South Luangwa National Park and Kasanka Bat Migration (8 days)

This is a truly unique opportunity to head into the wilds of northern Zambia to witness the world’s largest mammal migration, when 10 million straw-coloured flying foxes descend on Kasanka National Park each November. Kasanka is a little-known part of northern Zambia, but it is here that one of the world’s most extraordinary natural events takes place: the migration of 10 million bats each year. Combine a visit to Kasanka with a stay in the famous South Luangwa National Park, which offers some of the best wildlife viewing in all of Africa.

Day 1: Arrive in Lusaka, Zambia

On arrival in Lusaka, you will be picked up and transferred to Latitude 15, a beautiful boutique hotel in a leafy part of town, perfect for an overnight stay. You will have plenty of time to enjoy the hotel’s excellent facilities, including two swimming pools, outdoor relaxation areas and two excellent restaurants. The cosy bar is the perfect place to end the evening as you prepare for tomorrow’s adventure in the bush.
Overnight: Latitude 15, Lusaka

Day 2: To South Luangwa National Park

This morning you will be picked up and taken to Lusaka airport where you will meet the rest of your group for the flight to Mfuwe, the gateway to South Luangwa National Park. From the airport you will be driven through the park to the beautiful Luangwa River Camp where you will spend the next 3 nights. Enjoy lunch by the swimming pool and have some time to relax before going on a late afternoon game drive that will introduce you to the wildlife of South Luangwa.
Overnight: Luangwa River Camp

Day 3: Wildlife abounds

There are few, if any, better places in the world to see predators than South Luangwa National Park, and you will spend a lot of time searching for them. Lions stalk their prey on the plains, while leopards patrol their domain from tree branches and wild dogs roam the bush in their elegant and stealthy way. The park is also known for large herds of elephant and buffalo, as well as the many hippos and crocodiles in the Luangwa River, so there is plenty to see as you explore.
Overnight: Luangwa River Camp

Day 4: Enjoy some time to relax

Not only is Luangwa River Camp a great base for safaris, it is also a great place to relax and be very well looked after. The swimming pool has incredible views of the Luangwa and the shaded terrace is an ideal place to relax, have a long lunch and enjoy the magnificent views. The camp’s ever-accommodating staff will make your stay a special one.
Overnight: Luangwa River Camp

Day 5: On to Kasanka

After breakfast, you will be transferred back through the park to Mfuwe Airport for a private charter flight to Kasanka National Park. From the airstrip, you will be driven to Wasa Camp, a charming and remote bush camp that will serve as your base for exploring this fascinating part of Zambia. Enjoy some time to relax in the afternoon before setting off with your guide to get your bearings and spot the millions of bats you have brought here.
Overnight: Wasa Camp, Kasanka National Park

Day 6: Experience the Bat Migration

Your first full day in Kasanka is the start of bat migration viewing. Head with your guide to a specially constructed observation post where you can watch this incredible gathering of mammals in flight. Your guide will explain the bats’ migration patterns, the reasons they come to Kasanka and the life cycles of these fascinating creatures. After a busy but exciting day of exploring, you will return to camp for dinner around the campfire.
Overnight: Wasa Camp, Kasanka National Park

Day 7: Wonders of Kasanka

Although the main reason for visiting Kasanka is the bat migration, there is plenty of other wildlife here, after which you will explore the plains of the park with your guide. Bird lovers will especially rejoice at the chance to see the Pel’s Fishing Owl, one of Africa’s rarest birds. The elusive but beautiful antelopes such as the Sitatunga and Lichtenstein’s Hartebeest also feature in the park. The solitude of Kasanka is also a major draw and you will appreciate the majesty and tranquillity of this beautiful park.
Overnight: Wasa Camp, Kasanka Nati

Day 8: The journey home

After a farewell breakfast at camp, you will be picked up and taken back to the airstrip to fly to Mfuwe and then on to Lusaka.