In the Footsteps of Tusk – Zambia
Zambia's rich wildlife resides within some of the most pristine National Parks in Africa. It's natural boundaries of meandering rivers and steep escarpments provide an exceptionally beautiful, unspoilt and seasonal safari - as safari was intended. Behind the scenes, there are two Tusk supported projects that work tirelessly to protect the resident wildlife, communities and safeguard the vast wilderness areas.
Day 1 - 4
South Luangwa National Park
Known as “The Valley of the Leopard” the South Luangwa is a paradise of hippo filled rivers, tree climbing leopards, packs of wild dog and territorial lions.
Walking safaris were pioneered in the Luangwa, a surprise highlight for many of our safari clients due to the in depth knowledge of the specialist guides and scouts. We mainly use bush camps with only 4 – 6 rooms meaning the safari experience is truly isolated whether on foot or in a 4×4.
Tusk supported projects, Conservation South Luangwa and The Zambian Carnivore Programme, are responsible for the safeguarding of the National Park. Together they provide anti-poaching units, intensive radio collar studies, population research, impacts of hunting and poaching efforts, all of which are essential to ensure the South Luangwa National Park remains a protected wildlife haven.
Day 5 - 8
Lower Zambezi National Park
The Zambezi River is the boundary between Zambia and Zimbabwe and is the ideal river the enjoy a professionally guided canoe safaris with all it’s tributaries (you don’t even need to paddle so you can take photos!) or lunch on a pontoon boat.
After a mornings walking safari, a sunset cruise on the river surrounded by elephant and hippo is completely unique. There is even a chance to catch a tiger fish! The combination of these two parks is, in our opinion, one of the best ways to experience safari in Zambia.
Tusk supported project, Conservation Lower Zambezi (CLZ), has a motto: “Working today to Protect Tomorrow”. Tusk specifically supports the sustainability of daily anti-poaching patrols, re-introduction programmes and research within the Lower Zambezi National Park. CLZ also addresses human – wildlife conflict issues and education programmes to ensure the future protection and development of the National Park. © Chiawa
South Luangwa
Wildlife: The South Luangwa National Park is teeming with wildlife – a magical reserve for the most seasoned safari enthusiasts. Huge steps have been taken over the last decade by one of Tusks supported projects, The Zambia Carnivore Programme, in protecting their wild dog population. Numbers have increased in the South Luangwa and in 2021 an impressive 380 wild dog in 30 different groups were monitored across 3 eco systems. We can never guarantee a sighting, but the opportunity is there! © The Bushcamp Company
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Anti-Poaching: Conservation South Luangwa is in constant need of support to sustain their anti-poaching teams who, between them, patrol 24/7, 365 days of the year. The funds donated are used to support salaries and ensures the teams have well-fitting, functioning kit and nutritious meals.
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Zambia has a fantastic number of small, privately owned camps, each with their own charming character. It is usual to combine a few camps together or have a night under the stars! © The Bushcamp Company
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Walking Safaris: An absolute must whilst in Zambia is getting out of a 4×4 and join a morning walk or, for those who want to go a level further, we can arrange a specialist multi day walking safari in line with your interests. As our partners at The Bushcamp Company say, “From a vehicle you see Africa. On foot you feel, hear and smell Africa.” © Chiawa
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Shoes off, drink in hand and watch as the warm African sun sets. © The Bushcamp Company
Lower Zambezi
The next stage of your journey flies you down, into the Lower Zambezi National Park – one of the most beautiful descents in the world. The Zambezi River is filled with small islands, an ideal location for crocodiles to heat up, hippos to rest and elephant to graze the lush grasses. If you have a sharp eye, you will spot them from the plane before you land. © Chiawa
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Water based safaris: The Lower Zambezi is one of the Mighty rivers of Africa, providing an essential source of year round water. Taking to the waters by boat or canoe provides a completely different perspective. Silently canoeing down the Discovery Channel unmasks what you may have missed by 4×4. Boating on the river takes you into the world of the hippo and, as you cruise downstream, lunch can be served or you can try casting a line for a tiger fish or catfish (catch and release only).© Chiawa
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Conservation Lower Zambezi. Through the reintroduction and growth of carefully selected locally extinct or severely depleted large mammal species, Tusk supported CLZ aims to protect and develop the Lower Zambezi National Park ecosystem. The support provided to CLZ helps safeguard the prolific wildlife in this special National Park.
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The best spots in the Lower Zambezi are right on the waters edge. We work with small, privately owned properties that are actively involved with Conservation Lower Zambezi with many of the guides having spent time with the team or supported them with their efforts when needed.© Old Mondoro
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Wildlife: A particular trick elephants of the Lower Zambezi National Park have mastered is to raise themselves high up on their hind legs to reach pods or branches that would otherwise be out of their reach. There are no giraffe in the Lower Zambezi which may be why these branches and pods are still available to them?© Chiawa
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© Chiawa
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