Sun International Easter Art Exhibition

Over the Easter weekend, Sun International once again opened its doors to a selection of some of Zambia’s most popular artists and photographers. Although it was a small exhibition, there was a good selection of art and photography on display.

On opening night there was a chance to sling on the high heels and attend a cocktail party in aid of Acacia International School. This was well attended by the local Livingstone residents and besides proceeds of sales going to the fund raising effort, there was also an auction by the Headmaster of a beautiful framed elephant bull on canvas. Ms. Joanne Selby of Sun International matched the bid with a donation from the hotel so it was a successful night for the school. One lucky ticket holder also went home with a treasured “Baobab Sunset” photograph by Stephen Robinson so a great night for a good cause.

'TIMELESS' by Zambian photographer, Patrick Bentley

Music Festival, Livingstone - 14 June 2014

 

 

Livingstone Tourism Association, in conjunction with Mikenatics Events & Promotions, presents to you an evening of live music entertainment featuring Darai - an international band from Germany  supported by many local music bands, cultural dance groups plus many more artists.

 

 

14th June 2014
Maramba Cultural Village

17:00 hrs to midnight

VIP - K150 pp – includes welcome drink and waiter service
LTA members -  K50 pp
Non LTA members – K60 pp
Children under 12 – K20 pp

 

 

Come sing and dance to the sounds of love and culture

VIP guests will have cider / sparkling wine and Amarula options thanks to Sunrise Beverages

Tickets are available from the following LTA members;

Waterfront
Fawlty Towers
Livingstone Backpackers

For further information contact:

LTA / James Mwanza
Tel: +260 213 322 356
Cel:+260 973 421 983
Email: lta@microlink.zm
www.livingstonetourism.com

Zambezi Traveller Directory:
Livingstone Tourism Association

Mawimbi Bush Camp May Special

Mawimbi Bush Camp special valid until end of May:

180 USD pppn on Full Board Basis + 1 Activity per day (exlclude park fees, drinks other activities).

Contact : Debbie Henwood, Mawimbi Bush Camp,
Email: info@mawimbibushcamp.com
Tel: (+263) 4 861286
Facebook: MawimbiBushcamp
Skype: debbie.mawimbibushcamp

Wilderness Safaris April update

ZIMBABWE

HWANGE NATIONAL PARKS AND OUR CONCESSIONS

At Wilderness Safaris we love maps and facts, so we have put together a comprehensive map of Hwange which showcases the vast tracts of land that make up the National Park, where we are and what you can see in our abundant concessions. All this along with useful information about what makes our people and our camps so special and why you should certainly include them in a Zimbabwe itinerary! Pick up a copy at a trade show or contact your Sales Representative.

Hwange lions (Image credit: Mike Myers)

THE NEW “OLD FAVOURITE” – LINKWASHA CAMP

This year Wilderness Safaris are undertaking the exciting project of rebuilding Linkwasha Camp and opening our doors for FIT bookings as of early 2015. An old favourite for many who have been lucky enough to visit the location, Linkwasha will be a fabulous new addition to our Hwange portfolio. The camp will be classified a Classic 1 camp (the highest rating of Classic Camps) with eight tents, including a family room, and will raise the bar with respect to the accommodation offerings in Hwange National Park. The private Linkwasha Concession and the adjacent Makalolo Concession share exceptional wildlife concentrations, ensuring outstanding year-round wildlife numbers.

Linkwasha (Image credit Mike Myers)

ENHANCING THE WILDERNESS AIR SCHEDULE

Wilderness Air Zimbabwe’s flying schedule has been amended to ensure we maximise our guests’ time in the country. Here are some more details:

• The timing of inter-camp transfers now allow for more activities. For example, Ruckomechi Camp guests are able to enjoy an activity on both the day of arrival and the day of departure.
• Flights from Hwange to Victoria Falls will take place in the morning; guests no longer have to wait until the afternoon to fly.
• The Hwange inter-camp transfers allow for connections between third party camps and the Wilderness Air schedule.
• Harare flights allow for British Airways and South African Airways connections to and from Harare as well as other international flights departing Harare such as Emirates and KLM. Find the updated schedule on our Information Centre.

Over the Falls (Image credit Mark Mansfield)

WHAT’S NEW AT OUR HWANGE CAMPS?

Davison’s Camp has an impressive new main area, offering more space, a new roof and a fabulous wooden deck stretching out around the fire pit. There is also a small upper deck to view the waterhole by day and gaze at the stars by night! Meanwhile at Little Makalolo, a new deck near the main area, pool deck and walkways have been built. The walkways dip to the ground in areas where wildlife have created paths, so that they are not impeded in reaching the waterhole.

New Deck at Davissons (Image credit Derreck Sanyahumbi)

ZAMBIA

FISHING AT TOKA LEYA

Guests are able to do fishing when they stay at Toka Leya. The cost of fishing is included in the FI rate, but the park fees are paid for separately. These can conveniently be settled directly at the camp and are US$5 per person per fishing trip.

GUIDED NATURE WALKS AND RHINO TRACKING AT TOKA LEYA

It is possible to go rhino tracking while staying at Toka Leya. ZAWA scouts monitor the rhinos 24/7 and track them each morning from where they were seen the previous evening. Once the rhinos have been found, the scouts report back to base and stay with the rhinos until late, camping in the area to start tracking early next morning. Guests travel to the area by vehicle and then track the rhino on foot, accompanied by the ZAWA scout - our guides are not allowed to carry weapons. The total duration of the rhino tracking is about 2 hours (combination of drive and walk). Guided nature walks and hino tracking are included in our FI rate, however, the park fee is a separate amount that must be settled direct. Note that all walks are subject to the availability of a ZAWA scout – the request can be put into WISH or made in camp, but cannot be confirmed or guaranteed in advance. Note that the minimum age for walking is 13. The cost is US$10 per person per excursion and can be settled directly at the camp.

Rhino walks (Image credit Mike Myers)

BUSANGA PLAINS OF PLENTY

The lion prides of the Busanga Plains are major drawcards for guests. They are often celebrated for their impressive stocky physiques as well as their unusual tree-climbing skills. Time and again these normally terrestrial cats are spotted catching the cooling breeze in the fig trees of the plains. Another spectacular feature of the Plains is the open terrain, which means that lion hunts can often be watched from start to finish.

Last year’s peak season saw a 90%+ chance of daily lion sightings, with more than 20% of these sightings including lions in tree s and over 30% of them lions on kills. Other predators that can be seen are cheetah, leopard, spotted hyaena and serval. The spectacular herbivore diversity includes puku, lechwe and wildebeest in large numbers, while the rarities include the stately roan, nimble oribi, secretive sitatunga and unusual Lichtenstein’s hartebeest.

Rhino walks (Image credit Mike Myers)

Epic wildlife interactions in South Luangwa

Source: Daily Mail (UK).

When two tribes go to war: Incredible moment legion of hippos turn and flee after stand-off with more than 100 crocs in epic Zambian river battle

They are some of the most fearsome creatures to stalk the waterways of Africa.

But when a army of crocodiles got snap happy with a herd of hippos, it seems that the mammals were in no mood for a fight.

Wildlife photographer Marc Mol witnessed the ignominious retreat in a river at Zambia's South Luangwa National Park, where hungry crocs were preparing to rip one hippo to shreds.

For more images and full text visit original article in the Daily Mail.

Zambezi Traveller Destination Profile
Luangwa

World Travel Market comes to Livingstone

Derek Houston of Houston Travel Marketing Services, Reed Travel Exhibitions & World Travel Market Africa invites you to a presentation on World Travel Market Africa & Africa Travel Week on Friday 14 March at David Livingstone Hotel Livingstone, 10h00 - 11h30.

RSVP derek@houstonmarketing.co.za Tel +27824640901

Programme:

Ø WTM Africa, Cape Town, 02 - 03 May 2014 - East Africa Pavilion
Ø IBTM Africa, Cape Town, 28 - 30 April 2014 - MICE event
Ø ILTM Africa -Luxury
Ø Additional opportunities at other Reed Exhibitions events

More from the Zambezi Traveller:
African Travel Market

Affordably exploring majestic Africa

Global travellers who yearn for affordable family adventure journeys to Africa can now reach this reality through the unique and trusted benefits of the newly-launched Explorer Club.

The peace-of-mind stems from the happy fact that it is the owners of several distinguished properties in Zambia, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Kenya who have forged The Explorer Club to create a few enticing adventure package tours for the start-up phase.

Properties featured at the outset include the five-star David Livingstone Safari Lodge & Spa, on the banks of the legendary Zambezi River near the Victoria Falls; Sausage Tree Camp with its stunning location in the Lower Zambezi National Park; Bumi Hills Safari Lodge and Spa, the iconic wildlife destination on Lake Kariba; Mowana Safari Lodge in one of the world's finest wildlife areas, Chobe National Park, Botswana; the exquisite Hemingway's Kenya Collection - the recently opened 45 roomed boutique hotel in Nairobi; the beach delight of Watamu and Ol Seki, the stylish tented safari camp in the famous Masai Mara Reserve.

Founder Steve McCormick, whose personal portfolio includes The David Livingstone Safari Lodge & Spa, Bumi Hills Safari Lodge and major activity operator Safari Par Excellence at Victoria Falls, said: "The Explorer Club is a specialist adventure package tour operator created by an alliance of trusted property owners to trim costs on a direct basis and offer international clients the opportunity to experience affordable luxury in Africa."He noted that last year (2013) was the bi-centenary of the birth of Africa's most famous explorer, Dr David Livingstone, and he wanted "modern families to keep exploring Livingstone's amazing Africa". It was the Scottish missionary who came across the mighty waterfall on the Zambezi River in 1855 and wrote: "Scenes so lovely must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight". He named them after his Queen and today, Victoria Falls is one of the acclaimed seven natural Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

"The area is unchallenged as Africa's adventure capital," said McCormick, "And will be at the heartbeat of The Explorer Club through the 77-room David Livingstone Safari Lodge & Spa at the edge of the Zambezi within sight of the spray of the falls."

The world's greatest living explorer, Sir Ranulph Fiennes, has endorsed The Explorer Club because it opens up genuine wildlife and adventure destinations to a large swathe of travellers who previously could not afford to make such dreams a reality.

Said McCormick, "From this launch-pad of core packages, we'll keep exploring the possibilities to delight our followers. We invite our guests to explore majestic Africa with us...and be amazed at just how affordable it can be."

www.theexplorerclub.co.uk

Zambezi Traveller Directory:
The David Livingstone Safari Lodge & Spa
Bumi Hills Safari Lodge
Safari Par Excellence

Mawimbi April Special

Zambian and Zimbabwean residents only

$180 per person per night - minimum two nights

Includes: Full board and one game walk per day

Excludes: Transfers, park fees

 

 

Zambezi Traveller Directory:
Mawimbi Bush Camp

Norman Carr Safaris and Chongwe Safaris collect the accolades

 

The 2014 Safari Awards were announced recently, and Nornman Carr and Chongwe Safaris in Zambia were placed in 5 of the 18 categories, winning 3 of them. Overall Zambia performed well in the awards, highlighting the country as the region's rising star.

Winner - Best New Property in Africa – Chinzombo, Norman Carr Safaris
Winner - Best Guiding Team in Africa – Norman Carr Safaris
Winner - Best Walking Safari in Africa – Norman Carr Safaris
Highly Commended – Best Safari House in Africa – Chongwe River House
Highly Commended – Best Value Safari in Africa – Chongwe River Camp

Congratulations to all. Running safaris takes a huge company-wide effort, and on top of incredible locations and fabulous wildlife, it’s the team in camp which really brings the whole experience to life; from the gardeners to the guides.

Zambezi Traveller Directory:
Norman Carr Safaris
Chongwe Safaris

 

Tonga chiefs stand up against mining in Lower Zambezi NP

Lower Zambezi canoe safari - Image credit: 'No Mining in Lower Zambezi National Park' (Facebook page).

The Tonga Traditional Association has asked the Zambian Government to revoke the mining licence awarded to Mwembeshi Resources, a subsidiary of Zambezi Resources (Australia), to start a large-scale open cast mine in the Lower Zambezi National Park. The association president, Dickson Namanza, say it will interfere with the environment, culture, tradition and heritage for the people of Southern Province

Namanza said that the decision by the Minister of Lands and Environmental Protection, Harry Kalaba to allow mining was irrational and it lacked consultation with various stakeholders who among them included the traditional leadership in the area. Namanza said that his association was worried and concerned at the speed government was running to deplete the world’s heritage.

“We are concerned as people from Southern Province about the manoeuvre by the Minister of Lands Harry Kalaba to issue a mining licence in a National Park. We are wondering in whose interest they are issuing the licence? We ask this government to revoke the licence because it is not in the best interest of the people of Southern Province and Zambia in general,” Namanza said. He said that it was shocking that government was insisting on starting a mine in the national park at the expense of a thriving wildlife.

“The Lower Zambezi National Park is our pride as Zambians, it is our pride as the people of Southern Province and we see no reason why government should allow people to mine in this area. There should be no displacement of animals in that national park. Why can’t government ask the same investors to go to Munali Nickel mine in Mazabuka and continue with the mining project there rather than to start a new mine in the national park? We don’t want any further displacement of human beings and animals,” said Namanza.

“This is another fallen project by the [Government]; we shall not support it as it will destroy our tradition. That national park has a true meaning for the people of Southern Province and Western Zambia. We cannot compromise with our tradition. Let them go elsewhere with their money. We don’t need it,” said Namanza.

More on this issue from the Zambezi Traveller
Minister gives green light for Kangaluwi Copper Project in Lower Zambezi National Park (Jan 2014)
A conflict of interests? (June 2013)
Mining in National Park thrown out (Dec 2012)

Source:
Tonga chiefs condemn mining in the lower Zambezi (The Lusaka Times, 18 Feb 2014)

Related Stories:
Minister for Tourism opposes Government’s decision to allow mining in Lower Zambezi National Park (The Lusaka Times, 18 Feb 2014)

Join the 'No Mining in Lower Zambezi National Park' group on Facebook here.

Proflight Zambia February Newsflash

Proflight Zambia February Newsflash

Baggage Allowances

Increase in Domestic Baggage Allowance

Effective 01 March 2014 the free checked baggage allowance on the Lusaka-Solwezi route increases from 15 kg’s to 23 kg’s baggage plus 5 kg’s hand baggage.

Effective 01 April 2014 the free checked baggage allowance on the Lusaka- Mfuwe route also increases to 23 kg's plus 5 kg's hand baggage

The increased baggage allowances apply from the dates indicated above regardless of the baggage allowance indicated on the ticket.

Interline Baggage Allowance: Where an international connecting flight and a Proflight sector are included on the one ticket and in the one PNR then Proflight will apply the Economy Class allowances of the interline carrier. If for any reason not all the extra interline baggage can be loaded then it will be sent free of charge on the next available flight. This policy does not apply where there are two separate tickets or where the ticket is issued on Hahn Air (169).

Domestic Check-In deadline changes to 30 minutes

In order to facilitate on-time departures, with effect From 01 April 2014 the Check-In counters will close 30 minutes prior and not the current 15 minutes deadline.

This change has been necessitated by more pre-departure formalities and an increase in the number of domestic flights.

** DON'T BE LATE - THE PLANE WON'T WAIT **

Online Check-In

Proflight will shortly introduce on-line check-in for passengers with hand-baggage only- watch this space.

Current Offers

Solwezi Sale – For a Limited time only, all Lusaka/Solwezi flights will be offered at all seats in M-Class – that is a return ticket for only K2,047 guaranteed.

Mongu Sale – For a Limited time only, Lusaka/Mongu Y-Class fare reduced - that is a return ticket for only K2,675 guaranteed.

Proflight Network Discounts - Reduced thorough-fares now available on all routes, stopover allowed of maximum 12 hours in Lusaka.

Fully inclusive Return Fares starting from:

Ndola/ Livingstone K1,504
Ndola/ Mfuwe K1,889
Ndola/ Lower Zambezi K1,450
Ndola/ Chipata K3,332
Ndola/ Lilongwe K2,576 / USD528
Ndola/ Dar-es-Salaam K4,173 / USD762
Solwezi/ Livingstone K1,891
Solwezi/ Mfuwe K2,197
Solwezi/ Lower Zambezi (Royal and Jeki) K1,778
Solwezi/ Dar-es-Salaam K4,416 / USD831
Dar-es-Salaam/ Lilongwe K5,296 / USD954
Dar-es-Salaam/ Livingstone K4,139 / USD806
Dar-es-Salaam/ Mfuwe K4,533 / USD820
Lilongwe/ Livingstone K3,120 / USD582

Specials

N’cwala Ceremony - Special flights added for Lusaka/ Chipata 21, 22, 23 February plus 20% discount using promo code NCWALACIP14

Getaway Special available at K1,320 pp return ticket Lusaka/ Mfuwe if you book within 21 days of travel for a max 5 night stay

Easter Zanzibar Direct Flights starting from only K4,600 return ticket price. Proflight direct flights will operate as below, all other dates the fare is still available in conjunction with Precision Air flights to/from Zanzibar.

Lusaka/Zanzibar direct 08:00-12:20 Thu 17Apr and Fri 18Apr

Zanzibar/Lusaka direct 14:00-16:20 Mon 21Apr and 18:00-20:20 Wed 23 Apr

Direct Zanzibar flights available for booking through Videcom, combinations with Precision Air flights to be done through Reservations only

GDS now updated to sell this fare as any of the direct flights or in conjunction with Precision Air.

Schedule Changes

Additional Ndola capacity - new late afternoon flights on Wed/Thu/Fri/Sun, Lusaka-Ndola (P00302) 15:00-15:45 and Ndola-Lusaka (P00303) 16:15-17:00

New connections to P00302: Durban at 13:00, Gaborone at 13:35, Windhoek/Harare at 12:45.

Time change 30 minutes later than current, P00306 Lusaka-Ndola now at 17:30-18:15 and P00305 Ndola-Lusaka now at 18:45-19:30.

New connection to P00306: Nairobi at 16:20

Reminders

Interline Agreements between Proflight and Emirates, Ethiopian Airlines and Kenya Airways – mean you can book a through ticket combining any Proflight destination with any Emirates, Ethiopian Airlines or Kenya Airways destination worldwide.

Precision Air interline in place allows passengers to book any Proflight destination with any Precision Air destination (Example: Mfuwe- Zanzibar, Ndola- Arusha)

Kuomboka is coming up and once dates are announced Proflight will add extra Lusaka/ Mongu capacity for this

Airtel Money can be used as a form of payment for all Proflight flights booked online.

Zambezi Traveller Directory:
Proflight Zambia

Safpar celebrate 25 years in the business

One of Southern Africa’s leading adventure travel groups, Safari Par Excellence (SafPar), have recently celebrated 25 years in the tourism industry.

Established in 1988, Safari Par Excellence secured a tender for Kayila lodge in Zambia’s remote Zambezi Valley. Building on the multi day canoeing trips that we were running in the Lower Zambezi, SafPar purchased a white water rafting license in 1993, running our first commercial trip in 1994. Since then SafPar has gone from strength to strength as an adventure company in Livingstone.

Zambezi Waterfront opened in 1999 on the banks of the Zambezi River in Livingstone. Since then other properties have been added to the SafPar portfolio, including the recently refurbished 4-star Thorntree River Lodge and the latest addition to the portfolio, the 5-star David Livingstone Safari Lodge and Spa. With these 3 properties, we have accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets –from camping up to 5-star luxury.

SafPar also owns and manages a variety of activities and our own fleet of transfer and 4x4 vehicles making us truly a ‘one stop shop’. We also have a range of activities to suit everyone from white water rafting for the adrenaline junkies, to a relaxing sunset cruise on our luxury 150–seater Lady Livingstone for those who prefer ‘soft’ adventure.

We recently celebrated our 25th Anniversary by hosting a party at Zambezi Waterfront and in true SafPar style partied until the early morning. With drinks flowing, our delicious new pizza’s being handed out all night and fantastic music from Kapiri Mposhi Top Rank Suite (a Lusaka band) the night was a hit for all involved. Founder Steve McCormick opened the speeches, followed by some amusing anecdotes from The River Club’s Peter Jones, who revealed some fantastic photos from the archives. Xen Vlahakis rounded things up.

We would like to extend our thanks to everyone who attended (and those of you who couldn’t make it) for making it such a fantastic celebration, especially those of you that travelled from afar – we wouldn’t be what we are without your invaluable support.

Here’s to 25 more years!

Zambezi Traveller Directory:
Safari Par Excellence

Wilderness Safaris Zambia & Zimbabwe Specials

Wilderness Safaris offers superb wildlife and cultural encounters in both Zambia and Zimbabwe - true gems in the African wilderness. Divided by the great Zambezi River, both countries allow for unspoilt journeys through impressive National Parks, where a variety of habitats are home to multiple mammal and bird species. In addition to the world-renowned Victoria Falls, where your journey may begin or end, you can expect thrilling safaris, adrenaline adventures and encounters with some of the friendliest people to host you.

2014 NEW YEAR SPECIALS

Discounted Flying Rates 2014

 

Davison's Camp Wilderness Safaris, Hwange National Park, Zambia (Photo credit: Mike Myers)

On a stay of three consecutive nights (or longer) at Davison’s Camp, Little Makalolo or Ruckomechi Camp in Zimbabwe, receive a discount of 50% on the scheduled Wilderness Air flying seat rates between these camps and/or Victoria Falls/Harare as the points of origin or departure.

We have also reduced our Zambia flying rates by 20% for the 2014 season. No minimum stay is required at Busanga Bush Camp or Shumba Camp, and these lower rates apply to bookings between Lusaka and Kafue as well as Livingstone and Kafue.

Private Guides accommodated FREE in Zimbabwe camps

On a minimum stay of two nights at Little Makalolo, Davison’s and Ruckomechi camps, private guides will be hosted free of charge in guide accommodation from 11 January 2014 to 10 January 2015. Please do note that only one complimentary guide can be accommodated at any one time.

FREE Hot Air Ballooning in the Kafue

 

Balloning Busanga Plains, Wilderness Safaris, Kafue National Park, Zambia (Photo credit: Mike Myers)

Stay for three nights in one of our stunning camps on the Busanga Plains – Shumba or Busanga Bush Camp – in August, September or October and be treated to the most exclusive hot air ballooning in Africa on a complimentary basis. This breathtaking activity takes in the pristine scenery and wildlife of the plains before concluding with a champagne breakfast.

Ruckomechi Camp Introduces Unique ‘Sleep-out’ Experience in Mana Pools

Wilderness Safaris Ruckomechi Camp in Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe has introduced a unique, sleep-out option for adventurous guests on an outdoor deck overlooking the wildlife-rich Parachute Pan. Situated about 400m from the main camp, the Parachute Pan ‘sleep-out’ deck offers guests a truly intimate, up-close-and-personal wilderness experience and the unique opportunity of sleeping under the stars in the Zambezi Valley.

SUGGESTED ITINERARIES:

DISTINCTIVE ZAMBEZI AND KAFUE (7 NIGHTS / 8 DAYS)

 

Busanga Plains, Wilderness Safaris, Kafue National Park, Zambia (Photo credit: Mike Myers)

Experience the great wildlife spectacle of Zimbabwe’s Mana Pools National Park, a World Heritage Site, followed by the expansive and diverse Busanga Plains of Zambia’s Kafue National Park where herds of antelope are followed closely by lion prides. The trip’s grand finale is the impressive and mesmerising Victoria Falls.

Days 1, 2, 3: Fly from Victoria Falls Airport to Ruckomechi Camp, Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe
Days 4, 5, 6: Transfer by boat, road and air to Busanga Bush Camp, Kafue National Park, Zambia
Day 7: Fly to Toka Leya Camp, Livingstone, Zambia
Day 8: Road transfer to Livingstone International Airport

(Operating 01 June to 31 October 2014. Departs on a Monday from Victoria Falls and ends in Livingstone on a Monday.)

ZIMBABWE HIGHLIGHTS (7 NIGHTS / 8 DAYS)

 

Ruckomechi Camp, Wilderness Safaris, Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe (Photo credit: Mike Myers)

This exciting safari combines three of the most diverse and spectacular areas in Zimbabwe including Hwange National Park, Lake Kariba and Mana Pools National Park, each celebrated for fascinating wildlife and magnificent scenery. Your journey begins and ends at Victoria Falls, where you can extend your trip and enjoy this natural wonder of the world.

Days 1, 2: Fly from Victoria Falls Airport to Davison’s Camp, Hwange National Park
Days 3, 4: Fly to Changa Camp, Lake Kariba
Days 5, 6, 7: Fly to Ruckomechi Camp, Mana Pools National Park
Day 8: Return to Victoria Falls Airport by light aircraft for your onward arrangements

(Operating 1 April through to 15 November 2014. Daily departures from and returning to Victoria Falls, with the option of flying to Harare from Ruckomechi.)

ZIMBABWE SUMMER SPECIAL (6 NIGHTS / 7 DAYS)

Little Makalolo Camp, Wilderness Safaris, Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe (Photo credit: Mike Myers)

We begin this safari in Hwange National Park where summer rainfall brings the surrounding plains to life, displaying incredible concentrations of wildlife. We then continue on to Changa Safari Camp, built on the shores of Lake Kariba, with stunning views of the mysterious Matusadona Mountains. Your journey begins and ends at Victoria Falls, where you can extend your trip and enjoy this natural wonder of the world.

Days 1, 2 & 3: Fly from Victoria Falls Airport to Little Makalolo Camp or Davison’s Camp, Hwange National Park
Days 4, 5 & 6: Fly to Changa Camp, Lake Kariba
Day 7: Return to Victoria Falls Airport by light aircraft for onward arrangements

(Valid from 11 January to 31 March 2014. Daily departures from and returning to Victoria Falls.)

BEST OF ZAMBIA (6 NIGHTS / 7 DAYS)

 

Cheetah (Photo credit: Mike Myers)

As one of the most rewarding African wildlife destinations, this safari offers the best of Zambia. Landlocked, this country is a land of large rivers: the Zambezi, Kafue, Lufupa and Luangwa Rivers are all the centrepieces of some of the wildest and most remote game areas on the continent.

Days 1, 2 & 3: Fly from Lusaka Airport to Busanga Bush Camp, Kafue National Park, Zambia
Days 4, 5 & 6: Fly back to Lusaka for a scheduled flight to Mfuwe and onward connection to Puku Ridge, Kapamba Bush Camp or Nkwali Camp, South Luangwa National Park
Day 7: Return to Lusaka Airport for onward arrangements

Add-on: Extend your stay and discover the wildlife and spectacular scenery of the legendary Zambezi River:
Days 7, 8 & 9: Chiawa Camp or Chongwe River Camp or Kasaka River Lodge, Lower Zambezi National Park.

(Operating 01 June to 31 October 2014.)

Note: These are suggested itineraries only – please contact your Journey Specialist for pricing as a variety of options are possible, including points of arrival and departure.

For more information and pricing on the suggested itineraries, contact your journey specialist or email emmah@wilderness.co.zw or joleenr@wilderness.co.zw.

Kiambi Safari Special

Kiambi Safaris, Kariba & Middle Zambezi, Zambia

From 1st December to the 28th of February below.

Luxury air-conditioned chalets:
K560 per person per night sharing
K690 per person per night single
K370 per child per night for Children between 5 and 15.

Children 4 years and below visit for free.

Luxury thatched en-suite chalet:
K560 per person per night sharing
K690 per person per night single
K370 per child per night for Children between 5 and 15.

Children 4 years and below visit for free.

Rates quoted include 3 Meals per person per day that is breakfast, lunch and dinner from the clients day of arrival . There is a complimentary sunset cruise included in a two nights visit with us. Kindly note that for a three or more nights visit a complimentary sunset cruise as well as a three hour canoe excursion is included.

Zambezi Traveller Directory
Kiambi Safaris

Norman Carr Safaris Secret Season Special

The ‘Secret Season’ is upon us here in the Luangwa Valley and Norman Carr Safaris would love to share this with you as it’s generally perceived as a less than optimal time to visit, which is completely untrue! It is often one of the best times to see wild dog and the bush is green and lush and stunning. We now have more options with wildly luxurious Chinzombo, family friendly Kapani and adventurous Kakuli open to visitors.

We have launched a great last minute itinerary:

Secret Season – Week on the Wildside

- 7 nights
- Valid now until 10 April
- Combination of Chinzombo, Kakuli and Kapani
- We choose the itinerary
- $3060pp - no single supplement

- PLUS $370 Park Fees + flights
- All inclusive of VAT, meals, standard bar drinks, laundry, Mfuwe Airport road transfers and game viewing. Excluding top shelf spirits/premium wine/champagne

Email Zillah on bookings@normancarrsafaris.com for more details.

Emirates and Proflight Zambia Sign Global Ticketing Agreement

International passengers can now fly to Zambian domestic destinations with a single booking.

Emirates, a global connector of people and places, and Proflight Zambia, has signed an interline agreement that will make it easier for international passengers to reach domestic destinations throughout Zambia.

Popular Zambian attractions such as the Victoria Falls – one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World – can now be accessed with a single ticket purchase and smooth connections from any of Emirates destinations worldwide.

Safari-goers for example will be able to book straight through to Mfuwe for the world renowned wildlife haven of South Luangwa National Park, while business customers can travel direct from Lusaka to the Copperbelt city of Ndola on scheduled Proflight services timed for smooth transfers with in-bound and out-bound Emirates flights in Lusaka.

“Our new partnership with Proflight Zambia opens up a wide range of Zambian destinations for Emirates customers, making exploring Zambia more easy and convenient than ever before. What’s more customers will enjoy even better value for money when they purchase their Emirates and Proflight Zambia flights together,” said Orhan Abbas, Emirates Senior Vice-President for Latin America, Central and Southern Africa.

“Emirates is one of the most admired airlines in the world, with an extensive global network. This agreement will undoubtedly provide new travel opportunities for their customers, as well as put Proflight and Zambia firmly on the international aviation map,” said Captain Philip Lemba, Proflight Director of Government and Industry Affairs.

Under the new agreement, customers will be able to purchase joint Emirates-Proflight Zambia itineraries and will be issued with a single combined ticket. This will enable seamless connections to and from Proflight’s eight domestic destinations: Ndola, Livingstone, Mfuwe, Solwezi, Lower Zambezi, Chipata, Mansa, Kasama and Mongu, as well as the local airline’s two international routes, Lilongwe in Malawi and Dar-es-Salaam in Tanzania, with Emirates’ daily Lusaka service.

Customers will also enjoy a range of added benefits, including special fares to domestic destinations and the same baggage allowance for Proflight customers connecting from Emirates flights.

EK 713 departs Dubai every day at 0925hrs, arriving in Lusaka at 1435hrs. The service departs Lusaka at 1605hrs, arriving in Harare at 1710hrs. The return flight leaves Harare at 1850hrs, arriving Lusaka at 1955hrs. It departs Lusaka at 2140hrs and lands in Dubai at 0650hrs the next day.

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Proflight Zambia

Minister gives green light for Kangaluwi Copper Project in Lower Zambezi National Park

Minister gives green light for Kangaluwi Copper Project in Lower Zambezi National Park

Zambezi Resources Ltd announced recently that Lands, Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Minister Larry Kalaba has overturned the Zambia Environmental Management Agency’s rejection of its Environmental Impact Study and given the green light for Zambezi Resources Ltd to proceed with the Kangaluwi Copper Project in the Lower Zambezi National Park, Zambia. The Park was being considered as a potential World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

In a letter dated January 17, 2014, addressed to Mwembeshi Resources Managing Director, Kalaba stated that he had carefully considered the submitted grounds of appeal against ZEMA's rejection.

"I have also carefully considered each and every ground of rejection given by the ZEMA board. In exercise of powers conferred on me by section 115 subsections 1, 2 and 3 of the environmental management Act, I have decided to approve the project on the following grounds," Kalaba stated. "Firstly, the project should go ahead because it will eventually create employment for ordinary people in the area. Secondly, there are currently available cost-effective technologies and methods to adequately address all the identified negative impacts that may arise from this project and lastly, wildlife management in the area will be enhanced and conserved by the proposed managed scheme contained in your submissions. By copy of this letter...liaise with ZEMA for them to issue a decision letter with all the appropriate conditions under which the project will operate."

Zambezi Resources Chairman, Mr David Vilensky welcomed the Zambian Government’s decision, complimenting the Zambian Government in allowing the Kangaluwi Copper Project to proceed within the National Park as part of its revised Mineral Resources Development Policy which seeks to strike a fair balance between the benefits of mining and the protection of the environment and wildlife conservation, provided its policies and laws are respected and adhered to and such investments will create employment opportunities for ordinary Zambians.

However in 2008, Chieftainess Chiawa (Chiawa/Kafue) Chiefs Chipepo, Simamba, Sinadambwe (of Siavonga district), and Chiefs Mupuka and Mburuma (Luangwa) had met and issued an historic statement against mining covering 18 chiefdoms.

More on this issue from the Zambezi Traveller
A conflict of interests? (June 2013)
Mining in National Park thrown out (Dec 2012)

Sources:
The Lusaka Times - Lands minister overturns Zambia Enviroment Management agency ruling and allows mining in Lower Zambezi National Park (22 Jan 2014).
The Lusaka Times - Lower Zambezi National park was due to be declared World Heritage site (23 Jan 2014).
The Zambian Post - Kalaba approves mining project in Lower Zambezi Park (23 Jan 2014).

Recent Updates:
The Zambian Post - Govt approval of Lower Zambezi mining project treacherous (26 Jan 2014)
The Zambian Post - Ngoma backs Lower Zambezi mining (28 Jan 2014)
The Lusaka Times - Injunction against Mining in Lower Zambezi successfully lodged at the High Court (03 Feb 2014)
The Lusaka Times - Zambezi Resources promises to build the cleanest, greenest and safest copper mine ever built in the Lower Zambezi (03 Feb 2014)

David Livingstone Safari Lodge & Spa wins top award

THE DAVID LIVINGSTONE SAFARI LODGE & SPA WINS TOP HOTEL & SPA AWARDS

The David Livingstone Safari Lodge & Spa, Livingstone Zambia scooped two prestigious awards for 2013, the most recent being the World Luxury Hotel and Spa Awards held on 1 November 2013 at an exclusive red carpet event in Phuket, Thailand.

Named the Global Winner of the Best Luxury Lodge category and the Best Luxury Safari Spa in Zambia, David Livingstone Safari Lodge & Spa, is also a previous award winner having taken awards in 2010 and 2012 as well.

The World Luxury Hotel and Spa Awards are accepted as the pinnacle of achievement for Luxury Hotels & Spa’s internationally. Established as a celebration of ultimate achievement in service excellence, the highly sought after awards reward and congratulate hotels and spas that have achieved excellence.

The exclusive event was attended by some of the world’s top hoteliers and leading decision-makers and included a 6 course gala dinner followed by top entertainment and presentation of the coveted awards.

David Livingstone Safari Lodge Operations Manager, Keith Rissik was present at the event to receive the award for World’s Best Luxury Lodge. Elated with the announcement, Rissik attributed the lodge’s success to its world class standards and guest relations. “The team at David Livingstone Safari Lodge & Spa is honoured to have been recognized internationally with this award,” he said. “We endeavor to not only maintain the standards, but to exceed our guests’ expectations in the years to come.”

The safari-styled, five -star Lodge & Spa is situated 5km from Zambia’s tourist hub, Livingstone, and 8km from the splendid Victoria Falls, known as the Smoke that Thunders. With 72 tastefully decorated en-suite luxury rooms and five executive suites, The David Livingstone Safari Lodge & Spa boasts some of the most spectacular views of the Zambezi from the private balconies.

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David Livingstone Safari Lodge & Spa

Proflight Zambia launches Mongu route

PROFLIGHT ZAMBIA LAUNCHES MONGU ROUTE

Mongu last week becomes the tenth domestic destination in Proflight Zambia’s expanding schedule of national and international routes.

The service, which was launched today (Wednesday, November 27), is the first new local route for the airline since commencing Mansa and Kasama routes more than two years ago, and means that passengers can now fly to the capitals of all the provinces in Zambia that have designated airports.

“The addition of Mongu to Proflight Zambia’s schedule is long overdue and has been received enthusiastically by travellers,” said Proflight Director of Government and Industry Affairs Capt. Philip Lemba. “We can now say that we cover the length and breadth of the country.”

Dignitaries accompanying Capt. Lemba on the inaugural flight included Mongu Central Member of Parliament and North-Western Province Minister Hon. Nathaniel Mubukwanu, Yichidi Ndhlovu from the Department of Civil Aviation, Western Province Permanent Secretary Amos Malupenga and Zambia Tourism Board Publicity Co-ordinator Caristo Chitamfya.

Proflight’s twice-a-week service from Lusaka to Mongu will run on Wednesdays and Thursdays, leaving Lusaka at 07:45 on Wednesdays and arriving in Mongu at 10:05, before returning at 10:25 and arriving back in Lusaka at 12:45 on the same day. On Thursdays the flight leaves Lusaka at 12:35 and arrives in Mongu at 14:55, returning at 15:15 and touching down in Lusaka at 15:35.

The schedule is designed to fit with both business and leisure itineraries, enabling travellers to spend either a day or a week in Western Province, or indeed for Mongu travellers to travel elsewhere for similar periods.

The service will be operated using a 12-seater Cessna Grand Caravan aircraft. Return fares from Lusaka to Mongu start from around K3,502 including taxes.

Mongu is the capital of Western Province and gateway to the famous Kuomboka traditional ceremony on the Zambezi River floodplains, as well as the renowned annual wildebeest migration on the Liuwa Plains.

Proflight also flies to nine other domestic destinations within Zambia: Lusaka, Livingstone, Mfuwe, Lower Zambezi, Ndola, Solwezi, Chipata, Mansa and Kasama, as well as to Lilongwe in Malawi and Dar-es-Salaam in Tanzania.

The airline is now considering services to Harare, Tete and Johannesburg, subject to regulatory approval.

Proflight Zambia celebrates 22 years of operation this year and prides itself in providing a safe, reliable, efficient and friendly service.

About Proflight Zambia

Proflight Zambia was established in 1991 and is Zambia’s only scheduled airline. From its base in Lusaka it flies to Livingstone, Mfuwe, Lower Zambezi, Ndola, Solwezi, Chipata, Mansa, Kasama and Mongu, and to Lilongwe in Malawi and Dar-es-Salaam in Tanzania.

The airline prides itself in providing a safe, reliable, efficient and friendly service, and offering good value to business and leisure travellers locally and internationally.

The airline operates three 29-seater Jetstream 41 aircraft; four 18-seater Jetstream 32; and two 12-seater Cessna Caravan C208 aircraft.

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Proflight Zambia

Protea Livingstone hosts 'fatkidonabike'

Protea Hotel Livingstone recently supported Ron Rutland on his epic journey from Cape Town to London on a bike.

His incredible journey named Lettie’s ride – is a tale of a proud South African’s 27 month, 43,000km bicycle expedition through every country on mainland Africa, and onto the 2015 Rugby World Cup in London – celebrating health, vitality, mobility, adventure, life and the #HumanSpirit.

Ron is an inspiration to us all and we wish him the very best on his adventure through Africa.

Website:
www.fatkidonabike.com

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Protea Hotel Livingstone