Eastern Zambia: From Bush to Wetlands

You arrive in Zambia's capital, Lusaka. Pick up your 4x4 with rooftop tent and drive to Pioneer Lodge, just outside the city's hustle and bustle. Take a dip in the pool and recover from your flight. Order a cold Mosi beer and get ready for the wilderness.

Today you'll discover Lusaka with guides Anella and her daughter Faith. No standard tourist attractions, but the real city. Together you'll wander through markets filled with colourful fabrics and street food. Afterwards, you'll head into the kitchen, where Faith will teach you how to prepare traditional Zambian meals.

Leave the city behind and drive to South Luangwa National Park. The journey takes around eight hours through ever-changing landscapes. You'll stay at Msandile River Lodge on the riverbank. From your veranda, you'll have views of hippos and elephants. Welcome to the bush.

South Luangwa is the place for walking safaris. Today you'll head out with an armed scout. Without the sound of an engine, you'll hear everything around you and learn how to read animal tracks. In the afternoon, you'll go on a game drive. The guides here know exactly where the leopards like to hide.

Travel deeper into the wilderness to North Luangwa National Park. Very few people visit this remote area. You'll stay at Luambe Rest Camp and the intimate Ituba Tented Camp. No other tourists around you, just the sounds of the African bush beneath a star-filled sky.

Head even deeper into the bush. You'll camp at the simple Nkholo Campsite near Lufila Falls. Don't expect luxury, but do expect the ultimate adventure. Cook your own meal over the campfire and fall asleep to the distant roar of lions.

After days on dusty roads, it's time to unwind. Travel to the hidden Kapishya Hot Springs, an oasis of natural hot springs nestled among the palm trees. Wash off the dust in the warm water and completely relax. You'll spend the night in a charming lodge.

Drive to Mutinondo Wilderness, a rugged landscape of granite rock formations and forests. This is all about spending time outdoors. Hike to the highest viewpoints, swim in natural pools and enjoy the silence. Here, you'll have nature all to yourself.

Your journey continues to the Bangweulu Wetlands. This vast wetland is a dream for bird lovers. Glide through the reeds in a mokoro (traditional wooden canoe). Together with fisherman Mussa, you'll search for the prehistoric shoebill stork. An incredible experience in this unique landscape.

Travel back to Lusaka through the green countryside around Mkushi. Along the way, you'll spend the night at the cosy Fika Lodge to recharge. The following day, you'll return your 4x4 at Pioneer Lodge. Enjoy one final swim in the pool and raise a toast to an unforgettable adventure.

Your adventure has come to an end. With a bag full of stories about walking safaris, hot springs and rare birds, you'll fly home today. You'll never forget Zambia's wilderness and warm hospitality. Safe travels and see you again!