Tongabezi Lodge | Victoria Falls, Zambia
The luxurious Tongabezi Lodge is situated on the banks of the Zambezi River, just upstream of the Victoria Falls. The lodge features a lounge, a bar, and a swimming pool which has been landscaped into the rock face. Meals are served in the large dining room, on an outdoor deck overlooking the river, in the privacy of your room, or floating on the Zambezi River. The five houses and four river cottages are each individually styled and cater for two to five guests. Game drives, bush walks and boating trips are all-inclusive. Victoria Falls can be viewed in close proximity to the lodge, on a short excursion with your guide.
Redefining life on the banks of the Zambezi River the River Cottages feature high ceilings, giant bespoke wood and glass windows and doors leading onto expansive sustainable pine decks. The signature African fusion Tongabezi style has been distilled to the best of 'Made in Zambia' in both the interior and outdoor spaces.
We are famous for keeping the romance of travel alive and our Cottages were designed to provide a private haven where your every whim just happens to be attended to by your very own valet.
The Nut House is a haven from the elements. It is entirely enclosed but has light streaming in through every wall. The best art, textiles, and textures have been collected and combined from all around the African continent - from Morocco, Mali, Zambia, and South Africa just to start. This creates a lusciously romantic setting for relaxation, without losing an inch of the incredible river-view.
The palette is easy on the eyes, seamlessly blending the house into Zambia's natural scenery. Folding doors open onto the elevated private garden and infinity plunge pool. Spectacular views over the Zambezi are guaranteed.
At the end of the swimming pool, a hidden path winds along the cliff face to our secluded Tree House. Set against the basalt rock bed, amongst the branches of a riverine Ebony tree, this house spreads out over a sustainable pine deck that guarantees incredible views of the Zambezi River.
The king size bed has a large, canopied mosquito net with air conditioning and the extensive space can also be used for private dining and lounging. The bathroom’s crowning glory is a perfectly positioned claw footed bath and from the Anatolian carpets to the Asian chests and West African artwork the Tree House invokes exotic day dreams.
All the inclusive Tongabezi activities are available... but this house is so much part of the surroundings that you can experience the beauty and majesty of Zambia without setting a foot outside.
The Bird House features an open-air claw footed bath and a private terrace for dining under the stars. Guests can go canoeing on the river, join game drives, bush walks and enjoy sunset boat trips. Luxury camps such as Tongabezi provide a perfect base to explore Victoria Falls and the stunning African bush surrounding it.
Built with the perfect view, indulgence and privacy in mind the Honeymoon House is the original blueprint for luxury Tongabezi accommodation. The private balcony overlooks the river, providing a perfect setting for a secluded candlelit dinner beneath the stars. Alternatively, you can choose to dine with our other guests on one of the river decks.
The Dog House personifies the Tonga ethos of exclusivity, romance and luxury with a twist of quirkiness. Located at the very end of the elevated garden path, this private haven sits on three large wooden decks over the Zambezi river. Recently extensively refurbished, the house remains magnificently proportioned and now has two beautiful bedrooms to accommodate small groups and families. The sprawling space includes a central designated chill zone with an infinity pool, extended deck, large lounge and cozy dining room. Whether you manage to venture out to enjoy the inclusive activities, dabble in serious adventure – or simply elect to order the massages in - the brand new Dog House is so much more than a beautiful, African Fusion style accommodation choice... it is the experience of a life time.
The result of a number of years of energy, imagination and many conversations with top travel specialists and our guests, the Garden House perfectly fills the family travel niche at Tongabezi. Set back from the river, seclusion and shelter are a happy swop for the sweeping Zambezi views that can still be enjoyed from any of the decks of the main lodge. It is a very private, very safe space where all the members of the family can spread out a little and indulge in an exclusive dining room, large lounge, two en-suite bedrooms and of course run around the garden and cool off in the private plunge pool. Tongabezi is proud of our crazily indulgent reputation and the Garden House is no compromise: Whether you are a wide eyed bush baby or parents who believe romance should always be a priority.
Tangala House
Tangala House is a luxurious family home on the banks of the Zambezi River, close to Tongabezi it lies 15km upstream of Victoria Falls. The house has four bedrooms, three with en-suite bathrooms, and a 12m private swimming pool. Stylishly designed and furnished, it has featured in House and Garden magazine in the UK and comes with a vehicle and boat, chef, waiters and private guide all courtesy of Tongabezi.
Ideal for a Zambia family safari, Tangala House sleeps up to 8 and has a children’s playroom and a spacious kitchen-dining room. The rooms are enclosed, with large glass fitted windows to keep out the insects and allow guests to enjoy magnificent views across the Zambezi. Over 145 species of birds have been spotted from the kitchen window and elephant herds can often be seen drinking on the opposite bank.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Activity Desk, Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Gym, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Private Vehicle (Available), Restaurant, Secure Parking, TV Room
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Fireplace, Fridge, Hair Dryer, Heater, Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mini Bar, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Available Services
Airport Shuttle (Available), Babysitting Service, Chauffer Service, Credit Card Facilities, Foreign Exchange, Room Service, Room Service (24 hours), Travel Desk
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Boating, Canoeing, Cycling, Fine Dining, Fishing, Game Viewing, Garden Tours, Gourmet Picnic, Massages, Walks (Guided)
Activities Nearby
Adrenaline Activities, Animal Encounters, Big 5, Bird Watching, Boat Cruises, Boating, Child Friendly Activities, Cultural Tours, Cycling, Elephant-back Safaris, Fishing, Fly Fishing, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, General Sightseeing, Health and Fitness Centre, Helicopter Scenic Flights, Historical Tours, Kayaking / Paddling, Museums, Quad Biking, River Cruises, Safaris, Scenic Flights, Tree-top Canopy Tours, Walks (Guided), Wildlife Tours
See one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World with a trip to Victoria Falls on the Zambian side. Enjoy a guided swim in Devil's or Angel's Pools (water level dependant). You can also experience lunar rainbows, depending on the time of your visit (full moon). Complete your experience with a private moonbow dining experience (upon request) and island lunch (included).
Can you imagine a dining experience more private than having the entire Zambezi River to yourself whilst your food is paddled out to you, one course at a time?
The sampan dinner or early morning breakfast is available throughout the year, apart from during the highest river levels, which are usually from March to June.
A boat cruise at sunset or sunrise is a superb way to relax and enjoy the immersive beauty of the Zambezi, whilst keeping an eye out for wildlife on the river banks.
This is the only wildlife park in the area that provides refuge to white rhinos, which are closely protected by anti-poaching units. While on your game drive, keep an eye out for giraffe, buffalo, waterbuck, impala, wildebeest, zebra and diverse bird life.
All guests are invited to visit, engage with, and learn from the Tongabezi Trust School’s 280 bright, talented students, all of who receive free education and nutritious meals at Tujatane. In fact, if you are only going to do one happy thing during your stay at Tongabezi, we’d suggest it is a tour of this school.
This is one of our signature Tongabezi experiences, and for guests who haven't spent much time researching us online, we keep the Sandbar as a marvellous surprise. Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of watching two sunsets -- above and within the water -- with sand in your toes and a drink in your hand.
Safaris can be quite sedentary, so we like to give our guests spaces where they can get moving and keep their energy levels high for their daily adventures. We have a personal trainer onsite daily.
Sit in the shallows of the Tongabezi Rock Pool with a cocktail in hand and the Zambezi River flowing before you, or spend some quality sunshine time by the Tongabezi Lap Pool a little further back from the river.
The Zambezi River, around Victoria Falls, is an excellent spot for both pole and fly fishing. There are over 75 species of freshwater fish in these warm, nutrient-rich waters, although it is usually one specific species that draws fishermen here – the tiger. Revered for their power and fierce set of teeth, landing a tiger fish is no easy task, even for a seasoned angler. Even an unsuccessful fishing outing on the Zambezi is still enjoyable if just for the beautiful scenery and tranquility.
Experience a guided tour with one of our amazing chefs and partake in our Pick Your Plate activity
Come and explore some of our 1,200 hectares of sweet veld, which is rapidly becoming a fully sustainable, organic community-run farm. You can personally compare our sustainable farming techniques with nearby traditional farming methods.
Enjoy a short cycle to meet the friendly people from the Simonga village
A place to learn about Zambia's culture and natural heritage.
The Maramba and Mukuni markets are visited daily by hundreds of people from Livingstone and surrounding areas. They come to buy everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to chitenge, the bright patterned fabric characteristic of Southern and East African fashion. One of our team will be there to guide you through the marketplace and will be there to help you with buying from vendors if you need.
We have an Air-Conditioned Dining Room with spectacular river views. Choose to sit inside or out (there is ample seating on the deck).
Tongabezi Lodge is the only property in Livingstone that can, and does, offer every guest the opportunity to dine privately. Guests can dine in-room (indoors or out on private decks), on the sampan, on an e-dhow, on a sandbank island, in the hangout, and even at Victoria Falls, under lunar rainbows, as well as enjoy a Livingstone Island lunch when visiting the falls during an inclusive experience. Plus much more...
Your Stay
3 Nights
Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
Fast Facts
Lodge
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 11
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Fishing, Flora, Gourmet, History & Culture, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife
Time + Tide Kakuli | South Luangwa National Park, Zambia
Perched high above the Luangwa River, Time + Tide Kakuli offers impressive vistas of the river and its many visitors below. Designed to celebrate the panoramic riverside setting, the reed and safari tents have a long, low profile and a bright, airy design.
The chitenge (main area) overlooks a permanent waterhole and the river beyond, promising game viewing right from the comfort of camp.
Take in the panoramic views of the river and listen to the grunts of nearby hippos while giraffe and elephants stop by for a drink. Slow down, unwind and fully immerse into this extraordinary, wild land.
Perched high above the Luangwa River, Time + Tide Kakuli offers impressive vistas of the river
and its many visitors below. Designed to celebrate the riverside setting, a stay at Time + Tide Kakuli is an awe-inspiring experience that allows you to reconnect with nature in a magnificent way. Freshly redesigned, the suites offer comfort in all seasons, and are thoughtfully appointed to ensure every guest enjoys their experience. Take in the panoramic views of the river from your private verandah, listening to the calls of nearby hippos and watching the giraffes and elephants that stop by for a drink. Marvel at the aerial acrobatics of emerald green bee-eaters hunting outside your tent.
Slow down, unwind and fully immerse into this extraordinary wild land.
THE SUITES
- 4 suites - one bedroom, one bathroom
- Indoor and outdoor showers
- Private verandah with river views
- Double or twin configuration
- Solar power, British three pin plugs in main lounge
- No wifi and phone signal
- Main lodge - dining areas, lounge, bar and campfire
NEED TO KNOW
+ Open 20 Jan to 4 April, 20 May to 7 Nov
+ 2.5 hour game drive transfer from Mfuwe
+ 2 hour boat transfer during Secret Season
Perched high above the Luangwa River, Time + Tide Kakuli offers impressive vistas of the river
and its many visitors below. Designed to celebrate the riverside setting, a stay at Time + Tide Kakuli is an awe-inspiring experience that allows you to reconnect with nature in a magnificent way. Freshly redesigned, the family suite offers comfort in all seasons, and is thoughtfully appointed to ensure every guest enjoys their experience. Take in the panoramic views of the river from your private verandah, listening to the calls of nearby hippos and watching the giraffes and elephants that stop by for a drink. Marvel at the aerial acrobatics of emerald green bee-eaters hunting outside your tent. Slow down, unwind and fully immerse into this extraordinary wild land.
THE FAMILY SUITE
- 1 family suite - two bedrooms, two bathrooms
- Indoor and outdoor showers
- Private verandah with river views
- Double or twin configuration
- Solar power, British three pin plugs in main lounge
- No wifi and phone signal
- Main lodge - dining areas, lounge, bar and campfire
NEED TO KNOW
+ Open 20 Jan to 4 April, 20 May to 7 Nov
+ 2.5 hour game drive transfer from Mfuwe
+ 2 hour boat transfer during Green Season
Property Facilities
Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Library, Restaurant, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Fireplace, Lounge Area, Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Verandah
Available Services
24-hour Security, Airport Shuttle (Complimentary), Credit Card Facilities, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Meal on Request, Private Vehicle (Available)
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Boating, Fine Dining, Game Drives, Game Viewing Hide, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Gourmet Picnic, High Tea, Night Drives, Safaris, Sleep Outs, Walks (Guided), Wildlife Tours
Activities Nearby
Bird Watching, Boat Cruises, Boating, Canoeing, Cultural Tours, Game Drives, Safaris, Walks (Guided), Wildlife Tours
Back in the 1950’s Norman Carr pioneered walking safaris in Zambia. His aim was to track big game on foot in Zambia’s Luangwa Valley, one of Africa’s last havens of un-spoilt wilderness and home to some of the continent’s greatest concentrations of game. Norman like to say "to view the bush from a vehicle is simply to be an observer, but to get out on foot was to become a part of your surroundings." Over 60 years on, at Norman Carr Safaris we are still walking....we are still passionate about sharing the thrill of tracking lions on foot through early morning mists, the delight in learning something new on every activity and the adventure of walking from camp to camp the original safari way. Walking safaris are immersive, sensual and peaceful. In Zambia, an armed wildlife ranger or "scout" leads each walking group, followed by the trained walking guide. In other countries, the walking guide is armed and leads the group alone. Having a walk led by two wildlife experts was conceived by Norman and our 60 year track record of safety speaks to the effectiveness of this approach.
While certainly vehicle safaris allow one to cover more ground and see a greater volume of game in a 3-4 hour safari, it is only on a walking safari where all your senses are heightened and you can see, hear, smell and feel the bush. You begin to understand the interconnectedness of the flora and the fauna, how each small part plays an important role in the greater ecosystem. Small mysteries of the bush are unlocked and explored; tracks are investigated; and the wide variety of animal poo becomes an unexpected and fascinated learning experience! And while generally speaking, walks are more focused on the little things in the bush, tracking big game on foot is not uncommon and always thrilling.
Driving safaris are all conducted in open 4X4 vehicles (Land Cruiser or Land Rover) with either two or three 'rows' of seats. At Chinzombo, Luwi, Nsolo, Kakuli and Mchenja we generally have 4, with no more than 6, people on a vehicle ensuring everyone has a 'window' seat.
Night drives are generally an extension of your afternoon game drive or walking safari. As the sun begins to set we stop to watch the day come to a close and as dusk falls set off to explore as the nocturnal animals start to emerge.
The best chance of seeing genets, civets, elephant shrew, porcupine and the fierce honey-badger is after sunset and the large predators, with the exception of wild dog, are most active at night. Night time birding can be very rewarding with nightjars, owls great and small, dikkop, bat hawk and coursers are all abundant.
The Africa night sky is simply magnificent and it’s worth coming all this way just to experience its vastness and splendour. The Milky Way seems 100 times brighter in the Luangwa Valley where there is no light pollution. We’re watched over by the Southern Cross, Orion and Scorpio amongst an infinite number of others and memories of sitting in awed silence listening to the distant call of lions, cicadas and a million tree frogs under the crescent of an African moon will live with you forever.
Once regarded as the time in the safari calendar to be avoided by less adventurous operators, the 'Secret' Season months of January through March are now heralded by those lucky enough to experience them, as the highlight of the year.
Norman Carr Safaris has always been open all year round and is the only Zambian safari operator to open a true Bush Camp in the Luangwa at this time of year. Kakuli opens around the 20th January and closes again in early April. We gain access to camp by boat and activities are either on foot or by boat. A few days at Kakuli combines very well with the game drives and prolific wildlife on offer in the areas around Kapani Lodge and Chinzombo.
During these Secret Season safaris the bush is in its fullest flush of growth, rivers and lagoons are brimming and boating safaris take you eye to eye with hippos and crocs. The air is clear and excellent for photography; you will find magnificent skyscapes and sunsets with the occasional dramatic tropical downpour.
A wealth of migratory birds in breeding song and plumage make the bush a wonderful place to explore at this time of year. It is a time of plenty so there is no shortage of wildlife; the Secret Season months are usually the best for seeing wild dogs in the South Luangwa.
Tonight you will enjoy the ultimate wilderness experience with Norman Carr Safaris. Sleep out under the stars in the spectacular and extremely remote Luwi dry river bed. No tent - just a bed roll and a mosquito net, experience the thrill of the first safari pioneers, including Norman Carr himself, as they discovered the wonders of the South Luangwa.
After tea, you will venture out on foot from Kakuli, find a spot to camp, make the camp fire for a game rangers dinner which you can even help to cook yourself. Then, having shared adventure stories around the fire – sleep out under the magnificent African sky whilst the guide and scout keep a watch till morning.
Wake up with sun and enjoy a cooked breakfast before a walking safari to your next camp.
Kakuli Dining Experience
The bar and dining chitenje (lounge) is constructed of reed and thatch forming the centre point of camp.
Norman Carr Safaris has earned a reputation for the quality and range of food served and you can expect cuisine of the highest standards.
Days in the bush usually start early so a light breakfast is served at dawn before your first safari. A lavish buffet brunch will be awaiting your return to camp and is served at around 11:00am with the rest of the guests in camp, your host and guide. Afternoon tea and cake is taken at about 3:30pm before the evening safari and dinner for everyone is served between 7.00pm and 8:30pm. Dinner in the camps consists of a three-course meal freshly prepared, cooked in camp and served to you at your table. All meals, comprising breakfast, brunch, afternoon tea and dinner, are included in the price of your safari.
The chefs in all of our camps have been trained in-house and they are more than happy to cater to any personal requests. If your food preferences could possibly be regarded as out of the ordinary then it would be easier if you informed us in advance of your arrival, however simple choices of vegetarian, vegan or other fare should be discussed with your hosts on arrival.
Your Stay
2 Nights
Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
Fast Facts
4 Star
Lodge
Spoken Languages: English, German
Special Interests: Big 5, Birding, Flora, Hiking, Star Gazing, Wildlife
Time + Tide Chinzombo | South Luangwa National Park, Zambia
Situated on a sweeping curve of the Luangwa River, Time + Tide Chinzombo brings style and sophistication to the Luangwa Valley.
This wildly luxurious camp retains its bush authenticity with grass and canvas walls and spacious living areas that melt into the exquisitely tranquil riverside setting. Its accents complement organic textures, creating an authentic feel that harkens back to the early days of exploration. With soaking tubs and feather top beds, every villa is a haven for relaxation.
Relax by your luxury safari tent’s private pool, watching the river’s frequent wildlife visitors. Under the shade of ancient trees, listen to the bellows of hippos echoing across the river.
Luxury Safari tents
- 5 luxury safari tents and 1 Family safari tent - one bedroom, one bathroom, 150 sqm each
- Soaking tub with riverfront views
- Large verandah with private pool
- Spacious interiors complete with a lounge
- Double or twin configuration
- Mains power, multi-adaptor plugs in villas
- Limited wifi and phone signal
- Main lodge - dining areas, lounge, bar, campfire and riverfront deck
NEED TO KNOW
- Open all year
- All ages welcome
- 1 hour game drive transfer from Mfuwe Airport
Situated on a sweeping curve of the Luangwa River, Time + Tide Chinzombo brings style and sophistication to the Luangwa Valley. This wildly luxurious camp retains its bush authenticity with grass and canvas walls and spacious living areas that melt into the exquisitely tranquil riverside setting.
THE FAMILY VILLA
- 1 family villa - two bedrooms, two bathrooms, 300 sqm
- Soaking tub with riverfront views
- Large verandah with private pool
- Spacious interiors complete with a lounge
- Double or twin configuration
- Mains power, multi-adaptor plugs in villas
- Limited wifi and phone signal
- Main lodge - dining areas, lounge, bar, campfire and riverfront deck
NEED TO KNOW
- Open all year
- All ages welcome with prior arrangements
- 1 hour game drive transfer from Mfuwe Airport
Situated on a sweeping curve of the Luangwa River, Time + Tide Chinzombo brings style and sophistication to the Luangwa Valley. This wildly luxurious camp retains its bush authenticity with grass and canvas walls and spacious living areas that melt into the exquisitely tranquil riverside setting. Colonial accents complement organic textures, creating an authentic feel that harkens back to the early days of exploration. With soaking tubs and feathertop beds, every villa is a haven for
relaxation. Relax by your villa’s private pool, watching the river’s frequent wildlife visitors. Under the shade of ancient trees, listen to the bellows of hippos echoing across the river.
THE VILLAS
- 5 safari tents - one bedroom, one bathroom, 150 sqm each and 1 Family luxury tent
- Soaking tub with riverfront views
- Large verandah with private pool
- Spacious interiors complete with a lounge
- Double or twin configuration
- Mains power, multi-adaptor plugs in villas
- Limited wifi and phone signal
- Main lodge - dining areas, lounge, bar, campfire and riverfront deck
NEED TO KNOW
- Open all year
- All ages welcome with prior arrangements
- 1 hour game drive transfer from Mfuwe Airport
Situated on a sweeping curve of the Luangwa River, Time + Tide Chinzombo brings style and sophistication to the Luangwa Valley. This wildly luxurious camp retains its bush authenticity with grass and canvas walls and spacious living areas that melt into the exquisitely tranquil riverside setting. Colonial accents complement organic textures, creating an authentic feel that harkens back to the early days of exploration. With soaking tubs and feathertop beds, the family villa is a haven for
relaxation, where families and friends can reconnect with each other in a meaningful way. Relax by your villa’s private pool, watching the river’s frequent wildlife visitors. Under the shade of ancient trees, listen to the bellows of hippos echoing across the river.
THE FAMILY VILLA
- 1 family villa - two bedrooms, two bathrooms, 300 sqm
- Soaking tub with riverfront views
- Large verandah with private pool
- Spacious interiors complete with a lounge
- Double or twin configuration
- Mains power, multi-adaptor plugs in villas
- Limited wifi and phone signal
- Main lodge - dining areas, lounge, bar, campfire and riverfront deck
NEED TO KNOW
- Open all year
- All ages welcome with prior arrangements
- 1 hour game drive transfer from Mfuwe Airport
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Meal on Request, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Private Vehicle (Available), Restaurant, Spa
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Disabled Rooms, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Hair Dryer, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mosquito Nets, Plunge Pool, Private Pool / Jacuzzi, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Available Services
Airport Shuttle (Complimentary), Credit Card Facilities, Room Service
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Boating, Fine Dining, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Viewing Hide, Game Walks, Gourmet Picnic, High Tea, Massages, Night Drives, Safaris, Sleep Outs, Walks (Guided), Wildlife Tours
Activities Nearby
Art Galleries, Bird Watching, Boat Cruises, Boating, Child Friendly Activities, Cultural Tours, Fine Dining, Game Drives, Game Viewing, General Sightseeing, Massages, Safaris, Wildlife Tours
Back in the 1950’s Norman Carr pioneered walking safaris in Zambia. His aim was to track big game on foot in Zambia’s Luangwa Valley, one of Africa’s last havens of un-spoilt wilderness and home to some of the continent’s greatest concentrations of game. Norman like to say "to view the bush from a vehicle is simply to be an observer, but to get out on foot was to become a part of your surroundings." Over 60 years on, at Norman Carr Safaris we are still walking....we are still passionate about sharing the thrill of tracking lions on foot through early morning mists, the delight in learning something new on every activity and the adventure of walking from camp to camp the original safari way. Walking safaris are immersive, sensual and peaceful. In Zambia, an armed wildlife ranger or "scout" leads each walking group, followed by the trained walking guide. In other countries, the walking guide is armed and leads the group alone. Having a walk led by two wildlife experts was conceived by Norman and our 60 year track record of safety speaks to the effectiveness of this approach.
While certainly vehicle safaris allow one to cover more ground and see a greater volume of game in a 3-4 hour safari, it is only on a walking safari where all your senses are heightened and you can see, hear, smell and feel the bush. You begin to understand the interconnectedness of the flora and the fauna, how each small part plays an important role in the greater ecosystem. Small mysteries of the bush are unlocked and explored; tracks are investigated; and the wide variety of animal poo becomes an unexpected and fascinated learning experience! And while generally speaking, walks are more focused on the little things in the bush, tracking big game on foot is not uncommon and always thrilling.
Driving safaris are all conducted in open 4X4 vehicles (Land Cruiser or Land Rover) with either two or three 'rows' of seats. At Chinzombo, Luwi, Nsolo, Kakuli and Mchenja we generally have 4, with no more than 6, people on a vehicle ensuring everyone has a 'window' seat.
Night drives are generally an extension of your afternoon game drive or walking safari. As the sun begins to set we stop to watch the day come to a close and as dusk falls set off to explore as the nocturnal animals start to emerge.
The best chance of seeing genets, civets, elephant shrew, porcupine and the fierce honey-badger is after sunset and the large predators, with the exception of wild dog, are most active at night. Night time birding can be very rewarding with nightjars, owls great and small, dikkop, bat hawk and coursers are all abundant.
The Africa night sky is simply magnificent and it’s worth coming all this way just to experience its vastness and splendour. The Milky Way seems 100 times brighter in the Luangwa Valley where there is no light pollution. We’re watched over by the Southern Cross, Orion and Scorpio amongst an infinite number of others and memories of sitting in awed silence listening to the distant call of lions, cicadas and a million tree frogs under the crescent of an African moon will live with you forever.
Once regarded as the time in the safari calendar to be avoided by less adventurous operators, the 'Secret' Season months of January through March are now heralded by those lucky enough to experience them, as the highlight of the year.
Norman Carr Safaris has always been open all year round and is the only Zambian safari operator to open a true Bush Camp in the Luangwa at this time of year. Kakuli opens around the 20th January and closes again in early April. We gain access to camp by boat and activities are either on foot or by boat. A few days at Kakuli combines very well with the game drives and prolific wildlife on offer in the areas around Kapani Lodge and Chinzombo.
During these Secret Season safaris the bush is in its fullest flush of growth, rivers and lagoons are brimming and boating safaris take you eye to eye with hippos and crocs. The air is clear and excellent for photography; you will find magnificent skyscapes and sunsets with the occasional dramatic tropical downpour.
A wealth of migratory birds in breeding song and plumage make the bush a wonderful place to explore at this time of year. It is a time of plenty so there is no shortage of wildlife; the Secret Season months are usually the best for seeing wild dogs in the South Luangwa.
Our local professional therapists offer you unique treatments with fresh homemade products.
All products used in the treatments are developed and mixed by the therapists using healing herbal plants and natural ingredients found in the local bush land and Mfuwe produce farms.
The products are all created and tested by us, and are safe to use on your skin; we guarantee a healthy and purely natural experience. Products are easily absorbed and are beneficial for the health of your body.
Enjoy all the treatments in the privacy of your Villa, surrounded by the sounds of the animals in the distance.
Your Stay
4 Nights
Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
Fast Facts
Safari Lodge
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 6
Special Interests: Adventure, Big 5, Birding, Flora, Hiking, Leisure, Nature, Star Gazing, Wildlife