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What to Bring

You should always travel with soft bags, not hard suitcases (not only for the smaller aircraft but also to fit into vehicles).

If you are using a small plane at ANY point of the safari then DO NOT exceed 12kg (this is relevant for all internal flights other than Lusaka/Mfuwe/Livingstone, where the limit is 15kg).  Long haul checked in luggage is regularly delayed (especially if going through Johannesburg) and so pack all essentials in hand luggage, including medication.

Packing list

  • A hat, sunglasses, high strength sun screen, moisturiser, lip salve, strong insect repellent, anti-histamine cream and tablets should always be carried. All camps now have shampoo and body lotion.
  • Clothes: all camps have a daily laundry service, so do not bring too many.
    • 3 sets bush coloured safari outfits (long/shorts/shirts) ie green/brown/dark khaki (not pale fashion khaki/cream/white)
    • 2 sets casual evening clothes (long trousers to reduce insect bites)
    • 1 medium weight sweater (or 2 light). Plus a warm jacket in winter (June/July/early Aug).
    • Ladies - I highly recommend a sports bra for the bumpy roads!
  • A good pair of covered shoes for walking (thick soled trainers for camp walks are adequate but light walking boots for dedicated walking safaris).

  • Pool at Nkwali Don't forget your swimming costume:
    Nkwali, Robin’s House, Luangwa House
    all have access to swimming/dip pools.

    Binoculars - One pair PER PERSON is a must
  • Torch - One PER PERSON is a must (with spare batteries)
  • Glasses:
    if you wear prescription glasses bring a spare pair.
    If you wear contact lenses bring a pair of glasses as well since dust can be a problem.
  • Camera equipment: for recharging, Zambia works on 3 square pin plugs, and camps should have an adapter. But suggest you bring one – there may be others wanting to use them.
    • a telephoto lens (minimum 200/300mm).
    • Flash for night photography.
    • Camera cleaning equipment and a good dust proof bag.
    • Videos - bring spare batteries.
    • Spare batteries, camera battery and storage cards - you will be taking lots of photos.
  • You will need money for the tourist visa (if not pre arranged), airport taxes and tips.  The standard currency is US Dollars. Be sure to bring notes with "large heads" - small heads are not accepted anywhere in Zambia. [more ]
  • Gifts for the children at Kawaza School - [more ]

Essential: Each person should have their own pair of binoculars and a torch - sharing binoculars does not work.