Zambia Holidays

Introduction

At 22 500 sq km, Kafue National Park is one of the largest National Parks in Africa. In the extreme north of the Kafue lie the Busanga Plains - one of Zambia's most significant wetland resources and one of the few areas in the world that remain untouched by development and human activity.

The Busanga Plains cover an area of approximately 750 sq km and the Kapinga Camp is located in the heart of this wildlife paradise. The Plains are home to hundreds of red lechwe, ubiquitous puku, stately roan and the diminutive oribi. Lichtenstein's hartebeest, herds of wildebeest, zebra and buffalo make for a full set of antelope. This wealth of game on the plains is also a big attraction for predators, including wild dog, cheetah and prides of lion.

Overview

Kapinga Camp Kafue

Kapinga Camp is designed to blend in with the environment and natural products have been used as much as possible in the construction of the camp. Interiors are spacious and have all the modern conveniences that one would wish for. With only four luxury safari tents accommodating a maximum of 8 guests, one can be assured of exceptional personal attention. Guests can take part in game drives in and around the plains and night drives offer the added excitement of the nocturnal wonders of the area. All these are led by qualified guides who are extremely knowledgeable about the area and its wildlife. For those interested in birding, the park boasts 491 species, including endemics such as Chaplin's Barbet.

 

Shumba Camp Kafue

Shumba Camp comprises six spacious luxury safari tents on raised platforms with breathtaking views of the surrounding plains. A maximum of 12 guests can be accommodated at any one time and great emphasis has been placed on the "guided" experience - being led by qualified, enthusiastic people with in-depth knowledge of the area and its wildlife. Guests have the option of game drives in and around the Plains and night drives provide the added excitement of the nocturnal wonders of the area. For those interested in birding, the Park boasts 491 species of birds, including endemics such as Chaplin's Barbet.

 

The River Club Livingstone

The River Club lies dreaming in dappled shade on the Zambian banks of the Zambezi River, 18km upstream from the world-famous Victoria Falls. Its main area is a well-appointed Edwardian-style house, with a comfortable lounge, large dining room, impressive library and wide veranda on which breakfasts and teas are taken. Manicured lawns (where midday meals are often served) spread out beneath the trees and a croquet court is an ideal venue for a Pimm's-soaked croquet game. The pool has been built to seem part of the river itself, a secluded deck with hammocks and loungers provides respite and beauty treatments are available in the calico 'massage' tent.

Ten luxury thatched chalets overlook the Zambezi River and have en-suite facilities including a bath, shower, toilet and basin. All the rooms have fans. The rooms are all completely open in the front, giving guests uninterrupted views of the Zambezi. Seven rooms have a concertina screen door or window across the front of the bedroom and/or bathroom.

Activities include sundowner cruises, visits to the Falls, Simonga Village, local markets and Livingstone, and a variety of other activities at extra cost: white water rafting, bungee jumping, abseiling, and helicopter flights over the Falls. With the Zambezi National Park just across the river, hippo and elephant are regularly heard and seen, birdlife is particularly rich and tiger fishing is a challenge for keen fishermen.

Essential Information

Weather

Although Zambia lies in the tropics, the height of the plateau ensures that the climate is seldom unpleasantly hot, except in the valleys. There are three seasons: the cool, dry winter season from May to September; the hot, dry season in October and November; and the rainy season, which is even hotter, from December to April.

Passports and Visas

British passport holders require a visa to enter Zambia. Visas can be obtained from the Zambian High Commission in London. Visa fees for British nationals are US$50 for a single entry visa and US$80 for a multi-entry visa. Single entry visit visas are available at all ports of entry, but multi-entry visas are not and must be applied for before travelling. It is possible to obtain a double entry visa at ports of entry for US$80.

Your passport should be valid for a minimum of six months on arrival and have at least two blank pages. Zambia does not recognise dual nationality and it is important to be able to produce a passport bearing the exit stamp from the country from which you have travelled.

Health

You should seek medical advice from your GP before travelling to the Zambia and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date.

Insurance

We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel insurance before travelling.  You should check any exclusions from the policy, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake whilst on holiday. Medway Travel can provide you with a quote for this – please contact a member of the Leisure team for further details.