Zambezi walking safaris

Wild and Exotic sample itinerary for Zambezi walking safaris

We recommend that guests on safari complement time spent walking in the bush with a stay at one of the two permanent camps we represent in this area. The sample itinerary shown below reflects the two components of such a safari, however we can design one that is exclusively to your requirements, and for as long a time as you wish. Most guests prefer to spend at least three nights in the magical hills of the escarpment on walking safari.

Day 1: Arrive from Lusaka by private charter into Jecki airstrip in the heart of the Lower Zambezi National Park. There is a short drive from the strip to Mwambashi lodge; a remote tented safari camp positioned beneath large acacia trees on the banks of the Zambezi River. Guided game drives or a walk through the bush will serve as introduction to the Park's abundant wildlife, the area is renowned for it's big cat population. Wild dog are also often seen.

Day 2: A day at camp to prepare for the safari. Here we will be able to choose from either guided walks into the bush or driving out to see first hand some of the finest game country in Zambia. There will also be an opportunity to fly fish for Tiger fish, that run up to twenty pounds in weight. The camp's comfort and stunning riverside location is a memorable initiation to the great Zambezi.

Day 3: A transfer by boat takes us upstream to a vehicle, which will in turn take us inland some 7km to the base of the escarpment. Here we begin the journey into the hills, following trails worn by generations of elephant travelling to and from seasonal grazing. We reach the high crest of the escarpment after some 2 -3 hours climb. A lunch is served overlooking a stunning view of the Zambezi to the south. To the north lies over 700 square kilometres of bush country which is exclusively ours to explore. The area is accessible only by foot. A suitable site to pitch camp will be chosen and we can spend the afternoon exploring the hills or enjoying the peaceful surrounds of the camp. Forays into the bush to visit remote natural springs are very rewarding, as in the evening the most elusive animals of the area, such as leopard, can often be found drinking from them.

Day 4: A route will have been discussed and we walk during the morning hours, leaving our staff to dismantle the camp and transport it to the new location. The walk involves covering an area of broken hill country, visiting genuinely remote and hidden valleys. There will be limitless opportunity to stop and discuss the signs and sounds of the bush and every likelihood of coming across game such as elephant, buffalo, the elusive greater kudu, sable and bushbuck. We will arrive at the new campsite in time for lunch.

Day 5: Safari routine continues according to the wishes of the guests. You may prefer to linger an extra night at a particularly attractive site deep in the bush as an alternative to moving on to new country.

Day 6: Return to the Zambezi valley. A descending route will bring us back to the riverside and guests can either catch a flight to another Zambian destination - the outstanding Luangwa valley or Livingstone and the Victoria Falls - or spend another night or two in the comfort of Mwambashi Lodge  in the Lower Zambezi National Park, or its sister camp, Royal Zambezi Lodge.

Notes:

The price we quote for both permanent camps and walking safaris includes full board accommodation, laundry, wines, spirits, beers and soft drinks, fishing and game viewing activities. The price does not include air or road transfers.

Rates above are intended as a guide only as they do depend upon the size of the group and length of safari. We also offer unbeatable rates for both Mwambashi River Lodge and Royal Zambezi Lodge in the Royal Zambezi National Park. Please contact Wild and Exotic for latest availability and prices.

Neither Wild and Exotic nor the operators or suppliers can accept any responsibility for changes to itineraries or dates that may arise due to weather or unforeseen circumstances such as changes, disruptions or delays to airline flights for whatever reason. This holiday is subject to Wild and Exotic's terms and conditions, a copy of which will be enclosed with your booking form.

Wild and Exotic fact sheet for Zambezi walking safaris

Accommodation at permanent camps: After your walking safari relax at Mwambashi River Lodge or Chongwe River Camp, the former an exclusive, luxury tented camp situated deep within the Lower Zambezi National Park, famed for it's wildlife and in particular the abundance of predators; lion, leopard and hyena. Chongwe River Camp is equally stunning with the additional attraction of the exclusive Albida Suite and river views. Game viewing is second to none and exceptional sightings are virtually guaranteed.

Activities: The emphasis of a Zambezi walking safari will be on walking amongst wildlife in some of the remotest and most inaccessible parts of the Zambezi Valley. However there will be plenty of opportunity to take game drives in open four wheel drive vehicles whilst based at the river camp. Night drives can be undertaken on request. During days spent at a permanent camp there will be a chance to fish either from the riverbank or from a motorboat. The Zambezi is famous for Tiger fish, a ferocious fighter when hooked. Fly-fishing for Tiger has become very popular in recent years and we can offer advice and guidance as to the best techniques.  Rods and tackle are provided. A trip down the Zambezi in a canoe is another unique experience and can be arranged in conjunction with a stay at Mwambashi River Lodge.

Cash: Whilst there are no additional expenses after leaving Lusaka, guests may wish to have small denomination $US or local Zambian Kwacha available for staff gratuity at their discretion.

Children: We will accept children on walking safaris provided they are at least twelve years old. There are no discounts for children.

Clothing List: Clothing list will be sent on request. A free laundry service is provided.

Drinks: All cordials and sodas, beers, spirits and wines are free. Ice and lemon is supplied for drinks.

Duration: Walks are flexible with a minimum of 3 nights and a maximum 10 nights. Lengthy safaris are extremely rewarding, and if a trek of more than 5 nights is chosen Wild and Exotic may be able to offer a significant discount to the quoted price.

Game: The Zambezi valley boasts exceptional game populations including elephant, buffalo, lion and leopard as well as a variety of plains game. Recently the National Park has gained a reputation for its regular sightings of the big cats. In the hills to the north one is less likely to see game given the terrain and lighter populations, although any species native to the valley could be encountered. Although we walk amongst potentially dangerous animals, our guides are knowledgeable and conversant with the habits and likely reactions of the game in any situation, and guests will have been briefed as to the procedure when approaching on foot.

How to Get There: Transfers by light aircraft to and from Lusaka (a half hour journey) are recommended. They cost in the region of £70 per person each way. These flights are easily incorporated into a guest's itinerary.  Access by road involves a three or four hour drive from Lusaka, the first hour and a half on tar road, the remainder on a dirt road along the Zambezi. Wild and Exotic are licensed by the Civil Aviation Authority (license number 6445) to sell the international flights necessary for this itinerary. Please contact us for further details and our recommended airlines.

Insurance: Whilst we carry public liability insurance and take all possible care we strongly advise you to have full medical and holiday insurance. Wild & Exotic Sport can arrange this if instructed.

Location: Lower Zambezi Valley Chiawa Game Management Area, escarpment hills. Lower Zambezi National Park. 

Meals: Breakfast is flexible. On some mornings it is best to rise early and after tea or coffee and a light breakfast of toast and cereal, begin walking to make the most of the cool and crisp dawn. Mid morning snacks will be taken en route before meeting at a new campsite for pre lunch drinks. Alternatively, if  we have decided the camp should remain for a day or  two, we can return from an early walk to enjoy a full breakfast that comprise fruit, porridge, bacon, sausages, eggs, tomatoes and fresh bread. Lunches are served at campsite. Dinner is three courses of fresh ingredients served by candlelight under the stars and beside a campfire. We carry dry ice and cubes, and are self sufficient for a week.  Bread is baked daily on open fires and our chefs are extremely good and versatile.

Number of guests: A group of 6 is recommended with a maximum of 8. The minimum age restriction is 12 years old. There may be a surcharge for groups of less than four, and a discount offered for groups of more than 6.

Safety: Every safari is planned to ensure guest's safety is maintained at all times. Two armed game scouts accompany each trip to provide backup for guides James and Ben, who will lead walks through the bush. All visitors will be given a full safety briefing before departure, outlining the procedure for approaching game on foot. VHF radio contact with base camp will be maintained to ensure assistance can be actioned should there be a need for urgent medical attention or even evacuation by aircraft. A comprehensive first aid accompanies all walks. Malaria prophylactics are encouraged, as is any personal medication that could be required once on trek. Personal medical insurance is essential.

Single Supplement: Is not charged, but we carry only 4 double tents and therefore there is no facility with larger groups, for those who are not prepared to share accommodation.

Terrain: The Zambezi valley is a diverse flatland of mixed woodland. From open plains to acacia thickets, hardwood forest and palm groves, game thrives and large populations of elephant and plains game abound. Lion and other predators are never far away and the area is well known for excellent game viewing. The escarpment hills rise dramatically to the north and it is here that the walking safari takes place. Once up on the high ridge overlooking the valley below the terrain to the north is predominantly undulating with both steep valleys and stretching grassland plateaus. Elephant paths criss cross the area, providing the most perfectly engineered routes up steep inclines. Here big game is not as easily found as in areas close to the Zambezi, although elephant are often seen and there is every chance of encounters with a variety of species, some like klipspringer and sable antelope are found only in the hill country. Valleys are often fringed with a beautiful variety of riverine hardwoods, as are the numerous natural springs which are found throughout the hills. Guests need not be super fit but should enjoy walking for up to 3 or 4 hours at a time.

Types of Safari: The attraction of a classic walking safari, and the thrill of seeing some of Africa's most prolific wildlife, will ensure that visitors will leave after an extraordinary journey. We suggest a two-part itinerary, spending some days out in the wilds followed by a sojourn besides the River Zambezi staying at the luxurious Mwambashi River Lodge or Chongwe River Camp. Itineraries are flexible and are tailored to suit each group.

Visas: Visitors to Zambia do require a visa to enter Zambia.

Weather: Vintage Africa Safaris operate from May to October to avoid the rainy summer season. These dry season winter months of blue skies, make for cool conditions, 25 to max 30 degrees during the day. In hills that rise to 4000ft, night time temperatures can sometimes fall below 10 degrees Celsius. The Zambezi valley is generally warmer and as a result may have a few mosquitoes and other biting insects. Rain is unusual.