Zambia Conservation Safari with Hwange Extension

On interpretive game drives in open vehicles, guests may view large numbers of plains game such as puku, red lechwe, buffalo and wildebeest and even perhaps the rare roan antelope. The famous lions of Kafue, cheetah and wild dog are also to be seen.

Led by a knowledgeable guide, 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.

The most exclusive wildlife ballooning in all of Africa, this activity allows you to take to the skies in style. Gaze over scenic splendour, watch hippo playing far below and fly eye-to-eye with an eagle. This life-changing experience ends with a sumptuous champagne breakfast. (Available August to October; conservation fee applies)

Early on in the season, the Busanga Plains are still covered in much water. A boating excursion during this time allows for exploration of the channels and their life.

Boasting 491 species, including the endemic Chaplin's barbet, birding enthusiasts will be spoilt for choice on a specialist birding safari. The area is also alive with rollers, bee-eaters, kingfishers, herons and large flocks of storks, to name a few.

A World Heritage Site, Victoria Falls straddles the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia and is the most expansive curtain of water in the world. View its roaring waters, spectacular spray and a small rainforest that clings to the Falls’ edge, with a variety of mammals and birds. (A tour on the Zambian side is included in your stay; the view from the Zimbabwean side is at extra cost.)

Game drives into Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park offer sightings of general game species such as elephant, buffalo, giraffe and white rhino. There is also rich birdlife, including sought-after species such as half-collared kingfisher and Schalow’s turaco.

Whether a relaxing sunset cruise or a game viewing cruise, there are scenic views and exciting wildlife to be enjoyed from the comfort of a spacious boat. There's always an abundance of hippo and crocodile, as well as a few other surprises along the way.

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

Tracking rhino at Toka Leya is an exciting way of getting up close and personal with these Endangered animals. Zambian Wildlife Authority (ZAWA) scouts monitor the 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.

Experiencing Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park on foot is a remarkable way to enjoy the small wonders of the Park and to view general game, such as zebra, impala and wildebeest, as well as a variety of bird species. Please note that this activity is subject to availability of a walking guide and that a nominal park fee is applicable. Minimum age of walkers is 13.

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 - December). *Please note that a nominal park fee is applicable.

Toka Leya’s back-of-house tour enables guests to gain an understanding of the camp’s eco-friendly initiatives. Energy saving is explained as well as 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 but is the perfect fertiliser for the indigenous trees in the nursery – which are then planted in areas where they once grew.

Visit the local museum, markets and shops to get a glimpse of historic and modern Livingstone town. Guests may also visit the local village and school to learn about the people and culture of this part of Zambia.

Other activities on offer in the area include sunset cruises, helicopter flights, micro-lighting, canoeing, jet boating and white water rafting.*These activities are at extra cost.

Game drives take place in open Land Rovers and are led by our highly experienced guides through our private Wilderness Safaris concessions which are situated in the most productive area 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.

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.

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.

An authentic village experience takes place in a manner that is respectful to all parties. Usually around four hours and guided 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.