Walking Safaris Descriptions
Walking Mobile Safaris
Our Walking Mobile Safaris have been operating since 1991 and were the first such walking safaris in Africa. We believe they continue to be totally unique. Combining our safari camps with a five day walk which is backed up by a totally mobile camp - a winning combination for those looking to be totally immersed in the bush.
After 2 nights at Nkwali, where there has been the chance of some drives and night drives (and of course walks), with good photographic opportunities the party drives up to the remote north of the park. This takes you through different country and woodland from the riverine areas and the morning will include passing through a petrified forest and possibly some large open pans which attract some unusual species of both birds and antelope (Lichenstien's hartebeest). The party will picnic on the way making the journey very much part of the safari rather than a transfer! (see itinerary for full details)
For the next 5 days the safari follows the Mupamadzi River - a clear water, major tributary of the Luangwa. The day starts before dawn, getting up for a quick breakfast around the camp fire. Setting off for the morning walk around six, the morning walk will be from 4 to 6 hours depending on sightings and enthusiasm. Meanwhile, back at the ranch, the team have broken camp, packed the truck and headed off to the next camp site. If a little late on departure the chef may end up chopping onions on top of the "kitundu" (safari kit)! They arrive, set up camp, cook lunch and as you walk in hot and no doubt tired from your walk - you will be greeted by the camp manageress with cold drinks and lunch will be ready.
The tent is "walk in" that open both ends for good ventilation with camp beds, mattress, sheets and blankets. The shower is under a tree and the loo is a short drop with a wooden throne. The dinning table is under the shadiest tree and the bar is a small table with the glasses and drinks, next to a small gas fridge to keep the beers and wine chilled. The food is first class and the same standard as the safari camps. After lunch there is a chance for a rest, read or snooze before afternoon tea. The afternoon walk is gentle, short and often the sundowners will be brought to a meeting spot in the bush by vehicle and so there is a short spotlight drive back to camp. Then in the evening - showers, drinks around the fire before the welcome dinner - usually serenaded by the local lion pride or hyena.
The walking is varied in difficulty as the terrain changes and the morning walks are from 6 to 10 kilometers. The timing, distance and toughness of the walks is determined by the group but you do need to be "walking fit" and we say you should be able to run at least 50 meters (not from an animal of course but to show a level of fitness).
The area is remote and wild, the terrain and habitats varied and the game shy and unused to man. From ants to buffalo, a bird's nest to tracking a lion, you will learn the many facets of the bush.
Luangwa Bush Camping
Name one of the most exclusive experiences on offer in Africa? Bush Camping with RPS.
Luangwa Bush Camping is camping and walking in the Nsefu Sector, in the game rich riverine areas of the lagoons and woodlands that run along side the river. This is usually combined with a stay at both Tena Tena and Nsefu. The camp is simple, with walk in tents, mattresses on the ground, a bucket shower and bush loo but all the details are there and you want for nothing. The meals are cooked over the fire and served straight from the coals.
Deb Tittle guides the Luangwa Bush Camping Safaris. From early childhood she was fascinated with Africa's wildlife (particularly animal behaviour) reading everything she could find on the subject. Upon completion of her Psychology degree she travelled around Australia and Indonesia for several months before settling to work in France for 3 years. Somehow Africa was still calling and with maturity she became determined to chase her dream. Deb took on the challenge of driving overland safari trucks to gain access to many of Africa's famous game parks - South Luangwa National Park was an instant favourite. After a year long detour to South America she put down roots in Zambia in 1994. Qualifying to guide in 1997, she lead walking safaris for two other companies before joining RPS. in 2004 Deb established Luangwa Bush Camping in her first season with us and remains enthusiastically dedicated to this exclusive safari experience. With no more than four people on each trip, camping in simple but comfortable style, you will experience the game-rich Nsefu sector of the park with one of the best guides in Africa.
North Luangwa - Kutandala
Kutandala is an exquisite bushcamp set along on the banks of the Mwaleshi in the heart of the North Luangwa National Park. The owners, Rob and Guz, run the camp as their own home - with their 3 young children growing up in the wild. "Simple and perfect" (Jo's words!) - this is truly the definition of a "bush camp".
The camp only takes six guests and so the experience is not only remote but extremely exclusive. One of the attractions of the camp is the simplicity but everything is done to perfection. The bush rooms, made of reed, grass and poles, each with a picture window view of the river, have an ensuite and open bathroom.
As well as the walking safaris there is the chance for an all day drive to the confluence of Mwaleshi and Luangwa rivers.
Excursions can also be made to the Chipopoma Falls where there are clear water pools for a dip.
