Why should you take a Safari to Zambia?

Been on Safari and thinking of where to for your next Safari?
It’s a no-brainer: Zambia! After my recent trip, I’m absolutely in love with this place, and I’m betting you will be too. Here are a few reasons why I’ve fallen head over heels:

1. The Wildlife.

Grab your front-row seat - Zambian wildlife is next level. So many stories I can share.
- The rare wild dog moments in South Luangwa, chilling after a meal and not budging to the epic impala chase in Lower Zambezi National Park. While the pack did get the impala and devoured it in minutes, I am glad in some way I did not see the kill itself as I am sure it was brutal.
- The beautiful leopard sightings with the best morning light. I skipped my walk for this moment with my Safari guide Sandy from Sungani Lodge. Well worth the gaze.
- Every game drive highlighted elephants with wee ones and lots of them. Just being in the quiet with them, I got to see so many cool interactions. Elephants all day, any day.
- Lions galore. Every drive, we had lion sightings. From a sibling pair playing with sticks and the older sibling not being in the mood for play, to a cheeky lion cub trying to sneak a bite of his dad’s kill. He patiently tried hard for minutes and Dad was NOT feeling generous – cue some serious family drama with the mama lion running to check in on the young one.
- Lots of giraffes on Safari - got to see them necking and mating. Pretty neat.
- From the river banks in Luangwa and Zambezi, I got to see the beginning of the carmine bee-eaters migration - they were making their way to nest. I had heard of this so was excited to get a glimpse of them arriving.
- My Safari guide and I were transferring through Mosi-O-Tunya and at a distance, we see something large. I say “hippo“ and he say’s “elephants“, and when we got closer, we both got goosebumps as there were two white rhinos. We could not stop talking about them until we got to Matetsi River Lodge in Zimbabwe.

Moments like this, with a lion pride, a pack of wild dogs, elephants, and more, make Zambia one of the best countries for wildlife viewing.

2. The People.

Welcoming and warm! You’ll get all the feels from the moment you step onto Zambian soil. The Safari guides shared with me more than wildlife stories. I heard how school works in villages to getting through college and how some guides move to towns like Livingstone and Lusaka for better education for their kids. They shared how they decided to become guides and the process. I heard of the challenges of health care in Zambia especially if you are in remote areas. So much to learn.

The kind and caring lodge crew made sure I ate well and had my morning tea or decaf coffee for me. I always try to chat with them and I can’t wait for some of them to become Safari guides.

To the local artisans in Mfuwe in South Luangwa to the craft market near Victoria Falls, you’ll have a blast bargaining if you are into that but just remember, every extra dollar you spend makes a big difference to the local families!

My tip, I bargain to get the thrill, and then end up paying the original price quoted.

3. The Places.

Amazing hospitality. After hours of bouncing around in a 4x4 Safari vehicle, you’ll want somewhere comfortable to put your feet up. One family run lodge that won the couch test was Sungani Lodge. The couches are so comfortable here – just one example of the Safari essentials you never knew you needed.

Each place [more details here] offered gorgeous views, great food, and all sorts of wildlife rolling in for a visit – I was spoilt on every couch.

4. Victoria Falls.

Nature’s biggest showstopper. Victoria Falls is an absolute must-see when you’re in Zambia, or Zimbabwe. Known locally as “Mosi-oa-Tunya” – The Smoke That Thunders – the sheer power and beauty of the Falls will leave you with your mouth hanging open for minutes at a time. Even in September when the falls is not thundering, I was in awe of this geological wonder. Andddd, I got to experience the Devil’s Pool. Mind blowing experience.

If thunderous stream is what you are after, the Zambian side during the drier months does slow down hence going to the Zimbabwe side may be the answer. You have to be patient because you have to cross the border and would recommend getting the KAZA visa on arrival. But the beauty doesn’t fade with the water levels – this natural wonder is awesome all year round!

5. Fewer Vehicles at this time.

What a treat this is for those of us who are used to areas with lots of vehicles. To have a leopard, lion or wild dog sighting limited to one to two vehicles - wow. When we were trying to capture the wild dogs hunting in Lower Zambezi, my guide Taps was all flustered because there were about ten or so vehicles all trying to get a closer look. I hope they always keep the numbers low, which means we need to make sure we support the right lodges who are protecting the areas.

Would love to chat more with you about the beauty that is Zambia.

Livingstone Island and Devil's Pool.

Perched on the edge!

One of the highlights of my trip was visiting the iconic Devil’s Pool at Victoria Falls. Now, I am afraid of heights, and my intention was to just observe the process for you all, but the guides somehow convinced me to take the plunge in the cold water. Literally!

Imagine being perched on the edge of the largest waterfall in the world, with nothing but a slippery rock between you and a sheer drop. Don’t worry, someone is holding your legs. It was exhilarating and terrifying at the same time. The guides were amazing and wouldn’t take my hesitation for an answer, telling me, “Go, go, get in!” Before I knew it, I was in the water, swimming to the edge, taking this photo!

The guides even take your phone in a waterproof bag and film you from the edge. Pretty scary seeing them walk on the edge confidently, without a harness. Talk about a once-in-a-lifetime experience! Glad I can say I am one of those who has ‘jumped in the deep end’.

The sequence of your day will depend on how you are booked. I had the noon time frame, which meant I got to enjoy lunch after my adventure. There are many time slots and all of that will be booked last minute, when you are there by your lodge in Livingstone, Victoria Falls.

A plunge here is dependent on the time of the year you are going. If June or July, and the water levels are high and rough, you may get to do the Angel’s Pool instead of the Devil’s Pool. When drier or less rough, the Devil’s Pool will be possible. Your guides will assist on the day you are there .. you have to be flexible as it is nature dependent.

Zambia, you blew me away!

Zambia, you are amazing!

You know how much I adore Tanzania. It’s my home country. But a recent trip to Zambia absolutely blew me away. Honestly, I wasn’t expecting to fall head over heels for this country but, Zambia, you surprised me!

A Zambian hospitality recap.

My arrival at Latitude 15.

From the moment I landed in Lusaka and was greeted with friendly smiles and efficient service, I knew this trip was going to be special. I enjoyed a quick stay at Latitude 15, a beautifully decorated boutique hotel in Lusaka. It’s a fantastic first stop that allows you to chill in style following your long trek to Zambia and sets the tone for the rest of the trip.

Off to South Luangwa National Park.

Puku Ridge Camp

Puku Ridge Camp was my first introduction to Zambia’s places-to-stay. This place was a dream, with its mix of mopane forest and open plains. Perfect for photographing wildlife without obstruction. From here, I saw large elephant herds, wild dogs, giraffes, and even a pride of lions that had just taken down a hippo. Oh, the smell will linger in my nostrils for a while.

The rooms had all the creature comforts and more. My travel was in September and, boy, does it get hot during the day. When you are taking a break from the early game drive, you do need a little help from your friend the AC.

The crew - very charming. From the many managers to my host, Limbi. I really had some good laughs and was well taken care off.

Now, here’s a tip: Zambia starts its game drives early. Like, 5:30 - 6:00 am early! So, by 10am, you’re done. That means lots of downtime, so make sure you’re prepared with a great read, light packable card or board games, movies or shows on your device, or to catch up on beauty sleep!

Sungani Camp

Next up was Sungani Camp, a family-run lodge that stole my heart. Beautiful location overlooking a large water-hole, delicious food. Photographers, they had the most amazing camera equipment room. They had everything from Nikon to Canon, and even GoPros and gimbals. And two hides, for wildlife and the carmine bee eaters - amazing, I know!

Another thing about Sungani that stands out? They had the most comfortable couches in their rooms – now there’s a Safari essential you didn’t know you needed. After a long day of game drives, a comfy couch is a lifesaver. You can nap, read, or just enjoy the view with a drink in hand.

On to glorious Lower Zambezi National Park.

Anabezi Camp

I had to travel through Winterthorn forest to get here – and, once again, I fell in love. The best part about staying at Anabezi is the access to this magical forest and the wildlife that resides here.

From the wild dog and lion den that are about 15 min away from the camp, to the leopards and elephants that are also minutes away. One morning, in 2 hours, I had packed a punch with my wildlife sighting, I could have happily called it a day, but I didn’t because the sunset boat ride awaited on the mighty Zambezi River.

With a range of activities here, as with most camps in Lower Zambezi, there is always something new to do - from canoeing depending on the water level and an evening cruise on the Zambezi River to fishing, lunch cruises, walking Safaris … always a different perspective to enjoy the area and it’s glorious wildlife.

The camp crew was one of the youngest I have seen - and always ready to help with a smile. The food, the comfortable room, the outdoor shower [indoor showers coming as per the manager]… a good spot for the adventurer.

Chiawa Camp

This place was a revelation! Owner-run, with incredible attention to detail. They even had pop-up mirrors in the bathrooms so you could watch wildlife while brushing your teeth! And the toilet situation? Blissfully private! I love my husband, but when nature calls, you don’t need anyone around to hear you answer it 🤣

Oh, and I tested the couch at Chiawa (of course!), and it was perfect. Plus, they had a unique take on the plunge pool. It’s a tub that you fill with water as needed, and then it drains out to water the surrounding area. No wasted water – a massive value-add in my book.

Shout out to my Safari guides:
As with all the camps mentioned here, amazing Safari guides are a given. From Taps in Anabezi Camp to gentleman Sandy at Sungani Lodge, you are in great hands with experienced guides.

Let’s take you to wild Zambia on your next Journey to Africa Safari.

Meet the fearless females guiding the way

The Safari industry, once a predominantly male domain, is undergoing a refreshing transformation. Women are increasingly making their mark in every facet of this field, from leading game drives and managing lodges to conservation initiatives and helping travelers plan their own bespoke Safari adventures [that’s me :)].

We recognize these women’s remarkable achievements and praise the way they’re fearlessly reshaping the Safari landscape.

Lucy on the left hand side - she guided Alisa and I in Republic of the Congo in Odzala National Park.

Trailblazers in the Safari industry.
Just last year, Kimberlee le Hanie from Lion Sands made history as the first woman to win the Safari Guide of the Year award. Lucy Stofberg, a Safari guide at Singita Lodges, is another shining example of female excellence. Like most women in the Safari world, Lucy has a deep connection to nature, honed through growing up on her family’s farm in South Africa and going on epic family road trips to iconic national parks like Chobe, Hwange, Etosha, and Kruger.

Her message to other women is clear: “If you love the bush, you belong there.”

Candice - representing Alex Walker Serian’s Camps.

Empowering leadership.
Many lodges and camps are now also led by women, delivering great hospitality and personalized guest experiences.

Candice Mortimer, the marketing visionary behind Alex Walker's Serian Camps, one of our favorite places-to-stay in Tanzania and Kenya, is one such leader. Candice celebrates the increasing presence of women in management positions, noting, “There are more female guides, more female camp managers, more female advisors, and most of Alex Walker Serian’s clients are female buyers!”

This growing representation of women in leadership roles is slowly but surely creating a more inclusive and dynamic industry – and it’s inspiring a new generation of girls and young women to pursue careers that, just 10 years ago, they might never have even considered due to gender bias.

Here’s to these women’s stories – thank you for the way you’re ensuring a brighter and more sustainable future for women, wildlife, and Africa as a whole.

The Great Migration in Northern Serengeti.

The Mara River wildebeest crossing is a huge draw … and it is quite a spectacle.

Taken around 6:45 am on our morning game drive in Northern Serengeti.

As much as you see pictures, read articles or watch videos, nothing really prepares you and your senses when you are in the middle of the Great Wildebeest and Zebra Migration, one of the Natural Wonders of the World.  The sheer numbers of Wildebeests and Zebras. The grunting and galloping sounds. The smell from these animals. The single file walking. The springy trotting. The predators [amazing 20+ lions enjoying a wildebeest] that are enjoying a field day as ‘food’ is finally abundant. And the landscape, oh the wondrous, landscape.

This is how I feel when sitting in the middle of the herd in Northern Serengeti, a great place to visit year round even when the migration is not around because an array of wildlife is always there to enjoy.

Timeline:
They usually arrive into Northern Serengeti in late June to early July but as with anything in nature, that varies year round. The Wildebeest and Zebra Migration; unpredictable and awesome in its splendor.

I know you want to see this phenomenon. Let’s chat and get you here.

Botswana's Okavango Delta

Can you hear it? It’s Botswana’s Okavango Delta calling your name! 
Soon, that gush of water from the distant Angolan highlands will arrive, and the dusty plains will become shimmering lagoons, the channels will swell, and a whole new world will spring to life. Trust me – you want to be there when it happens. 

Mokoro Riding on the Okavango Delta’s channels.

When to go?
May to September is your golden window to experience Botswana. This is when you’ll be able to slip into a mokoro and follow the natural flow of the winding waterways. Feel the sun on your skin as you float past colorful waterlilies and hear the gentle swish of reeds as your guide navigates, keeping your eyes peeled for wildlife – rest assured, you won’t need to wait too long or look too hard! There’s plenty of life in and around the Delta.

Hippos peek out from shallows, elephants quench their thirst at newly-filled pools, and the enthusiastic twittering of over 400 bird species fills the air. You may even spot a usually shy leopard (or two), and perhaps even a pack of wild dogs. Oh, and watch out for that iconic splash of red in the distance – it might just be a leaping lechwe or a sitatunga, elegantly poised and grazing just beyond the water’s edge.

Can’t go during these times.
Don’t wait. The animals will still be there.
The channels may not be high but if you are up for anything, just go. I was there in February and I got to ride the mokoro (that is me in the photo above on my Safari - a traditional dug-out canoe), see the dashing sitatunga, capture the leopards, lions, wild dogs, and so much more.  

Lion pride. Okavango Delta

Of course, all these encounters will be tailored to your rhythm, featuring those life-changing sunrise coffee/chai tea stops, as well as lazy  sundowners, a few bush picnics, and whatever else fuels your sense of adventure.

I’m here to make sure every moment you spend in the Okavango Delta is as wonderful as it is wild. So let’s start plotting your unforgettable African adventure, your way. 

Still going strong!

Trick-or-treating was different this year. My 14 year old son and 12 year old daughter wanted to hang out and walk with friends. It was lovely to see them creating their own memories. I did however go down a rabbit hole of their younger year photos - how I made their costumes and walked around the neighborhood together. 

I went down my email rabbit hole as well and found this gem of an email.

"Hello Mefi, I took a safari arranged by you personally WAY BACK in May of 2001, with your parents picking me up at the airport in Dar es Salaam, and Issa as a guide.  It was all spectacular, except for all the rolls of film I remember having to haul around :) 

I would like to plan a return trip in early 2020, finally, this time with my girlfriend and another couple.  I just checked the web to see if you were still in this business and I guess you are."
- Greg S. Email sent in Feb 2019. 

 Yes, I am still going strong after 23 years with slowdowns here and there for two kiddos and a global pandemic. I know some of you have chatted with me while I was rocking my then babies. I started off planning Safaris only to my home country of Tanzania and now plan all over Eastern and Southern Africa as well as the Congo Basin. It truly has been a wild ride of traveling to the many locations, learning, growing, evolving, and Safari planning with all of you. 

Here's to many more years and emails like Greg's. By the way, Greg took Lori, Deb and Tom on Safari in 2022 and they had a marvelous time on Safari in Tanzania!

Odzala-Kokoua National Park, Republic of the Congo!

What, Republic of the Congo!! The reaction to why there was met with a little alarm. I had to assure people it was Republic of the Congo and not the Democratic Republic of the Congo which is usually in the news with strife.

I was taking this Safari with my friend and fifth time Journey To Africa Safari-goer Alisa. I have been planning Safaris for her since 2005 - she has been to Tanzania, Rwanda, South Africa, Namibia. We had been talking about taking a Safari together and when I heard about Congo Conservation Company in Odzala-Kokoua National Park, Republic of the Congo, I was really curious and when I suggested this to her, she was game.

Republic of the Congo
To my guests who have been on Safari before to Eastern and Southern Africa, the Odzala-Kokoua National Park [Congo Basin] is nothing like what we are used to. Honestly, it took a while for me to adjust to the fact that I will not be seeing an abundance of wildlife because the terrain is so different. But once I wrapped that around my head, the experience will forever be unique.

How was the Odzala-Kokoua National Park different:

Lots of walking.
We sat in the vehicle for short amounts of time - just to head to the river dock or once for 2 hours to transfer from camp to camp. The rest of the time, we walked. Trekking through the dense forests using the animals path [harden by their walk otherwise the ground was soft], the elephant corridor in Lango Camp which was beautiful with lilies and was waist deep [had me pause for a bit], speed walking early morning under the guidance of master trekker Zephran to see the lowland gorillas from Ngaga Camp [located right outside Odzala-Kokoua National Park in the Ndzehi Forest], walked to get from Mboko Camp to Lango Camp after kayaking. You get the idea - it was definitely an active Safari.

The lovely elephant corridor from Lango Camp

With Zephran - master trekker

Lowland gorillas.
I must admit, I was looking forward to seeing Neptuno, the alpha male gorilla. We passed this opportunity to the local mayor of Mbomo who took that trek which in itself is great because now we have a local Congolese invested in protecting these amazing species. We did see lots of wee ones who were eager to show off and entertained us for a solid hour we were with them.

Forest elephants.
In Eastern and Southern Africa, you are used to see the elephants in large herds in all areas. Here, because of the terrain, you may only see them in the bai’s [open areas] but when you are walking in the forest or boating on the Lekoli River, you may see only a few. And when you do see them, it feels special.

Forest elephant

Other animals.
You hear them, but you may not see them easily. Of course this depends on the time of the year, luck, etc. but for example, we heard a hippo, saw the treks, but did not see the hippo. We were also there in Sept/Oct and the rains were coming so animals are away from the open bai area.

Our guide Lucy saw a leopard when she was coming to pick us up from the airstrip, so they are there, but sooo elusive. Lucy has been in that area of a year and that was her first encounter.

The smaller things.
We were definitely in-tuned to foot prints on this Safari as you are now looking at the small things. The smaller animals like the ants and the adulterer tree - you have to go there to hear this wild story :). The stunning fungi! So many different varieties to observe - eye opening.

The most common walking path

Stunning mushrooms of different variety

Boating and kayaking.
This was fun. We got to get on the boat and cruise down Lekoli River. This is when we saw the a few forest elephants on the banks and one crossing the river. They are pretty skittish - as soon as they smell you, they walk away. We also got to enjoy kayaking from camp to camp. You don’t have to do this but if you like, you kayak down from Mboko Camp to Lango Camp. We got to see the flock of green pigeons as soon as we parked our kayaks. Some of the best landscape views when boating and kayaking of the Congo Basin.

Kayaking from one camp to the other

French speaking.
This place reminded me of Tanzania about 20 odd years ago. We were starting off and our lodge crew spoke mostly Swahili and only a few could speak English. That has changed and majority of the people you will encounter will speak English.

At the camps, the crew spoke very little English besides the Camp managers. We could not ask them their stories without getting help from the managers. In Brazzaville, the capital of Republic of Congo, we enjoyed chatting with Dan, our local guide in English who gave us a good insight about the country.

Who is this Safari for?

I would say, this is for someone like Alisa and I who have been to Eastern and Southern Africa and want to experience the ‘something else’. This was the ‘something else’ for sure.

Having said that, we met a couple from New York who were there and they had not been on Safari before but loved their time here. They were truly disconnected [not much wi-fi here], enjoyed every encounter thoroughly, enjoyed the small things, great food, hardly took pictures, and brought a film camera - so there, if you are like them, you will love this place.

Does this sound like up your ‘corridor’? Let’s chat and see how we can get you here.