Blend walks and conservation activities on the Luangwa River

Luambe National Park is a special place. Superbly located in the Luangwa river valley, it was once a premier Zambian safari destination until human encroachment took its toll on habitat and wildlife. Today, it is on the way back to health thanks to a privately-funded conservation project that is focused on community engagement, ecotourism and anti-poaching measures.

Luambe Camp is the exclusive tourism operator in the park, and a stay here is more than a typical safari. As well as being witness to recovering wildlife populations, which includes the endemic Thornicroft’s giraffe, Cookson’s Wildebeest and endangered African Wild Dog, guests can get hands-on with conservation work.

The camp is directly overlooking the Luangwa and has four comfortable and spacious en-suite tents. In keeping with the spirit of exploration of the Luangwe valley, guests are encouraged to mix walks with game drives. Ideally, four nights should be booked here, as it means a special "Sleep-out" can be arranged on the fourth night, with just a bed and mosquito net under the African starscape. 

Luambe National Park is best accessed by air from Lusaka to Mfuwe Airport via Lusaka, from where the camp is about 4 hours drive. It's not a bad idea to break this journey with a stay at Flatdogs Camp which is close to Mfuwe Gate in South Luangwa, where walks are also on the menu. Enquire about a combined Luambe/Flatdogs 8-night itinerary that is designed to meet the needs of budget-conscious safari travellers. 

While at camp, days start early to take advantage of the best walking and wildlife viewing conditions. Guests can alternate game drives and walks, which are tuned to the interests and abilities of guests. A game viewing vehicle is used to transfer from camp to the walk starting point, and the duration of the walk is flexible, but generally lasts about three hours. Guests return to camp for breakfast and some relaxation during the middle of the day. In the afternoon, a shorter walk can be arranged.

• All accommodation
• Meals
• Wine, local and house drinks
• Safari & conservation activities

• Park fees (USD 35pppn)
• Mfuwe Transfers (USD 119 pp one way)
• Premium brand drinks
• Gratuities