Safari length
16 days
Zambia safari
The Wild North Safari
An active overland expedition.
Overview
This adventurous safari takes you from paddling the mighty Zambezi River, to hiking the mystical hills of Mutinondo Wilderness, and then down into the remote heart of the North and South Luangwa National Parks. It’s an extraordinary route, combining river, mountain, forest, and valley—offering a wide diversity of habitats, wildlife, and experiences. This is one of our most loved and frequently run trips, with consistently outstanding feedback.
Map
Key Information
Duration
12 days
Safari type
Luxury
Included meals
19 (12 breakfast, 3 lunch, 4 dinner)
Transport
Boat, Minibus
Group sIZE 12-18
12 days
Accommodation
11 nights, comfortable lodge
Areas Visited
Gallery
Day by Day
Day 1
Upon arrival at Lusaka International Airport, you’ll be met by your guide and transferred to Pioneer Camp, a peaceful lodge located on the outskirts of the city. Here you can enjoy your first alfresco dinner under the stars, surrounded by Miombo woodland.
Days 2–4
After breakfast on day two, we’ll transfer you down to Chirundu, where you’ll meet your canoe guides and receive a detailed safety briefing. Then, embark on a three-night canoe safari along the Zambezi River—a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You’ll paddle through remote wilderness, camp on island sandbanks, and enjoy sightings of elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and a wide range of birds.
Day 5
At the trail’s end, we’ll meet you with our vehicles and transfer you back to Pioneer Camp. You’ll have time for a hot shower and a relaxed evening before the next leg of your adventure begins.
Day 6
After an early breakfast, we drive north to Mutinondo Wilderness, arriving in time to set up camp and take a short walk to one of the granite inselbergs for a scenic sundowner. Mutinondo offers some of the most spectacular landscapes in Zambia.
Days 7-8
Mutinondo is special because you’re free to explore at your own pace, with or without a guide. There’s no dangerous game in the area, so walking independently is safe and encouraged. You’ll discover crystal-clear rivers, misty woodlands, and granite domes, all teeming with birdlife and biodiversity. If you’d prefer a guide-led walk, we are always available to accompany you.
Day 9
After a relaxed breakfast and striking camp, we transfer you to Samala Camp, nestled near the border of North Luangwa National Park. The afternoon is yours to enjoy a refreshing swim in the river (no crocodiles here!) or relax beneath the Miombo canopy. This area is a birdwatcher’s paradise, and we’ll prepare a hearty bush dinner as you settle into camp.
Day 10
Today we journey into North Luangwa, passing through Mano Gate and descending the stunning escarpment road into the Luangwa Valley. Game sightings increase as we approach the Mwaleshi and Luangwa Rivers. We’ll arrive at North Luangwa Lodge, where you’ll stay in comfortable chalets. The first evening is yours to unwind and enjoy the wild setting.
Days 11-12
Mornings will start early with guided walking safaris through North Luangwa’s rugged terrain—one of Africa’s last true wildernesses. After lunch and some rest, we’ll take you on afternoon or evening game drives, searching for predators and other iconic species in this rarely explored park.
Day 13
After breakfast, we begin the long but rewarding journey (approx. 10 hours) to Wildlife Camp in South Luangwa, set along a wide bend in the Luangwa River. The camp is known for its superb wildlife viewing, even from your veranda. The evening is for rest, recovery, and soaking in the surroundings.
Days 14-15
Over the next two days, enjoy classic safari routines: early game drives, relaxing lunches, and evening safaris with sundowners. This park is one of Zambia’s most celebrated wildlife havens, with excellent sightings of leopard, lion, elephant, and large herds of antelope. Activities are tailored to your interests and can include full-day excursions.
Day 16
After a final breakfast in the bush, we’ll transfer you by road to Pioneer Camp in Lusaka. Located on the east side of the city, it avoids traffic and provides a quiet space to unwind. The following morning, we’ll transfer you to Lusaka International Airport for your onward flight.
Paul's perspective
This adventurous safari takes you from paddling the mighty Zambezi River, to hiking the mystical hills of Mutinondo Wilderness, and then down into the remote heart of the North and South Luangwa National Parks. It’s an extraordinary route, combining river, mountain, forest, and valley—offering a wide diversity of habitats, wildlife, and experiences. This is one of our most loved and frequently run trips, with consistently outstanding feedback.
Price from
$8,084 pp
Enquire now
The best way to start planning your safari is to talk to us. Speak directly with Paul, who can draw on more than 20 years of experience working, guiding and exploring Zambia to help shape the right journey for you.
01293 083139
Call and speak to Paul about your next adventure.
Start planning your Zambia safari
Interested in this safari? Tell Paul a little about your plans, including when you would like to travel, who you will be travelling with and anything you’d particularly like to experience.
Paul will personally review your enquiry and get back to you within two working days to discuss the itinerary, answer any questions and explore how the journey could be tailored to you.
