Highlights of Zambia and Madagascar

Journey to Zambia’s wildlife gem, the South Luangwa, for an in-depth safari covering the remote and wildlife-rich south of the park. You’ll be based at authentic bush camps with some added luxuries and expert guiding to really enhance your experience. After your safari adventure you’ll fly to an exotic island off Madagascar, for a truly off-grid beach escape. Spend your days sinking into serenity on the talcum-soft sand and exploring this breath-taking island and the surrounds.

1. Fly to Lusaka

2. Days 1-3: Luangwa Valley

   Upon arriving into Lusaka, you will catch your light aircraft flight over the Luangwa Valley and land at Mfuwe Airport, the gateway to the South Luangwa National Park. You’ll get your first experience of village life in Zambia as you pass through the vibrant town of Mfuwe before entering the park and game driving to Mfuwe Lodge, just a short distance into the park. With a tranquil setting on two permanent lagoons that encircle the lodge, this is an ideal stop to enjoy game viewing before you head south to the bush camp. Let your excitement wander as you venture out into the wild in an open safari vehicle, spotting species such as lion, elephant and leopard. Evenings will be spent on the deck by the campfire, with a glass of wine in hand and gazing up at the night sky.

   Accommodation: Mfuwe Lodge (2 nights)

3. Days 3-6: Luangwa Valley, Zambia

   This morning you will game drive south through the park to Chindeni Bush Camp which has an enviable location perched on the edge of a lagoon. This stylish and contemporary tented camp is elevated on stilted platforms, so you can enjoy views of the glistening lagoon and observe pods of hippos as you laze in the hammock on your private deck. This afternoon as the day begins to cool, feel your senses awaken as you venture out on a walking safari, following in the tracks of leopard and spotting the spoor of a lion, led by an expert walking guide. Back at the lodge, sit back with a gin and tonic in hand on the camp deck and watch the sky turn a vivid orange as the day comes to an end. 
   In the southern area of the park you will have good chances of seeing the elusive African wild dog, so you may be lucky enough to follow a pack of these fast-paced canines on your game drives. You will also be head out on a thrilling night game drive, scanning the bush with a spotlight for the elusive, nocturnal species – an experience not to be missed!
   

   Accommodation: Chindeni Bush Camp (3 nights)

4. Days 6-9: Luangwa Valley, Zambia

   Awake to the dawn chorus of bird songs and a stunning sunrise over the Luangwa River. After a morning safari activity, you’ll be game driven a little further south to Kapamba Bushcamp, a wonderfully remote and romantic camp on the banks of the Kapama River. The camp oozes safari charm and luxury and the entirely open-fronted rooms present you with spectacular river views. In between safari activities you can sink into tranquillity in the stone plunge pools, watching bee-eater birds swooping down – the ultimate in bush indulgence. Activities here include game drives and walking safaris. You’ll also have some truly memorable sundowner spots as you wade through the cool waters of the Kapamba River to a bar that has been set up with drinks and tasty bites, entirely for you.

   Accommodation: Kapamba (3 nights)

5. Days 9-14: Northern Madagascar

   After breakfast you’ll be transferred back to the airport in time for your flight to Nosy Be, in northern Madagascar. On arriving at the airport, you’ll be met by your private driver and transferred down the winding, forest-lined roads where you’ll get your first feel of exotic island life, as you pass scatterings of villages. At the port, you’ll take the exhilarating journey on speed boat to the private island of Tsarabanjina. As you arrive at this tiny island fringed by talcum-soft sand, the staff will be ready and waiting to welcome you into their island home with revitalising drinks. Your thatched villa on the beach has all the luxury comforts you need with a Robinson Crusoe feel to it. You’ll hear exotic bird songs by day and by night you’ll fall to sleep the sounds of the waves gently lapping the shore. 
   Spend your days indulging in this intimate retreat, surrounded by azure water and lush vegetation and palms trees. Once you feel rested, you can experience the marine life around the island and scuba dive amongst an array of tropical fish or snorkel if you’d prefer. You will also have the opportunity to explore more of Nosy Be and take a boat over to the island of Nosy Komba, where you can get up close to lemurs.  
   

   Accommodation: Constance Tsarabanjina (5 nights)

6. Days 14-15: Johannesburg and surrounds

   After one last venture into the wild this morning, you’ll drive back through the park to Mfuwe and then catch a flight to Johannesburg via Lusaka. On arrival in South Africa, you’ll be met off the plane by a representative who will whisk you through the airport to your driver, who will take you to The Peech, a quirky and luxurious boutique hotel, ideal for a restful night before flying to Madagascar the following morning.

   Accommodation: The Peech (1 night)

7. Fly home

Luangwa Valley, Zambia & Nosy Be, Madagascar