Walking Safari in Zambia
Walking through the wild African bush is one of the best wildlife experiences you can have.
Walking safari with Robin Pope Safaris in South Luangwa, Zambia
© RobinPopeSafaris
What does a walking safari entail?
Walking in the African wilderness comes in many guises. Certain lodges and camps offer shorter walks of an hour or two as part of your stay, or you can throw yourself in at the deep end and opt for a full-on walking safari itinerary where walking is the main focus of your stay. Walking safaris are particularly known in South Luangwa National Park.
If you're on a set walking departure, you will probably be accompanied by five or so other guests. Together you head off out into the unknown in search of an adventure.
- The thrill of a wildlife encounter on foot
- Appreciate the smaller members of the ecosystem
- Stop for regular tea/coffee breaks
- Feel like a safari pioneer of yesteryear
- An unparalleled safari experience
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What to expect on a walking safari
No two days will be the same, this is African wilderness and adventure at its finest. But here's a gist...
© ShentonSafaris
Morning
Your day will begin early. You want to be up and out before the sun has had a chance to heat things up. There'll be time for a hot cup of coffee and a light breakfast before you set off with your guide and an armed ZAWA (Zambia Wildlife Authority) guard.
Lunch
You might return to camp for lunch, or if you're walking from A to B, then it will be a bush lunch, set up in a nice shady spot. There'll be chance of a to relax during the hottest part of the day, take a siesta or enjoy a chat with your guide.
Afternoon
You'll set off again for another few hours of walking, though none of it is too strenuous. You'll be able to observe the wildlife you come across from a safe distance. All the while learning from your incredible guide who will be generous with his wisdom and knowledge.
Evening
You'll be safely back in camp before it gets dark. There you'll have time to freshen up before you sit down to a three course meal which you can enjoy under the African stars and a nightcap before turning in for the night to your cosy, comfy bed.
© ShentonSafaris
© ShentonSafaris
South Luangwa
This park is possibly the best place for a walking safari in the whole of this vast continent. They were pioneered here back in the 1950s.
Many guides are exceptionally well-trained walking guides. You need a well-trained guide to ensure your safety as you traverse the Zambian bush.
Where to go
As well as South Luangwa, North Luangwa is also well worth considering for a walking safari. The camps are only open for a short season, from June to October.
Lower Zambezi, Kafue and the remote Liuwa Plains also provide an opportunity for walking, though these tend to be shorter activities rather than the main focus of the safari.
When to go
June to October is the safest time to enjoy a walking safari and this is when the longer walks are undertaken. It’s dry season and the grasses have died back and visibility is much better. You really don’t want to risk a lion or any other predator being able to see you and you not be able to see it!
During this time, well-respected companies such as Robin Pope Safaris and Norman Carr Safaris offer scheduled small group walking safaris.
