Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique – From Bush to Beach

On arrival at Lusaka International Airport, connect with a domestic flight to Mfuwe, the gateway to the South Luangwa. This short flight takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes. From Mfuwe, board a private charter for a scenic 30-minute hop into the bush, landing near Kulandila Bush Camp. Settle into your tented suite.

Spend two days exploring the wilderness surrounding Kulandila. Often referred to as the Valley of Leopards, this area offers exceptional opportunities for wildlife encounters, especially on foot—South Luangwa is the birthplace of the walking safari. Mornings and afternoons are filled with game drives or guided walks, returning to camp for lunch and time to relax by the pool.

After a relaxed breakfast, travel deeper into the park to the Nsefu Sector. The drive is a scenic game-viewing journey of around 2 to 3 hours. Arrive at your next camp in time for lunch and a siesta, before heading out for an afternoon safari in one of the most wildlife-rich corners of the park.

Spend three full days immersed in the wilderness of South Luangwa with morning and evening safaris offering the chance to spot lion, leopard, elephant and a range of birdlife.

Leave the bush behind with a 1.5-hour drive back to Mfuwe. Fly to Lilongwe in Malawi (around 1 hour) where you will be met and transferred overland to Senga Bay (about 2 hours), followed by a 20-minute boat transfer to Blue Zebra Island Lodge.

Wake up to birdsong and clear lake views, spend your mornings snorkelling or kayaking, and your afternoons tucked into a good book or enjoying the lodge’s excellent food. For those wishing to stretch their legs, a guided nature walk through the island’s reserve is also possible.

Today begins with a short boat ride back to the mainland, followed by a road transfer of approximately four hours south to Liwonde National Park. On arrival at Kuthengo Camp, settle into your comfortable tent overlooking the Shire River. Enjoy a sundowner cruise or short drive before dinner beneath the stars.

Over the next two days, explore this pretty National Park by vehicle, boat and on foot. The park is home to a growing population of black rhino, wild dog, lion and cheetah, alongside large herds of elephant and antelope. Birdlife is equally prolific, and the river setting makes for beautiful photography.

An early start for an overland transfer to Lilongwe Airport (around 4 hours). Board a short 1-hour flight to Tete in Mozambique, followed by a charter flight directly into Gorongosa National Park (around 1.5 hours). On arrival, you’ll be met and transferred to Wild Camp, your base for exploring this remarkable reserve.

Spend the next two days discovering one of Africa’s most inspiring conservation stories. Once devastated by war, Gorongosa has been carefully restored, with thriving populations of lion, wild dog and elephant now roaming its plains. Game drives and walks are complemented by time at leisure in camp, which offers an unfiltered connection to the landscape and its stories.

After a final morning drive, take a charter flight to Vilanculos, taking around 2 hours. From there it is a 30-minute road transfer to AsDunas Lodge on the shores of Mozambique’s southern coast. Settle in and enjoy your first evening by the sea.

Spend the next three days at you wish. Activities range from snorkelling and scuba diving to gentle horse rides along the beach or lagoon kayaking. Depending on the season, there’s also the chance to spot humpback whales offshore. Alternatively, do very little—this is an ideal place to simply unwind.

Transfer to Vilanculos Airport (30 minutes) for your onward travel.