Skip to content

Zambia Two Rivers Safari - Chongwe River Camp

This safari takes place on the banks of Zambia’s most beautiful and contrasting rivers – the Luangwa and Zambezi. 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 gameviewing which can be viewed from either the river or by land. Quietly drifting quietly past a huge elephant feeding is a great experience.

Flock of Birds flying away - Chongwe River Camp

Full board accommodation, game-viewing activities, National Park fees & conservation levies, selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, Airport and inter-camp transfers

Prices Exclude: Premium brand drinks, International Flights and Visa fees. Tips and gratuities.

LENGTH

7 Nights / 8 Days

BEST MONTHS TO VISIT

ALL YEAR

FROM

US$ 8,009

Zambia Valley and Lake Safari

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. It covers an area of over 9000 sq. km. through which the meandering Luangwa River runs. The ox bow lagoons, woodland and plains of the valley host huge concentrations of game – including elephant, buffalo, leopard, lion, giraffe, hippo – and over 400 species of birds.

Lake Malawi – The Nankumba Peninsula in the South end of the Lake is recognised as one of the most beautiful shores of the Lake and borders Lake Malawi National Park.

This Park was established in order to protect the cichlid fish unique to the area. In 1984 the park was designated a World Heritage Site.

nsefu-01

Luangwa Valley Wilderness: Explore the pristine wilderness of the Luangwa Valley, a remarkable wildlife sanctuary at the end of the Great Rift Valley, home to diverse species including elephants, buffalos, leopards, lions, giraffes, and hippos.

Abundant Wildlife: Witness incredible concentrations of game in the valley, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Encounter iconic African animals against the backdrop of the Luangwa River, including the Big Five.

Birdwatcher’s Paradise: Immerse yourself in a birdwatcher’s paradise with over 400 bird species to spot, making it an ideal destination for bird lovers and photographers.

Lake Malawi Beauty: Visit the stunning Nankumba Peninsula on the southern shores of Lake Malawi, renowned for its breathtaking beauty. This area borders Lake Malawi National Park, established to protect unique cichlid fish species, and designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984.

World Heritage Experience: Experience the natural wonders of the Lake Malawi National Park, recognized for its exceptional biodiversity and conservation efforts, offering an enriching encounter with the region’s unique aquatic life.

2 nights Nkwali Camp, South Luangwa, 5 nights Nsefu Camp or Tena Tena Camp, 5 nights Pumulani, Lake Malawi.

A thirteen day safari combining 2 nights Nkwali Camp in South Luangwa, with walks and night drive, boat transfer, game drive in South Luangwa National Park for viewing herds of elephants and the endemic species of Giraffe, the Thorneycroft Giraffe followed by 5 nights at Nsefu Camp or Tena Tena Camp, across the Luangwa River with, guided walks, game viewing drives across the Nsefu sector of the National Park

Then will be transferred to Mfuwe Airport for flight to Lilongwe. Met by representative who’ll assist with check in for next flight to Monkey Bay, closest airstrip to Pumulani.

5 nights in the South end of Lake Malawi- romantically called “The Lake of Stars”.

Snorkeling, deep sea fishing, picnics dhow sunset cruise can be organized at guest’s own expense

Full board accommodation, laundry, drinks (Except premium spirits, champagne, sparkling wine and premium wines), National Park fees and Internal Flights & transfers to and from Mfuwe and at Pumulani airstrip. All Game drives are in 4×4 safari vehicles. [Minimum 2 people].

LENGTH

12 Nights

BEST MONTHS TO VISIT

ALL YEAR

FROM

US$9568

Itinerary in Detail

DAY BY DAY

Tour Experiences

Combining 2 nights Nsefu Camp, 2 nights Tena Tena Camp and 3 nights Chongwe River Camp

Nsefu Camp

Day 1

On arrival at Mfuwe International Airport a guide from Robin Pope Safaris will meet you. The drive to Nsefu camp is about 1hr 30 ins and is through both the GMA and park – gameviewing along the way. Nsefu was the first game camp in Zambia and dates back to the early fifties. The Nsefu Sector was recognized then as a phenomenal area and it still is. Robin Pope Safaris owns the only two camps in this sector of the Park. The camp is on a sweeping bend of the Luangwa River. There are six round rondavals with luxurious ensuite facilities and each room has a clear view of the river through large windows and from the new wooden verandahs. On arrival you will be shown to your rondavel and then lunch will be served followed by a well deserved siesta before the afternoon and evening game drive.

Day 2

Today is a chance to drive or walk through the ebony groves. Or you may decide this is an ideal day depending on the heat and time of year to explore the Nsefu Sector of the National Park possibly with an all day picnic drive to the salt pans that will cover different habitats and is an exceptional day’s safari.

Tena Tena Camp

Day 3

After an early breakfast, transfer by either game drive or walk (about 3 hrs) to Tena Tena. This remote and small camp lies within the National Park and enjoys a stunning location on a sweeping bend of the Luangwa River. A grove of mahogany trees shade the large custom-made tents. From the thatched dining room and bar, guests can watch the elephants, hippo and antelope on the riverbank. Tena has 5 tents, each with a dressing room, open air bathroom and private verandah that overlooks a water hole. Most meals are taken under the shade of a huge Mahogany tree in the centre of the camp. On arrival you will be shown to your tent and then lunch will be served followed by a well deserved siesta before the afternoon and evening game drive.

Day 4

Today is a chance to visit the spectacular lagoon, Buca Buca, where a whole morning can be spent quietly sitting while the game comes down to feed and drink. Being remote and so small, we have these scenes to ourselves. Or you may decide to get up before dawn and head out into the bush for a sunrise breakfast and leisurely drive back to camp.

Chongwe River Camp

Day 5

After an early breakfast, transfer to Mfuwe Airport (1.5 hours) for the flight to the Lower Zambezi (1 hour 30 mins). 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. Chongwe River Camp, only 20 mins from the airstrip, is situated on the confluence of the Chongwe and Zambezi Rivers, directly opposite Mana Pools. 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. Gameviewing 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.

Day 6

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 and release angling for the infamous tiger fish.

Day 7

Enjoy another full day of activities.

Day 8

After breakfast and farewells, a drive through the park to the airstrip to meet the plane taking you to Lusaka (30 mins) for your onward flight.

Tour Experiences

Day 1 - Nkwali Camp

On arrival at Mfuwe International Airport by our represesntative. The drive to Nkwali Camp is 1 hour through colourful local scenes of villages, agriculture as well as bush. Nkwali Camp has a wide view of the Luangwa River. Overlooking the South Luangwa National Park, Nkwali is ideally situated for the start of your safari. The six rooms all look out over the river and have open air bathrooms. Depending on your arrival time in the day you will enjoy a lunch looking out over the lagoon to the back of Nkwali or if in the afternoon for tea and the afternoon and night game drive.

Day 2 - 3

At dawn breakfast is served around the campfire. The porridge heated on the fire and toast cooked by the coals. The morning walk or drive will leave soon after, entering the park by boat from the camp or by road via the main gate. The game in the area is excellent – and includes many family herds of elephants and the endemic species of giraffe, the Thornicroft Giraffe. A mid morning break of tea, coffee and cake will be taken at a scenic point on a lagoon or the Luangwa River. Return to camp for lunch around mid day. After lunch you can cool off in the swimming pool or siesta. Following tea you will go out on an afternoon game drive that continues into the early night giving the chance to see the nocturnal world, returning to camp about 20.00 hrs with dinner generally at 20.30.

Day 4 - Nsefu Camp (or Tena Tena)

After an early breakfast, a transfer game drive through the park takes you to a crossing point on the Luangwa River. The Nsefu staff will meet the party, who will cross the river by boat, and then enjoy a 45 minute drive to camp, game viewing on route. Nsefu was the first game camp in Zambia and dates back to the early fifties. The Nsefu Sector was recognised then as a phenomenal area and it still is. Robin Pope Safaris owns the only two camps in this sector of the Park. There are six round rondavels with luxurious en suite facilities and each room has a clear view of the sweeping bend of the Luangwa River through large windows and from the wooden verandahs. On arrival you will be shown to your rondavel and then lunch will be served followed by a well-deserved siesta before the afternoon and evening game drive.

Day 5 - 7

These are a few days for a chance to drive or walk through the ebony groves. Or you may decide this is an ideal day, depending on the heat and time of year, to explore the Nsefu Sector of the National Park possibly with an all day picnic drive to the salt pans that will cover different habitats and is an exceptional day’s safari

Day 8 - Pumulani Lodge

After breakfast you will transfer to Mfuwe Airport (1.5 hours) for your flight to Lilongwe. The flight time to Lilongwe is approximately 50 minutes. On arrival at Lilongwe’s Kamuzu Airport, you will be met by our staff and assist to your Pumulani flight. Pumulani is situated on the Westside of the Nankumba Peninsula in the South end of Lake Malawi – romantically called “The Lake of Stars”. The ten villas are scattered around the hillside and are individual in shape and style but all have a spacious bedroom, bathroom and extensive sitting area. The front sliding doors open onto the deck – elevated above the ground giving optimal views.

The central dining and bar area is high above the lake with the most spectacular views and leads onto an expansive deck. The infinity swimming pools are on a lower terraced deck by the main lodge and on beach level. The lake shore bar offers light snacks as well as refreshments. Meals will be served in the dining area, on the beach or by arrangement on your private deck. The stunning setting of the lodge and the unique comfort of the rooms means that many guests choose to make relaxation their main activity, but there is enough activities available to keep guests busy.

Day 9

Enjoy the first full day of relaxation at Pumulani. Our remote beach setting is ideal for those who simply want to soak up the sun and swim in the clear blue waters of the lake. Those who prefer to take a dive in the swimming pool, there is an infinity pool near the central dining area with grand views over the lake, as well as another infinity pool on beach level. For those seeking activity we offer many water sports activities like snorkeling, fishing, sailing, kayaking, waterskiing, wake boarding and fun tube rides (all motorized activities are excluded). At the end of the day climb aboard our dhow and let our experienced local crewmen take you sailing into the sunset.

Day 10 - 11

Lake Malawi is the world’s most ecologically diverse lake. Its crystal clear waters are home to more than a thousand species of fish, including hundreds of species of colourful cichlids. We offer special diving courses at the best diving spots near one of the islands. For those who are interested in the real Malawian village life we offer guided walks through one of the local villages. Malawians are renowned for being amongst the friendliest people in Africa and during your stay you will have the opportunity to meet them. You can also simply relax in the beautiful and tranquil scenery or can enjoy the many other activities.

Day 12

Your last day at the lodge. Today you have the opportunity to continue to relax in the beautiful surroundings or play on the lake, or take a walk to the local village for an insight into how village life operates while Malawians explain their traditions and rituals.

Day 13

Depending on you onward connection, you may have a lazy morning or early breakfast before heading off to Lilongwe.

What Our Clients Say About Us

In our commitment to excellence, we not only strive to exceed our clients’ expectations but also value their feedback. We are proud to present our clients’ feedback.

Talk to a Specialist

Choose a Safari Specialist in your time zone and start planning your tailor-made safari to Zambia.

Talk to a Specialist

Choose a Safari Specialist in your time zone and start planning your tailor-made safari to Kenya.

Curating ultimate tailor-made safari experiences for 35 years