Safari Rating
A safari focussed on exploring the undiscovered secrets of the Luangwa Valley along with private guide Frank Steenhuisen. Combining both the wildlife rich South Luangwa National Park & the wild and remote Luambe National Park.
Itinerary in Brief
4 Nights Kafunta River Lodge
4 Nights Kazikizi Camp
Zambia is an undiscovered gem in Southern Africa that is rich in both wildlife and natural beauty. It is the place to go for a traditional and authentic African safari with a personal and rustic touch. Zambia is a country full of colour and life, and South Luangwa is the most iconic and famous wildlife hotspot found within the country.
The Luangwa Valley boasts not only an impressive diversity of life, but also large concentrations of some of the more iconic animal species, which Africa is so very famous for. With the Luangwa River snaking its way through the centre of the valley, it becomes one of the last water sources for all wildlife living in the area, making it ideal for game viewing. We should expect to see many herds of elephants frequenting the river, huge concentrations of hippos (the highest density of any park in the world!) as well as the many big cats which hunt along the banks of the river. The Luangwa Valley is also known as the VALLEY OF THE LEOPARD and is one of the best areas in the world to find and view these magnificent cats in the wild!
This WILD LUANGWA SAFARI is aimed at those whom have heard or seen some of the beauties that the Luangwa has to offer and would like to not only visit the area, but really experience it in all its different forms. Frank’s goal for this trip is take you on a journey to two different National Parks along the river, explaining in detail the complexities and intricate relationships of all that is natural, while still exposing you to the incredibly warm and welcoming locals who work in the carefully selected camps you will visit. The trip will see you comfortably accommodated, well fed and well looked after. However, the core of this safari is centred around the wildlife and wilderness the valley has to offer. We start off in the busier Mfuwe area of the South Luangwa National Park for a strong dose of wildlife, but soon after – we venture far north into the more remote Luambe National Park where we don’t expect to find many other tourists but rather a more authentic and real wilderness experience.
Detailed itinerary
1st,2nd,3rd & 4th Nights: Kafunta River Lodge
Kafunta River Lodge is a classic Zambian safari lodge and combines all the essentials for a great safari. Here you will find the rest and peace you need after an exciting day on safari, in combination with personalised service and a warm welcome by the team.
Each of the luxury private chalets and the main lounge & dining area overlook the game rich flood plain. Beyond the plain is the Luangwa River and one of the best game viewing areas of the magical South Luangwa National Park. Kafunta River Lodge is situated on the edge of the Park making for easy access and is open from April to early January.
The eight private safari chalets have been built on raised wooden platforms and have thatched roofs. They are tastefully decorated with African style and charm. All were refurbished in 2014 to a high standard. Additionally, there are two luxury suites which feature a private deck, an upstairs viewing veranda and a luxurious bathroom.
5th, 6th 7th, 8th Nights: Kazikizi Camp
The camp is located on the edge of a lagoon overlooking the Luangwa river. The area is a magnet for herbivores that feed on the short grass and thus is also the hunting grounds for the predators that call this secluded section home. This is the most productive wildlife section in Luambe National Park although the focus will be on enjoying the true wilderness experience and remoteness of this fantastic park.
Accommodation at Kazikizi Camp is in en-suite rustic chalets all of which enjoy a spectacular location beneath the trees on the banks of the lagoon. The camp has only 3 rooms, so it is very intimate and small. Dinners and other meals are often enjoyed out in the open under the stars which is absolutely magic!
Varied wildlife activities are on offer, including waking up early morning and walking straight out of camp for a walking safari along the river, just an awesome experience! Delicious, home-cooked food is served under a large African Ebony tree, or on the moonlit riverbank, and there’s a delightful campfire to retire to after dinner.
When to go
jan | feb | mar | apr | may | jun | jul | aug | sep | oct | nov | dec | |
Luangwa Valley |
The Accommodation
Ready for an adventure? Lets Talk!
Join Frank Steenhuisen on this incredible journey through the Zambian wilderness!