Week One

A Deep Dive into South Luangwa - The Leopard Valley

I arrived in Mfuwe, Zambia, on November 2 to 105-degree heat and warm smiles at my safari lodge, nestled just inside South Luangwa National Park’s main gate. The air was dry and fragrant with dust, the distant calls of birds and wildlife stirring a sense of adventure that I felt deep in my bones.

Over the first week, the bush teemed with life — elephants lumbering through the trees, hippos dozing in the river, antelope grazing quietly in golden light, and lions stretched out in the shade to escape the midday sun. The river’s lower levels revealed sculpted sandbanks and exposed the contours of the land, lending texture and quiet rhythm to the days.

One unforgettable afternoon brought a sight I’ll never forget: a leopard draped across the branch of a sausage tree, perfectly camouflaged in dappled shade. I was also lucky to encounter Thornicroft’s giraffes — their elegant silhouettes distinct against the skyline — and a remarkable array of birdlife, from the elusive Pel’s Fishing Owl to the striking Purple-crested Lourie.

Week Two

Livingstone → Lower Zambezi National Park → Kafue National Park → South Luangwa National Park → Likoma Island, Malawi

During the second week, I joined Green Safaris on a thoughtfully curated journey through Zambia and Malawi, showcasing their signature blend of contemporary safari design and seamless logistics. The adventure began along the Zambezi, where the landscape unfolded into wide, shimmering rivers and lush floodplains. The air hung warm and humid, alive with the calls of fish eagles and the steady buzz of insects, while hippos and crocodiles shared the waterways and elephants drifted gracefully along the riverbanks.

Standout moments included a memorable sandbar sundowner at Sindabezi and a tranquil garden lunch at Tongabezi — both framed by the gentle rhythm of the river. We then continued to Lower Zambezi National Park for a stay at Sausage Tree Camp, where an exquisite riverside lunch and immersive walking safaris allowed for a deeper connection with the wilderness.

From there, we journeyed north to Kafue National Park, accessing Africa’s fourth-largest park with an unforgettable helicopter transfer from Chunga to Busanga. The vast scale and remoteness were breathtaking. Despite heavy rains, Chisa Camp shone — its team managing every detail with warmth and professionalism. Service throughout the journey was exceptional, with thoughtful touches that made each day memorable, from well-timed sundowners to atmospheric boma dinners beneath the stars.

Return to South Luangwa

Returning to South Luangwa National Park, I witnessed a dramatic seasonal transformation — a rare privilege to experience firsthand. Within days, the soft, sun-bleached tones of the bush gave way to vibrant shades of green as the first rains swept through. Rivers swelled, the air cooled, and the land seemed to breathe again, pulsing with new life. It was a powerful reminder of nature’s resilience and the wild beauty that defines Zambia’s wilderness. Each day unfolded like a new chapter, revealing the ever-changing rhythms of the bush.

Our time at Shawa Camp made the return even more memorable. The camp’s 270° views and cozy tented design created a sense of seamless connection to the landscape, while handcrafted touches added warmth and authenticity. Thoughtful details — like a steaming mug of Amarula hot chocolate after a night drive — made each moment feel personal and special.

South Luangwa Low River Levels vs High River Levels - 1 week apart

Final Stop: Malawi’s Likoma Island

The final leg of the journey took us to Likoma Island in Malawi, where Kaya Mawa offered a graceful transition into relaxed, lakeside elegance. Framed by endless blue horizons, the days were filled with paddleboarding across crystal waters, golden sunset views, and even a refreshing night swim beneath the stars — a serene and rejuvenating conclusion to a dynamic, beautifully balanced safari adventure.

Reflections

Looking back on the journey, I feel profoundly grateful to have witnessed such raw, unspoiled beauty — from the parched, sun-baked landscapes of early November to the lush, rain-washed greenery that transformed them. Zambia’s wilderness left me deeply moved: by its rhythms, its resilience, and its quiet reminder that the wild is always alive, ever-changing, and endlessly renewing itself.

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