13 Days Southern Zambia and Northern Zimbabwe Parks

Lusaka is the capital and largest city of Zambia. It is one of the fastest-developing cities in Southern Africa. Lusaka is the Centre of both commerce and government in Zambia and connects to the four main highways heading north, south, east and west. The late afternoon can be your option to walk around the city and try to explore it by foot.

Kafue National Park is Zambia's largest and oldest park, known for vast wilderness, rivers, and diverse wildlife. It hosts lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, and rare antelope species, offering uncrowded safaris, scenic landscapes, boat cruises, and exceptional birdlife experiences.

A full-day game drive in Kafue National Park offers immersive wildlife viewing across vast plains, rivers, and woodlands. Guided by professionals, guests search for lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, and rare antelope species, with picnic breaks in nature. The experience combines scenic beauty, rich birdlife, and authentic, uncrowded safari encounters.

Lower Zambezi National Park is an unspoiled safari destination offering luxury experiences, incredible wildlife, and great wilderness. The remoteness of the Lower Zambezi is one of the biggest drawcards for most travelers as traces of people are hard to find - a rarity in the modern world. The park has big herds of elephants and buffalo, sunbathing crocodiles, sleeping lions, stealthy leopards, lively African wild dogs and many more. In the afternoon we can do a sunset boat cruise.

The Lower Zambezi, a key national park of Zambia, lies between the rugged and dramatic Zambezi escarpment and the wide and spectacular Zambezi River. It lies opposite the famous Mana Pools National Park in Zimbabwe, so the whole area on both sides of the Zambezi River is a massive wildlife sanctuary. It covers an area of 4092 square kilometers and has good birdlife in the riverine. Today we have a full day exploring the park on a full day game drive.

The Mana Pools afternoon boat cruise offers a relaxed and scenic way to explore the Zambezi River as the day cools. Drifting past riverbanks and islands, you'll enjoy close sightings of elephants, hippos, crocodiles and abundant birdlife, including fish eagles and kingfishers. The cruise provides excellent photographic opportunities with soft afternoon light and dramatic reflections on the water. As the sun sets, the river comes alive with wildlife activity, creating a peaceful yet unforgettable safari experience in one of Africa's most pristine wilderness areas.

A full-day game drive in Mana Pools National Park offers an exceptional wildlife experience in one of Africa's most scenic wilderness areas. Explore vast floodplains, riverine forests, and the Zambezi River banks while searching for elephants, lions, wild dogs, buffalo, hippos, and diverse birdlife. With extended time in the park, your expert guide allows flexible wildlife viewing, photography stops, and relaxed picnic breaks, creating an immersive and unforgettable safari adventure.

A boat transfer from Kariba Town to Spurwing Island is a scenic and relaxing journey across the vast waters of Lake Kariba. Departing from the harbor, guests cruise past tranquil bays, fishing boats, and occasional wildlife along the shoreline. The trip typically takes about 20–30 minutes, depending on water conditions and boat type. Along the way, you may spot hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birdlife, making the transfer feel like a mini safari. Comfortable, motorized boats are used, often with shaded seating for protection from the sun. Upon arrival, Spurwing Island's peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty provide a perfect introduction to your lakeside retreat experience.

A day in Matusadona National Park offers an immersive blend of walking and driving safaris. The morning walking safari begins early with an experienced guide and armed ranger, allowing you to explore the bush on foot. This intimate experience focuses on tracking wildlife, identifying animal prints, learning about plants, and observing smaller creatures often missed on drives. Encounters with elephants, buffalo, and antelope are possible at a safe distance, making it both thrilling and educational. In the afternoon, a game drive provides a wider exploration of the park's diverse landscapes, from open plains to lakeshore areas along Lake Kariba. As temperatures cool, wildlife becomes more active, offering excellent chances to spot lions, elephants, and other big game, all while enjoying stunning sunset views.

Morning and afternoon game drives in Matusadona National Park offer a rewarding way to explore one of Zimbabwe's most scenic and wildlife-rich areas. The morning drive begins at sunrise, when temperatures are cool and animals are most active. Guided by experienced rangers, you may encounter elephants, buffalo, antelope, and even predators returning from a night hunt. The soft morning light also provides excellent photographic opportunities. After a relaxing midday break, the afternoon game drive sets out as the heat subsides. Wildlife becomes active again, especially along the shores of Lake Kariba, where animals gather to drink. This drive often continues into sunset, offering breathtaking views and chances to spot lions, hippos, and a variety of birdlife before returning to camp.

A visit to the Kariba Dam Wall—often referred to as the Lake Kariba 'bridge'—offers a fascinating glimpse into one of Africa's greatest engineering feats. The guided tour provides insights into how the dam was constructed, its role in generating hydroelectric power for both Zimbabwe and Zambia, and its impact on the creation of Lake Kariba. Standing atop the wall, you'll enjoy impressive views of the vast lake on one side and the dramatic gorge below. Across the border in Siavonga, the local fish market is a vibrant cultural experience. Here, fishermen bring in fresh catches like bream and kapenta, creating a lively atmosphere where visitors can interact with locals and observe daily lakeside life.

We drive back to Lusaka to mark the end of the safari, but en-route we stop over at Luangwa Bridge market to learn and discover local goods and crafts in the area.

Flying out from Lusaka International Airport, marking the end of your Southern Africa adventure.