Authentic Zambia

For the safari aficionado and those who want a total bush experience, this itinerary is perfect. Enjoy the luxury and hospitality of some of South Luangwa’s most intimate bush camps, while exploring this remote and pristine area on foot accompanied by your expert guide. Get up close and personal with what the South Luangwa has to offer in game, scenery and pure wilderness.

1. Fly to South Luangwa (via Lusaka)

2. Days 1-3: South Luangwa National Park

   Your adventure starts when your light aircraft coasts over the Luangwa Valley, and lands at Mfuwe Airport. You'll be met and taken through the Mfuwe villages, bustling with life, to your first lodge, set within the South Luangwa National Park and encircled by two permanent lagoons. Here you will enjoy your first game drives from the lodge, and in the evenings relax on Mfuwe's enormous deck. We also recommend you head to the spa to try one of the treatments to relax and rejuvenate.

   Accommodation: Mfuwe Lodge (2 nights)

3. Days 3-5: South Luangwa National Park

   After your introduction to South Luangwa at Mfuwe Lodge, your vacation continues as you head southwards to Kuyenda Bush Camp. Remote and intimate, Kuyenda rests on the banks of the Manzi dry river, a perfect game trail for the prides of lion that hunt in this area. The camp overlooks a grassy plain where giraffe and elephant can often be seen - in fact the elephant often wander right through camp with impunity. Run by Phil Berry, one of Africa's top guides, walks are exciting and rewarding - and in the evenings the spot lit night drives have a good chance of finding leopard and lion.

   Accommodation: Kuyenda Bush Camp (2 nights)

4. Days 5-7: South Luangwa National Park

   Moving further south, you will then stay at Chindeni Bush Camp, a very stylish and contemporary camp which overlooks the Chayumba Lagoon. Your stay here includes the opportunity to explore on foot and by game drive, before returning to camp for delicious brunches and dinners. Your safari day starts early and there is plenty of time to relax on your spacious deck in the afternoons.

   Accommodation: Chindeni Bush Camp (2 nights)

5. Days 7-9: South Luangwa National Park

   Leaving Chindeni you will then head further southwards to the company's flagship camp, Kapamba. Situated on the banks of the Kapamba dry river bed, this camp is in a pristine area, packed with game and giving great opportunities for both walks and game drives. The camp itself is the ultimate in luxury - from the plunge-pool sized baths and double showers in the bathrooms, to the delicious meals conjured from their bush kitchen. The guiding is second to none, and in the evenings, sit around the camp fire and listen to stories of the Luangwa.

   Accommodation: Kapamba Bush Camp (2 nights)

6. Fly home (via Lusaka and Johannesburg)

• Elephants at Mfuwe Lodge

  In November, as the season changes in Zambia, the many wild mango trees start to drop their bright orange fruits. These attract huge numbers of monkeys and birds, but also much larger wildlife!

  READ MORE

• Game Drives in the South Luangwa

  Game drives are the most common way of exploring the African bush. A vehicle allows you to cover distance quickly and comfortably and offers visitors the best opportunity of getting very close to wildlife in a safe and controlled way.

  READ MORE

• Night Drives

  If you get the opportunity to head out after sunset you should take it. The bush transforms under the cover of darkness as the nocturnal wildlife gets going. Using a spotlight your guide will scan the bush for eye-shine picking out some great action.

  READ MORE

Luangwa Valley, Zambia