WHY YOU’D LOVE IT!
Zambia today is a pristine African wilderness, making it a wild and spectacular destination! It is a landlocked country that has only recently begun to appear on the international visitor’s itinerary. With thousands of square miles of bushveld and 19 National Parks, it is a premier safari and big game viewing destination. River cruises and activities on the Lower Zambezi, walking safaris in the South Luangwa, and game drives in the Kafue all provide excellent opportunities for tracking Big Game
Highlights include:
OVERVIEW
Itinerary at a glance
◽️ DAY 0 | Travel
Departure
◽️ DAY 1-3 | Zambia
South Luangwa NP
◽️ DAY 4-5 | Zambia
South Luangwa NP
◽️ DAY 6-7 | Zambia
Victoria Falls
◽️ DAY 8 | Travel
Return / Onward travel
MAP
MAP
Visualize your journey!
DAY 0
DEPARTURE
Travel
DEPARTURE
Your adventure starts now!
Embark on an African safari and anticipate breathtaking landscapes, encountering diverse and majestic wildlife in their natural habitats, and immersing yourself in the rich cultural experiences of the continent.
* See your safari itinerary for transfer logistics
DAY 1-3
SOUTH LUANGWA NP
Safari days
📍 Mchenja Camp
SOUTH LUANGWA NP
Area Overview
Welcome to South Luangwa National Park! Considered by many as the most unspoiled and intact safari park in Africa, South Luangwa National Park is probably Zambia’s biggest hidden gem. Its inaccessibility and wild natural conditions make it a less popular choice for first-timers. At the same time, safari experts and wildlife lovers try to keep quiet to protect its beauty. game-viewing in South Luangwa is simply outstanding. Here you can see four out of the big five (white and black rhinos disappeared due to poaching in the area), and for many safari experts, South Luangwa National Park is the best place to spot the elusive leopard.
The South Luangwa National Park is famous for its guided walking safaris.
Leopard are particularly common in the South Luangwa, though not so common as to be routine encounters. With habitats varying from dense riverine forests to large open savannah woodland, the concentration and variety of wildlife is astonishing incl. 3 Luangwa Valley sub-species: Thornicroft giraffe, Crawshey's zebra and Cookson's wildebeest.
A walking safari is a unique way to experience the African bush and observe its wildlife. A typical walking safari a duration of approximately 3 hours. A large part of a walking safari revolves around tracking animals – from big cats to a multitude of wildlife such as Kudu, Eland, Elephants, Giraffe, and the endemic Cookson’s Wildebeest. Of course walks bring you closer to the smaller things, the incredible flora, bird life, and arthropods.
.
Activities
The South Luangwa National Park is famous for its guided walking safaris
South Luangwa National Park is Zambia's biggest hidden gem and is considered by many as the most unspoiled and intact safari park in Africa. Here you can see four out of the big five (white and black rhinos disappeared due to poaching in the area), and for many safari experts, South Luangwa National Park is the best place to spot the elusive leopard.
Activities in camp consist of walking safaris and day and night game drives in a variety of environments, including riverine forests, Mopane woodland, and open floodplains. These attract a diversity of wildlife, from plains game such as Crawshay's zebra and impala, to wetland animals like puku and waterbuck, as well as the shyer species that prefer the riverine thickets, like kudu and leopard
Another highlight of South Luangwa NP is the opportunity to do night safaris, and this activity is quite popular among safari lovers and not possible to do in every national park. Here, your chances to see a leopard have increased significantly, but you can also see other nocturnal animals such as the spotted hyena, genet, bushbaby, and porcupines.
MCHENJA CAMP
Camp Overview
Full board, drinks excl.
A stylishly tented piece of heaven, Mchenja camp is located in the game-heavy central region of the South Luangwa National Park. Nestled under huge ebony trees on the banks of a broad section of the Luangwa River. A friendly, relaxed atmosphere with sweeping river views that will seduce even the most seasoned safari-goer.
Between the baboons chattering above you in the beautiful ebony branches, and the herds of elephants who like to pop into camp for a visit, you’ll stay entertained throughout your unforgettable time here. The beautiful central lounge, built around a fallen ebony tree, is the perfect spot to share your sunrise coffee with other guests while you enjoy birds’ songs calling across the picturesque Luangwa River. Satisfy your palate with brunch in the shade of that charming lounge. Later in the day, enjoy a delicious dinner served on crisp white linens by the scenic river bank.
Be sure to alert the staff if your trip includes a birthday or anniversary celebration, and let them pamper you with a special treat, like one of Chef’s delightful soufflés! The attentive and pleasant staff is dedicated to accommodating your needs and ensuring your satisfaction, whether you’d like a romantic candlelit dinner set for two under a bright blanket of stars, or just need a cool towel to refresh you after a game drive.
With only 4 uniquely spacious octagonal chalets, and one two-bedroom family unit, canvas and thatched chalets are as intimate as they are luxurious.
Recharge after the excitement of your afternoon drive in your uncluttered and meticulously maintained chalet, with its large honeymoon size bed gently draped in mosquito netting and private open-air outdoor facilities featuring flush WC, basin and shower. And when you’re not using those open-air facilities, the local monkeys will jump in and give you a show! If you’re in the mood for something more indulgent, have a soak and a sundowner in the Victorian-style bathtub with a charming view of the river through your own private screened window.
ACTIVITIES
Guides at the camp are known for their dedication to both the guest experience and the well-being of the local wildlife. Whether you come across a herd of elephants or a pride of lions, their expert skill and calm response will ensure your safety and enhance your fun, while leaving the animals undisturbed. If you prefer to watch wildlife from the comfort of a hardtop Land Rover, you’ll enjoy it even more when you pause your adventure for a bit of tea and scrumptious cakes served on the hood of the vehicle. Evening drives are as exciting as those in the day, so you night owls will have plenty to keep you entertained.
If you wish to view wildlife on foot, you won’t be disappointed by the educational experience, which might include a chat with your guide about the intricacies of the park’s ecosystem, learning to read animal tracks in the sand, or stepping within a few yards of raucous hippos.
*Please see your safari itinerary for transfer logistics.
.
FULL BOARD
TENTED CAMP
GAME VIEW
DAY 4-5
SOUTH LUANGWA NP
Safari days
📍 Chamilandu camp
SOUTH LUANGWA NP
Area Overview
Welcome to South Luangwa National Park! Considered by many as the most unspoiled and intact safari park in Africa, South Luangwa National Park is probably Zambia’s biggest hidden gem. Its inaccessibility and wild natural conditions make it a less popular choice for first-timers. At the same time, safari experts and wildlife lovers try to keep quiet to protect its beauty. game-viewing in South Luangwa is simply outstanding. Here you can see four out of the big five (white and black rhinos disappeared due to poaching in the area), and for many safari experts, South Luangwa National Park is the best place to spot the elusive leopard.
The South Luangwa National Park is famous for its guided walking safaris.
Leopard are particularly common in the South Luangwa, though not so common as to be routine encounters. With habitats varying from dense riverine forests to large open savannah woodland, the concentration and variety of wildlife is astonishing incl. 3 Luangwa Valley sub-species: Thornicroft giraffe, Crawshey's zebra and Cookson's wildebeest.
A walking safari is a unique way to experience the African bush and observe its wildlife. A typical walking safari a duration of approximately 3 hours. A large part of a walking safari revolves around tracking animals – from big cats to a multitude of wildlife such as Kudu, Eland, Elephants, Giraffe, and the endemic Cookson’s Wildebeest. Of course walks bring you closer to the smaller things, the incredible flora, bird life, and arthropods.
.
Activities
The South Luangwa National Park is famous for its guided walking safaris
South Luangwa National Park is Zambia's biggest hidden gem and is considered by many as the most unspoiled and intact safari park in Africa. Here you can see four out of the big five (white and black rhinos disappeared due to poaching in the area), and for many safari experts, South Luangwa National Park is the best place to spot the elusive leopard.
Activities in camp consist of walking safaris and day and night game drives in a variety of environments, including riverine forests, Mopane woodland, and open floodplains. These attract a diversity of wildlife, from plains game such as Crawshay's zebra and impala, to wetland animals like puku and waterbuck, as well as the shyer species that prefer the riverine thickets, like kudu and leopard
Another highlight of South Luangwa NP is the opportunity to do night safaris, and this activity is quite popular among safari lovers and not possible to do in every national park. Here, your chances to see a leopard have increased significantly, but you can also see other nocturnal animals such as the spotted hyena, genet, bushbaby, and porcupines.
CHAMILANDU CAMP
Camp Overview
Full board, drinks excl.
A small and intimate camp set in the shade of some tall African ebony trees, perched on the bank of a winding section of the Luangwa River!
Only 3 spacious chalets, each set well apart, with uninterrupted views of the river and to the Nchindeni Hills beyond. Each is thatched, and raised about 2 yards off the ground on a timber platform. There are reed walls on three sides but the front of the bedroom is completely open, leading to a private viewing deck where comfortable chairs face the river. Although still very African in style the interiors are both contemporary and chic. Black mosquito netting works well with the neutral color scheme and high-quality but simple furniture. Each room has a king-size bed, or two small double four-posters A curtained doorway leads through to an open-air, en-suite bathroom.
At the centre of camp, just yards away from the riverbank and enclosed on three sides by a waist-high reed wall, is the main area. Here you will find contemporary furniture, such as hanging wicker chairs, molded wooden stools and low-slung sofas, is set on sandy floors, reinforcing the camp's rustic feel.
A dining table is surrounded by directors' chairs, and there's a well-stocked bar and small library, too. The high thatched ceiling provides a convenient roosting place for epauleted fruit bats, which you'll often spot hanging from the rafters.
Overlooking the river, the campfire is lit in the mornings to cook porridge and toast at breakfast, and in the evening as a gathering place for pre-dinner drinks. Away from the river, a thatched building on stilts serves both as a hide, with a vantage point overlooking a small lagoon where animals often come to drink in the heat of the day, and as a shady lunch spot.
B&B
TENTED CAMP
GAME VIEW
DAY 6-7
VICTORIA FALLS
Explore
📍 Tongabezi
VICTORIA FALLS
Area Overview
Victoria Falls visit, Elephant encounter & more!
Experience the awe-inspiring majesty of Victoria Falls, a natural wonder where the mighty Zambezi River plunges dramatically, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of roaring waters and ethereal mist that embodies the sheer power and beauty of nature.
Take a guided walking tour of breathtaking Victoria Falls, one of the world’s greatest natural wonders, and explore the surrounding rainforest. See rainbows and clouds of spray as the mile-wide Upper Zambezi plummets into the Lower Zambezi.
Named after Scottish explorer Dr David Livingstone, Livingstone’s culture and history is intriguing – as is evidenced by the arts and craft producers, museums, colonial architecture, traditional village life, local food and the general African lifestyle.
TONGABEZI LODGE
Lodge Overview
Full board, drinks excl.
Welcome at Victoria Falls- Livingstone, Zambia side! The Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, offers breath-taking views that are almost too spectacular and majestic to describe. Unique attractions on the Zambian side include the Boiling Pot and The Devil’s Pool.
Set under shady trees, the secluded camp mixes romance and exclusivity and makes for an excellent honeymoon or romantic holiday retreat. Sit back and soak up the magnificent views of the Zambezi River gliding by.
The ultimate destination for romance and bespoke travel, the real beauty of the Tongabezi experience lies in its ability to set a scene and inspire a truly magical adventure.
The lodge has an extensive variety of cottages and houses catering to all guests and groups. The River Cottages feature high ceilings, giant bespoke wood and glass windows, and doors leading onto expansive sustainable pine decks. The signature African fusion Tongabezi style has been distilled to the best of 'Made in Zambia' in both the interior and outdoor spaces.
Sindabezi Island is a castaway dream on a white sand beach surrounded by the Zambezi, just a short boat ride from the main jetty. Tongabezi also offers thrilling boat trips to the incredible Livingstone Island in the middle of Victoria Falls.
Enjoy doing as much or as little as you want, although there are plenty of activities on offer. This secluded camp combines exclusivity with the genuine warmth and hospitality of Zambia and its people.
ACTIVITIES
A wide range of activities are on offer during your stay, for example: an early morning game drive, drifting down the Zambezi River on a Sunset Cruise, or a romantic Sampan dinner floating out on the river. Enjoy a private Sand Bar lunch. Community minded?
Did someone say fishing? The Zambezi make a serene and angling destination
The lavish accommodation caters for guests of all persuasions, with en-suite river cottages and open-plan stone and thatch houses suited for families, couples, and friends. Several houses include infinity plunge pools and open-air sunken baths on terraces with mesmerizing river views, perfect for dining and unwinding
*See your safari itinerary for transfer logistics and details.
B&B
LODGE
TOURS
DAY 8
RETURN
DEPARTURE
Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end! Goodbye to the safari life, feeling relaxed, mesmerizing scenery, great food, family time, and romantic memories.
Morning road transfer back to the airport for your outbound flight... dreaming of the trip of a lifetime!
TRAVEL INFO
◽️ Preparing for your trip
PREPARING FOR YOUR
SAFARI
Pre-Travel Information
Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the return date of your arrangements and have a minimum of three blank visa pages excluding endorsement pages. Travellng with minors - in addition to having a valid passport and valid visa (if applicable), children under the age of 18, traveling through Botswana’s borders, must be in possession of a certified copy of their unabridged birth certificate (one that shows the particulars of a minor and those of both parents). A child under the age of 18 traveling to Botswana and/or South Africa with just one parent must carry an affidavit signed by the other parent consenting to such travel. Failure to produce the necessary documentation may result in travelers being turned away at port of entry. Insider Tips Zimbabwe and Mozambique visas each use up a full passport page. If you are visiting both countries we recommend a minimum of four blank pages. Post Covid passport renewals are taking much longer than in the past so don’t leave applying for a new passport until the last moment as there iust a chance you won’t receive it in time to travel. Keeping your passport safe is key as there is nothing worse than having to spend precious holiday time replacing it. Make at least two copies of the ID page of your passport, visa (if obtained in advance of travel), Covid-19 vaccine passport, travel itinerary, travel insurance, credit cards and any other travel documentation. One copy can be an image scan and the other a hard copy which you can give to a family member, business associate or close friend for safekeeping When it comes to health risks and medical precautions, Machaba Blue is only able to offer limited advice as outlined below. Those with underlying chronic conditions should ideally seek medical advice prior to planning their journey. Prior to traveling to Africa, we highly recommend you visit a medical professional such as your GP or local travel clinic for advice on what health precautions need to be taken. This visit should take place at least 4-8 weeks prior to departure as it will determine the need for any vaccinations and/or antimalarial medication as well as identifying any other medical precautions. Currently no mandatory vaccinations are required when entering Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and South Africa. Please check if this is still the case when visiting your GP or travel clinic. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required by visitors coming from a country where yellow fever occurs, or if they have been in transit for more than 12 hours at an airport in a country here yellow fever occurs. Malaria is present throughout southern Africa and in certain areas of South Africa. Insider Tips INCLUDED ____________ * As indicated on your detailed safari itinerary EXCLUDED ____________ * Unless otherwise indicated on your itineraryPASSPORTS
HEALTH
VISAS
GRATUITIES
PACKING LIST
BAGGAGE
TRAVEL INSURANCE
SAFETY GUIDELINES
INCLUDED & EXCLUDED
