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For the love of Zambia’s bushcamps

A quintessentially Zambian safari-genre where luxury is all in the context. 

Seasonally constructed from reeds, grass, pole and canvas, deep in a game-rich wilderness where superb walking safaris are always an option, our love of bushcamps comes from many years exploring the wilds of Zambia and is a brilliant option to great off the beaten track, experience authentic safaris and put yourselves into the thick of sensational game country.

Here are three of the very best…

Mwamba Camp, Luangwa Valley

Properly off-grid this owner-run camp has superb eco-credentials running entirely off solar. It also happens to have one of the best photographic hides in all of Africa in-camp, Mwamba’s ‘last waterhole’ is a magnet for all wildlife from elephant to the diminutive and outrageously coloured Lillian’s Lovebirds.

Best time to visit

Visit between early August and the onset of the rains to witness thousands of Carmine Bee-eaters nesting on the sandbanks of the Luangwa – veritable walls of scarlet.

Combine with…

…for something completely different head up to the Bangweulu Wetlands – headwaters of the mighty Congo River and home to a cornucopia of crazy creatures.

Old Mondoro, Lower Zambezi National Park

The Lower Zambezi National Park boasts some of Africa’s most comfortable and well-appointed camps, but only one bushcamp, Old Mondoro which has been enormously popular since it first opened its reed doors. Canoeing, boating, and catch-and-release fishing is all on offer here, as well as jeep and walking safaris.

Best time to visit

Tiger Fish have a reputation for being the fiercest fighting freshwater fish in the world so if you want to optimise your chances of catching one head here when the water is at its clearest in September and October. If fishing isn’t your thing then early season (May & June) in the Lower Zambezi is massively under-rated with the bush verdant green and azure skies.

Combine with…

From the Lower Zambezi it’s a short hop upstream to the Victoria Falls, spectacular in themselves and host to a wonderful array of things tricky to find elsewhere, microlights, bungees, gorge-swings and rafting.

Musekese Camp, Kafue National Park

The Kafue National Park may be an esoteric choice but Musekese is definitely one of our favourite safari camps anywhere. Truly owner-operated this camp has everything you need – first class guiding, great food, comfortable rooms – but more than anything, it is run with a passion and pioneering spirit that runs right through the whole ethos of everything they do.

Best time to visit

The Kafue is cooler and wetter than the Luangwa and Lower Zambezi Valleys and tends to peak a little later but without the extreme heat that can be a feature in the Lowveld. September is particularly pleasing with every other tree apparently in bloom.

Combine with…

This is one of the few camps open late enough to satisfactorily combine a visit out the Liuwa Plains, an ancient Lozi Kingdom, home to the second largest wildebeest migration and a particularly strong hot-spot for wild dogs.

Our Featured bushcamps

Three of many authentic and brilliant camps in Zambia but these are three to definitely consider building into your Zambia safari itinerary.
Old Mondoro

The camp is well suited for people who enjoy the bush without the fanfare. Its simplicity is what makes it, along with the great all round wildlife experience.

Learn More
Musekese Safari Camp

If a camp could be cloned and replanted in every wild place worth visiting it would be Musekese as it’s everything that a safari camp should be.

Learn More
Mwamba Bushcamp

Mwamba Bushcamp is one of the last really authentic bush camps in the Luangwa. Rebuilt annually from grass and pole, the simple rooms with ingenious “sky roofs” for stargazing and en-suite facilities have everything you need but not too much of the superfluous.

Learn More

What is there to do in Victoria Falls?

Walk the Falls

This is a very wet experience particularly during and after the rains. Depending on where you are staying you can also cross over to Zimbabwe or Zambia to view the falls, but you’ll need to negotiateimmigration which can take a bit of time and is fairly typical of a brush with African bureaucracy – disorganised and a bit of a pain.

White Water Rafting

These are all day or half day trips and in the dry season start right under the falls. When the river is high, they start further down. Depending on the time of year, it can be a fun day out with a few thrills, or a hair-raising experience with a lot of swims.  It is a steep climb down into the gorge and a very steep climb out – although there is now a cable car on the Zambian side, but it is not always working.

Microlite over the Victoria Falls

This is a 15 minute flight and some of the magic is taken out by the fact that it is a bit like queuing up for a fair ground attraction and the poor pilots just go up and down every 15 minutes. It is however an exciting way to see the Falls and really appreciate how huge they are, but also how narrow the chasm that the water falls into. You can also see where over 1000’s of years the Falls started. You are linked into the pilot who gives information on the Falls and then you fly back along the river, looking down at hippos.

Helicopter flight

Here you fly over the falls and then fly down in the gorge up to the falls which is quite spectacular. As with the microlite flights, you can do 15 minutes or 30 minute flights. You have to be aware that in the helicopter, the best view is in the front seat and there were complaints when we were there that people could not see well out of the back seats.

Livingstone Island (Zambia only)

Lying right as the giant Zambezi plummets over the Falls, there can be few places which provide such unusual and special access to one of the World’s Wonders.  Visit for high-tea, lunch or during the full moon to see the lunar rainbow.  You can also access the daring Devil’s Pool if you fancy a dip on the very edge of the waterfall…not for the faint of heart.

Other activities you might be interested in:

  • Elephant back safaris – whole day or half a day in Zimbabwe and Zambia
  • Quad biking tours in Zambia
  • Walking in Musi o Tunya National Park
  • Walking with Lions in Zimbabwe and Zambia

 

About the Serengeti Plains Formation

The plains cover more than 5000 sq km of the Serengeti and surrounding areas – almost a third of the park area and are probably what most people think of when you mention the Serengeti (it’s actually what the word means in Maasai – “endless plains”). It’s really worth looking for at why they are there and how the whole landscape fits together with the rift valley and Ngorongoro.

The base rock of the plains is Precambrian. This period spanned between 4600 and 500 million years ago, a not insignificant chunk of time a very long time ago. This base layer is made up of metamorphic rocks like gneisses and schist mixed with quartzes. Overlaid on top of this is a blanket of fine volcanic ash from eruptions along the edge of the rift valley in the Ngorongoro Highlands.

The principle eruption in the formation of the plains was apparently Kerimasi, although this is hard to believe when you see it – a modest looking dormant volcano just south east of Lengai near Lake Natron. It erupted in what was clearly a major way 150,000 years ago. Subsequently Ol Donyo Lengai has kept things topped up in recent years, erupting 15 times since the end of the 19th Century, most recently at the end of 2007. If you climb it today and hear it boiling away like a cauldron you can’t help wondering when the next big one will come (like maybe before you have a chance to get down again).

The prevailing wind direction in the Serengeti is from the east, so what you see when you look at the pattern of the plains is what amounts to an enormous vomit of ash which has blown down wind from the source of eruption. The plains extend from the Selai plains in the northeast near Lake Natron, south through Gol Kopjes and around the base of the highlands to Ndutu and from there west as far as Seronera.  They are at the heart of the wildebeest migration; the birthing ground for the calves during the green season, but dry, barren and unable to sustain life during the dry – hence the need to migrate.

Month by Month Guide to Visiting Madagascar

January is the start of a very wet and hot period in Madagascar; rainfall can be as much as 340mm, especially on the east coast. Roads to places of interest become impassable and those that are usually dry and bumpy turn into deep mud. Many hotels and lodges will be closed.

February is peak wet season with heavy downpours and a high risk of cyclones, especially in the northeast. Reaching certain parks and accommodation is impossible and some are closed. Many wildlife species also hide from the rain at this time too.

March The rains continue and cyclones are still a real possibility. The temperature is around 30C and it is humid. Weather and conditions in the south are improving but we still generally advise against travel.

April Although there may still be heavy downpours, they are interspersed with bright sunshine, enticing out all sorts of wildlife from hiding.  Parks open and it’s the start of the travel season. It’s an excellent time to spot most lemurs as well as reptiles and insects which are active at this time and easily seen.

May is a great time to visit Madagascar as the high season for European travellers hasn’t yet begun so it’s easier to secure good accommodation. It’s not quite the dry season so there may be the odd heavy downpour, but there is lots of sunshine too. Average rainfall for May is 47mm and maximum daytime temperatures reach 24C, dropping to around a minimum of 13C at night. Fauna really begin to flourish.

June weather is characterised by the occasional shower interspersed with sunshine and the air becomes cooler and fresher and there. Visitor numbers are still quite low and you can avoid any potential crowds. While the highlands remain cool and can be quite wet, this is one of the best times to explore to the southwest and Isalo National Park. At Anjajavy you may see ‘dancing lemurs’ on the beach.  Maximum daytime temperature is 22C dropping to a minimum of 10 C at night.

July is the start of the high season and the busiest month of the year – book at least six months in advance to be sure you have the accommodation and trip you really want. This is the middle of the Madagascar winter and the temperature is at its lowest for the year making it a good time for trekking in the normally hot and humid rainforests. Many lemurs and other animals are active but some smaller mammals and reptiles begin hibernating.  Most of the coastal regions have ideal weather for relaxing in the sunshine, swimming and snorkelling.

August – has a similar climate and conditions to July and you will need to book well in advance during this peak travel month.

September – becomes much quieter as European school holidays end. The cooler season ends and temperatures increase again bringing chameleons, snakes, lizards, small lemurs and rodents out of hibernation. There is also still a chance to see the last remaining humpback whales off the coast of Ile Sainte Marie.

October – is an almost perfect time to travel to Madagascar. One of the most captivating highlights is the baby lemurs. Born in September they are held by their mother for the first few weeks until they are strong enough to cling to the hairs on her back and tentatively take a few steps on their own. Mandrare River Camp is an excellent place to see this. The weather is ideal for time on the beach and snorkelling in the turquoise waters.

November – temperatures continue to rise and wildlife is active so you should see lots of lemurs, chameleons, frogs and geckos. Birds are breeding too so there is plenty to see. It remains a good time for trekking in the warm rainforests when there can be the odd shower.

December – is the start of the wet season in Madagascar, but this doesn’t necessarily mean heavy rain all the time everywhere. It’s the hottest time of the year with few visitors. The further into the month the more likelihood of heavy rain; tropical storms rage and temperatures climb over 30C in the humid rainforests. Lemurs, tenrecs and reptiles can often be spotted.

The Best Small Safari Camps in Tanzania

January is the start of a very wet and hot period in Madagascar; rainfall can be as much as 340mm, especially on the east coast. Roads to places of interest become impassable and those that are usually dry and bumpy turn into deep mud. Many hotels and lodges will be closed.

1. Kichaka – Ruaha

The best safari camps are often the owner-run ones. These days, though, they’re few and far between in Tanzania. However, Kichaka Safari Camp in Ruaha National Park stands out as one of the best. Set up by Andrew Molinaro after 10 years guiding in Southern Tanzania and offering wonderful walking safaris, it’s run by him and his charming partner Noelle Herzog. This camp combines real bush know-how, a stunning location in the thick of Ruaha’s best wildlife area and a refreshingly simple, but stylish approach. It’s a great example of how the right people, from the owners to the excellent Tanzanian crew, contribute far more to the experience of a safari camp than the trinkets and baubles many choose to cram their tents with these days… We would wholeheartedly recommend this very special camp to anyone looking for an authentic safari experience.

February is peak wet season with heavy downpours and a high risk of cyclones, especially in the northeast. Reaching certain parks and accommodation is impossible and some are closed. Many wildlife species also hide from the rain at this time too.

It’s easy to overlook the logistical problems involved in running a small safari camp, hundreds of miles from your supply base. Add to this a dogged determination to leave as little imprint as possible on the environment and the task Chada sets itself is a challenging one. 400 miles from Arusha it’s stuck to its pioneering credentials (it was the first camp in Katavi National Park) and pulls off a seemingly effortless style in a remote and beguiling wilderness. Often the game is right in front of you on Chada flood plain, but Chada’s guides are well known for their excellent standards and will take you on game drives in open 4x4s to encounter truly massive herds of buffalo or walking safaris to sleep beneath the stars in flycamps. It’s a brilliantly run little operation in an exhilarating park. Like the proverbial swan, though don’t underestimate quite how much paddling goes on beneath the surface to pull it off.

3. Manyara Light Tented Camp – Northern Tanzania

At Natural High we’ve long been advocates of the less-is-more approach to camps. But it requires some intelligence and a good eye or you quickly cross the line from intelligent simplicity, to plain uncomfortable. The Manyara Light Tented Camp is a shining example of how to make the best of a very special remote location without trampling all over it. There are no permanent structures – in fact there’s very little of anything, beyond the things you really need. These camps use bell-tents with comfortable beds, sheets and duvets. There’s also a lightweight dining tent in case of rain, but much of the living is outdoors. Show us a dining room that can compete with eating beneath a canopy of stars. Climb up to lie on a sun-warmed rock by a waterfall beneath the Rift Valley wall and watch as elephant come to drink just metres below you. This camp is all about what’s happening outside your tent. Not the interior design within it.

March The rains continue and cyclones are still a real possibility. The temperature is around 30C and it is humid. Weather and conditions in the south are improving but we still generally advise against travel.

Kuro Camp is a triumph of imagination and creativity. Built from lightweight sisal poles, the main building manages to be strikingly stylish despite being built mostly out of thin air. The constriction, with poles laid horizontally in rungs, gives it a contemporary, but pleasingly organic look. And the whole structure is more or less compostable. But of course the look of the camp is only the cream on the cake. Everything at Kuro is underpinned by Nomad’s impeccable credentials and the experience is built firmly on an excellent game experience at the hands of one of Nomad’s renowned guides. Game drives in Tarangire National Park are excellent all year round (elephant sightings are exceptional in the often overlooked green season) and it’s possible to walk from Kuro too.

April Although there may still be heavy downpours, they are interspersed with bright sunshine, enticing out all sorts of wildlife from hiding.  Parks open and it’s the start of the travel season. It’s an excellent time to spot most lemurs as well as reptiles and insects which are active at this time and easily seen.

The Serengeti National Park is best known for it’s wildebeest migration, a phenomenon that sees 1.5 million animals move from one end of the park to the other and back again over the course of the year. The driver for the migration is the intense seasonality of the plains around the base of the Ngorongoro Highlands and Serengeti – green and lush in the rains, dry and dusty the rest of the year. The great advantage of places like this is that their unpredictability means it doesn’t pay to build permanent lodges. This makes them ideal to explore with lightweight mobile camps safe in the knowledge that you’ll have the place to yourself. These truly expeditionary camps (expect comfortable camp beds, great food and a crew to look after you) are also the base for forays into wilderness zones in the Serengeti for walking safaris. Try a camp like this for a couple of days to add a bit of spice to your safari.

Top 5 Wildlife Safaris

Observing incredible wildlife in their natural habitat on safari is un-forgettable and the first encounter is always a special, spine tingling experience. Here is the pick of wildlife safaris for 2020:

 

1. THE SERENGETI & WILDEBEEST MIGRATION

The Serengeti – Each year millions of wildebeest, zebra and gazelles take their annual migration from the short grass plains of the Southern Serengeti to the lush grasslands on the banks of the Mara River. Even if you exclude the wildebeest migration, the animal life and big game in the Serengeti simply defies belief.

Roughly a million wildebeest gather on the short grass plains to give birth in February –extraordinarily all 400,000 calves are born within the space of weeks with the plains becoming home to many wobbly legged infants. A sight enjoyed not only by safari-goers but also numerous predators that stalk and follow the migrating herds; leopard, lion, cheetahs and hyenas.  In the dry season between July and October, the herds face their most dramatic challenge as they cross the swollen Mara and Grumeti Rivers home to many fearsome crocodiles – expect scenes fit for any David Attenborough documentary right in front of you.

2. UGANDA WITH GREAT APES AND SENSATIONAL BIG GAME

Uganda, where the East African savannah runs into Central African Rainforest, generating astounding diversity and bringing together truly memorable great ape experiences and authentic safari – the only country where this possible under one roof.

Uganda’s mountain gorillas live high in the mountains of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. This park holds approximately 300 mountain gorilla; a third of the surviving global population and several habituated families in the park can be visited in well-organised, small trekking parties.

Uganda also has a premier chimpanzee-tracking destination in the Kibale Forest; dominated by rainforest, interspersed with grasslands and swamps this destination is a primate hotspot with 13 recorded species from Chimps to Red Colobus.

For an authentic big-game safari within only hours of the great apes, head to Semliki where you’ll find the famous fig-tree climbing lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards and for bird lovers, an astonishing 547 bird species.

3. SVALBARD AND THE KING OF THE ARCTIC

With the largest density of resident polar bears in Europe, Svalbard is the place for a stellar polar bear experience. The first impression of Svalbard is one you will never forget with crisp white mountains emerging from the deep Prussian Blue of the Arctic Ocean. This is intense wilderness that will take you out of your comfort zone to explore the wonderful territories 80 degrees north.

Travelling in search of the enormous polar bear will take you into deep into hostile wilderness but you’ll do it in safety and style with expert polar guides at the very top of their game. Our team have guided the likes of Blue Planet and National Geographic in these very locations.

In winter/ spring – between February and May take a private expedition camp with fully heated tents and expedition chef to the East Coast of Svalbard and the sea ice of the Barents Sea. By summer, travel by private ice-rated expedition vessel to the north of the archipelago.

Svalbard and the Barents Sea are home to thousands of polar bears so you have a good chance of seeing them in their natural habitat – we take a respectful and calm approach to witnessing this majestic predator from a safe distance. Travelling gently through this extreme wilderness many miles from the nearest civilisation is a wonderful experience.

4. KENYA – SAFARI GIANT WITH UNBEATABLE GAME

As a showcase for African mammals Kenya is incredibly hard to beat, everything from aardwolf to zorilla (sic) can be found here. An astounding twenty-six species of antelope, from hulking eland to diminutive dikdik; fifteen predators including six cats – and probably the best chance of finding a pack of critically endangered Wild Dog on the continent.

Visit the Masai Mara – unequivocally Big Cat Country – enjoy the tremendous freedom of the Laikipia Plateau where normal rules don’t apply, or take a private expedition to one of the country’s lesser known gems such as Meru, Turkana or Lakes Baringo & Bogoria.

5. TIGERS IN THE JUNGLES OF INDIA

Wild and untamed, India’s jungles are the last remaining stronghold of the enigmatic tiger. Asia’s alpha predator lives and hunts alone and with its unique pattern of stripes blends effortlessly into the undergrowth; a good sighting is an intoxicating experience that will leave you wanting more.

Post monsoon, India’s national parks open in October for safaris made in highly manoeuverable open jeeps that scramble over rocky tracks, through dense vegetation and past striking specimen trees. By June the searing heat deters all but the most passionate of wildlife enthusiasts and the rains return and finally stop play.

Wrapped in blankets and armed with a hot flask of sweet milky chai to stave off the chill in the air, morning mists hang in anticipation and tension builds until the silence is shattered by the sound of sambar deer barking their alarm call in unison. The presence of a tiger is announced – but this time it remains hidden and the search continues.

Each park has its own beauty, character and balance of species and our approach is to get you to the right areas at the right time of year – and most importantly in India, with the right people who are dedicated to conservation and have a genuine enthusiasm for all India’s wildlife. Using expert local guides and staying at small owner run lodges and camps all our fellow travellers have spotted tiger; it’s an exhilarating and unforgettable experience.

Top 5 Safari Destinations to see Wild Dog

Observing incredible wildlife in their natural habitat on safari is un-forgettable and the first encounter is always a special, spine tingling experience. Here is the pick of wildlife safaris for 2020:

 

LAIKIPIA PLATEAU, KENYA

The Serengeti – Each year millions of wildebeest, zebra and gazelles take their annual migration from the short grass plains of the Southern Serengeti to the lush grasslands on the banks of the Mara River. Even if you exclude the wildebeest migration, the animal life and big game in the Serengeti simply defies belief.

Roughly a million wildebeest gather on the short grass plains to give birth in February –extraordinarily all 400,000 calves are born within the space of weeks with the plains becoming home to many wobbly legged infants. A sight enjoyed not only by safari-goers but also numerous predators that stalk and follow the migrating herds; leopard, lion, cheetahs and hyenas.  In the dry season between July and October, the herds face their most dramatic challenge as they cross the swollen Mara and Grumeti Rivers home to many fearsome crocodiles – expect scenes fit for any David Attenborough documentary right in front of you.

SELOUS GAME RESERVE, TANZANIA

Uganda, where the East African savannah runs into Central African Rainforest, generating astounding diversity and bringing together truly memorable great ape experiences and authentic safari – the only country where this possible under one roof.

Uganda’s mountain gorillas live high in the mountains of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. This park holds approximately 300 mountain gorilla; a third of the surviving global population and several habituated families in the park can be visited in well-organised, small trekking parties.

Uganda also has a premier chimpanzee-tracking destination in the Kibale Forest; dominated by rainforest, interspersed with grasslands and swamps this destination is a primate hotspot with 13 recorded species from Chimps to Red Colobus.

For an authentic big-game safari within only hours of the great apes, head to Semliki where you’ll find the famous fig-tree climbing lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards and for bird lovers, an astonishing 547 bird species.

MOREMI, BOTSWANA

With the largest density of resident polar bears in Europe, Svalbard is the place for a stellar polar bear experience. The first impression of Svalbard is one you will never forget with crisp white mountains emerging from the deep Prussian Blue of the Arctic Ocean. This is intense wilderness that will take you out of your comfort zone to explore the wonderful territories 80 degrees north.

Travelling in search of the enormous polar bear will take you into deep into hostile wilderness but you’ll do it in safety and style with expert polar guides at the very top of their game. Our team have guided the likes of Blue Planet and National Geographic in these very locations.

In winter/ spring – between February and May take a private expedition camp with fully heated tents and expedition chef to the East Coast of Svalbard and the sea ice of the Barents Sea. By summer, travel by private ice-rated expedition vessel to the north of the archipelago.

Svalbard and the Barents Sea are home to thousands of polar bears so you have a good chance of seeing them in their natural habitat – we take a respectful and calm approach to witnessing this majestic predator from a safe distance. Travelling gently through this extreme wilderness many miles from the nearest civilisation is a wonderful experience.

LUANGWA VALLEY, ZAMBIA

As a showcase for African mammals Kenya is incredibly hard to beat, everything from aardwolf to zorilla (sic) can be found here. An astounding twenty-six species of antelope, from hulking eland to diminutive dikdik; fifteen predators including six cats – and probably the best chance of finding a pack of critically endangered Wild Dog on the continent.

Visit the Masai Mara – unequivocally Big Cat Country – enjoy the tremendous freedom of the Laikipia Plateau where normal rules don’t apply, or take a private expedition to one of the country’s lesser known gems such as Meru, Turkana or Lakes Baringo & Bogoria.

MANA POOLS, ZIMBABWE

Wild and untamed, India’s jungles are the last remaining stronghold of the enigmatic tiger. Asia’s alpha predator lives and hunts alone and with its unique pattern of stripes blends effortlessly into the undergrowth; a good sighting is an intoxicating experience that will leave you wanting more.

Post monsoon, India’s national parks open in October for safaris made in highly manoeuverable open jeeps that scramble over rocky tracks, through dense vegetation and past striking specimen trees. By June the searing heat deters all but the most passionate of wildlife enthusiasts and the rains return and finally stop play.

Wrapped in blankets and armed with a hot flask of sweet milky chai to stave off the chill in the air, morning mists hang in anticipation and tension builds until the silence is shattered by the sound of sambar deer barking their alarm call in unison. The presence of a tiger is announced – but this time it remains hidden and the search continues.

Each park has its own beauty, character and balance of species and our approach is to get you to the right areas at the right time of year – and most importantly in India, with the right people who are dedicated to conservation and have a genuine enthusiasm for all India’s wildlife. Using expert local guides and staying at small owner run lodges and camps all our fellow travellers have spotted tiger; it’s an exhilarating and unforgettable experience.

Top 5 Safari Destinations to see Lions

Observing incredible wildlife in their natural habitat on safari is un-forgettable and the first encounter is always a special, spine tingling experience. Here is the pick of wildlife safaris for 2020:

 

1. THE MAASAI MARA, KENYA

The Serengeti – Each year millions of wildebeest, zebra and gazelles take their annual migration from the short grass plains of the Southern Serengeti to the lush grasslands on the banks of the Mara River. Even if you exclude the wildebeest migration, the animal life and big game in the Serengeti simply defies belief.

Roughly a million wildebeest gather on the short grass plains to give birth in February –extraordinarily all 400,000 calves are born within the space of weeks with the plains becoming home to many wobbly legged infants. A sight enjoyed not only by safari-goers but also numerous predators that stalk and follow the migrating herds; leopard, lion, cheetahs and hyenas.  In the dry season between July and October, the herds face their most dramatic challenge as they cross the swollen Mara and Grumeti Rivers home to many fearsome crocodiles – expect scenes fit for any David Attenborough documentary right in front of you.

2. RUAHA & KATAVI, TANZANIA

Uganda, where the East African savannah runs into Central African Rainforest, generating astounding diversity and bringing together truly memorable great ape experiences and authentic safari – the only country where this possible under one roof.

Uganda’s mountain gorillas live high in the mountains of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. This park holds approximately 300 mountain gorilla; a third of the surviving global population and several habituated families in the park can be visited in well-organised, small trekking parties.

Uganda also has a premier chimpanzee-tracking destination in the Kibale Forest; dominated by rainforest, interspersed with grasslands and swamps this destination is a primate hotspot with 13 recorded species from Chimps to Red Colobus.

For an authentic big-game safari within only hours of the great apes, head to Semliki where you’ll find the famous fig-tree climbing lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards and for bird lovers, an astonishing 547 bird species.

3. LUANGWA VALLEY, ZAMBIA

With the largest density of resident polar bears in Europe, Svalbard is the place for a stellar polar bear experience. The first impression of Svalbard is one you will never forget with crisp white mountains emerging from the deep Prussian Blue of the Arctic Ocean. This is intense wilderness that will take you out of your comfort zone to explore the wonderful territories 80 degrees north.

Travelling in search of the enormous polar bear will take you into deep into hostile wilderness but you’ll do it in safety and style with expert polar guides at the very top of their game. Our team have guided the likes of Blue Planet and National Geographic in these very locations.

In winter/ spring – between February and May take a private expedition camp with fully heated tents and expedition chef to the East Coast of Svalbard and the sea ice of the Barents Sea. By summer, travel by private ice-rated expedition vessel to the north of the archipelago.

Svalbard and the Barents Sea are home to thousands of polar bears so you have a good chance of seeing them in their natural habitat – we take a respectful and calm approach to witnessing this majestic predator from a safe distance. Travelling gently through this extreme wilderness many miles from the nearest civilisation is a wonderful experience.

4. OKAVANGO DELTA, BOTSWANA

As a showcase for African mammals Kenya is incredibly hard to beat, everything from aardwolf to zorilla (sic) can be found here. An astounding twenty-six species of antelope, from hulking eland to diminutive dikdik; fifteen predators including six cats – and probably the best chance of finding a pack of critically endangered Wild Dog on the continent.

Visit the Masai Mara – unequivocally Big Cat Country – enjoy the tremendous freedom of the Laikipia Plateau where normal rules don’t apply, or take a private expedition to one of the country’s lesser known gems such as Meru, Turkana or Lakes Baringo & Bogoria.

5. QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARK, UGANDA

Wild and untamed, India’s jungles are the last remaining stronghold of the enigmatic tiger. Asia’s alpha predator lives and hunts alone and with its unique pattern of stripes blends effortlessly into the undergrowth; a good sighting is an intoxicating experience that will leave you wanting more.

Post monsoon, India’s national parks open in October for safaris made in highly manoeuverable open jeeps that scramble over rocky tracks, through dense vegetation and past striking specimen trees. By June the searing heat deters all but the most passionate of wildlife enthusiasts and the rains return and finally stop play.

Wrapped in blankets and armed with a hot flask of sweet milky chai to stave off the chill in the air, morning mists hang in anticipation and tension builds until the silence is shattered by the sound of sambar deer barking their alarm call in unison. The presence of a tiger is announced – but this time it remains hidden and the search continues.

Each park has its own beauty, character and balance of species and our approach is to get you to the right areas at the right time of year – and most importantly in India, with the right people who are dedicated to conservation and have a genuine enthusiasm for all India’s wildlife. Using expert local guides and staying at small owner run lodges and camps all our fellow travellers have spotted tiger; it’s an exhilarating and unforgettable experience.

Zambia’s Top 5 Family Safaris

Observing incredible wildlife in their natural habitat on safari is un-forgettable and the first encounter is always a special, spine tingling experience. Here is the pick of wildlife safaris for 2020:

 

1. GET WET AND WILD ON THE ZAMBEZI

The Serengeti – Each year millions of wildebeest, zebra and gazelles take their annual migration from the short grass plains of the Southern Serengeti to the lush grasslands on the banks of the Mara River. Even if you exclude the wildebeest migration, the animal life and big game in the Serengeti simply defies belief.

Roughly a million wildebeest gather on the short grass plains to give birth in February –extraordinarily all 400,000 calves are born within the space of weeks with the plains becoming home to many wobbly legged infants. A sight enjoyed not only by safari-goers but also numerous predators that stalk and follow the migrating herds; leopard, lion, cheetahs and hyenas.  In the dry season between July and October, the herds face their most dramatic challenge as they cross the swollen Mara and Grumeti Rivers home to many fearsome crocodiles – expect scenes fit for any David Attenborough documentary right in front of you.

2. SAVOUR THE SECLUSION OF A PRIVATE HOUSE

Uganda, where the East African savannah runs into Central African Rainforest, generating astounding diversity and bringing together truly memorable great ape experiences and authentic safari – the only country where this possible under one roof.

Uganda’s mountain gorillas live high in the mountains of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. This park holds approximately 300 mountain gorilla; a third of the surviving global population and several habituated families in the park can be visited in well-organised, small trekking parties.

Uganda also has a premier chimpanzee-tracking destination in the Kibale Forest; dominated by rainforest, interspersed with grasslands and swamps this destination is a primate hotspot with 13 recorded species from Chimps to Red Colobus.

For an authentic big-game safari within only hours of the great apes, head to Semliki where you’ll find the famous fig-tree climbing lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards and for bird lovers, an astonishing 547 bird species.

3. WILDLIFE AND WATERFALLS

With the largest density of resident polar bears in Europe, Svalbard is the place for a stellar polar bear experience. The first impression of Svalbard is one you will never forget with crisp white mountains emerging from the deep Prussian Blue of the Arctic Ocean. This is intense wilderness that will take you out of your comfort zone to explore the wonderful territories 80 degrees north.

Travelling in search of the enormous polar bear will take you into deep into hostile wilderness but you’ll do it in safety and style with expert polar guides at the very top of their game. Our team have guided the likes of Blue Planet and National Geographic in these very locations.

In winter/ spring – between February and May take a private expedition camp with fully heated tents and expedition chef to the East Coast of Svalbard and the sea ice of the Barents Sea. By summer, travel by private ice-rated expedition vessel to the north of the archipelago.

Svalbard and the Barents Sea are home to thousands of polar bears so you have a good chance of seeing them in their natural habitat – we take a respectful and calm approach to witnessing this majestic predator from a safe distance. Travelling gently through this extreme wilderness many miles from the nearest civilisation is a wonderful experience.

4. TAKE A WALK ON THE WILDSIDE

As a showcase for African mammals Kenya is incredibly hard to beat, everything from aardwolf to zorilla (sic) can be found here. An astounding twenty-six species of antelope, from hulking eland to diminutive dikdik; fifteen predators including six cats – and probably the best chance of finding a pack of critically endangered Wild Dog on the continent.

Visit the Masai Mara – unequivocally Big Cat Country – enjoy the tremendous freedom of the Laikipia Plateau where normal rules don’t apply, or take a private expedition to one of the country’s lesser known gems such as Meru, Turkana or Lakes Baringo & Bogoria.

5. MAKE A JOURNEY

Wild and untamed, India’s jungles are the last remaining stronghold of the enigmatic tiger. Asia’s alpha predator lives and hunts alone and with its unique pattern of stripes blends effortlessly into the undergrowth; a good sighting is an intoxicating experience that will leave you wanting more.

Post monsoon, India’s national parks open in October for safaris made in highly manoeuverable open jeeps that scramble over rocky tracks, through dense vegetation and past striking specimen trees. By June the searing heat deters all but the most passionate of wildlife enthusiasts and the rains return and finally stop play.

Wrapped in blankets and armed with a hot flask of sweet milky chai to stave off the chill in the air, morning mists hang in anticipation and tension builds until the silence is shattered by the sound of sambar deer barking their alarm call in unison. The presence of a tiger is announced – but this time it remains hidden and the search continues.

Each park has its own beauty, character and balance of species and our approach is to get you to the right areas at the right time of year – and most importantly in India, with the right people who are dedicated to conservation and have a genuine enthusiasm for all India’s wildlife. Using expert local guides and staying at small owner run lodges and camps all our fellow travellers have spotted tiger; it’s an exhilarating and unforgettable experience.

Top Safari Destinations for Christmas

December is ripe with opportunities to experience sensational wilderness in many parts of the world. here is our pick of the bunch to get you started:

STEP OFF THE BEATEN TRACK IN THE SERENGETI

The Serengeti – Each year millions of wildebeest, zebra and gazelles take their annual migration from the short grass plains of the Southern Serengeti to the lush grasslands on the banks of the Mara River. Even if you exclude the wildebeest migration, the animal life and big game in the Serengeti simply defies belief.

Roughly a million wildebeest gather on the short grass plains to give birth in February –extraordinarily all 400,000 calves are born within the space of weeks with the plains becoming home to many wobbly legged infants. A sight enjoyed not only by safari-goers but also numerous predators that stalk and follow the migrating herds; leopard, lion, cheetahs and hyenas.  In the dry season between July and October, the herds face their most dramatic challenge as they cross the swollen Mara and Grumeti Rivers home to many fearsome crocodiles – expect scenes fit for any David Attenborough documentary right in front of you.

ESCHEW THE CONVENTIONAL AND HEAD FOR MADAGASCAR

Uganda, where the East African savannah runs into Central African Rainforest, generating astounding diversity and bringing together truly memorable great ape experiences and authentic safari – the only country where this possible under one roof.

Uganda’s mountain gorillas live high in the mountains of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. This park holds approximately 300 mountain gorilla; a third of the surviving global population and several habituated families in the park can be visited in well-organised, small trekking parties.

Uganda also has a premier chimpanzee-tracking destination in the Kibale Forest; dominated by rainforest, interspersed with grasslands and swamps this destination is a primate hotspot with 13 recorded species from Chimps to Red Colobus.

For an authentic big-game safari within only hours of the great apes, head to Semliki where you’ll find the famous fig-tree climbing lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards and for bird lovers, an astonishing 547 bird species.

ISLAND HOPPING AROUND THE GALAPAGOS.

With the largest density of resident polar bears in Europe, Svalbard is the place for a stellar polar bear experience. The first impression of Svalbard is one you will never forget with crisp white mountains emerging from the deep Prussian Blue of the Arctic Ocean. This is intense wilderness that will take you out of your comfort zone to explore the wonderful territories 80 degrees north.

Travelling in search of the enormous polar bear will take you into deep into hostile wilderness but you’ll do it in safety and style with expert polar guides at the very top of their game. Our team have guided the likes of Blue Planet and National Geographic in these very locations.

In winter/ spring – between February and May take a private expedition camp with fully heated tents and expedition chef to the East Coast of Svalbard and the sea ice of the Barents Sea. By summer, travel by private ice-rated expedition vessel to the north of the archipelago.

Svalbard and the Barents Sea are home to thousands of polar bears so you have a good chance of seeing them in their natural habitat – we take a respectful and calm approach to witnessing this majestic predator from a safe distance. Travelling gently through this extreme wilderness many miles from the nearest civilisation is a wonderful experience.

TIGERS, TURBANS, LEOPARDS AND TRUNDLING CAMELS IN INDIA’S RAJASTHAN.

As a showcase for African mammals Kenya is incredibly hard to beat, everything from aardwolf to zorilla (sic) can be found here. An astounding twenty-six species of antelope, from hulking eland to diminutive dikdik; fifteen predators including six cats – and probably the best chance of finding a pack of critically endangered Wild Dog on the continent.

Visit the Masai Mara – unequivocally Big Cat Country – enjoy the tremendous freedom of the Laikipia Plateau where normal rules don’t apply, or take a private expedition to one of the country’s lesser known gems such as Meru, Turkana or Lakes Baringo & Bogoria.

WILD NEPAL IN THE JUNGLES OF BARDIA NATIONAL PARK.

Wild and untamed, India’s jungles are the last remaining stronghold of the enigmatic tiger. Asia’s alpha predator lives and hunts alone and with its unique pattern of stripes blends effortlessly into the undergrowth; a good sighting is an intoxicating experience that will leave you wanting more.

Post monsoon, India’s national parks open in October for safaris made in highly manoeuverable open jeeps that scramble over rocky tracks, through dense vegetation and past striking specimen trees. By June the searing heat deters all but the most passionate of wildlife enthusiasts and the rains return and finally stop play.

Wrapped in blankets and armed with a hot flask of sweet milky chai to stave off the chill in the air, morning mists hang in anticipation and tension builds until the silence is shattered by the sound of sambar deer barking their alarm call in unison. The presence of a tiger is announced – but this time it remains hidden and the search continues.

Each park has its own beauty, character and balance of species and our approach is to get you to the right areas at the right time of year – and most importantly in India, with the right people who are dedicated to conservation and have a genuine enthusiasm for all India’s wildlife. Using expert local guides and staying at small owner run lodges and camps all our fellow travellers have spotted tiger; it’s an exhilarating and unforgettable experience.

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