Zambia and Malawi Private Journey

Explore Zambia, land of the legendary walking safari, with an environment as untamed as it was 50 years ago. Enjoy breathtaking leopard sightings and exciting walking safaris in the magic of South Luangwa National Park, then discover a stunning beach hideaway on a beautiful island in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Malawi, Africa’s hidden gem.

Itinerary at a Glance

For a more complete description, Download Full Trip Brochure

Days 1-3
Kafue National park / Busanga Plains

From Lusaka, a charter flight takes you to Kafue, then onward via helicopter to the undiscovered Busanga Plains, a vast seasonal floodplain in wild Kafue National Park with a habitat and abundance of game that recalls the famed Okavango Delta. Busanga plays host to some of the best gameviewing in Africa yet is utterly remote and untraveled. The predators of these plains are dominated by a high density of lion, with species like cheetah and wild dog hunting in areas where lions are not present. Large herds of elephant and buffalo roam the wilds of Busanga, along with Lichtenstein’s hartebeest, sable, roan, puku, the diminutive oribi, and lechwe in the thousands. Birdlife is prolific, including many species not found elsewhere in southern Africa. Explore on exciting day and night game drives by 4WD, with accommodation at intimate 8-guest Kapinga Camp or 12-guest Shumba Camp (depending on availability), both in spectacular remote locations in the heart of this wildlife wonderland.

Days 4-6
Walking Safaris in South Luangwa

The concept of the walking safari was developed in vast and beautiful South Luangwa National Park, one of Africa’s finest wildlife sanctuaries. Experience quintessential safaris on foot with a professional ranger-tracker as well as day and night safaris by open 4WD vehicle following the sweeping bends of the Luangwa River, with its high concentrations of game along the forested banks. Exclusive Tena Tena or Nsefu (depending on availability) are atmospheric and exclusive camps set among mahogany trees riverside. From the thatched dining room and bar, watch elephants, hippo, and antelope on the river banks. Tena Tena hosts a maximum of 10 guests and Nsefu just 12 guests.

Days 7-10
Snorkeling in Crystal-Clear Lake Malawi

A little-known wonder in the heart of central southern Africa, Malawi has spectacular Rift Valley scenery. The country’s landscape is dominated by Lake Malawi, nearly 400 miles long and surrounded by towering green mountains. This vast lake has one of the most diverse freshwater ecosystems in the world, with over 1,000 species of fish, many of them endemic. A scenic bush flight brings you right to Likoma, a beautiful, remote island at the northern end of the lake, close to the Mozambique coastline. Just eight square miles, Likoma Island has hundreds of huge baobab trees, glorious sandy beaches, and friendly villages where people make their living by fishing and by rice and cassava farming. From your deluxe beach lodge, Kaya Mawa, enjoy unrivaled freshwater snorkeling, swimming, sailing, strolls to villages, and visit the century-old St. Peter’s cathedral. The snorkeling is wondrous, with an abundance of fish species and spectacular underwater rock formations, including swim-throughs. Guided scuba dives are available. Kaya Mawa, built by hand in partnership with the local community, has ten private cottages in a stunning setting on a sweeping sandy beach. Condé Nast Traveler readers voted Kaya Mawa one of the top hideaway destinations in the world. Depart Day 10.

For a more complete description, Download Full Trip Brochure

Optional Extensions

If you would like to continue your adventure, we offer the following extensions:

• Victoria Falls Extension (3 days)
• Lower Zambezi Canoe and Walking Safari Extension (4 days)

What the Trip is Like

This trip is rated Level 2. It is a luxury camping and lodge safari with game viewing by 4WD vehicle. This journey can be enjoyed by anyone in reasonably good health. On safari, there are long driving days over rugged dirt tracks.

Explanation of Trip Levels