The first week of January usually sets the tone for the rest of the year! A fresh start, with new perspectives, new beginnings, new goals and new resolutions, which can all feel a little overwhelming. But it is also the perfect time to revisit your bucket list (or make one) and start planning the next adventure of your dreams.
River Journeys is one of those bucket list trips that we have been running for over 10 years between January and March! It is a chance to explore the South Luangwa National Park during the most vibrant time of the year – the Emerald Season, taking you on an off the beaten track journey.
When we say off the beaten track…we literally mean off the track, because at this time of the year the Luangwa River bursts it’s banks and floods the park, which means the only way to explore this incredible region is by boat. The feeling of floating through the forests submerged by water, taking in the sights and sounds of the wilderness is simply sublime. But there’s more to our River Journeys than just drifting along the water…
The Luangwa River, which is a major tributary of the Zambezi River is the life line of the South Luangwa National Park, supporting a large variety of wildlife including large heard of elephants, buffalos, big cats, birdlife and one of the highest concentrations of hippos in the world. Game viewing from a boat gives a fantastic new perspective to game viewing because most animals are less concerned about what’s on the water and in turn are more relax, as opposed to when you view them on foot or in a game vehicle which they are certainly more aware of.
From a photographers point of view River Journeys is a dream, as the air is crisp and free of dust and the bush is at it’s most vibrant. It’s also a hit for keen birders, and there is a bonus as several species of migratory birds visiting this time of year and many others in the most flamboyant breeding plumage. The sunrises and sunsets on the river are as breathtakingly beautiful as the surrounding landscape of the park.
When you’re not on the water, we make sure you are well looked after at Nkwali Camp and Nsefu Camp which are opened specially for this magical river safari. Nsefu Camp is completely cut off from the rest of the park other than by boat and the transfers in between camps are a treat alone.
So if you are looking for unique adventure, this magical river safari is certainly worthy of a spot on any bucket list.