OWL Safaris - ZAMBIA - Best of Zambian Adventure Safari - 8 nights

Expert tips:

Book At Least One Sunrise Activity

The Lower Zambezi is at its calmest and most magical at dawn. A sunrise canoe safari or river cruise offers mirror-still waters, golden light, and superb wildlife viewing before the heat sets in.

Pair Game Drives With Water Activities

The Lower Zambezi’s “superpower” is its blend of land and water safaris.
To make the most of it:

• Do one land activity + one water activity per day (e.g., morning game drive, afternoon boat cruise).

• This gives you a more complete feel for the valley, with elephants and buffalo on land and big hippo pods and crocs along the river.

Take Advantage of the Camp’s Top Guides

Baines’ is known for exceptionally knowledgeable guides.  Ask lots of wildlife questions!

Don’t Skip Sundowners on the River

The river sunsets are legendary.
Request:

• A sandbar sundowner stop, if water levels allow

• Or a drifting sundowner from the boat
  It’s one of the Lower Zambezi’s signature experiences.

Bring a Good Zoom Lens

Wildlife encounters on the water are often slightly further away than on land.
A 200–400mm zoom range is ideal for capturing elephants swimming or lions patrolling the floodplain.

Pack Light but Smart

The valley can be hot midday and cool early morning.
Bring:

• Breathable layers

• A light fleece

• A sun hat

• Polarized sunglasses (very helpful for boat activities)

The camp provides laundry, so no need to overpack.

Bring Good Mosquito Repellent

The Lower Zambezi is a riverine environment, so evenings can bring insects.
The camp provides repellents, but packing your preferred one is always wise.

Try Catch-and-Release Tiger Fishing

Even if you’re new to fishing—try it.
The guides are fantastic teachers, the gear is provided, and landing a tigerfish is an unforgettable adrenaline hit.

Enjoy the Campfire Evenings

Baines’ has a wonderfully atmospheric riverside fire deck.
It’s the perfect place to:

• Stargaze

• Trade safari stories

• Absorb the sounds of the bush

It’s often a highlight for returning guests.

Request a River-Facing Suite

If not already allocated, it’s worth asking for one.
Waking up to river views and the sounds of fish eagles adds an extra layer of magic.

Slow Down

This camp is designed for an unhurried, elegant safari pace.
Build in a bit of downtime between activities to enjoy the verandas, library, and riverside views

Included:

> Accommodation

> Fully guided and supported through-out

> All meals & selected beverages

> Daily safari & wildlife activities (Including fishing activities)

> National Park fees & conservation levies (Unless specified)

> Wifi in designated areas

> Other activities (canoeing, sunset cruises on Lower Zambezi)

> Laundry (Unless otherwise specified)

Excluded:

> Premium alcohol & beverages where specified

> Additional activities (Fly-fishing packages as an add-on) 

> Travel insurance, visas, tips, and personal expenses

Expert tips:

Take Advantage of the Early Morning Drives

The Luangwa Valley’s wildlife is most active at dawn—especially leopards and lions. Don’t skip the early starts; they deliver the best sightings and coolest temperatures.

 Enjoy the Unique River Crossing at the Start of Activities

Your safari often begins with a short boat crossing, giving you a beautiful, serene peek at hippos, elephants, and birdlife before you even board the vehicle.

Ask Guides About Leopard Hotspots

South Luangwa is famed for its leopards. Guides know the territories well, so let them tailor drives around movements and fresh tracks.

Take a Walking Safari at Least Once

This is the birthplace of walking safaris—going on foot with a qualified guide and scout is one of the most authentic ways to experience the bush.

Pack for Hot Days and Cooler Mornings

Luangwa temperatures swing. Bring breathable clothing, a light jacket, a sun hat, and good sunglasses. Laundry service reduces what you need to pack.

Carry Strong Insect Repellent

The riverine habitat means mosquitos can be active in the evenings. Use repellent and wear light long sleeves at night for extra comfort.

Plan for Sundowners on the Riverbank

Luangwa’s sunsets are extraordinary. Ask your guide for a sundowner spot overlooking the river or open plains for prime elephant and hippo viewing.

Bring the Right Photography Gear

A 70–200mm or 100–400mm lens works perfectly for Luangwa’s close encounters, especially with big cats and elephants.

Use Your Downtime Wisely

Between activities, enjoy the pool and elevated deck—this camp has excellent river views and frequent animal activity right in front of camp.

Listen for Night Sounds

Luangwa at night is magical—hippos grazing, lions calling, owls hooting. 

Included:

> Accommodation

> Fully guided and supported throughout

> All meals & selected beverages

> Daily safari & wildlife activities 

> National Park fees & conservation levies (Unless specified)

> Guided tour of local hand-crafted curios, jewelry and Zambian textiles

> Wi-Fi in designated areas

> Laundry (Unless otherwise specified)

Excluded:

> Premium alcohol & beverages where specified

> Additional activities (i.e. Visit to Kawaza Cultural Village)

> Travel insurance, visas, tips, and personal expenses

Included:

> Accommodation

> Fully guided and supported throughout

> All meals & selected beverages

> Daily safari & wildlife activities 

> National Park fees & conservation levies (Unless specified)

> Wifi in designated areas

> Laundry (Unless otherwise specified)

Excluded:

> Premium alcohol & beverages where specified

> Additional activities (i.e. Visit to Kawaza Cultural Village)

> Travel insurance, visas, tips, and personal expenses