8-Nights Lodge-to-Lodge Walking Safari in Zambia - Tailor Made Day by Day

Zambia’s capital rises from the central plateau with a blend of low-slung concrete buildings, tree-lined streets and lively markets bustling with everyday commerce. A mix of modern ambition and relaxed rhythm defines the city, where government offices, roadside stalls and high-rise hotels share space under the subtropical sun.

South Luangwa National Park is a richly diverse ecosystem featuring floodplains and woodlands that support more than 60 mammal species, including the endemic Thornicroft’s giraffe and Crawshay’s zebra. Herds of elephants — many born without tusks, a genetic adaptation to historic poaching — move through the brush alongside hippos and Nile crocodiles that inhabit the Luangwa River. The park’s varied habitats attract over 400 bird species, from soaring eagles and vultures to owls.

South Luangwa is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. Of Zambia’s 740 bird species, more than 400 have been recorded in and around the park. The area is especially rich in raptors, including four vulture species, various large eagles, smaller goshawks, sparrowhawks and a wide variety of owls. Botanically, South Luangwa boasts a wealth of tree, shrub and flower species, including several notable, seasonally blooming orchids.

As early morning light filters over the park, mammals roam freely across its floodplains and woodlands. The Luangwa River nurtures one of Africa’s largest hippo populations, alongside impressive numbers of Nile crocodiles. Today, choose from guided safaris or walking excursions, returning in the evening to relax at the lodge and reflect on the day’s encounters around a crackling fire.

Fly to Mfuwe and transfer to your safari camp along the seasonal Luwi River in a remote corner of South Luangwa National Park. Four safari tents sit beneath a grove of ancient mahogany trees, overlooking a floodplain frequented by hippos and elephants. With no fences and minimal infrastructure, the camp provides an immersive bush experience, which you experience on a guided game drive or during time at leisure.

Join your guide for a guided walk to your bush camp, set on a bend of the seasonal Luwi River. Known for its exceptional birdlife and frequent wildlife sightings, the camp’s raised rooms overlook a permanent lagoon and are set along an active elephant path. Spend the afternoon on a game drive or enjoy tea and cake in the open-air lounge before settling in for the evening.

A guided walk leads you to your next seasonal bush camp at the confluence of the Luwi and Luangwa Rivers. Spacious tents rest beneath thatched roofs, while a raised deck offers views of a grazing lawn that slopes gently down to the water. You may explore the area on foot or by vehicle or simply relax at camp.

Meet your guide again for a bush walk to Mchenja, beside the Luangwa River. Between safari activities, a pool overlooking the river offers a peaceful retreat. Guided walks and night drives showcase the park’s rich wildlife, including big cats and seasonal sightings of carmine bee-eaters. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy game viewing at your leisure.

Fly to Lusaka via Mfuwe, before boarding your departing flight.