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Zambia Sustainable Safari

Discover the remote wilderness of Kafue National Park and the South Luangwa on this eco-luxury family safari

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Guide Price

From £7,100 per person (based on 2 adults)

Duration

12 nights

Best Months

July - October

Country

Zambia

At-a-Glance Trip Summary

Discover some of Zambia’s remotest corners on this conservation-focused itinerary. Green Safaris are the only operator in Zambia to offer silent solar-powered safaris on both land and water, and their sustainable safari lodges are designed to minimise  environmental impact. From exploring the wonder of Victoria Falls in Africa’s first ever electric dhow to zipping around the Busanga Plains in Chisa Busanga’s electric mountain bikes, this luxury Zambia safari is perfect for eco-conscious families.

Day Destination Accommodation Basis Nights
Day 1-3 Livingstone and Vic Falls Tongabezi Lodge FI 2 Nights
Day 2-5 Kafue National Park Ila Safari Lodge FI 3 Nights
Day 5-7 Busanga Plains Chisa Busanga Camp FI 3 Nights
Day 7-11 South Luangwa National Park Shawa Luangwa Camp FI 4 Nights
  • Day 1-3
    Destination Livingstone and Vic Falls
    Accommodation Tongabezi Lodge
    Basis FI
    Nights 2 Night
  • Day 2-5
    Destination Kafue National Park
    Accommodation Ila Safari Lodge
    Basis FI
    Nights 3 Night
  • Day 5-7
    Destination Busanga Plains
    Accommodation Chisa Busanga Camp
    Basis FI
    Nights 3 Night
  • Day 7-11
    Destination South Luangwa National Park
    Accommodation Shawa Luangwa Camp
    Basis FI
    Nights 4 Night

Key

  • FI: Fully Inclusive – Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities
  • FB+: Full Board Plus – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
  • Day 1-3 Day 2-5 Day 5-7 Day 7-11

    Livingstone and Vic Falls

    Livingstone is a picturesque Edwardian town and gateway to the spectacular natural wonders of Victoria Falls and the Zambezi River.

    Livingstone may no longer be the official capital of Zambia but it remains an essential addition to any Zambia family safari. Streets are lined with British colonial architecture and the town’s setting, a few kilometres away from the falls, makes it quieter and less touristy than Victoria Falls Town in Zimbabwe.

    Whether staying in a riverside lodge with direct access to the falls or a hotel in town, families can enjoy a range of activities. From thrilling dips in Devil’s Pool, teetering over the edge of the waterfall, to a more leisurely sunset cruise along the Zambezi, a family safari to Livingstone has something for everyone.

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    Day 1-3 Day 2-5 Day 5-7 Day 7-11

    Kafue National Park

    Spanning almost 25,000 square kilometres and founded in 1950, Kafue National Park is Zambia’s oldest and largest park. Despite this it has often been overlooked in favour of the South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi and receives a fraction of the number of visitors.

    The park is finally gaining a rightful reputation for its strong game and stunning scenery yet it remains a well-kept secret on the Zambia safari circuit and is ideal for a more exclusive family safari.

    The park has a huge diversity of terrain, with the southern areas of the park featuring miles of miombo woodland and small granite outcrops, while the far northwest of the park is notable for sprawling Busanga Plains. The seasonally flooded plains are the wildlife haven of the Kafue and their fluvial landscape is often likened to a ‘mini Okavango Delta.’

    The vast diversity of wildlife, rustic camps, and absence of crowds make Kafue National Park a must for any Zambia safari holiday, particularly appealing to safari purists and adventurous families seeking a more secluded experience.

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    Day 1-3 Day 2-5 Day 5-7 Day 7-11

    Busanga Plains

    The Busanga Plains, nestled in Kafue National Park, are a hidden gem of Zambia’s wilderness, stretching over 750 square kilometers of seasonally flooded grasslands.

    This vibrant ecosystem attracts an array of wildlife, including impressive lion prides known for their unique behavior of jumping from one water channel to another, earning them the nickname “flying lions.”

    Visitors can also spot leopards, cheetahs, and large herds of buffalo and wildebeest. Elephants roam freely, while red lechwe and puku graze in the wetlands. With abundant birdlife, the Busanga Plains offer an intimate safari experience amid Africa’s untamed beauty.

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    Day 1-3 Day 2-5 Day 5-7 Day 7-11

    South Luangwa National Park

    South Luangwa National Park was first founded as a protected game reserve in 1904 yet has remained untouched by the mass tourism of more well known parks.

    Often referred to as Africa’s last great wilderness, the South Luangwa National Park lies in a fertile valley that supports an abundance of big game and is a must-see destination on a Zambia family safari looking to escape the crowds.

    South Luangwa National Park is the pride of Zambian safari. Home to four of the Big Five, the park is principally known for its predator populations, including lion, leopard and the critically endangered African wild dog.

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  • Day 1-3 Day 2-5 Day 5-7 Day 7-11

    Tongabezi Lodge

    A long-established luxury lodge nestled on a riverside position only 12 kilometres upstream from Victoria Falls

    Named by Conde Nast as one of the top 20 Hotels in the World, Tongabezi Lodge is a must-see destination for families visiting the Livingstone area of Zambia. The eleven river cottages are dotted along a hidden bank of the Zambezi River and each boast high ceilings and private pine decks overlooking the river. Families can select from a range of spacious private houses, each with its own game drive vehicle, boat and chef. 

    Tongabezi Lodge offers a diverse range of activities, ensuring that no member of the family will be left idle during your stay. Take a cruise to witness the must-see Victoria Falls, cycle to the nearby Simonga Village and Mukuni Markets for a taste of Zambian culture or simply indulge in a private dining experience on a sampan boat. 

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    Day 1-3 Day 2-5 Day 5-7 Day 7-11

    Ila Safari Lodge

    Ila Safari Lodge’s 10 luxury tents were all designed with the environment at the forefront, being built carefully around existing mature trees and mounted on private decks made out of environmentally friendly wood.

    The two-bedroom family suites are comfortable for groups of four or more and boast luxurious outdoor showers and baths as well as stunning views of the Kafue River.

    Ila Safari Lodge’s pioneering ‘green’ approach extends to its activities as the camp was responsible for developing and operating Africa’s first electric game drive vehicle and boat. This allows families to embark on exciting game drives and picturesque sunset boat safaris free of guilt.

    Families can explore the wilderness on walking safaris, guided by expert trackers who can teach guests how to track wildlife through footprints and droppings. Fishing on the Kafue River offers a chance to catch the abundant bream, catfish, or the fierce tiger fish, making for a thrilling day on the water.

    At Ila Safari Lodge, families can enjoy an unforgettable wildlife adventure, all while knowing their stay supports a sustainable future for Zambia’s pristine wilderness.

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    Day 1-3 Day 2-5 Day 5-7 Day 7-11

    Chisa Busanga Camp

    The striking nest rooms at Chisa Busanga offer a fresh take on safari accommodation, merging innovative design with the wild beauty of the Busanga Plains.

    The uniquely designed nest rooms at Chisa Busanga are fast becoming one of the most iconic examples of contemporary safari architecture. Raised 4 metres above the ground and woven out of materials collected locally, they are designed to resemble the weaver bird nests in the area. Each nest has a unique oval window and internal viewing deck which brings the wilderness in, allowing guests to enjoy views of the sprawling plains and abundant game from the comfort of their room. 

    Designed with the sustainable ethos found in all of Green Safaris’ camps, Chisa Busanga is not only 100% solar-powered but is also the only camp in the Busanga Plains to operate Silent Safaris, where electric game-drive vehicles with no intrusive engine noises enable guests to get that much closer to the wildlife.

    Go unnoticed as you observe elephants walking through the mist at dawn, water-loving lechwe jump the streams, and the iconic ‘Papyrus Pride’ lounging in the shade. Families looking for an active safari experience an opt for e-mountain bike safari or guided bush walk. 

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    Day 1-3 Day 2-5 Day 5-7 Day 7-11

    Shawa Luangwa Camp

    Named after legendary Zambian safari guide Jacob Shawa, Shawa Luangwa Camp is an intimate, eco-friendly bushcamp overlooking the Luangwa River. 

    Chief Nsefu of the Luangwa Valley awarded Jacob the honour of his own plot of land in recognition of his exceptional guiding achievements. With prime river access to the stunning South Luangwa National Park and superb year-round game viewing, it’s clear why Jacob chose this scenic spot overlooking the river. 

    With just five tents, handbuilt by a local team, the camp offers tranquil family safaris. Raised on wooden stilts above the riverbank, the tents boast 270-degree views across the park and minimal environmental impact. The Luxury Family Tent features two ensuite bedrooms, connected via an elevated wooden deck, providing the ideal spot for chilled afternoons. 

    As with all Green Safari properties, eco-friendly family safaris are central to the experience. Shawa Camp offers the only Silent Safaris in the South Luangwa, using solar-powered electric Land Cruisers. Families can enjoy closer lion and leopard sightings while traversing the park in near silence with a minimal carbon footprint.

    No Zambia family safari is complete without a thrilling walking safari or a boat trip to spot hippos and birdlife. For safari-enthusiasts, private bush dinners add an unforgettable touch to your wildlife adventure.

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  • Day 1-3 Day 2-5 Day 5-7 Day 7-11

    Boat safari

    Explore Zambia’s incredible wildlife from Tongabezi’s one-of-a-kind electric Dhow on the Zambezi River near Livingstone—a quiet, eco-friendly way to experience the river’s magic.

    Glide silently along, spotting hippos, crocodiles, and elephants gathering at the water’s edge, while vibrant birdlife adds color to the skies. Skilled guides share insights into the rich ecosystem as you cruise past stunning landscapes with views of the majestic Victoria Falls on the horizon.

    Whether for a leisurely sunset drift or a captivating river safari, Tongabezi’s Dhow offers unforgettable, close-up encounters with Zambia’s wild beauty.

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    Day 1-3 Day 2-5 Day 5-7 Day 7-11

    Big five safari

    At Ila Safari Lodge, experience Zambia’s Big Five like never before on the country’s first silent, solar-powered safaris.

    With the groundbreaking e-Cruiser, Africa’s wildlife comes even closer, undisturbed by the typical sounds of a vehicle. Gliding silently over land or water, you’ll encounter elephants, lions, buffalo, and more in a way that’s both thrilling and eco-friendly.

    Set in the heart of the Kafue wilderness, Ila Safari Lodge offers a front-row seat to Zambia’s pristine and awe-inspiring wildlife.

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    Day 1-3 Day 2-5 Day 5-7 Day 7-11

    Walking Safaris

    Walking safaris through the Busanga Plains immerse you in the stunning wilderness of Kafue National Park’s northern jewel.

    As you traverse the expansive 720 km² of floodplains, dotted with palm groves, papyrus reed beds, and lily-covered lagoons, you’ll witness diverse wildlife, including herds of near-endemic red lechwe and massive buffalo. This area is renowned for its rich predator population, with lions often lurking nearby.

    Birdwatchers will be captivated by over 500 species, including grey crowned cranes and the endemic Chaplin’s barbet, making every step a remarkable adventure in this breathtaking landscape.

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    Day 1-3 Day 2-5 Day 5-7 Day 7-11

    Boat safari

    Experience the thrill of boat safaris at Shawa Luangwa Camp, where the stunning Luangwa River serves as your gateway to wildlife wonders.

    Glide along tranquil waters, spotting elephants drinking from the riverbanks, hippos basking in the sun, and crocodiles lurking nearby.

    As you navigate through picturesque lagoons, watch for vibrant birdlife flitting overhead. Guided by knowledgeable experts like Jacob Shawa, these safaris offer unique insights into the ecosystem, ensuring an unforgettable adventure that brings you closer to nature’s beauty in Zambia’s pristine wilderness.

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Highlights of Zambia Luxury Holiday

Activities included

 

Experience Zambia’s untouched landscapes on this conservation-focused safari, where adventure and sustainability intertwine. Begin your journey at Tongabezi near Victoria Falls, where families can explore the Zambezi River on Africa’s first silent, solar-powered Dhow, taking in breathtaking views while keeping your environmental footprint light.

Next, head to Ila Safari Lodge in Kafue National Park, known for Zambia’s first electric game drives, offering close wildlife encounters with zero emissions. At Chisa Busanga, experience the Busanga Plains from a unique perspective on electric mountain bikes, perfect for an exhilarating, low-impact exploration.

Conclude at Shawa Luangwa, where family-friendly walking safaris and game drives reveal South Luangwa’s renowned wildlife. Raised wooden decks and eco-friendly lodges blend comfort with conservation, providing sustainable luxury at every turn. Designed for eco-conscious families, this journey through Zambia’s wildest corners offers unforgettable adventures in a pristine, protected wilderness.

 

Pricing and considerations

This itinerary can be enjoyed all year round, but for those wanting optimal game, the best time is from July to October. 

Zambia is one of Africa’s most underrated family safari destinations, boasting incredible predator populations and relatively affordable safari camps. Appealing to safari purists and adventurous families, Zambia is the perfect gateway to Southern Africa or a return destination for Africa enthusiasts.

Our guide price for this itinerary is from £7,100 per person (based on 2 adults), using our best value accommodation in shoulder season.

All our luxury family safari holidays are designed on an individual basis, so this will vary depending on time of year, activities, transport methods and choice of accommodation. The best way to start planning is to contact us.

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Talk to us about your next big adventure.
Call: +44 (0) 1242 908 720  or   Request a quote
Mike-and-Tess-portrait-cropped.jpg?w=188&h=200&scale
Talk to us about your next big adventure.
Call: +44 (0) 1242 908 720  or   Request a quote
Accommodation
Featured accommodation in this itinerary
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Why travel with Coral Tree?

We are the specialists in luxury Africa family safari holidays

We are Africa experts and also parents. We understand what makes a memorable family adventure.

Our knowledge and connections are unsurpassed

We have been living and working in African tourism for over two decades.

Every journey is tailored with your specific wishes in mind

No off-the-shelf packages or cookie-cutter itineraries. Unique family safaris.

Each trip funds grassroots conservation and girls education projects

You pay no more for the privilege, we support causes close to our hearts.

Get in touch
Talk to Tess & Mike about your next big adventure
Call: +44 (0) 1242 908 720
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