Zambia Conservation Safari with Hwange Extension

On game drives in open 4x4 vehicles, guests may catch sight of the celebrated lion prides of the Busanga Plains, including other predators such as cheetah and wild dogs – plus scores of plains game such as puku, red lechwe, buffalo and wildebeest; perhaps even the rare roan antelope feeding on the fertile grasses.

Led by a knowledgeable guide, interpretive night drives offer a glimpse into Busanga Plains’ unique, nocturnal world. A diverse range of species may be seen at night, including genet, civet, owls and occasionally the elusive leopard.

Early on in the season, the Busanga Plains are still largely covered by water allowing for exploration of the channels and their life by boat.

* Water levels permitting and mostly at the beginning of the season.

Boasting hundreds of species, including the range restricted Fülleborn's Longclaw, birding enthusiasts will be spoilt for choice on a specialist birding safari. The area is alive with rollers, bee-eaters, kingfishers, herons and large flocks of storks, to name a few.

* Seasonal Activity

Game drives into Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park offer sightings of general game species namely elephant, buffalo, giraffe and white rhino. Rich birdlife, including sought-after species such as half-collared kingfisher and Schalow’s turaco may be spotted as well.

Exploring the area on foot is a remarkable way to enjoy the small wonders within close proximity to the camp – the experience enables an understanding about the medicinal properties of plants and trees, the ecology, birds and insects; as well as interpreting the signs of the wild including animal tracks.

* Seasonal and subject to the availability of a qualified walking guide.

Whether a relaxing sunset cruise or a game viewing cruise, there are stunning scenic views and exciting wildlife to be enjoyed from the comfort of a spacious boat. There is always an abundance of hippo and crocodile; with the mighty Zambezi revealing other surprising sightings along the way.

Tracking rhino at Wilderness Toka Leya is an exhilarating way of getting up close and personal with these endangered animals. Zambian Wildlife Authority (ZAWA) scouts monitor these rhino 24 hours a day and therefore the animals’ whereabouts are always known. Travel to the location by vehicle, and then track the rhino on foot, accompanied by the scout.

* Please note that a nominal park fee is applicable.

The Zambezi River hosts several varieties of bream (Tilapia) which are a good catch. Tiger fishing is an unforgettable challenge for keen fishermen, particularly during the warmer months (October through to December).

* Fishing is on a catch and release basis, with a nominal park fee applicable.

An opportunity for guests to gain an understanding of the camp’s eco-friendly initiatives. Energy saving is explained, including how waste water is reused in the camp nursery which was established to rehabilitate the area. The camp’s worm farm not only assists in the degradation of organic waste, it is the perfect fertiliser for the indigenous trees in the nursery – which are then planted in areas where they once grew. Guests have the chance to participate in our rehabilitation efforts as well by planting their very own tree.

The camp's uniquely situated riverside spa allows guests to relax and be pampered with its variety of wellness treatments.

A World Heritage Site, Victoria Falls straddles the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia and is the most expansive curtain of water in the world. Behold the "Smoke that Thunders", Victoria Falls, is known to locals as "Mosi-oa-Tunya" for valid reasons. View its dramatic roaring waters and a mini rainforest that clings to the Falls’ edge, with a variety of mammals and birds. Plummeting some hundred metres into a basalt gorge, the spectacular spray, seen from kilometres away, is beguiling.

* A guided tour on the Zambian side is included in your stay; while the view from the Zimbabwean side is at extra cost.

Cultural visits to one of the nearby villages are respectful and insightful ways of learning about and interacting with the people and culture in this part of Zambia. The visit includes seeing one of the schools, and a homestead. Guest donations have assisted with projects that focus on schooling and income-generating activities, ensuring that the community benefits from tourism in the area.

Visit the local museum, and neighbourhood markets, to catch a glimpse of historic and modern Livingstone town.

Wilderness Toka Leya is a tranquil safari base from which to easily access and explore the Victoria Falls and the adrenaline-filled adventure hub of Livingstone.

The mighty Zambezi’s many experiences include thrilling activities such as white water rafting, bungee jumping, jet boating, and helicopter rides to name a few.

* These activities are at extra cost.

Game drives take place in open 4x4 vehicles, and are led by our highly experienced guides through our private Wilderness concessions which are situated in the most productive areas of Hwange National Park. The varied habitats and vegetation types, as well as countless waterholes, mean that drives are exciting with diverse species to be seen.

The Hwange 'night act' includes nocturnal species such as lesser bushbaby, spotted hyaena, leopard, lion, Selous mongoose, pangolin, caracal, porcupine, scrub hare, springhare and even honey badger.

Hwange was proclaimed some 80 years ago and has served as a haven for one of the densest concentrations of game in Africa. There is no better way to experience this park than on foot with an experienced, qualified walking safari guide.

Meet and interact with the Zimbabwe Parks, Wildlife Management Authority (ZPWMA) and Scorpion Anti-Poaching Unit who work in partnership with Wilderness, to protect the south-eastern region of Hwange. Thereby, reducing poaching within the park through funding, assisting in patrols and removing snares.

* Subject to availability.

An authentic village experience takes place in a manner that is respectful to all parties. This half day excursion is led by one of the local villagers or a Wilderness guide. It often includes a guided tour of the school, meeting the headman or headwoman and enjoying cultural exchanges with the villagers.

* Visit to be arranged in camp only, and subject to vehicle availability to be advised in camp.