Traveling through Zambia is a soul-stirring experience, and for Kerstin and me, our recent journey into the wild heart of Africa was nothing short of extraordinary. From the leopard-rich landscapes of South Luangwa National Park to the awe-inspiring scenery of the Lower Zambezi, each day revealed new wonders and amazing safari experiences.
Our adventure began in South Luangwa National Park, often called the Valley of the Leopard – and for good reason. We were treated to some of the most thrilling leopard sightings, with multiple encounters.
We based ourselves at Shenton Safaris, where each camp offered something unique. My personal highlight was staying at Mwamba Bush Camp, an intimate and authentic safari experience that brought us incredibly close to nature. The hide at Mwamba offers amazing viewings and is worth skipping a game drive. For those who dream of luxury in the wild, Puku Ridge provides an elegant, elevated experience, while the Chichele Presidential Lodge delivers ultra-luxury in a historic setting. South Luangwa truly offers something for every kind of traveler – whether you seek rustic charm, indulgent comfort, or opulent seclusion.
Mirjam and Kerstin in the hide at Mwamba Bush Camp
From there, we journeyed to the Lower Zambezi National Park, where the landscape is just stunning. Here, the Zambezi River forms a natural stage for life in the bush, with elephants wading through channels, hippos basking, and predators lurking at the edges.
Our stay at Chiawa Camp was unforgettable – not least because we had the rare privilege of witnessing a kill, an intense yet natural reminder of the raw cycles of life in Africa – also because the team at the lodge is amazing and the attention to detail they live is astonishing. The park’s beauty lies not just in its wildlife but in the sheer drama of its landscapes – towering escarpments, wide floodplains, and the constant presence of the mighty Zambezi. One encounter still eludes us, though: we had hoped to see the famous elephants rising on their back legs to reach high branches. That sight will have to wait, and it has already given us the perfect reason to return.
Kerstin photographing elephants while on a boat cruise on the Zambezi River
At every lodge, we were treated to delicious, carefully crafted meals – thoughtful recipes that were not only flavorful but also rich in protein and nourishingly healthy. Both South Luangwa and the Lower Zambezi opened up a different world once the sun went down. I’ve never usually been the biggest fan of night drives, but here the remoteness made them feel truly special. Under the stars, we found ourselves face to face with creatures you rarely see in daylight – from genets and civets to the occasional porcupine shuffling through the dark.
Our Zambian journey was about more than spotting wildlife – it was about experiencing different places we can sell and recommend for our future travellers. Zambia is a hidden-gem and worth exploring the remoteness of the area.