Practical infos...
Note...
This safari is only run between 1 May and 31 October, as the camps in the Lower Zambezi are closed during the rainy season.
Groups...
Minimum: 2 / Maximum: 8.
Accommodation...
Upmarket safari camps with en-suite bathrooms.
Transport...
To maximize guests' travel time, a variety of transport modes that bring out the best of each area is used: flying in private charters and overland transfers in custom made 4x4 provide both a bird's-eye view and an in-depth experience of the contrasting landscapes of Botswana and Zambia.
Meals...
Enjoy three meals a day of delicious cuisine, served with local wines and other drinks (beers, fruit juice, etc.).
Comfort...
You can expect luxury and excellent levels of comfort.
Difficulty...
This trip is accessible to most people (12 years and older). No previous experience is necessary. However, those who choose to canoe in Zambia will have to paddle themselves. We paddle downstream in a relaxing and easy-going manner; however, sometimes the winds are strong which make the going more difficult. If the wind gets too strong, we usually stop canoeing and wait for it to drop.
It is important to be aware that this safari takes us in very close contact with nature and wild animals, in an open 4x4, on foot and in canoe! Hippos and elephants in particular are potentially dangerous animals. It is part of the charm and excitement of this safari to be able to come close to the wild, but it is essential to be prepared for such encounters beforehand!
Conditions...
What is included:
Light aircraft transfers; road transfers; all mentioned activities; full board, drinks and wine during meals; park fees; and professional guides.
What is not included:
International flights; personal expenses; tips; airport taxes; visas; breakfast on the first day and meals in Livingstone.
Day by day
Days 1-2: Tongabezi Lodge - Zambia (Victoria Falls)...
After arriving in Livingstone, we transfer by minibus to Tongabezi Lodge. We stay for two nights at this sumptuous lodge, located upstream of Victoria Falls.
The many activities available (all included in the tour) include: canoe trips, boat cruises, walking, 4x4 game drives, a visit to the mighty Victoria Falls.
Victoria Falls..
Discover Livingstone Island, the place from where Dr Livingstone first viewed the Mosi-oa-Tunya (The Smoke That Thunders). Your visit begins with a thrilling ride through the channels of the Zambezi in our twin-engine boats. Then you will be taken on a guided exploration of the island: learning about its long history: from ancient times when it was a sacrificial site, to the present day as a protected World Heritage Site.
Other possible activities (at your own expense) are: white water rafting on the Zambezi; bungee jumping from the bridge above the Falls; a helicopter flight over the Falls; and a safari on the back of an elephant.
Days 3-8: Lower Zambezi National Park...
Lower Zambezi and Mana Pools...
The Lower Zambezi National Park has a river frontage of about 120km and combined with the dramatic valley floor, escarpment and plateau, this is a combination that makes for magnificent scenery and memorable experiences for any visitor. It is the Zambezi Valley and River that is home to all of the game. Mana Pools National Park is a World Heritage Site across the border in Zimbabwe, and also boasts the Rift Valley wall and the escarpment.
Luxury safari camps...
We invite you to discover this magical place in luxury by staying in three upmarket camps, built on the river’s edge. You will travel from one camp to the next by canoe, gently paddling down the Zambezi (although it's always possible to go by 4x4 instead). This is an exciting and elating way to discover the park! From the camps, other activity options include walking safaris and game drives (night and day).
The safari...
Days 3-4: Chiawa Camp...
On the morning of Day 3 you are dropped off at Livingstone airport and transfer by airplane to the Lower Zambezi (via Lusaka). A 4x4 will then take you to Chiawa Camp.
Resting peacefully within the National Park, the lodge is situated on the river bank, in a grove of mahogany and acacia trees. It is built mostly from natural materials and is designed to ensure its idyllic setting can be fully appreciated.
Only 16 guests can be accommodated in eight well- appointed safari tents, each on a raised timber deck with its own private veranda. Access to the tents is via rear paths, which wind through a grove of mahogany trees, maximizing privacy. All tents are under shade; have en-suite facilities with hot and cold running water; twin or double beds; insect screens and solar-powered lighting.
There will be plenty of time for you to do an activity in the afternoon on Day 3 and two activities on Day 4.
Day 5: Sausage Tree Camp...
Today, we invite you to reach our next camp (Sausage Tree) by canoe.
Accommodation at the camp is in six luxurious, white, Bedouin-style tents, discreetly positioned on the riverbank. Each tent has a private open-air en-suite bathroom, which has become a distinct trademark of this world-renowned tented safari camp.
Accommodating only 12 guests, Sausage Tree Camp offers a truly personalized safari experience. Each tent has its own personal muchinda (butler) to attend to your every need.
Days 6-7: Old Mondoro Bush Camp
Day 6 is a full day of canoeing from Sausage Tree to Old Mondoro. We stop for a picnic lunch on the way.
Old Mondoro provides guests with an authentic, remote safari experience that concentrates on the wildlife and the bush. Accommodating only eight guests and of traditional design, Old Mondoro is somewhat reminiscent of the mobile camps of East Africa, rebuilt from scratch and then dismantled each safari season.
Here, the Park is characterised by vast flood plains and open woodland, which is ideal for walking and game viewing opportunities. This area is very different from the rest of the Park, which is on higher ground with thicker bush and large inland lagoons.
Appropriately constructed of canvas and natural materials, the camp has an open and more adventurous feel - yet provides a comfortable retreat after a day filled with excitement in the bush, where emphasis is placed on non-motorised safari activities. It is unquestionably the best walking area in the Lower Zambezi.
Day 7 will be dedicated to discovering the area on foot.
D8: Back to Lusaka...
After one last morning activity in Old Mondoro we depart by light aircraft for Lusaka, where the trip ends.