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
- Old Mondoro
On the banks of the Zambezi River in the Lower Zambezi National Park some 35km downstream from Chiawa Camp this is a beautiful and remote site overlooking a maze of hippo-inhabited islands and channels.
Old Mondoro is the Lower Zambezi's most intimate and private safari camp.
- David Livingstone Safari Lodge
The David Livingstone Safari Lodge & Spa on the Zambian banks of the Zambezi River near Victoria Falls, invites guests to step into pure natural luxury,
The hotel is a two-storey 77-roomed hotel overlooking the wilds of the Zambezi.
- Kafunta Three Rivers Camp
Kafunta Three Rivers Camp is located at the confluence of "three rivers", namely; the Luangwa, Kapamba and Lusangazi in South Luangwa region of Zambia.
A small and unique safari camp where wildlife and birdlife sightings and photography are the main attractions.
- Chongwe River Suites
Chongwe River Suites is the proud culmination of years of design and experience and is also the perfect marriage between Chongwe Camp and Chongwe House.
The two rooms share a lounge and dining area appointed with fine furniture and antiques that over look a private pool and the Zambezi.
- Stanley Safari Lodge
Stanley Safari Lodge is the exclusive oasis for explorers of this region.
From all the 10 cottages at Stanley's, one is able to see the distant views of the spray of the Victoria Falls drifting upwards towards the heavens.
- Kafunta Island Bush Camp
Kafunta Island Bush Camp, a rustic and authentic safari camp, awaits those seeking to escape the modern world whilst experiencing some of the best wildlife Africa offers.
Island Bush Camp is all about that South Luangwa walking safari experience.
