Frequently Asked Questions

This is a compilation of questions most frequently asked by travellers coming to Zambia.

Q: When is the best time to visit the Luangwa Valley on safari?

A: There simply is no one answer; there are different aspects to every month of the year. The green season in Zambia (December to April) is undoubtedly the most spectacular time for birdwatching, with all the migrants arriving to breed and displaying their bright plumage and intricate song. From late January to late March there is sufficient water in the rivers and tributories to make full use of the boats for transportation, game-viewing and bird-watching.

The month of May is the busiest month for wildlife in the Luangwa Valley as it is the impala's rutting season. The bush is now full of the snorts and grunts of male impala that busy themselves either seeing off the competition or trying to impress the females.

June and July are the coolest months and long sleeves and a warming fire at camp are the norm for early mornings and evenings. As the bush dries rapidly, stark changes take place. The lagoons, already separate from the river in most cases, slowly dry up and disappear. Large herds of buffalo, elephant and other animals gather at the river's edge to take advantage of the permanent supply of water and one gets the feeling that everything is leading inexorably towards the onset of the rains once more. By September and into November when the rains will recommence, the heat is building and the pools at Kapani and Mchenja are very welcome for a cooling dip and daytime relaxation. This is the time of year when many young are born, delighting visitors to the Valley.

Walking safaris are normally organised for the dry season, from April to November, when the bushcamps are accessible.

Q: How safe is Zambia?

A: Zambia is relatively speaking one of the safest countries in Southern Africa and much more stable and quiet than neighbouring Zimbabwe. We have believed for some time that Zambia is becoming better known as a quality safari destination. This creates more publicity and ultimately more visitors, a trend that we sincerely hope will continue.

Q: What do your camp names mean?

A: KAPANI means "Place of the Mopane Trees".
LUWI is the name of the tributary river on which the camp is set.
NSOLO is the local name for the honey-guide bird. (It was also the nickname of an infamous poacher who was captured many years ago, very close to where the camp stands now. This fact was only established several years after the camp was sited and named!).
KAKULI is the term referring to an old male buffalo that has left the main herd. (This was one of Norman Carr's traditional nicknames).
MCHENJA is the local name for the ebony tree and the camp is sited under a beautiful grove of ebony trees.
 

Q: What kind of animals can I expect to see in the Luangwa Valley?

A: The Luangwa Valley is one of the best places in Africa to see leopard, as well as the unique Thornicroft's giraffe and Cookson's wildebeest. There are big herds of elephant and buffalo and in the rivers and ox-bow lagoons, huge pods of hippos as well as crocodiles can be seen. There are numerous prides of lions, and many other animal species such as zebra, warthog, monkeys, baboons and numerous species of antelope graze freely.

The Luangwa Valley is also an excellent birdwatching destination, with more than 400 species having been recorded here.

• Wildlife in the Luangwa Valley

Q: How fit must I be to go on a walking safari?

A: A walking safari is designed around those taking part but it is not meant to be physically demanding. You typically meander through the bush at a leisurely pace with lots of stopping to discuss your surroundings. Anyone of average fitness can enjoy a walking safari.

Q: What must I bring when coming on safari?

A: Preparation and packing for any holiday is important but never more so than when you visit remote areas in a country like Zambia. Once on safari you will find it very hard to pick up that odd item you thought your partner had packed! What follows is by no means an exhaustive list but is designed to point you in the right direction.

• Clothes: All our camps have a daily laundry service, so don't bring too many. Try to make your clothes khaki or neutral in colour. (Dark colours stand out less in the bush than light ones). Loose clothes are preferable and a sweater or light jacket is useful at most times of the year. If travelling in June or July a warm jacket will be necessary. Bring your swimsuit to make use of the pools at Kapani and Mchenja.

• Sandals or open shoes are useful but bring a comfortable covered pair for walking in. On walking safaris, comfort is more important than 'big and sturdy' so trainers are ideal.

• A hat, sunglasses, high strength sun block, moisturiser, lip salve, and insect repellent should be carried.

• Binoculars

• 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 a good zoom is always useful. If using 35mm then some fast film for night time shots and LOTS of extra films. If using digital then extra memory sticks although we will be happy to help you download and store your shots. If using video then bring spare batteries although charging facilities are available in all our camps.

• Money: No money will be needed whilst on safari although most guests like to leave staff gratuities at the end of their stay - this can be in any currency. US Dollars are best for paying visas and departure taxes at airports although local currency and Sterling are also accepted. Be sure to bring US$ notes with "large heads" - the old series with small heads are not accepted anywhere in Zambia.

• A torch can be useful when staying at bush camps.

Q: How do I book a trip with Norman Carr Safaris?

A: Please contact us to help you plan your holiday and to aid you with all your Zambian arrangements. Alternatively we would be very happy to recommend a reputable safari operator close to where you live. A list of some recommended agents can be found here.

Q: What power sources will I find in camp?

A: Zambia runs on 220 - 240 volts using British style square pin plugs. Kapani Lodge is on mains electricity. Our bushcamps run on solar power but we have inverters so limited 240 volt power can be provided for guests.