Walking in the bush heightens your every sense to the sights and sounds of the wild. This is not a hike, you cover between 6-12 km per day, with plenty of time to stop and observe. If you enjoy the bush experience and the pleasures of a rustic bush camp, Zambia’s walking safaris are probably the best in Africa.
This is Africa at its rawest. No vehicle, you head out on foot like explorers, looking for the sights and sounds from the bush. The alarm calls of a troupe of baboons may indicate a predator nearby, circling vultures may indicate a kill, or a pall of dust will indicate a herd of buffalo.
The guides in Zambia receive the highest possible training. Supported by the Zambian Wildlife Authority, they undergo rigorous tests in order to qualify, first as a driving guide and then as a walking – or Grade 1 – guide.
Encountering game on foot is exhilarating! The animals will recognise you for what you are – human – and will keep their distance. Your senses will become more attuned – every noise that you hear will either be you…or wildlife. You will learn the different scents of the bush – the musky scent of lions; the earthy, rich smell of elephant; the sharp, spicy scent of the wild herbs; or the sweet, delicate perfume of wild jasmine. It’s an experience which will stay with you, and make you want to return again and again.
There are several operators in Zambia which offer superb walking safaris – and we have visited each one of them. Where you will walk, we have walked, where you will sleep, we have slept, what you will experience, we have experienced. Let us talk you through your options and put together a superb walking safari.
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