Explore Zambia – South and North Luangwa with Bangweulu Shoebill Safari
Experience one of the most comprehensive safaris in Zambia with this expertly crafted itinerary, designed to showcase Zambia’s iconic wildlife destinations. Begin your adventure in South Luangwa National Park at Tafika Camp, where you’ll enjoy walking safaris, cycling trails, and game drives to spot leopards, lions, elephants, and more. After several days in South Luangwa, venture to Chikoko Trails for a remote and authentic walking safari immersion. The journey continues at Takwela Camp in North Luangwa National Park, offering a mix of walking safaris and exciting game drives in an unspoiled wilderness. Conclude your safari at Shoebill Island Camp in the Bangweulu Wetlands, a unique ecosystem perfect for birdwatching and observing the rare Shoebill stork. Your safari adventure wraps up with a return to Lusaka, where you’ll prepare for your onward journey. This 8-day safari combines thrilling wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable moments across Zambia’s top safari regions
Highlights
- Shoebills
- Walking Trails
- Rivers
- Big Five
- Swamps
Inclusions
– 3 Nights Tafika camp, FullBoard, 2 activities a day, Park fees
– 3 Nights Chikoko Trails, Full baord, 2 activities a day, Park fees
– 3 Nights Takwela Camp, Full baord, 2 activities a day, Park fees
– 3 Nights Shoebill Island Camp, Full baord, 2 activities a day, Park fees
– Local Flights
– All Road Transfers
The Itinerary
Day 1
Meet and Greet – Flight to Mfuwe
Upon arrival in Lusaka, our team will meet and greet you, and assist you to get on a connecting flight to Mfuwe the gateway to South Luangwa National Park. You will be welcomed by a guide from Tafika Camp who will assist you with your luggage and transfer you to the camp where you will spend 3 nights on full board basis.
About Tafika Camp
Tafika Camp, set beneath the shade of towering leadwood trees, offers stunning views of the river and its surrounding wildlife. The camp accommodates up to 14 guests in six thatched chalets, including a family chalet and honeymoon suite, all featuring open-air en suite facilities built around beautiful sausage trees. The food is outstanding, with fresh salads, fruits, and vegetables sourced from the camp’s own garden.
Tafika provides a peaceful retreat where guests can enjoy a range of activities, including walking safaris, unique cycling trails, cultural visits to a nearby village, microlight flights (available only in May), and both day and night game drives in the Nsefu sector, known for its diverse wildlife, ensuring an unforgettable safari experience.
Day 2 & 3
Explore South Luangwa
Start your day with breakfast, then embark on a morning game activity, return to the lodge for lunch and free time, later have afternoon tea then go on an evening game drive, later return for dinner and bed time.
Day 4
Transfer to Chikoko Trails – Walking Safari Experience
Begin your day with breakfast, then a morning game activity. Return to the lodge for lunch, then you will be transferred to Chikoko Trail where you will spend 3 nights on Full board.
About Chikoko Trails:
Chikoko Tree Camp and Crocodile River Camp are two intimate, exclusive bush camps that make up Chikoko Trails, offering authentic walking safaris in a remote northern region of South Luangwa National Park. This area is entirely roadless and accessible only on foot. Renowned conservationist Norman Carr specifically chose this location in the Luangwa Valley to pioneer walking safaris. These camps are perfect for guests seeking a more active safari experience and a break from the usual game drive routine.
Day 5 & 6
Explore the wild on walking safaris
Your days with begin with breakfast, then you will head out for a morning walking safari, return to the lodge for lunch and free time, later during the afternoon you will head out on another walking safari before returning to the lodge for dinner and bedtime.
Day 7
Transfer to Takwela Camp
Begin your day with Breakfast, then a morning walk, before returning to the lodge for lunch. You will then be transferred to Takwela camp, check in then relax. Later dinner will be served then bedtime.
About Takwela Camp:
Takwela Camp, located at the scenic confluence of the Mwaleshi and Luangwa rivers in North Luangwa, offers stunning views of pristine bushland and a resident hippo pod. Opened in July 2019 by Remote Africa Safaris, this camp accommodates up to eight guests in four en-suite chalets, each with two double beds. Guests can explore the remote area through walking safaris and game drives.
Day 8 and 9
Explore North Luangwa
Start your day with breakfast then embark on a morning game activity (game drive or walking safari), return to the lodge for lunch, relaxation time, then have afternoon tea before heading out for an evening game drive. Later return to the lodge for dinner and bedtime.
Day 10
Transfer to Shoebill Island Camp
After breakfast and a morning game activity, you will be transferred to Shoebill Island Camp where you will spend 2 nights on full board basis. Once at the camp, check in and relax, then head out on an evening safari, later return to the lodge then bed time.
About Shoebill Island:
Shoebill Island Camp is located beside the Bangweulu wetlands, north of Kasanka in Northern Zambia, a hidden gem known for its diverse flora and fauna, exceptional birdlife, and endangered species. The wetlands are home to impressive herds of Black Lechwe antelope, endemic to the area, making it an ideal destination for avid birdwatchers and adventurous travelers. The region boasts an incredible variety of waterbirds and plains birds, including the rare and unusual Shoebill.
Day 11 & 12
Explore Bangweulu Wetlands & Shoebill Island
Spend your last two days in the magical Bangweulu Wetlands. Activities include tracking the rare shoebill stork, birdwatching, and guided explorations of this wetland paradise. Marvel at the vibrant wildlife and unique landscape, which is home to black lechwe and numerous waterbirds. End your days with sundowners and serene views over the wetlands.
Day 13
Departure
Start your day with breakfast then embark on your morning game drive, return to the lodge then you will be transferred to the airstrip for your flight to Lusaka where you will catch a connecting flight back home or to your next adventure.
What's not included
Visa fees
Travel and Medical Insurance
Regional / International / Private Charter flights
Drinks from the bar
Tips and anything of personal nature
Why Choose Absolute Zambia Safaris?
Absolute Zambia Safaris is a specialist in bespoke and private safaris in Zambia. Through our large safari operators, we proudly assist our guests in designing custom-made safaris.
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