10 Nights - Zambezi Grande, Chikunto & Chundukwa

Unearth the wonders beneath the waters of the great Zambezi River by casting your line for one of the many incredible underwater predators.

Although a strict catch-and-release policy is enforced, prized species such as Tiger Fish and Vundu make the Lower Zambezi any sport angler’s dream destination.

Whilst we can provide gear and tackle, we recommend that avid fishers bring their own equipment.

Expert guides will take you on spectacular open vehicle Safaris in exploration of the most magnificent animals in Africa.

The Lower Zambezi National Park hosts an abundance of wildlife and offers plenty of opportunity to sight Elephant, Lion, Buffalo, Leopard, Wild Dog as well as many others. Big 4

Enjoy snacks and drinks along the way, stopping off to marvel at the unspoiled terrain.

Explore the wilderness with absolute freedom as you journey along the Zambezi River in search of Africa’s finest, unspoiled natural offerings, by boat.

River Safaris offer guests a unique experience, unlike any other, as you encounter wildlife lingering on the banks in their glorious natural state.

Discover the astonishingly diverse landscape trailing off the Lower Zambezi National Park while walking with expert guides through the wilderness. Here you will have the opportunity to witness adventure up-close as you walk through open plains on foot, discovering Zambia’s finest flora and fauna.

A paradise for bird enthusiasts too, hosting nearly 400 different bird species, including the sought-after Livingstone’s Fly-Catcher and the rare Pel’s Fishing Owl.

Spoil yourself with relaxing and nurturing body therapies, whilst you unwind in the unspoiled

African bush.

Designed with relaxation in mind and inspired by the pure and natural richness of Mother Earth, our

exclusive & luxurious wellness treatments are aimed at revitalising and refreshing your mind, body and soul.

We use only Healing Earth products because it identifies with our philosophy of eco-friendliness and sustainability.

After your morning Wake Up call of 'Knock Knock' at c. 5.00 a.m. (everything is optional!), there is time for a warming / refreshing cup of tea / coffee and home-made biscuits before you leave for c. 6.00 a.m.

Some of the primarily nocturnal predators are still active at this time of the day, so there is an excellent chance of coming across leopard or lion sightings, as well as seeing some of the many antelope and other animals such as the endemic Thornicroft's giraffe as well as some of the many elephant and buffalo.

Your experienced Guide will find an idea scenic spot for another tea / coffee break, before you meandar your way back to the lodge for mid-morning.

After your optional afternoon siesta, it is time for Afternoon Tea and the off for another trip to explore a different section of the amazing South Luangwa National Park, with its range of diverse habitats.
Perhaps this time you will across that pack of Wild Dogs, see a family of Elephants crossing the road right in front of you, or see a pride of lions feasting on a kill made earlier in the day.

Just before the sun sets, it is time to get ready for your Sundowner. An extra special experience at Chikunto Safari Lodge, the various of which will last a lifetime. Needs to be experienced rather than described.

Then it is time for your night game drive, in one of the only places in Africa that allows you to see predators like the lions and leopards in their natural hunting environment.

The Spotter on your vehicle will also give you the opportunity to see other nocturnal animals such as the Civets, Genets and Porcupines.

The South Luangwa National Park is rightly famous for being known as 'The home of the walking safari'.

There is no compulsion to go on a walking safari, but one can be arranged for you during you stay - anything from a 'gentle' 1 1/2 to 2 hours to a more extended experience.

In the company of an armed Scout from the National Park, your experienced Chikunto Guide will fascinate you with details on the local flora and fauna, pointing out and explaining the numerous animal tracks. Amongst other things, you will become an expert on elephant and hippo dung and their contributions to life in The Valley!

Although the larger animals tend to be more wary of people on foot than in a vehicle, you still have a reasonable chance of getting relatively close to some of the larger animals - your safety will always be the number one priority.
Another memory that stay with you forever.

This new 6 metre high platform provides stunning panoramic views out over the South Luangwa National Park, with the river itself and the setting sun directly in front of you.

Upgrading for a night or two the deluxe Stargazing & Sleep out Combination Suite allows you to combine having your own suite with direct private access to, and exclusive use of, the platform. With your own private sun lounger and Day Bed, plus the options of a private Sundowner, private dinner and your sleep out option you will be spoilt for choice on the memory front.

Imagine your private sundowner or dinner on that raised platform / deck, connecting with nature and each other, listening to the sounds of the hippos in the nearby Luangwa River and the noises of the African bush, with the sun slowly setting over the meandering river directly in front of you, stars above you, subtle lighting all around, drink in hand…
then waking the next morning to the dawn chorus and herds of puku or impala beneath you - memories for a lifetime.

Build in time during your visit to relax and to immerse yourself in being out in the bush, away from the stresses of 'normal' life.
Enjoy spending time by, or in, the unique salt-water counter-current swimming pool; lie out on the deck overlooking the waterhole, watching a wide variety of animals that come on a regular basis to quench their thirst; take time to relax in the spacious lounger area - see how many of the birds you can recognise in the voluminous Roberts Bird Guide or just sit at the bar and treat yourself to one of the premium drinks...

Take time to savour some of the delicious dishes that will be served up by the wonderful team in the kitchen.

The Mighty Zambezi. Africa's fourth longest river originates as a tiny burbling spring in a secluded stretch of marshy wetland and lush forest; close to where the borders of Zambia, Angola and the Congo meet. A river that becomes large in size and overwhelming in power - sustaining life, offering knowledge, wonder and a sensory sojourn to all those that visit her waters. Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of this magnificent river on our Zambezi River Cruise, one of most loved past-times living here on the Zambezi. We offer our guests a sunrise and sunset cruise which includes a lovely selection of drinks and snacks. There is also the option to enjoy a lunchtime Floating Picnic!

Chundukwa River Cruise Credit: Marion Payr

Chundukwa River Cruise Credit: Marion Payr

Chundukwa River Cruise Credit: Marion Payr

Chundukwa River Cruise Credit: Marion Payr

Chundukwa River Cruise Credit: Marion Payr

Chundukwa River Cruise Credit: Marion Payr

Chundukwa River Cruise Credit: Marion Payr

Chundukwa River Cruise Credit: Marion Payr

Chundukwa River Cruise Credit: Marion Payr

Chundukwa River Cruise Credit: Marion Payr

Chundukwa River Cruise Credit: Marion Payr

Chundukwa River Cruise Credit: Marion Payr

Chundukwa River Cruise Credit: Marion Payr

Chundukwa River Cruise Credit: Marion Payr

Chundukwa River Cruise Credit: Wiki West

Chundukwa River Cruise Credit: Wiki West

Chundukwa River Cruise Credit: Wiki West

Chundukwa River Cruise Credit: Wiki West

Chundukwa River Cruise Credit: Wiki West

Chundukwa River Cruise Credit: Wiki West

Chundukwa River Cruise Credit: Wiki West

Chundukwa River Cruise Credit: Wiki West

Chundukwa River Cruise Credit: Wiki West

Chundukwa River Cruise Credit: Wiki West

Chundukwa River Cruise Credit: Wiki West

Chundukwa River Cruise Credit: Wiki West

Chundukwa River Cruise Credit: Wiki West

Chundukwa River Cruise Credit: Wiki West

Explore the Wild on Horseback - at Chundukwa River Lodge, horses are not just part of the experience — they’re part of the family. As a working horse ranch with a lively and well-loved stable yard, we offer a unique opportunity to explore our indigenous wilderness on horseback, through riverfront paths and bush trails alive with natural beauty. Chundukwa Horse Trails are open to both in-house guests and visitors staying elsewhere in Livingstone. We welcome riders of all levels, including children, with carefully curated experiences that range from one-hour rides to half-day adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned equestrian or trying horse riding for the first time, our experienced guides ensure a safe and enriching journey, sharing fascinating insights into the local flora, fauna, and landscape along the way.

Chundukwa Horse Trails Credit: Marion Payr

Chundukwa Horse Trails Credit: Marion Payr

Chundukwa Horse Trails Credit: Marion Payr

Chundukwa Horse Trails Credit: Marion Payr

Chundukwa Horse Trails Credit: Marion Payr

Chundukwa Horse Trails Credit: Marion Payr

Chundukwa Horse Trails Credit: Marion Payr

Chundukwa Horse Trails Credit: Rishi le Hunte

Chundukwa Horse Trails Credit: Rishi le Hunte

Chundukwa Horse Trails Credit: Rishi le Hunte

Chundukwa Horse Trails Credit: Wiki West

Chundukwa Horse Trails Credit: Wiki West

Chundukwa Horse Trails Credit: Wiki West

Chundukwa Horse Trails Credit: Wiki West

Utilize your private vehicle and guide to take you to Victoria Falls and explore Livingstone. No set time departures, no waiting for the late risers – you are free to spend as much time as you want to experience the world’s largest waterfall and surrounding attractions. This is your day to do it all, see it all, experience it all! Our team is on standby to guide you and assist with all activity arrangements in advance, all pre-arranged experiences are for the clients' own account.

Different seasons = different views of the Falls and activities on offer. This is mainly due to the rains and the Zambezi River water levels which does have a dramatic effect on many factors that might influence your trip. If in doubt, please ask us for more advice.

There are three main seasons, which are, in a nutshell;

Low Water Season = Hot & Dry. August/September, October, November, December. Victoria Falls will be at her lowest water flow at this time of the year and it is imperative to visit both Zim/Zam viewing points to see water flowing over at various viewing points. Although you will not witness Victoria Falls in her full splendour at this time, this is prime time for wildlife viewing as herds of elephant descend upon the river. Livingstone, Victoria Falls & Kasane enjoy daily herd sightings on the roads and national parks during this season. White water rafting is also at its peak for adventure enthusiasts and the Devils Pool at the edge of Livingstone Island is open for daredevil swimmers.

High Water Season = Hot & Rainy. December/January, February, March, April, May. With the arrival of seasonal rains, the Zambezi River and tributaries begin to rise, and Victoria Falls begins to flow in earnest once again. This is prime viewing of Victoria Falls and travellers may witness the roaring thunder of water, giant swirling mist and the incredible noise and wet that gives rise to her Tonga name, “the smoke that Thunders”. It may actually be challenging to see many parts of the Falls due to the sheer amount of mist and spray! This is the time to really get fully immersed in the glorious ‘Zambezi shower!’ Water-based experiences such as white water rafting and the Devils Pool swim may close due to safety concerns in this high water period.

Mid Water Season = Cool & Dry. June, July, August/September. Winter has arrived in the region and visitors may be surprised at how low the temperatures can quickly drop in the evenings! The water flow quickly reduces at this time of the year as we approach the Low Water season once again. Visitors may expect warm sunny days, cool evenings, fantastic wildlife viewing opportunities and all activities / experiences on offer.

Cross some of the rarer birds off your list – over 180 species of birds have been spotted here, including the African Fin Foot and the Livingstone Turaco.

Bird watch from your chalet overlooking the river or from our gardens. If you’re keen to learn more, we offer birding for novices and professionals.

Embark on a guided walking safari in our local Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park in search of the rare and endangered White Rhinos.

Spectacular to be able to view these and other game whilst on foot, and learn about the bush.

Visit our neighbouring village, home to most of our team at the lodge. A chance to meet some members of the community, and learn about the local building techniques, cuisine, traditions and of course the local brew! A visit to the small community pre-school that we support is always fun too – for the students and the visitors.

Chobe National Park is well known for being one of the best wildlife destinations in the world. This safari experience is ideal as a combination destination with Zambia as a day-trip experience due to its close proximity.

Chobe boasts Africa’s Big Five. A Chobe River Safari brings you close to brilliant birdlife, pods of watering hippos, primeval crocodiles and elephants, breathtaking in their sheer number - infact, the world’s largest elephant population. The land-based safari heads deeper into the Park to spot the elusive big cats that make Chobe their home. Chobe is also a popular birding destination – more than 450 species have been recorded. Several species, including skimmers, are on their southern-most limit, making a sighting particularly exciting for Southern Africa bird watchers.

Land-based and water-based safaris are available and both are possible in a single Chobe Day Trip.

Visit Livingstone Island and stand where the Scottish explorer David Livingstone first viewed the Victoria Falls in 1855!

Your trip to Livingstone Island starts on the banks of the Zambezi River where you will meet your guide and be given an introduction of what to expect and a safety talk. From there you will take a short boat ride to Livingstone Island. The captain will navigate the rocky channels as you cruise within a close distance of the Victoria Falls. Once you reach Livingstone Island you will be greeted by staff and taken on an adventure to the edge of the waterfall - if it is a sunny day the rainbow views are incredible! Clients are then provided the optional experience of swimming in the Angels Pool or Devils Pool (the rockpool that is open will dependent on water levels/safety) The Devils Pool has a natural rock ledge literally on the edge of the Falls, allowing visitors to safely swim in the pool without getting swept over the edge!

After the swimming experience and all-important photos, your guides will lead you back to a pop-up restaurant where you will be treated to either Breakfast, Lunch or High Tea depending on the time of day.

Soar over Victoria Falls, Batoka Gorge, and the wildlife-filled National Park by helicopter or microlight, covering three world-class attractions in one unforgettable ride.

Will you be kissed by an angel as you fly through the ‘smoke’ of the Falls?

Take a day trip to the Zambezi National Park in Zimbabwe, for a day on safari with conservationist and safari guide Charles Brightman.

Charles has worked as a Professional Guide for the last 32 years and has an extensive knowledge of the local flora and fauna, specialising in Private Guided Safaris (including walking safaris, specialist wildlife and birding watching safaris), as well as customised accommodation and safari itineraries.

Charles is four times winner of the Green Globe 21 Award as voted by the Zimbabwe Council for Tourism and finalist in 2011, 2014 and nominee for 2012 and 2013 in The Safari Awards. Discover Safaris believe that tourism can benefit wildlife conservation and local communities, and are committed to minimising our environmental impact and supporting local conservation and community projects. Charles dedicates much of his time to the Victoria Falls Anti-Poaching Unit which he established in 1999 and which he has developed into a well respected anti-poaching initiative.

Considered the best one day rafting experience in the world, the Zambezi River flowing down the Batoka Gorge provides one of the most intense sensory thrills imaginable. Its white-water rapids and striking scenery, deep within the sheer black cliffs of the Batoka Gorge afford the adrenaline junkie a wild roller-coaster ride along a route carved over millennia by the middle Zambezi River. SAFPAR offer a Full Day Rafting experience and the season is split into Low or High Water.

“LOW WATER”

The “Low Water” Rafting Season runs approximately from the middle of August to the middle of January, depending upon the water level / rains each year. This can change as and when levels increase or decrease. Our low water trips depart from directly below Victoria Falls in the Boiling Pot. Note! At the end of the rafting trip, rafters are required to hike 200m out of the gorge, this can be challenging in the warmer months in the middle of the day. While you are not required to be an extreme athlete, the ability to do these 20-25 minute hikes is an indication of fitness levels required for this incredible river.

RAFTING IN LOW WATER (Approx. July to January) Full Day Rapids 1 – 21

“HIGH WATER”

The “High Water” Rafting Season runs approximately from the middle of January to the beginning of August, depending upon the water level / rains each year. Please note that rafting can close around April /May for safety reasons due to water levels being too high. Note! At the end of the rafting trip, rafters are required to hike 200m out of the gorge, this can be challenging in the warmer months in the middle of the day.

RAFTING IN HIGH WATER (Approx. Feb to June) High Water Rapids 14 – 21

Rated one of the top dining experiences in Zambia, The Elephant Cafe is a three-tiered adventure (jetboat, elephant viewing and all-inclusive dining) that is a signature experience for all visitors to Victoria Falls!

The palate is local, uncompromisingly Livingstone. The team at The Elephant Café use homegrown and local produce, always keeping an eye on sustainability. Your adventure begins upstream of Victoria Falls departing from The David Livingstone Safari Lodge & Spa; where clients will be on wildlife watch whilst they meander through the National Park, river and islands. The real fun begins when several rapids need to be negotiated - avoiding hippos and crocodiles on the way! The jetboat experience to The Elephant Café is approximately 30 minutes per way. On arrival clients will be met by members of a magnificent herd of rescue elephant for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Experience an unforgettable encounter with these gentle giants, hosted by guides who are dedicated to their wellbeing, some of whom have cared for this same herd for over 20 years.

The origins of this herd are six elephants left orphaned after an extreme drought led to culling operations in Zimbabwe in the 1960’s and 70’s. Hand-reared with positive reinforcement techniques – these elephants have grown up with safe human support. During the height of political uncertainty in 2002, the herd and many of their caretakers were transferred from Zimbabwe across the Victoria Falls Bridge to the Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park in Livingstone for safety under the ward of Safari Par Excellence. There is an extremely strong bond between members of the herd and their handlers. It is a phenomenal sight to witness and many visitors are understandably overwhelmed with emotion during the herd meet and greet. The herd receive regular visits from an advisory committee of veterinary specialists, who assist and oversee all aspects of the herd dynamics including emotional and physical wellbeing – and the all-important dental check-ups!