Self-Drive Zambia & Zimbabwe: South Luangwa & Mana Pools - 20 Days

(Camping)

“This adventure if not for the feint-hearted but being able to spend time in the magical South Luangwa & Mana Pools National Parks was simply unforgettable.”

This expertly crafted itinerary includes five nights in South Luangwa National Park, five nights in Mana Pools, as well as stays at Lake Kariba and the Lower Zambezi, creating one of the most diverse and rewarding self-drive camping safari experiences in Southern Africa.

The journey includes South Luangwa National Park, where oxbow lagoons (wafwas) attract some of the highest wildlife concentrations in Africa, delivering exceptional wildlife viewing and photography opportunities. Continue to Mana Pools for five unforgettable nights in one of Africa’s most untamed wilderness areas, famous for its close-up wildlife encounters along the Zambezi River.

Your adventure also takes in the scenic shores of Lake Kariba and the wildlife-rich Lower Zambezi National Park, offering diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife and a true off-the-beaten-track safari experience.

This Zambia & Zimbabwe self-drive camping safari is ideal for experienced self-drivers, wildlife photographers and travellers who prefer remote camping, minimal crowds and maximum adventure.

South Luangwa National Park - Lake Kariba - Mana Pools - Lower Zambezi

- 4x4 hire – 4x4 dual cab with 1 rooftop tent includes camping equipment (Toyota Hilux or similar). Pick up Lusaka International Airport, drop off Lusaka International Airport. For details of the vehicle types available please see - Self Drive Vehicle Options.
- 4x4 hire vehicle cover - unlimited kilometres, collision damage waiver (USD$3,000 excess), second driver, taxes and tourism levies, introduction to vehicle, travel pack and GPS unit.
- Accommodation as indicated below.
- Meal as indicated below.
- Self-drive safari activities as indicated below.
- National Parks Fees in Mana Pools only.
- Relevant Travel Africa Information sheets.

With Travel Africa you are safe in the knowledge that you are working with people who are experts in self-drive travel. We have driven the types of vehicles you are looking to hire and driven them in the places, and on the road conditions, that you will experience. We have enjoyed all kinds of self-drive trips in southern Africa for over 25 years – from quick flits along the Garden Route to 8 month adventure trips with fully equipped 4x4s and roof top tents throughout southern Africa.

We give you peace of mind by working closely with you to custom-make and book your itinerary – ensuring you have the most appropriate type of vehicle and accommodation for your trip. We also provide you with detailed trip dossiers, which include routes, directions, tips and hints on driving in southern Africa, ensuring you have all the information you need to enjoy every minute of your trip and feel comfortable and secure with your holiday plan!

Our in-depth knowledge of destinations, conditions, vehicles and equipment, based on extensive personal experience, gives you the peace of mind you need for your self-drive safari.

Interactive standard itinerary

Detailed itinerary

Travel distance: Approximately 310kms on good, but busy, main roads via Chipata (approx. 5 hours drive).

Spend the morning driving to South Luangwa and settle into your home for the next 5 nights.

South Luangwa is known one of the greatest wildlife sanctuaries in the world, and not without reason. The concentration of animals around the Luangwa River, and its oxbow lagoons or wafwas, is among the most intense in Africa.

The Luangwa River is the most intact major river system in Africa and is the life-blood of South Luangwa. The changing seasons add to the Park’s richness, ranging from dry, bare bushveld in the winter, to a lush, green wonderland in the summer months. There are 60 different animal species and over 400 different bird species in South Luangwa National Park. Famous for its concentrations of leopards, consider at least one night drive during your stay.

Don't forget to visit the stunning Tribal Textile Factory - a superb example of community-based economic enterprises. These handmade textiles are exported throughout the world - be tempted by the factory's wonderful shop (see our blog about this great place).

Stay at:
Wildlife Camp or similar

Travel distance: Approximately 210kms, main roads, can be busy with trucks (approx. 4.5 hour drive plus border crossing).

From Lusaka head into the Zambezi Valley and cross the border into Zimbabwe before a 2-night stay on the shores of Lake Kariba. Discover the unique charm of Kariba with a visit to the impressive dam wall, spectacular lake views, wildlife, fishing, and stunning sunsets.

Stay at:
Hornbill Lodge or similar

Travel distance: Approximately 175kms, main roads on onto 4WD roads (approximately 4 hours)

From Kariba head into the magnificent Mana Pools National Park for 5 nights of pure adventure. Mana Pools is one of Zimbabwe’s more remote and spectacular national parks. Gigantic trees constantly pruned by elephants, the most exquisite light filtering through the vegetation, the mighty Zambezi River framed by the Zambezi Escarpment and incredible bird and wildlife, including frequent lion and wild dogs sightings, make this UNESCO World Heritage Site one of the most sought after safari destinations for safari lovers, photographers and adventure-seekers.

Stay at:
Nyamepi Campsite or similar

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