Safari length
15 days
Zambia safari
Hiking, Boating, Swimming Safari
For travellers who love the outdoors.
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
We’ll collect you from Kenneth Kaunda International Airport and transfer you to Pioneer Camp, a quiet retreat where you can unwind and settle into Zambia at your own pace.
Day 2-4
You’ll head to Kafue River Lodge, nestled on the riverbanks in a private concession. On arrival, enjoy a sunset boat cruise followed by a delicious dinner prepared by the Northern Kafue Safaris culinary team.
Choose Your Adventure: Each day, select from guided walks, cycling, fishing, game drives, or boat excursions. Your guide will help you plan your perfect day. Return to camp for a brunch or lunch, unwind before high tea, and head out again in the cooler hours.
Accommodation: Private chalet, full board
Activities: Customizable, with expert guidingDay 5
After breakfast, return to Pioneer Camp (approx. 6 hours). Enjoy a relaxed evening meal under the stars and a good night’s sleep before the next chapter of your adventure.
Day 6-8
Welcome to Zambia’s last wild frontier. The Luano Valley is raw, remote, and rarely visited—we are the only operator bringing guests here. The drive takes roughly 6.5 hours, ending at a stunning, secluded site where we will establish a fully serviced mobile camp (bucket showers, latrine toilets, and all comforts provided).
Day 6: Settle in with a sunset river walk, while the chef prepares your evening meal.
Day 7: Take a guided hike through Chapinda Gorge, with breathtaking views of the Lunsemfwa River below. Spot fish, crocs, and epic rock formations.
Day 8: Cross the river by mokoro and hike along the Lukasashi River, with the chance to summit a nearby hill for panoramic views.
This is real wilderness—a place of total disconnection, with epic birding, fishing, and exploration.
Day 9
After breakfast and breaking down camp, we’ll return you to Pioneer Camp, where you’ll relax in a Miombo chalet and enjoy a hearty meal
Days 10-11
Depart early for the Kapishya Hot Springs, a beautiful lodge on the historic Shiwa Ng’andu estate (approx. 10-hour drive). We’ll be camping in the grounds, but you’ll also enjoy dinner at the lodge one evening.
Swim in the natural hot springs, paddle the river, tour the famed Shiwa House, or take peaceful walks around the estate. This is one of our favorite places in Zambia—beautifully unique and deeply relaxing.
Days 12-13
After breakfast, head south to the scenic Mutinondo Wilderness. Set up at one of their charming private campsites and explore the afternoon at your own pace.
Day 13: Choose from hiking, swimming, paddling, mountain biking, or 4×4 exploring. Mutinondo’s trails and rivers are perfect for self-guided or hosted activities.
Day 14
Break up the return journey with a comfortable overnight stay at Forest Inn, located along the Great North Road. Enjoy hearty food, delicious coffee, and a final taste of rural Zambia before returning to Lusaka.
Day 15
Return to Pioneer Camp for your last night, complete with a farewell dinner and time to reflect on an epic adventure.
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
$4,913 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.
