Walking, Wildlife, and Waterways of Zambia
Zambia is one of Africa's greatest treasures. The birthplace of the walking safari and the conservation-based tourism model, Zambia offers excellent megafauna safaris yet remains far from a mainstream experience.
Overview:
This Great Expeditions-hosted group safari has been designed to showcase the most iconic regions of Zambia. These include Kafue National Park, Lower Zambezi National Park, and the South Luangwa National Park, offering classic and intimate safari camps committed to outstanding guiding and immersion in nature and owner-operated properties with a deep commitment to conservation. Small, intimate, and personal yet with creature comforts that don't distract from the immersion in nature -- that's what bush camps are all about!
Zambia offers great chances to encounter elusive predators such as leopard and African wild dog and is second to none for night drives, which bring out obscure and entertaining species such as aardvark or bush pig. Day and night game drives, walking, boating, and fishing opportunities will all be available to our private group accompanied by expert local guides.
We've selected upmarket fly camping kits and small, permanent reed-thatched safari camps to provide this immersive, classic safari experience. The itinerary has been designed to maintain superb small-group flexibility to enjoy the full range of activities available at each property as well as streamlined connections between the parks through private charter flights. Clear and cold night skies carpeted by the Milky Way will be warmed by campfires and hot thermoses waiting in bed as we sleep to the sounds of lions calling in the distance. Mid-day highs will be perfectly mild, ideal for walking safari as long as you bundle up for crisp mornings as we discover the secrets of these unique ecosystems. This trip is perfect for any travelers who welcome an immersive nature experience and who like to learn and participate on their adventures. Our safari features private vehicles with no more than six guests per vehicle and a maximum group size of 9 guests, providing camaraderie without sacrificing activity flexibility. While the hikes and activities are not physically strenuous, you should be able to hike about 4 miles.
Itinerary Summary:
Days 1 - 3 - Kafue National Park - Musekese Camp
Days 4 - 5 - Lower Zambezi National Park - Kutali Camp
Days 6 - 7 - Lower Zambezi National Park - Chula Island Camp
Days 8 - 10 - South Luangwa National Park - Kuyenda Bushcamp
Day 11 - Depart
The Essentials:
Date: June 19-29, 2023
$8,475 per person sharing with a single supplement of $500*
Pricing includes: Internal Bush Flights / Accommodation at all safari camps inclusive of meals, drinks, laundry, and guided activities / Park fees to Luangwa Conservation and Community Fund, Zambian Carnivore Programme, Musekese Conservation and respective park conservation levees totaling $1,030 per person / 1 tiger fishing permit per person
Pricing excludes: International Airfare to/from Lusaka, Zambia / Hotels in Johannesburg or Lusaka / Gratuities / Personal purchases and premium drinks, such as champagne
Accommodation:
Perched on the edge of a spectacular lagoon in the heart of northern Kafue National Park, Musekese Camp has made a name for itself through its expert guiding, exceptional service, and prime wildlife viewing. Explore this game-rich area by vehicle, foot, or boating the Kafue River. With just 5 brand-new guest rooms and a team of experienced guides, activities are taken at your pace and interest. Rooms at Musekese Camp are spacious and comfortable with all the necessities. This includes en-suite flushing toilets and on-demand hot water showers. All power requirements are drawn from a well configured solar set up, and the main area has plenty of surplus power 24/7 to keep all your devices fully charged and drinks ice cold.
Meaning "far away place," Kutali Camp sits on Kulefu Island, a massive Winter-thorn acacia forest in the old river bed of the Zambezi Valley. Kulefu Island offers excellent Canoeing and walking possibilities and is just a river crossing away from mainland for game drives. With everything you need and nothing you don't, the classic camp offers a cocktail bar, comfy seating area, social campfire, great food, ensuite canvas and bamboo tents with flushing toilets and safari "bucket" showers, and eco-friendly amenities. Activities include walking safaris, day and night game drives, canoeing, boat cruises, and fishing (tigerfish).
Meaning, "frog," in the local language Goba, Chula is located on Katengahumba Island separated by the mainland by the famed Discovery Channel canoeing area near Jeki Airfield. The island is full of hidden lagoons and open dambos (ponds). The game in this area is excellent with regular residents of leopard, hyena, lion, buffalo herds, and loads of elephants. With Natal mahogany forests and sandy beaches, the atmosphere is different from the Winterthorn acacia woodlands of the old Zambezi river valley, offering a different feel and ecosystem to explore relative to other areas in the park. With everything you need and nothing you don't, the camp offers ensuite bathroom facilities, safari "bucket" shower with flush toilets and washbasin, bedside tables, distance between tents, and unobstructed views of the Zambezi River.
Set beneath shady trees along the Manzi River, Kuyenda is a simple, charming, and rustic camp that offers a true taste of the African bush and embodies the authentic charm of classic African safaris. Six raised reed and thatch rondavel chalets surround a central lounge and dining area overlooking rippling grasses of the neighboring plains. Forget infinity pools and wi-fi, Kuyenda is the quintessential classic African bushcamp. Your room is a simple and spacious rondavel (circular hut) opening onto a deck, complete with solar lighting, swathes of mosquito netting and an open-air en suite bathroom, that features a double vanity with hand-carved stone sinks and a shower column. From the chalet’s panoramic windows, you can look out onto the surrounding plains and the incredible game that frequently saunters through camp, day, and night. With all rondavels having imperial king or twin option beds, Kuyenda is perfect for individuals, couples or even groups.
Ready to Book?
To confirm your spot on the trip, we require a 25% non-refundable deposit. Click below to submit your traveler details and we'll be in touch to collect your payment and follow up with guidance on travel insurance and flight arrangements.
Have Questions?
Please call us on +1 720 494 1530 or email Travel@grtexp.com to discuss this trip further with a safari travel expert.