Zambia
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Austin and Di from Derbyshire travelled to Zambia
Hello Bill, this trip to Zambia surpassed our highest hopes, special sightings just kept coming and by the end exceeded anything we had a right to expect. Across all camps we had sightings of eight Leopards, at least as many of Lions, some great Elephant, Hippos and more Giraffe than we have seen anywhere the list just goes on. We also had a really good range of bird viewing, lots of raptors, waders, Bee-eaters, Nightjar again the list just goes on. All the camps were first class with great hospitality, good accommodation and food. The decision to opt for private guiding was more than justified; James Chabuka is an excellent guide and very good company. In Lower Zambezi the tempo of sightings did not slow down. At Old Mondoro we had a brief sighting of Bush Pig, and a daytime sighting of two Porcupine, Lion close to camp and of course many Elephant in camp; again lots of good bird watching and a very good morning walk. Chiawa proved that the best is saved till last. A morning river cruise produced the best bird watching we have had, particularly notable was a Goliath Heron struggling with a large Bream which it eventually managed to swallow, much to our amazement. Once again our thanks for your faultless organisation.
Zambia
Regions
Lower Zambezi National Park
The Lower Zambezi National Park lies on the northern banks of the mighty Zambezi River as it flows in an easterly direction as the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe.
The park is extensive, including the floodplains of the river and extending inland to encompass much of the impressive escarpment. This diversity provides the Lower Zambezi with a wider variety of habitat than the wildlife areas across the waters in Zimbabwe.
The floodplains are wooded with acacia and mahogany trees, and stretch out on either side of the river. During the dry season (May to October), the floodplains teem with a wide variety of wildlife and birdlife. Hippo are everywhere. Herds of elephant, buffalo, kudu, eland, impala and waterbuck graze the sweet grasses or browse on the tasty albida pods. Lion and sable rest in the shade of the giant figs. Wild dog roam through the area, and crocodiles bask in the shallows, awaiting their chance of a meal when the animals report to quench their thirst. Fringing the floodplains, thicker bush which shelters the shy creatures such as leopard, honey badger and bushbuck, is interspersed with open vleis providing ideal walking country. The hills are rugged and offer spectacular views over the valley looking east to the Mupata Gorge, and west back towards the Kafue River confluence with the Zambezi.
During the late dry season (late August onwards), both white fronted and carmine bee-eaters nest in the banks of the rivers providing a colourful spectacle to complete the impressive list of birds to be seen.
The key aspect of visiting the Lower Zambezi is to experience the river itself, and you’ll have the opportunity to canoe or boat through the channels, or try your hand at fishing. Walking is also available, and game drives are equally productive even though the park has a limited road infrastructure.
To find out more information on Zambezi safari options please call us on 01787 888590 or contact us to speak to one of our safari specialists.