Zambia: Luangwa Wilds and Northern Secrets

This adventure takes you off the map and into the wilder, more remote regions. The route is diverse, intriguing and immersive in every way. It is for those in search of something more than a traditional overland adventure. Simply, exceptional!

Scheduled Adventure Dates:
30 August to 15th September 2026 (places available)
19 August to 5th September 2027 (places available)

The Itinerary

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.

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What is special?

  • Every destination on this route is special, with a number of them not widely known
  • Fabulous birding including species not found further south
  • Guaranteed sightings of the rare sitatunga
  • Engaging exposure to the Luangwa Valley with its endemic animals.
  • A journey into Zambia’s history at Shiwa Ng’andu
  • Option to look for the rare shoebill stork. This requires 2 days allocation to the Bangweulu Wetlands

Who is this for?

  • Those who love birds and birding and unique wildlife
  • Those who want to learn more about the abundant flora and fauna of the region
  • Those looking for something different – this is not your standard African safari!
  • Those who are Seasoned Wild and Wild Ready (per the ‘Find Your Wild’ quiz)
  • Good 4×4 skills are required

PRICING, INCLUSIONS & EXCLUSIONS

Full Guided Self-Drive Self-Catered Adventure – From US$2,300 pp sharing (2026)

This is a guided self-drive, self-catered overland adventure. Final pricing varies depending on season, campsite selection, comfort upgrades and the optional hosted dinner at Kapishya Restaurant on the Shiwa N’gandu Estate.

Price Includes

  • Small and intimate adventure groups with just 4–10 guests
  • Camping and conservation fees
  • National Park fees when camping in the park
  • Morning start-up coffee and rusks
  • Two hosted dinners during the adventure
  • Experienced overlanding guide and BQA / FGASA-qualified nature guide

Price Excludes

  • Vehicle hire and overlanding equipment
  • Fuel
  • Food and beverages (other than meals specified)
  • Optional excursions and activities
  • National Park fees when camping outside the park

Adventure Planning, Bookings & Digital Itinerary – From US$65 pp sharing /day (2026)

This is a self-drive, self catered overland adventure supported by the Guided Wild Digital Itinerary. Alternative route options are available on certain sections, and accommodation upgrades can be selected at destinations where tented camp or lodge accommodation is available.
Final pricing varies according to season, route selection, campsite selection and any accommodation upgrades.

Price Includes

  • Camping and conservation fees
  • National Park fees where camping within the park
  • Guided Wild Digital Itinerary – providing a digital map, day by day itinerary, accommodation and destination information and travel documentation to support your self-drive adventure.

Price Excludes

  • Accommodation upgrades where selected
  • Vehicle hire and overlanding equipment and fuel
  • Food and beverages
  • Optional excursions and activities
  • National Park fees when camping outside the park