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
- Nkwali Camp
Nkwali Camp has been designed so that guests always look out - to the bush and to the river. South Luangwa is superb game viewing country, with a beautiful area of ebony woodland and open grasslands.
Elephants regularly cross the Luangwa River, seen from the bar, or come to the waterhole near the thatched dining room.
- Chundukwa River Lodge
Chundukwa River Lodge, a small intimate and luxurious lodge located within a 30-minute drive from Livingstone and 36 kilometres upstream of the Victoria Falls.
Owner run and managed, Chundukwa offers just six river-facing chalets all with views of the Zambezi.
- Kakuli Bush Camp
Kakuli Bush Camp is one of the few Zambian and South Luangwa National Park bush camps to open in February and March.
At this time of year, the river is high, we gain access by boat and activities are either on the river or on foot in the drier, sandy areas that surround the camp, with spectacular wildlife.
- Royal Chundu Zambezi River Lodge
Royal Chundu Zambezi River Lodge, a Relais & Châteaux property situated on the mighty Zambezi River just upstream from Victoria Falls on a 15 km stretch of private waterway.
The perfect option for both a romantic escape or a unique, fun-filled family holiday.
- Luwi Bush Camp
Due to its remote location, there are not many roads in the area so activities are centred on walking safaris. This fact makes Luwi Bush Camp one of the most enthralling camps in Zambia.
The wildlife in the South Luangwa National Park is prolific and to track it each day on foot is a memory that will last a lifetime.
- Busanga Plains Camp
Busanga Plains Camp is an intimate option for those seeking out an almost private wildlife safari experience, perfect for couples, honeymooners and small groups alike.
The luxury Kafue camp offers up only four luxurious tented suites, each with commanding views over the Busanga Plains.
