River Journey – Escape the North American winter blues! in 2026
A Customizable Trip to Zambia — 8 Days / 7 Nights
Highlights
River Journeys in South Luangwa National Park in Zambia is a magical 7-night safari that takes place during the Emerald Season when the Luangwa River is at its fullest, thus giving rise to some exceptional boating.
About this Safari
This safari covers one of Zambia’s premier park – South Luangwa. The Luangwa Valley, which marks the end of the Great Rift Valley, is one of the last unspoiled wilderness areas and possibly the finest wildlife sanctuary in Africa.
“The Luangwa Valley is at its most dramatic in the Emerald Season, with the Luangwa River now flowing over into the brimming lagoons. Boating into these lagoons, flooded ebony groves and flowing channels gives you a view of the Valley which is normally inaccessible during this season“.
The Luangwa River is one of the last remaining major rivers in Africa, and even in the world, that has not been damned for hydropower. This vast river still annually rises, floods into lagoons and channels, changes course and resulting in new lagoons and in so doing creates a rich flood plain river system. To be in the heart of the park, at peak flood time, staying at the first camp built in Zambia (Nsefu) with the river being your only access, is quite an experience.
Activities include – boating, walking and game drives.
Dates – 1 February – 31 March 2026
Group size – Minimum 2 and maximum 6
Rates
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1 – Nkwali Camp
On arrival at Mfuwe International Airport a guide from Robin Pope Safaris will meet you. The drive to Nkwali Camp is 1 hour through colourful local scenes of villages, agriculture as well as …
Day 2 – Nkwali Camp
This is a day to explore The South Luangwa National Park with a mix of walking, game drives and boating …
Day 3 – 5 – Nsefu Camp
You will take the boat up to Nsefu Camp. A leisurely game viewing and birding experience; which will take between 2 and 4 hours depending on what you …
Day 6 & 7 – Nkwali Camp
You will boat back to Nkwali in the morning, where you will enjoy wide views across
the Luangwa River. Depending on your arrival time in the day you will enjoy a …
Day 8 – Departure
After breakfast you will be transferred to Mfuwe Airport for your onward connection.
This is a condensed overview of the journey.
Request the full itineraryInclusions & Notes
Details of Rates
Rates include – all safari activities, meals, bar, laundry, bar, transfers to/from Mfuwe airport.
Rates Exclude – flights (domestic & international), visa fees, gratuities and items of a personal nature.
Tour Accommodation
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Best Months to Visit
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