, preventing you from heading over the side!
Kafue National Park
Africa's third largest National Park covers an area of over 22,000 square kilometers in Western Zambia. It is very large by any standards and although it is Zambia's oldest Park it is still relatively undeveloped and always gives a feeling of true wilderness.
In the early years Norman Carr was the Kafue's first Warden before he moved his focus to the South Luangwa. Investment has returned to the Kafue in recent years and there are now several operators hard at work re-establishing the Park's great reputation although game is still skittish and access is challenging.
The Kafue River and its numerous tributaries supply water to a diversity of habitats, with extensive riverine woodland opening out at intervals to wide grassy plains. Termite mounds, palm islands and impressive fig trees punctuate these plains.
The Busanga is a vast floodplain system in the North West of the Park fed by the Lufupa River. For at least six months of the year (December through June) the area is inaccessible due to heavy summer rains, but outside of those months the fertile plains provide excellent grazing for a wide variety of antelope and of course the predators that feed on them.
North Luangwa National Park
"Wilderness" is the best single word to describe this National Park. The drama of its natural, unspoilt beauty is what strikes most visitors first. Walking safaris were first conducted here in the mid 1980s but since then only three safari operators have been adventurous enough to stake their territories here. All operate small, remote bush camps and there are no permanent lodges in the area. Even today you are not allowed into the Park unless escorted professionally and there is only one road in.
As with the South Luangwa, the National Park is sandwiched between the Muchinga Escarpment and the Luangwa River. The habitats vary from wide grassy plains, through Mopani woodland to rich riverine forests hosting Acacias, Mahoganies and Sausage Trees.
The Mwaleshi River is a tributary of the Luangwa that winds its way down the escarpment in a series of waterfalls and then across the valley floor, the river recedes during the dryer months of the year but remains attractive to many species of antelope and the herds of buffalo that are common in this Park. It is along this watercourse that walking safaris are conducted and accommodation is in small, remote camps. The game is not quite so plentiful in the North Park and no game drives are available. There is a successful black rhino introduction programme in the North Park but it’s unlikely that guests will be able to see them at this stage.
Liuwa Plain
Liuwa Plain National Park has a long and rich history and is homeland of the Lozi people; it is one of Africa’s last great untouched wilderness areas.
The traditional Monarch of the area is the Paramount Chief or King, called the Litunga, meaning 'keeper or guardian of the earth'. One of the earliest protected areas in Africa, Liuwa Plain was proclaimed a game reserve by the king in the early 1880’s and used as a royal hunting ground. It is the only National Park in Zambia where people live inside the Park as well as in the surrounding areas and the Lozi people of the area were originally placed in the park by the Litunga as his official gamekeepers. The Park was accredited with national park status in 1972.
This is a true remote wilderness area, managed by African Parks Zambia since 2003. It has an abundance of wildlife and is home to the continent’s second largest wildebeest migration or movement. Every year tens of thousands of blue wildebeest graze their way north (starting late June early July) and then when the rains build up in late October they head southwards again following the numerous pans and nutritious forage they offer.
Guests will be able to see first-hand how African Parks is securing the future of this recovering ecosystem. Often described as the photographers dream, along with thousands of wildebeest, guests will discover various species of rare birds (330 species; some in flocks of hundreds, like the wattled crane), follow cheetah or lion hunt on the plains or watch the apex predator of the area, hyena, in clans of up to 50 hunting or interacting at their den. The landscape also holds a special magic, with dramatic thunderstorms gathering on the horizon to build up to an awe-inspiring spectacle (Oct/Nov) and the stark contrast of green and gold grasslands against the dark and ominous blue of a rising storm. Flowers bloom in a variety of colours and are incongruent with the predators who roll and sleep amongst them.
Hwange National Park
This world famous National Park is known for its large number of Elephants and Predators. The Waterholes within the Park provide a multitude of opportunities to observe the interaction of the wild inhabitants of Hwange. Whilst enjoying a sundown drink at one of these waterholes you will be joined by a herd of Elephants enjoying a late evening drink and wash, whilst another herd will be waiting in the background for their opportunity.
The Lodges of Hwange are well established and provide a superb quality of accommodation to enjoy the park to its fullest from within. This is the ‘Classic’ Safari destination and you won’t be disappointed as the standard of the guiding within Zimbabwe is second to none and if you want to learn about the African bush then Zimbabwe is definitely the place to go.
Mana Pools National Park
This UNESCO World Heritage site brings the feeling of untouched Africa. The ancient landscape in the floodplains of the mighty Zambezi River will take you back to times of the great Explorers. Whilst here in Mana Pools it is highly recommended that you take a three night trip on the Zambezi in Canadian Kayaks, where you will drift with the fast running River and become part of the bush, no longer just the observer.
Mana Pools teems with wildlife and it is possible to get up close with many of the species there. This is a fantastic place to see large pods of Hippo lazing in the river as the heat of the day takes its toll and as the Sun goes down listening to calls of the Hippo as they get ready to come to land for their night time feeding.