Zambia
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Days One-Four: Into the wilderness
Upon arrival in Lusaka, you’ll transfer onto another plane to Mfuwe, gateway to the untouched landscapes of South Luangwa National Park. You’ll spend three nights in this incredible wilderness, home to 40 mammal species and more than 400 types of bird. Expect to see lions, leopards and elephants, as well as encountering smaller but no less impressive residents, including bush babies and mongoose. Choose from Classic, Premium or Deluxe lodges for your trip’s duration. Accommodation at the safari lodges is on an all-inclusive basis.
Classic: Track and Trails River Camp
Authentic charm is the buzzword at this lovable camp close to the main gate of the national park. Expect little chalets spread around the grounds and a simple spa and a swimming pool overlooking the river, as well as regular visits from elephants and other wildlife.
Activities
Two safari activities per day are included in the price of your trip:
Choose between morning or night drives through the park, accompanied by professional and passionate guides. Morning drives set out at 6am: Over the course of four hours, you’ll drive through the wilderness in search of elephant, giraffe, zebra, impala and many other species. Night drives set off at 4pm, seeking out nocturnal animals including lion, leopard, hyena, mongoose and bush babies. Or choose to get even closer to nature on a walking safari, setting off in the coolness of early morning. The camp runs optional trips to nearby Kawaza Village to spend a few hours learning about local life.
Premium: Kafunta River Lodge
A 40-minute drive from the airport, Kafunta is a family-run lodge just outside the national park. It’s friendly and comfortable, with a fantastic position by the riverbed and a stunning infinity pool looking out over the wilderness. It also houses the only natural hot tub in the vicinity, fed by thermal springs underneath the hotel. Look out for wildlife passing through camp on the way to the onsite watering hole, including zebra, impala, wart hog, baboons – and even elephants. In peak season, Kafunta offers a novel way to access the wildlife-viewing area – travelling across the water by pontoon.
Activities
Two safari activities per day are included in the trip:
The focus is on three to four hour Jeep safaris at this lodge, in comfortable vehicles with a maximum of six guests. Night drives begin with sundowners under vast African skies, then set off in search of predators and small nocturnal animals such as bush babies. There’s also the option to join one of the area’s popular walking safaris with a guide and scout. Visits to nearby Mfuwe village (to see the craft market, Luangwa Ladies workshop, Mulberry Mongoose jewellery workshop and Tribal Textiles factory and shop) can be arranged on request.
Day Four: Towards Livingstone
Leave South Luangwa, on a flight to Livingstone via Lusaka. From, you’ll make the 20-minute transfer to the accommodation which will be your base as you take in the adrenaline-fuelled sites and activities of the local area. Depending on your category of accommodation, you’ll spend the next three nights at:
Classic: Victoria Falls Waterfront Lodge
In a great position between the falls and Livingstone Town, with stunning river views from its restaurant. Bed and breakfast is included with this option.
Premium: David Livingstone Safari Lodge
This popular lodge has homely accommodation, a beautiful natural swimming pool and, often, visiting elephants. Bed and breakfast is included with this option.
Overnight near Livingstone
Meals included: Breakfast (plus dinner with the deluxe option)
Day Five: The Mighty Victoria Falls
After breakfast, it’s time to witness the magnificence of Victoria Falls. Named as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and called ‘The Smoke That Thunders’ in the local language, Victoria Falls is the largest waterfall in the world and a sight of epic proportions. Take in its hugeness alongside a private guide, who knows all the best viewpoints and fascinating facts. Return to your hotel for some downtime, then head out at dusk for a sunset cruise along the Zambezi river as the animals come to the water for their last drink of the day. As the sky darkens from rose to deep purple, watch silhouetted birds flit across it and hear the soothing sound of the water below.
Overnight near Livingstone
Meals included: Breakfast (plus dinner with the deluxe option)
Day Six: Big Cats and Big Thrills
Get set for an action-packed day of adventure. First stop is the Mukuni Research Centre, which has an ongoing cheetah conservation programme. After a safety briefing, it’s time for the once-in-a-lifetime chance to walk with cheetahs. Spend an hour with cats who have been rescued by the programme, then it’s time for a different kind of thrill as you leap from the Victoria Falls Bungee Bridge. As you ready yourself to jump, you’ll see spectacular views of the Zambezi River flowing into the Batoka Gorge, right on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe; then you’ll head 111 metres down on a bungee rope, on a never-to-be-forgotten leap into the unknown. As if that wasn’t enough excitement, you’ll end the day on a high with an incredible trip above the falls – by microlight or helicopter. Choose whether to soar serenely or hover by heli*: There is no better way to grasp the scale of the falls than soaring above them, taking in the Zambezi River and huge gorges that lead up to them as you cut through watery mist.
*Helicopter flights require a minimum of two passengers. Microlight flights are available for single travellers.
Overnight near Livingstone
Meals included: Breakfast; lunch (plus dinner with the deluxe option)
Day Seven: Goodbye Zambia
It’s time to leave this incredible country with some fantastic memories. Take a private transfer to Livingstone Airport, ready for your flight home.
Meals included: Breakfast
Overall meals included: 7 Breakfasts; 2 Lunches (4 dinners also included for guests at David Livingstone Safari Lodge).
What's included:
- Private English-speaking guides unless stated otherwise
- Private transfers unless stated otherwise
- Meals as listed
- All game drives and park entry fees
- Mandatory taxes and service fees
- Victoria Falls bungee jump
- Microlight or helicopter flight over Victoria Falls
What's not included:
- International flights to/from experience: call 0208 432 0885 for AX specially negotiated flight rates
- Tips for guides, drivers and other staff
- Any visa, customs, airport taxes or similar charges before or after the holiday and during border crossings during your experience
- Drinks during meals unless stated otherwise
- Personal expenses, such as laundry
What to pack:
- Binoculars
- Camera
- Sunglasses, hat and sunscreen
- Mosquito repellent
- A fleece or jacket for early mornings and evenings
- Cool, comfortable clothes
SUITABILITY FOR FAMILIES : Suitable for families with kids.
If you intend to travel solo, contact us on 0208 432 0885
To check related African trips, click here.
GETTING THERE
Typical return Economy flights from London cost around £800 per person and take approximately 16 hours depending on exact flight configurations and layover times.
Experience start point: Livingstone (LVI). Arrive by lunchtime.
End point: Livingstone (LVI).
Prices for departures to 30th October include a 20% Pioneers Club discount and are subject to Pioneers Club terms & conditions. Click here for more information about the Pioneers Club.
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