We meet in Lusaka, collect our 4x4s, stock up, and enjoy a relaxed first Zambian dinner and trip briefing. Travelling north, we overnight in a quiet, forest camp near Mkushi before reaching Kasanka National Park, known for its rich forests, birdlife, bat migration and the rare sitatunga.
From there we explore the Muchinga Escarpment, hiking among granite kopjes, swimming in safe rivers, and camping by the water. Continuing north, we visit the historic and intriguing Shiwa Ng’andu Estate and unwind at Kapishya Hot Springs.
The adventure deepens as we descend into remote North Luangwa National Park to our private, unfenced riverside camp. This is one of Africa’s last untouched wildlife regions, where we spend three exclusive days. Leaving the park, we cross the Luangwa River, overnight in Luambe National Park, and continue to South Luangwa National Park, the “Valley of the Leopards,” for another 3 days. Superb game viewing, poolside relaxation, optional night drives, and time in the nearby town of Mfuwe make this famous area a popular one.
The journey winds down as we follow the river on a little-used route south, for a last night around the camp fire near Petauke. On the final morning, we return to Lusaka via the Great East Road, return our vehicles, and say our farewells … until the next adventure.
Optional inclusion: A visit to the Bangweulu Wetlands is available at the right time of the year for those in search of shoebill storks or the endemic black lechwe.