Authentic Zambian Bush Safari

Authentic Zambian Bush Safari

Zambia is a safari enthusiast’s dream with over 30% of the country’s land allocated to National Parks. Not only is there an array of some of the world’s biggest and best game parks to choose from, there are many safari activities available too. Whether it’s a canoeing safari along the game-rich shores of the Lower Zambezi or following lion tracks on foot, Zambia’s spectacular wildlife and scenery will simply thrill and amaze you.
Start in the South Luangwa National Park, located at the tail end of the Great Rift Valley. The survival of the valley depends on the winding Luangwa River, which is one of the most intact major river systems in Africa and the life blood of the park, supporting large herds of elephant and buffalo, among 60 animal species and 400 different bird species.
Continue to the Lower Zambezi National Park, Zambia’s newest Park and as such is still relatively undeveloped, but its beauty lies in its absolute wilderness state. The diversity of animals is not as wide as the other big parks, but the opportunities to get close to game wandering in and out of the Zambezi Ziver is spectacular. The Park lies opposite the famous Mana Pools Reserve in Zimbabwe, so the whole area on both sides of the river is a massive wildlife sanctuary. Enormous herds of elephant, some up to 100 strong, are often seen at the rivers edge. ‘Island hopping’ buffalo and waterbuck are common. The park also hosts good populations of lion and leopard and listen also for the ubiquitous cry of the fish eagle.
Continue to the magnificent Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

Quick Summary

Itinerary Detail

Day 1: South Luangwa National Park

South Luangwa National Park
South Luangwa National Park
South Luangwa National Park
Daily Summary
  • Domestic Flights: Flight Lusaka to Mfuwe
  • Accommodation: Chindeni Bushcamp
  • Meals: L, D
Flight Lusaka to Mfuwe
Flight Lusaka to Mfuwe. Approximately 1hr 15mins.

On arrival in Mfuwe you are met and taken to your first safari camp. You are staying at very remote safari camps so the bulk of the transfer actually takes you on safari through the South Luangwa National Park. Timing at this point is flexible as you will stop for wildlife you encounter en route.

South Luangwa National Park

This Park is situated in Zambia’s renowned Luangwa Valley, which is at the tail end of the Great Rift Valley. This 9050km² area is one of the most accessible and popular parks in Zambia, with the concentrations of wildlife around the river being some of the highest in Africa. The region is known for its walking safaris, which were pioneered in this park and are still one of the best ways of experiencing the true African wilderness. The survival of the valley depends on the winding Luangwa River, which is one of the most intact major river systems in Africa and the life blood of the park, supporting large herds of elephant and buffalo, among 60 animal species and 400 different bird species.


Days 2 - 3: South Luangwa National Park

On safari in the South Luangwa National Park
On safari in the South Luangwa National Park
On safari in the South Luangwa National Park
Daily Summary

On safari in the South Luangwa National Park

For wildlife, and wildlife-lovers, it doesn't get any better than the South Luangwa National Park. With its verdant floodplains rustling with huge herds of game, mopane woodlands and indigenous hardwood forests filled with over 400 species of birds, and a mighty river that attracts thirsty animals like a magnet, it's a natural utopia and one of Africa's truly great wildlife sanctuaries. Your professional guides take you on daily safaris in search of Africa's most impressive wildlife.


Days 4 - 6: South Luangwa National Park

On safari in the South Luangwa National Park
On safari in the South Luangwa National Park
On safari in the South Luangwa National Park
Daily Summary

On safari in the South Luangwa National Park

Explore deeper into the South Luangwa National Park. Over 60 different species of mammal call the South Luangwa National Park their home, drawn by the diverse range of habitats from sandy seasonal river courses to the mineral-rich alluvial floodplains that stretch out to distant blue hills. Predators such as lion, leopard and wild dog stalk the smaller game, whilst primates such as yellow baboons and vervet monkeys swing through the trees. Down on the river, huge densities of elephant, hippo and crocodile enjoy the cool waters. Your guides are experts at finding the most elusive wildlife.


Day 7: Lower Zambezi National Park

Lower Zambezi National Park
Lower Zambezi National Park
Lower Zambezi National Park
Daily Summary
  • Domestic Flights: Flight Mfuwe to Lower Zambezi National Park
  • Transfer: Transfer from airstrip to camp
  • Accommodation: Old Mondoro
  • Meals: B, L, D
Flight Mfuwe to Lower Zambezi National Park
Flight Mfuwe to Lower Zambezi National Par. Flight may go via Lusaka. Times TBA.

Your camps are remote so you will have an early start as you head towards Mfuwe airport. Most of your drive is on safari through the Park so keep your eyes peeled for wildlife en route.

You are met at your airstrip and taken to your camp. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife en route!

Lower Zambezi National Park

This is Zambia’s newest Park and as such is still relatively undeveloped, but its beauty lies in its absolute wilderness state. The diversity of animals is not as wide as the other big parks, but the opportunities to get close to game wandering in and out of the Zambezi channels are spectacular. The Park lies opposite the famous Mana Pools Reserve in Zimbabwe, so the whole area on both sides of the river is a massive wildlife sanctuary. Enormous herds of elephant, some up to 100 strong, are often seen at the rivers edge. ‘Island hopping’ buffalo and waterbuck are common. The park also hosts good populations of lion and leopard and listen also for the ubiquitous cry of the fish eagle.


Days 8 - 9: Lower Zambezi National Park

On safari in the Lower Zambezi National Park
On safari in the Lower Zambezi National Park
On safari in the Lower Zambezi National Park
Daily Summary

On safari in the Lower Zambezi National Park

The Lower Zambezi National Park, by virtue of the Zambezi River and its parallel escarpment, is one of Africa’s most scenic wildernesses, home to an impressive quantity and variety of wildlife that can be viewed not only on the more usual land-based Lower Zambezi activities, but also on a variety of water-based activities, and in the camps themselves. Join your guides on a variety of thrilling safaris in this stunning part of Africa.

Day 10: Victoria Falls - Zambia

Victoria Falls, Zambia
Victoria Falls, Zambia
Victoria Falls, Zambia
Daily Summary
  • Transfer: Transfer camp to airstrip
  • Domestic Flights: Flight Lower Zambezi National Park to Livingstone (Victoria Falls)
  • Accommodation: Islands of Siankaba
  • Meals: B, L, D
Flight Lower Zambezi National Park to Livingstone (Victoria Falls)
Flight Lower Zambezi National Park to Livingstone (Victoria Falls). Flight may go via Lusaka. Times TBA.

Time permitting you will enjoy a morning game viewing activity followed by breakfast before being transferred to the airstrip in time for your flight.

Victoria Falls, Zambia

The completion of the Victoria Falls Bridge gave birth to the city of Livingstone in 1905. The town prospered as the gateway to trade between the north and south sides of the Zambezi. A number of colonial buildings were erected, which still stand today, creating an atmospheric welcome to travelers using Livingstone as an entry point to explore this beautiful region. Be sure to experience the Victoria Falls on foot or by air, catch up on the local history at the Livingstone Museum as well as the Railway Museum, shop at the extensive craft markets, get active with white water rafting, sport fishing and kayaking, or relax and enjoy unforgettable African sunsets on a river cruise.

Day 11: Victoria Falls - Zambia

Full day exploring the Victoria Falls area
Full day exploring the Victoria Falls area
Full day exploring the Victoria Falls area
Full day exploring the Victoria Falls area
Daily Summary

Full day exploring the Victoria Falls area

Full day to explore the Victoria Falls area. Your lodge includes a variety of activities that can be scheduled when you are there.

Day 12: Depart

Depart
Daily Summary
  • Transfer: Transfer Lodge to Livingstone Airport
  • Meals: B

Time permitting you will enjoy a morning activity and breakfast before being transferred to the Livingstone airport (approximately 35 minutes).

Accommodation

Chindeni Bushcamp
Chindeni Bushcamp
Chindeni Bushcamp
Chindeni Bushcamp
Chindeni Bushcamp
Chindeni Bushcamp

Chindeni Bushcamp

There's something about sleeping under canvas that ignites a sense of adventure in everyone. At Chindeni you can combine that thrill with style and comfort in one of its four opulent tents. Gaze out from your private veranda onto the lagoon which attracts birds and animals from miles around. Or settle back with a gin-and-tonic in the central lounge and dining area - a glorious expanse of varnished decking arranged on several levels around the surrounding ebony trees, boasting, of course, the same spectacular view of the serene lagoon and its inhabitants. Designed with just four chalets, the camp is a lovely place to relax and rejuvenate while enjoying some superb game viewing.

Bilimungwe Bushcamp
Bilimungwe Bushcamp
Bilimungwe Bushcamp
Bilimungwe Bushcamp
Bilimungwe Bushcamp
Bilimungwe Bushcamp
Bilimungwe Bushcamp
Bilimungwe Bushcamp

Bilimungwe Bushcamp

Bilimungwe’s four raised thatched rooms have been carefully designed to ensure maximum comfort, while still maintaining the authentic bushcamp feel. The tangle of mature mahogany trees that surround camp are echoed in the rich, wood interiors and the beautiful wooden furniture, handmade by local artisans. Bright African textiles bring splashes of color to the elegant rooms. After an early morning game drive, head back to your room for a refreshing, open-air waterfall shower, or continue the wildlife spectacle from your own private deck. The charming Bilimungwe Bushcamp sleeps up to eight guests and is open from May to December, offering a traditional and exciting Zambian escape!

Old Mondoro
Old Mondoro
Old Mondoro

Old Mondoro

The effortless and grounded luxury that Chiawa Safaris is known for, is right here at Old Mondoro. An intimate camp of only 5 chalets, the concept of this camp is simple – to provide guests with an authentic and unedited Zambian safari, providing a “back to the bush” atmosphere that centralizes on the wildlife and wilderness experience. A destination in itself, Old Mondoro is owned and operated by the Cumings family of the pioneer Chiawa Camp, which boasts enhanced luxuries and bush-sophistication, making a combination safari of these two camps a most rewarding visit to the Lower Zambezi. Incredible wildlife encounters at this quintessential safari camp are those only found in your wildest dreams. Under the canopy of winterthorn trees and bordering the mighty Zambezi river, wild animals are part of the camp, sharing in your daily routine. Big cat sightings (some of the most prolific leopard sightings to be had in Africa) with the magic of the water providing island-hopping buffalo and elephant, as well as an extreme concentration of hippo. “Mondoro” in Goba language means Lion. The camp name honours a mythical white lion that used to prowl nearby – although “Old Mondoro” is long gone, his descendants still roam the wilderness of the Lower Zambezi, wild and free.

Islands of Siankaba
Islands of Siankaba

Islands of Siankaba

The Islands of Siankaba luxury lodge is located on two private islands in the middle of the mighty Zambezi River situated between the ‘Seventh Wonder of the Natural World’, the magnificent Victoria Falls, and the world famous Chobe National Park. The lodge has been developed as a luxurious five star retreat with outstanding cuisine and uncompromising levels of personal service to exclusively sleep just fourteen guests. Each of Siankaba’s seven secluded chalets have been uniquely designed to maximize comfort and privacy whilst boasting spectacular views of the Zambezi River. The unique feature of the lodge is the series of walkways and bridges that link the two islands together. The quirky design incorporates the use of natural materials that blend in with the feel of the surrounding bush while taking full advantage of the beauty of the riverine setting. The Islands of Siankaba is the perfect retreat for discerning travelers who wish to witness the wonderful Victoria Falls yet also escape the crowds and enjoy being in an area of exceptional natural beauty with quiet, unspoiled surroundings.

Details

Details

Price Includes

• All accommodation as indicated in the itinerary
• All transfers as indicated in the itinerary. All transfers are private unless otherwise indicated.
• Price is based on one transfer for all passengers on the itinerary. In the event people arrive/depart on different flights, additional transfers may be required at an extra cost.
• All meals as indicated in the itinerary.
• Morning and afternoon game viewing activities at safari camps - exact details arranged by the camp during your stay.
• Park fees unless specified otherwise
• All tours as indicated in the itinerary. All tours are private unless otherwise indicated. Standard entrance fees included.
• Internal light aircraft flights on safari as specified.
• 24/7 local assistance in all countries.

Price Excludes

• International and domestic scheduled flights unless shown as included.
• Gratuities.
• Any Covid or related testing required during the trip.
• Quarantine costs due to Covid-related issues.
• Optional activities offered by lodges and payable directly.
• Travel Insurance.
• Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless specified in the itinerary.
• Meals not specified in the itinerary.
• Items of a personal nature.
• Laundry unless specified in the itinerary.
• Visa fees.
• Airport departure taxes.
• Any items or services not specified in the itinerary.

Why Maxim Tours?

Why Maxim Tours?

Uncommon Safaris for Discerning Adventurers

Experience Matters

Since 1993 Maxim Tours’ passion for exotic destinations has made us a highly sought after Boutique Tour Operator for discerning travelers. After three decades we continue to exceed our clients' expectations. Our approach over these many years is simple; offer the very best service and travel experience at the most competitive prices while balancing the importance of sustainable tourism with a high quality travel product.

Premier Guides 

Maxim Tours' guides have a reputation for being the best in the business. Experts in their fields, friendly and interesting,  a good guide will bring the most out of every excursion while creating lifelong memories.  

24/7 Support

At no time during your adventure will you be alone. Our local partners are available 24/7 in the event you need any assistance while traveling. We will monitor your progress and take care of any unexpected developments so that your trip continues unhindered.

Responsible Tourism

Responsible and sustainable tourism should be more than just a phrase - it has to be an ongoing and tangible commitment to balancing tourism with the upliftment of local communities and preservation of the natural environment. Maxim Tours actively supports camps and lodges whose business models reflect this commitment.