A Safari In Zambia

A diverse nation in southern Africa, Zambia is bordered by Tanzania, Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, Angola and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Bursting with opportunities to learn, discover and enrich, whether you come for the wildlife, the people, the forests or the rivers, there are sights and activities beyond your imagination.

Celebrating 50 years of independence on 24th October, now’s the time to explore Zambia with an overground adventure. An archetypal safari experience, the following 10-night trip features the natural wonder of the Victoria Falls, a cruise of the Zambezi River and sightings of elephants, giraffe and wild cats in the sprawling national parks.

From Livingstone International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your accommodation by a representative of Stanley Safari Lodge. Sitting just three kilometres from the mighty Victoria Falls on the Zambia-Zimbabwe border, the lodge is blessed with views of the Zambezi River and distant sunset. With 10 chalets made of teak and local stone or colonial-style brick, residents are welcome to lounge in the garden or the infinity pool for unbeatable relaxation. If you’d rather get out and see the area, you can book trips to see the falls or explore the markets, or even tick an activity off your bucket list with whitewater rafting, bungee jumping and micro lighting. With three nights at the lodge, you have plenty of time to fill.

A domestic flight will take you to Mfuwe, South Luangwa where you will meet your guide and head to Nsefu Camp for three nights. Six round rondavels (African-style huts) welcome you with sweeping views of the Luangwa River, and an afternoon or evening game drive will offer more of an insight into your surroundings. With an emphasis on freedom during this adventure, the next day you are welcome to walk through the ebony groves or explore the park with a picnic and a safari to the salt pans – the choice is yours. If you wish, you can visit the non-tourist village of Kawaza to meet the people and discover local living.

Another flight to the Lower Zambezi provides a bird’s eye view of the Zambezi River with its tiny islands and feeding buffalo, elephants and resting hippos. Your new accommodation for three nights is Baines River Camp, and once again, you are free to choose your day’s activities, from inspiring day and night drives into the wild to canoeing, river cruises and catch-and-release fishing.

Your final full day will be spent flying to Lusaka for a one-night stay at Lilayi Lodge. If your flight suits, you can spend the rest of the day at the Soweto market, the first president of Zambia’s house, or visiting the elephant orphanage.

After your 10th night, you will be taken back to Lusaka Airport for your next journey.

This 11-day overground adventure is only available with Robin Pope Safaris until 15th December 2014 and costs $5,950AUD per person, including safari activities, meals, non-premium drinks, laundry, airport transfers and domestic flights. Covering four beautiful national parks with the opportunity to see landscapes, villages and conservation areas rich in culture, history and wildlife, this safari holiday is designed for every traveller in mind.

www.robinpopesafaris.net

By Charlotte Mellor
@cmellor_03