Africa Sunset – Travel Worldwide

When it comes to an African safari, every person has their own set of expectations. There are some people who look forward to world-class accommodations complete with spa treatments and room services and others who only wish to become immersed in the African bush. Although either type of African vacation is wonderful, a true-to-form safari will provide you with a one of a kind vacation experience.

The History of Walking Safaris

The concept of a walking safari is credited to Norman Carr and his experiences in South Luangwa of Zambia that occurred approximately fifty years ago. The legacy Carr left behind is in part a selection of quality “bush camps.” These camps are generally smaller than the traditional safari lodges, meaning they only accommodate 6-10 people at any given time. The design of these bush camps is made complete with a smattering of thatched cottages that lie along the Luangwa River.

Safari Safety

In order to have a safe Zambia safari, you will need to secure a guide who possesses a great deal of sensory perception and concentration. You are not vacationing in a theme park; an authentic Zambia walking safari means you will be in near proximity to many wild animals without the added safety that a vehicle provides.

The National Parks of Zambia

The national parks of Zambia are well-established and open during the country’s dry season from May to October. South Luangwa does not disappoint in terms of game viewing. Animals you may spot include herds of elephants and buffalo in mating season, lions that are busy defending their territory from competition, and leopards in their own habitat. Other animal species that are native to Zambia are various antelope species, the Cookson’s Wildebeest, and the Thorneycroft’s Giraffe.

Hippopotamuses are also seen in high concentrations along the Luangwa River, especially when Zambia is in full swing of its dry season, which causes the river to shrink. Many times groups of hippos will total to several hundred in one location. The safari tour will in most cases provide concealed areas where you can take pictures and observe hippopotamuses in the wild.

Traveling to Zambia

Zambia can easily be accessed via a direct flight originating from the UK that flies to the capital of Zambia, which is Lusaka. After a short flight, you will arrive in Mfuwe–a small town that acts as an entrance to the bush camps of South Luangwa. When you finally reach your destination, the beauty of Zambia and its untouched wilderness will take your breath away.

Even though you may be eager to get your Zambia safari underway, take the time to first discuss the safari with a person who has traveled to the region. They can give you an unbiased view as to choosing the right kind of camp for you because some of them have a more rustic feel than others.