Flying Foxes and Homecoming Elephants

Flying Foxes and Homecoming Elephants

A Zambian Safari in November

Featuring…The World’s Largest Mammal Migration
From $7,500 per person, based on share in double or twin accommodations
All-inclusive (accommodations, transportation within Zambia, breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, local drinks from the bar, game drives, guided tours, park fees and more)
Limited to SIX persons only– so don’t delay, book today!

Once a year, deep in the forests of Central Africa, giant fruit bats with three foot wingspans, converge in one place. They come in their millions to feed on the fruit trees of the Kasanka National Park in northern Zambia. They are so big they are called “flying foxes.”

CONTACT TO BOOK

Toll free: 877.422.1350
Direct: 949-873-6278

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At the same time of year, the elephants of Mfuwe return to the lodge for the very same reason, to feed on the succulent fruit trees around the lodge. The matriarch of this particular family of elephants, now known as Wonky Tusk, has been bringing her family to the lodge for over 20 years. Her children, including Wellington, feel at ease when visiting the lodge. So much so that they enter the lodge in the same way as other visitors, through the main lobby!

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And one other visitor arrives in Northern Zambia during this time of the year.  The African pitta is a radiantly colored bird, also known as the Jewel Thrush, or the Jewel of the Forest.

This unique safari takes you to see these three iconic world events, along with a chance to experience another of Zambia’s special offerings, the walking safari. Pioneered in Zambia, the walking safari allows a party of six, each day, to walk under the guidance of a professional safari guide. This is not a strenuous hike, but a leisurely walk amongst the wildlife of the Luangwa National Park.   Imagine walking in the shoes of early explorers like David Livingstone and more recently Teddy Roosevelt on their visits to Africa.

Don’t miss this chance to experience, on one safari, these four very special and world renowned events. Only six places are reserved on this safari.  Make your reservation today so not to be disappointed.

Jim Holden, whose family has lived in Africa for four generations, is leading this safari back to his homeland.  Able to converse in the local language, join Jim to experience an extra dimension to this very special safari, by getting an in-depth perspective of life in Zambia.


CALL HOLDEN SAFARIS or YOUR TRAVEL PROFESSIONAL

Toll free:  877-422-1350
Direct: 949-873-6278

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ITINERARY

 

Day 1: ARRIVAL

At Lusaka International Airport you will be met by a representative from Tours Africa who will assist you with luggage and check-in for your private charter flight to Kasanka (Mulembo airstrip). Upon arrival at Mulembo a representative from Wasa Lodge will meet and transfer you to the Lodge approximately five minutes away.

Tonight you will have the opportunity to visit the bats of Kasanka. The bats leave their roost in the evening and return early in the morning allowing for some stunning views of a blackened sky with either the sun-set or the sun-rise as a back-drop. There are several tree-top hides set up around the edges of this patch of forest enabling you to get up close to this incredible spectacle. You are there during the full moon. A photographers dream!

Accommodations: Wasa Lodge
Meals: Dinner

Kasanka Bats

Day 2: KASANKA NATIONAL PARK

View the world’s largest mammal migration, where millions of bats with three foot wingspans, come to feed on the fruit trees at Kasanka. The lodge is also home to the elusive Sitatunga antelope, seldom seen due to its adaptation to spending most of its time in water. Kasanka offers a unique opportunity to observe these animals in their natural habitat.

Accommodations: Wasa Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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Day 3: KASANKA NATIONAL PARK

Visit the memorial to Dr David Livingstone, explorer and missionary, whose life ended at nearby Chief Chitambo’s village in his quest to find the source of the Nile. Hear the story of Livingstone’s faithful servants, Susi and Chuma, who embalmed his body and carried it over 1000 miles on foot to Zanzibar to be carried on by ship to England. Livingstone was given a hero’s burial in Westminster Cathedral in London, admired throughout the British Empire for his devotion to bringing Christianity and commerce to Africa.

Accommodations:  Wasa Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK

This morning, take a Charter flight to the neighboring Luangwa National Park to Zungulila Bushcamp. Here you will experience one of Zambia’s unique wildlife walks in the care of a professional safari guide. These walks were pioneered in Zambia allowing only six safari goers to accompany each guide. On a safari walk, all of one’s five senses come alive! As they say at Mfuwe, “From a vehicle you see Africa. On foot you feel, hear and smell Africa.” You could add touch and taste as your guide draws your attention to everything around you, including the trees and vegetation, as well as the wildlife, both big and small.

Accommodations: Zungulila Bushcamp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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Day 5: SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK

The South Luangwa has earned a reputation as one of the best places to conduct walking safaris in all of Africa!  We venture out once more with our professional safari guide not knowing what adventures await us! Your visit to the South Luangwa in November has been timed in order to maximize your game-viewing opportunities.  It is unlikely that any rain will have fallen in the area for the past 6 months, the rivers and lagoons will be drying up and the animals will need to congregate close to whatever water they can find.  Not only does this make it easy to see the great diversity of fauna on offer in the Luangwa but it makes for slightly easier hunting for the large numbers of predators that call this Park their home.

Accommodations: Zungulila Bushcamp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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Day 6: SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK

Today a morning game drive takes you to the Mfuwe lodge, at the entrance to the Luangwa National Park. Here you will see the visiting wild elephants arriving to feed on the fruit of the Wild Mango Trees at the lodge. Wonky Tusk and her family will enthrall you with their antics, entering and leaving the lodge walking right through reception to reach the fruit of the trees. The regularity and reliability of this parade has meant that this particular family of elephants has become known the world over, documentary film-makers and regular guests alike are enthralled by their antics. We will have ample opportunity for close up photography.

Accommodations: Mfuwe Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Mfuwe Lodge

Day 7: SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK

In the morning take a game drive to view wildlife. It might be possible to spot Wonky Tusk and her family returning to the lodge for more of the fruit.  Venture out again in the afternoon by jeep.  With the help of the trained eye of your professional safari guide you might see wild dogs, once close to extinction but now happily becoming more common. Tonight enjoy a farewell dinner before you prepare to start your journey home the following day.
Accommodations: Mfuwe Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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Day 8: HOMEWARD BOUND

This morning after breakfast you will be transferred to the Mfuwe Airport to take a scheduled flight back to Lusaka where you will connect with your international flight home. Bid a fond farewell to the bats of Kisanka, Wonky tusk and her family and the African Pitta bird. And of course to your professional safari guide and all the wonderful Zambian safari team who took such good care of us.

Useful Information

Baggage Limitations

Most transfers between parks use light aircraft which results in a luggage restrictions.
 Domestic flights inter camp within Zambia are booked on light aircraft. Soft (duffle type) bags only
due to light aircraft luggage storage.
 Baggage allowance: checked baggage allowance of 12-15kg (33lbs) per person
 Hand baggage allowance 5kg (11lbs) – hand baggage is weighed.

Packing Tips

Clothing:
There will be opportunities to do laundry along the way and it is always easier in airports /airstrips and
in the camps to move a lighter bag. Please note that there may be an opportunity to store excess
luggage and we request that you please discuss this with us before you travel.

Travelers require only comfortable, casual clothes in neutral colors – beige/khaki. Evening dress is
casual. At times, the safari itinerary will take you to different places where the climate is variable, and
to ensure your comfort, pack clothing that you can layer when it’s chilly and peel off during the hottest
part of the day. A light weight wind /rainproof jacket is very useful and comfortable trail shoes or hiking
boots – preferably water-proof – are recommended when out in the bush.
Even though your travel time can be in the hottest months, it is advisable to include long pants and long
sleeve shirts to minimize the number of insect bites, sun exposure and scrapes and scratches during
bush walks, and of course a sunhat is a must.

Binoculars – an absolute must if on any type of safari. Many options are available but with this equipment invariably the more you spend the better you get.

Flashlight – Many camps have no mains power so night-time lighting may be by candle or hurricane lamp, a lot of camps will have torches by the bed but best to pack your own.

Glasses – if you wear prescription glasses bring a spare pair. If you wear contact lenses bring a pair of glasses as well since dust can be a problem.

Camera equipment – This is obviously very personal but zoom or telephoto lenses are useful. Cleaning equipment and a dust proof bag are also useful. Spare batteries and memory cards are very important.

Money

Zambia's currency is the Zambian Kwacha (ZMW). Approximately $ 1.00 UDS is equal to 9.90 Kwacha.
Major Credit Cards are widely accepted in Zambia. ATM’s are widespread in major towns. We
recommend some sort of back-up funds in case an ATM is out of service when you need it. It is suggested
to carry some US$ in cash, as it is possible to use US$ cash to buy things in many places; for tipping and
also to negotiate with locals while shopping. Carrying some local currency on your safari is also helpful for
small local purchases such as drinks at the airstrips.
The newest series of US currency and bills without any writing, markings or tears on the bills are accepted.
Be sure to bring notes of varying denominations since change is often a problem in Africa – the old series
notes are no longer accepted anywhere in Zambia.
Call your credit card company and your bank and advise them of your travel plans. Authorization usually
needs to be obtained for larger purchases and this is sometimes difficult. Visa is the easiest card to use,
followed by MasterCard and American Express.

 

Tipping

In most countries it is customary to tip as a way of expressing gratitude. Below is a general guideline, however this is just a guideline - tipping is at your discretion:

  • Porters US$ 1 per person per day.
  • Waiters US$ 2 per person per day
  • Driver guide US$ 8-10 per person per day

Normally the guide/ranger is tipped separately in order to show your appreciation.
At many camps there will be a tipping box at checkout or you can give to the manager to share with Camp
staff.

Health

You are strongly advised to consult your doctor prior to travel and get accurate and up-to-date advice on inoculation requirements, and anti-malarial precautions.

Anti-malaria precautions are highly recommended and Insect repellent is recommended for use in the evenings.

Yellow Fever Visitors arriving or planning to re-enter from countries where yellow fever is prevalent - Please ensure you carry your vaccination certificates.

Water: Do not drink or brush your teeth with tap water. Bottled mineral water is available at all hotels and lodges.   Drink plenty of water when staying outside in the sun, during the day.

Travel & Medical Insurance: We recommend that you travel with the necessary Insurance documents. In addition, Maniago has partnered with AMREF flying doctors and can offer emergency medical evacuation insurance to a hospital in Nairobi. (Insurance is for evacuation only)

The Sun: The African sun can be very strong and sunburn can occur through clouds and even a light T-shirt. A bad sunburn can spoil your safari so be sensible, use cream and wear a hat.

De-Hydration: in a mild form can be fairly common in the hotter months, it is not dangerous so long as you recognize the symptoms and react accordingly. The key is to keep body fluids up by drinking plenty of water. If nausea or vomiting result then medical attention should be sought It would be worth including a couple of packets of re-hydration salts in your holiday medical kit if you have such a thing.

Diarrhea: is a common problem when traveling anywhere in Africa. You should find that standards of hygiene in all the safari camps booked by Holden Safaris to be very high,  but it is not uncommon for individuals to react to a change in diet or water. The best bet is to be sensible about what you eat and drink and bring suitable medication just in case.

Visa Requirements

A passport and visa are required to enter Zambia. The passport must be valid for at least six months
after the intended date of departure from Zambia and at least two blank visa pages are required - if
transiting South Africa, an additional blank visa page is required for each entry.
All foreign nationals who require a visa can apply online via the e-Visa facility
https://evisa.zambiaimmigration.gov.zm/# e-Visa processing should take between 3 and 5 working
days) or alternatively visa are available at major ports of entry. A single-entry visa fee is $50 and is valid
for ninety days.
As of December 2016, the KAZA joint visa for Zambia and Zimbabwe is available at all major ports of
entry into Zambia and Zimbabwe. You do NOT have to by a UniVisa and can purchase normal single and
double entry visas if they suit you better

 

Once the application is in process, the e-Visa application fees are non-refundable.

AVAILABILITY
Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula International Airport – Livingstone: Victoria Falls Land Border - Livingstone
Kazungula Land Border (border with Botswana) : Kenneth Kaunda International Airport -Lusaka
Victoria Falls International Airport: Victoria Falls Land Border
Kazungula Land Border (border with Botswana):Harare International Airport
Electronic applications may be accepted at a later date.
30 DAY UniVISA
The Visa lasts for 30 days as long as you remain within Zambia and Zimbabwe. It also covers those who
visit Botswana for day-trips through the Kazungula borders.
ELIGIBILITY
Citizens who are eligible to receive Visas on Arrival in both Zambia and Zimbabwe
If your passport is lost or stolen while you are in Zambia, visit the Zambian Department of Immigration
office to apply for a replacement entry permit before attempting to depart the country.
Alternatively contact US Embassy Lusaka:
+260 211 255282 (Public Relations Office)
+260 211 252622(Customer Service Center)

Electricity

Electric Power is 220V - 240V running at 50Hz.
The Plug type used in Zambia is: "Type C, D & G"

PLEASE NOTE: Some camps have limited or no electricity. Candles and hurricane lamps may be provided.

Security

Zambia is no different from any other destination in the world. Common sense should prevail and
precautions should be taken as in any major city. Use hotel and lodge safety deposit boxes where
possible. If walking in towns or cities only carry small amounts of cash and do not wear obvious jewelry
or display expensive possessions.
Do not buy counterfeit and pirated goods, even if they are widely available. Not only are the bootlegs
illegal in the United States, if you purchase them you may also be breaking local law.
If you become the victim of a crime, you should contact the local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy or
Consulate.
NOTE: Smart Traveler Enrollment Programe is a free service to allow US citizens and nationals traveling
abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest US Embassy or Consulate. This provides you access to
important information from the Embassy about safety conditions in your destination country, helping
you make informed decisions about your travel plans. Help the US Embassy contact you in an emergency
whether natural disaster, civil unrest or family emergency. https://step.state.gov/

IMPORTANT NOTE
Africa’s wild animals are unpredictable and potentially dangerous. Photographic safari activities and staying in any safari camp, places visitors in close proximity to wild animals. Thus, there exists an inherent risk to those persons wishing to undertake these activities. Whilst every care is taken by sub-contracted camps and operators and their personnel to minimize exposure to risk, Holden Safaris  together with sub-contracted tour operators bear no responsibility whatsoever for any loss, injury, illness, death, delays, cancellation of flights or change of itinerary and retain the right to alter, amend or cancel any part of a safari with just reason. Full medical, property and travel cancellation insurance is strongly advised. All guests are advised to insure fully prior to travel.