This is part 1 in our series on Zambia and the experience that lies within.
Zambia was the destination for Senior Consultant Nicky Searle on an educational trip late last year. Read on to hear about her experiences. The Victoria Falls (Livingstone) and Tongabezi Lodge was first on the itinerary.
After half a day of travelling, we were welcomed with very refreshing warm towels and an ice-cold beverage, which was quickly followed by a scrumptious lunch of tikka chicken, an assortment of crisp salads, and topped off with the most divine guava sorbet.
After a brief siesta to let the food settle, it was time for our afternoon sunset boat cruise. Our guide expertly navigated us through the channels and away from the hippos, where we continued cruising on the Zambezi River until we arrived for our sundowners. They had set up a table on the river banks, with gin & tonic, wine and some snacks. What bliss.
When we returned to our rooms, they had all been prepared for our arrival; mosquito nets, lights dimmed, and a very welcoming bubble bath with petals and candles.
From Livingstone Airport, we caught a very bumpy 18-seater Proflight into Lusaka. Not being the biggest fan of flying, you can imagine my state after we were told we had to circle Lusaka airport for about 30 minutes as the airstrip was closed temporarily due to the President's arrival!
After a quick transit from Lusaka, we then boarded a much smaller 8-seater Islander plane which took us to Royal Airstrip in the Lower Zambezi, a flight of approx 30 minutes. (You would normally fly into Jeki Airstrip, but it is currently closed due to poor runway conditions.)
The Sausage Tree Camp Vehicle was waiting for us on the dusty runway to take us on our 10-minute transfer to the boat. From there it about a 30-minute boat ride, with plenty of cool refreshments, to the camp.
We had an early start leaving the camp from the Lower Zambezi just after 7:30 am to get the airstrip for our Proflight to South Luangwa. The flight was departing at 8:20 am. Generally, `check in' is around 30 minutes before departure for bush flights.
The flight to Mfuwe - in the tiny Beechcraft planes - took about a 1 ½ in scorching and bumpy conditions. We were met by a very happy and excited Levy - Mchenja Camp's very knowledgeable and skilled guide who couldn't wait to get us into camp!
Livingstone, Lower Zambezi and Luangwa Safari by Uyaphi.com
- Royal Zambezi Lodge
A Lower Zambezi lodge refurbished as a 5 star luxury lodge, overlooking the vast Zambezi river with it's wildlife and scenic vistas. Royal Zambezi River Lodge is a striking combination of contemporary style and comfort in a completely unspoiled bush environment. - Toka Leya Camp
Toka Leya Camp consisting of 12 spacious en-suite safari-style tents, is hidden on the banks of the Zambezi River in the western sector of the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, about 12km upstream from the Falls, offering spectacular views.
- Potato Bush Camp
Potato Bush Camp located on the banks of the Zambezi River in a very remote corner of the Lower Zambezi National Park offers guests a small and exclusive safari experience like few others. Only four tented suites all offer stunning panoramic views overlooking the Zambezi River and Zambezi escarpment.
- Nsefu Camp
On the banks of the Luangwa River, Nsefu Camp marks the spot where tourism first arrived in Zambia. Located within a pristine area of the South Luangwa National Park that is rich in wildlife and far from the intrusive view of outsiders. Game viewing here is effectively private.
- Royal Livingstone Hotel
The Royal Livingstone Hotel, stretching along the banks of the Zambezi River, consists of a series of 17 colonial-style buildings with deep verandas, set amidst indigenous trees and plants is only a few steps from the mighty Zambezi.
- Zambezi Grande
Zambezi Grande located just outside the Lower Zambezi National Park a few minutes drive away is a privately owned and run riverfront establishment that is highly sought-after by those looking to experience all that Lower Zambezi Valley offers.
