This safari covers the three premier parks of Zambia – The South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi and the Kafue. The Luangwa Valley, which marks the end of the Great Rift Valley, is one of the last unspoilt wilderness areas and possibly the finest wildlife sanctuary in Africa. The Luangwa River flows into the Zambezi River – just below the Lower Zambezi National Park. This park, scenically bordered by an impressive escarpment, has excellent game viewing which can be viewed from either the river or by land.
Quietly drifting quietly past a huge elephant feeding is a great experience. The Kafue is one of the largest National Parks in Africa – and the ecology is different from the two river valleys. The mature miombo woodland and the wide open flood plains of the Busanga host more mammal species and different birds species. Combining the three parks gives you an exceptional safari.
Itinerary
Days 1 and 2
After meeting you at the Mfuwe airport your guide will drive you to Nkwali Camp through colourful local scenes of villages, agriculture as well as bush. Nkwali Camp overlooks a wide bend of the Luangwa River into the South Luangwa National Park and is ideally situated for the start of your safari. All rooms have a view of the river and open air bathrooms. The game in this area is excellent – and includes many family herds of elephants and the endemic Thornicroft Giraffe.
A typical day at Nkwali has you waking with the dawn to enjoy breakfast round a camp fire before heading out on your morning activity. A delicious lunch is enjoyed on the bank of the lagoon, which is frequently visited by a variety of wildlife. The afternoon is the quiet part of the day, perfect for siesta or a swim in the pool. In the mid-afternoon you meet up with your guide before heading out for your evening adventure, finding a beautiful location to watch the sun go down with a well earned drink in hand. The opportunity to discover the nocturnal world by spotlight is a wonderful treat before heading back to Nkwali for dinner.
Days 3 and 4
After an early breakfast, a game drive through the park and across the river takes you into the Nsefu Sector, which is recognised as a phenomenal game viewing area. Nsefu was the first game camp in Zambia and dates back to the early fifties. There are six round rondavels with luxurious ensuite facilities and each room has a clear view of the sweeping bend of the Luangwa River through large windows and from the wooden verandahs.
During your stay you have the opportunity to drive or walk through the ebony groves or, depending on the heat and time of year, to explore further afield with an all day picnic drive to the salt pans that will cover different habitats and is an exceptional day’s safari. There is also the option of visiting the community at Kawaza Village to meet interesting local people and experience life in a real non-tourist village.
(Note: option of booking Tena Tena for the 2 nights).
Days 5 – 7
In the morning you fly to Lower Zambezi via Lusaka (about 4 hours door to door). As you fly into the area, you will see the wide Zambezi River, dotted with islands. Buffalo and elephant are always seen feeding along with the pods of hippos that rest on the edge of the sandbanks. A game drive from the airstrip introduces you to the game of Lower Zambezi before arriving at Chongwe.
The Chongwe River is the boundary of the Lower Zambezi National Park. The camp has a wonderful view of not only the confluence of the two rivers but also the mountains of the impressive Zambezi escarpment. Situated under a canopy of Albida thorns and surrounded by cool lawns, the 8 chalets are large, well appointed safari tents under thatch, with luxury ensuite open air bathrooms. The bathrooms are an experience on their own. All fittings are made from natural materials found near the lodge. Activities are extremely flexible and with individuals choosing from drives, walks, boat cruises, canoeing and fishing.
Game viewing in the pristine Lower Zambezi National Park is superb and big game, such as elephant, hippo, buffalo and the big cats are even seen regularly in and around the camp! After a late lunch there will be a chance for an afternoon activity – be it on the river or by vehicle.
At Chongwe River Camp there are various activities to choose from. Not only on offer are exciting day and night drives and bush walks, but guests can choose their own day’s itinerary from a selection of canoe trips, river safaris on safe, stable pontoon boats and catch & release angling for the infamous tiger fish.
Days 8 – 10
After breakfast, a drive through the park to the airstrip to meet the plane taking you to the Kafue National Park (1.3 hours). Landing at the Busanga Airstrip you will be transferred to Shumba Camp by either a combination of vehicle and mokoro, or vehicle only. Transfer will be between 40 and 50 15 minutes from the airstrip.
Shumba Camp is situated in the northern region of the Kafue National Park, in the famed Busanga Plains area. The Plains, covering approximately 750 square kilometres, is considered one of Zambia’s most important wetlands as well as a wildlife paradise with a wealth of plains game, predators and birds. Shumba Camp comprises six spacious luxury safari tents on raised platforms with breathtaking views of the surrounding plains. Activities here include game drives, night drives and nature walks; exploring this incredible park.
Day 11
After breakfast and a morning activity (time permitting) you will be transferred to Busanga airstrip for your flight to Lusaka to connect onto your onward flight.
Tel: +1-877-710-3014 (Julie Roggow) or +1-519-686-4776 (Rick McIntyre) 
Tel: +44 (0)7986-978985 (Wayne Hammond) 
Tel: +254 (0)774-136523 
