Nile Monitor Safari: Day-by-day
More detailed information of what each day entails, and the various places you’ll stay on the Nile Monitor Safari. Everything we do is completely tailor-made so while this is an idea which works well, we’ll always design an itinerary just for you.
Starts: Lusaka International Airport
Lusaka to South Luangwa by air & 4WD
Depart Lusaka on a 70-minute scheduled flight to Mfuwe Airport, gateway to South Luangwa National Park. Here you'll be met by your guide for the 45-minute drive to Kafunta River Lodge, usually in air-conditioned comfort, the sprawling community of Mfuwe soon giving way to open bush – and wildlife.
Kafunta River Lodge
The well-established Kafunta River Lodge lies just outside the South Luangwa National Park, beside a large floodplain and watering hole, with the Luangwa River beyond. It's about 9km from the main road that stretches from Mfuwe Airport to the main bridge into South Luangwa National Park, so though it is close to the park gate, because it has its own crossing points into the park, guests have relatively quick access for their activities.
The well-established Kafunta River Lodge lies just outside the South Luangwa National Park, beside a large floodplain and watering hole, with the Luangwa River beyond. It's about 9km from the main road that stretches from Mfuwe Airport to the main bridge into South Luangwa National Park, so though it is close to the park gate, because it has its own crossing points into the park, guests have relatively quick access for their activities.
"had a brilliant stay here... some amazing sightings & our guide was superb..."
Mr & Mrs HfromKentArrived 21 Sep 2022, 4 nights
Kafunta is an affordable, friendly lodge, with dedicated staff, many of whom have been there a long time. The food is good, the guiding excellent and the location very attractive. Its recent upgrade has also smartened the main areas and rooms quite significantly. Though it's larger, and in a potentially busier area, we think it's a great option combining good guiding and food with value for money. See our full report on Kafunta River Lodge
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Cultural excursion
Guided walking safari
Night drive
Game drive from Kafunta to Island Bush Camp
Today's 2–2½-hour journey between camps is an activity in itself: a drive through increasingly remote wilderness to Island Bush Camp on the banks of the Luangwa River. Typically you'll leave after brunch, around midday, looking out for wildlife on the way and arriving in time to enjoy a further activity.
Island Bush Camp
The simple Island Bush Camp is in a very remote area of the South Luangwa, a 2–2½-hour drive south of the main area of Mfuwe. It focuses heavily on walking safaris in a wilderness environment, and these will make up the bulk of your activities here, but it does also offer some limited drives.
The simple Island Bush Camp is in a very remote area of the South Luangwa, a 2–2½-hour drive south of the main area of Mfuwe. It focuses heavily on walking safaris in a wilderness environment, and these will make up the bulk of your activities here, but it does also offer some limited drives.
"..a wonderful almost Robinson Crusoe feel, enhanced by the camp's remoteness.."
Mr & Mrs CfromBristolArrived 29 Aug 2023, 3 nights
Island Bush Camp is an excellent-value walking camp, in a very wild area far from any other camps in the park. The chalets are very simple, and the experience here is quite rugged and outdoorsy. It will suit people looking for a real wilderness experience and a competitive price. See our full report on Island Bush Camp
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Cultural excursion
Guided walking safari
Night drive
South Luangwa to Lusaka by 4WD & air
You'll have plenty of time to watch for wildlife during today's 4WD drive back to Kafunta, where you'll switch vehicles for the journey to Mfuwe Airport, arriving after around 3–4 hours. It's then a 70-minute scheduled flight to Lusaka Airport, landing well in time for your onward connections.
Ends: Lusaka International Airport
Experiences you can add to this trip.
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst staying at lodges on this trip. These are usually best arranged in advance so talk to us.
Tribal Textiles Tour
One - two hours
Visit the Tribal Textiles workshop, where hand-painted textiles are produced by more than a hundred local people. The workshop is close to Mfuwe Airport, so is ideally placed for a stop en route to/from the South Luangwa. With products ranging from cushion covers to bags and T-shirts, it's a great place for souvenir shopping while at the same time supporting the local community.
More about Tribal Textiles Tour
Kawaza Village Visit
Two to three hours
Just outside Zambia's South Luangwa National Park lies a normal, working rural African village which is open and welcoming to visitors to the Luangwa valley. There is nothing artificial or contrived about Kawaza Village, and it offers a rare opportunity to experience and appreciate Kunda culture, and meet local Zambians.
More about Kawaza Village Visit