Birding Safaris

12 days Safari with focus on birding

With over 750 recorded bird species and a wealth of pristine habitats, Zambia is considered one of the best birdwatching destinations in Africa. The country offers a mix of wetlands, miombo woodlands, and open savannas, supporting both specialized resident birds and numerous migratory species.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Lusaka

After arriving at Lusaka Airport, we transfer to the Protea Safari Lodge, nestled within a private reserve near the capital. In the lodge’s comfortable rooms, we find rest and relaxation. Later in the afternoon, the private game reserve invites us on a short walking safari – a first taste of the wonders of African nature.
Dinner at the lodge restaurant (not included). (-/-/-)

Days 2 and 3: Kasanka National Park

Where Millions of Wings turn the sky into a living storm

The journey takes about six hours to reach Kasanka National Park. Here unfolds a tranquil world where the shy and rare sitatunga antelope can often be observed. Game drives and short walks with birdwatching bring the park’s diversity to life – from brilliantly colored small birds to majestic raptors.
At night, we camp in the Mushitu forest, beneath towering red mahogany trees that rise high into the starry sky. (B/L/D)

Days 4 and 5: Bangweulu Wetlands

Where water, wilderness and sky embrace.

After breakfast, the journey continues with a four-hour drive to the l egendary Bangweulu Swamps.
This vast wetland is renowned for its pristine landscapes, which can be explored both on foot and by boat. With a bit of luck, you may encounter the rare shoebill – one of Africa’s most fascinating bird species.
Around 10% of the world’s population of wattled cranes call this area home. Alongside them, countless other bird species can be observed, including some that are rarely seen elsewhere.
A truly spectacular sight awaits in the grasslands: herds of thousands of black lechwe antelopes moving across the plains, one of the continent’s most impressive natural phenomena.
Your nights will be spent at Nsobe Campsite – two nights on a full-board basis – right at the edge of the swamps. Each day ends beneath the clear African night sky, leaving you with a profound sense of vastness. (B/L/D)

Days 6: North Swaka Forest Reserve

Heartbeat of the Miombo Woodland

Early in the morning, we set off towards Mkushi (driving time approx. 4 hours).
In the afternoon, a guided walk through the Miombo forest awaits, where you will discover its unique vegetation and diverse birdlife. The evening is spent at Tambushi Camp, where we set up camp and enjoy the tranquility of nature. (B/L/D)

Day 7: Lusaka

Lilayi Private Game Reserve - where Serenity Walks with the Wild

In the afternoon, you arrive at Lilayi Lodge, idyllically set within a private wildlife reserve south of Lusaka. A leisurely walk through the grounds brings encounters with giraffes, zebras, and a variety of antelope species. The rich birdlife also invites observation and wonder.
The day concludes with a delicious dinner at the lodge’s restaurant (not included in the tour price). From the open terrace, you enjoy an atmospheric view into nature – the perfect setting to let the impressions of the day linger. (B/L/-)

Days 8 and 9: Lochinvar National Park

Zambia's Birding Mecca

Lochinvar ranks among the most important birding h otspots in Zambia. Particularly impressive is the season when countless migratory birds, arriving after their long journey from the north, gather here. The floodplains transform into a living symphony of calls and colors.
On game drives and short walks along the edges of the wetlands, a wide range of sightings awaits – from rare waders to vast flocks of pelicans and herons.
The adventure is rounded off with a wilderness camp set right in the heart of nature. With our own mobile shower (bucket shower) and toilet (long-drop with a view!), we enjoy comfort without losing the authentic experience. Evenings by the campfire beneath the vast starry sky make this stay truly unforgettable. (B/L/D)

Day 10: Nkanga Conservation (Choma)

Home and Haven for Over 400 Bird Species

Not far away lies the Nkanga Conservancy, a protected area of special significance. It is home to the Zambian Barbet (Chaplin’s Barbet) – an endemic bird species found only in Zambia, fascinating for ornithologists and nature lovers alike.
Yet it is not only this rare bird that makes the Conservancy remarkable: the area is considered a true bird paradise, offering an impressive diversity of species – from brilliantly colored bee-eaters to majestic raptors.
Guests spend the night at the nearby Mambushi Lodge. (B/L/D)

Day 11: Livingstone

Where History Meets Natural Wonders

The journey takes you to Livingstone, where you have the chance to marvel at one of Africa’s greatest natural wonders: the majestic Victoria Falls. The thundering spectacle of water plunging into the depths is an unforgettable experience. For those with more time, a boat trip on the Zambezi offers impressive opportunities for wildlife and birdwatching – from the regal African fish eagle to hippos and crocodiles lurking in the waters. The day concludes with an overnight stay at Maramba River Lodge, where comfortable chalets and atmospheric safari tents provide a restful night. (B/L/-)

Day 12: Departure

Transfer to Livingstone Airport and departure (for a surcharge also transfer to Victoria Falls Airport is possible) (B/-/-).

Inclusions / Exclusions

Included in the price:
All meals (except dinner in Chisamba (Protea Safari Lodge), Lusaka (Lilayi) and Livingstone)
All transfers (inclusive airport transfer on the first and last day of program)
Competent English-speaking guide and a helper/cook
All camping equipment (except sleeping bag and pillow), big tents with stretcher, high density mattress and mattress-cover.
All park entrance fees except for Victoria Falls

Excluded from price:
International flights and domestic flights
Alcoholic drinks and soft drinks (we supply juice and drinking water).
Night game drives
Sleeping bag and pillow
Entrance fee to Victoria Falls (currently US$ 30-00 pp) and any optional activity in Livingstone
Personal insurance, personal expenditure (i.e. curios) and tips