The Lifeblood of Africa's Heart
From Lusaka we fly into the Lower Zambezi, a safari region that rewards those who seek it out. The Zambezi River is central to everything here — it shapes the landscape, draws the wildlife and determines the rhythm of each day. Elephant gather at the water’s edge, hippos surface and sink, and the interplay between river and bush creates a safari that feels constantly alive. Game drives take us across floodplains and through woodland, while walking safaris offer a more intimate perspective: tracks, birdlife and the finer details of the ecosystem. Out on the water, we drift by boat or canoe past crocodile-lined banks as the light shifts overhead.
South Luangwa arrives next, and with it a change in character. We base ourselves first at Flatdogs Camp on the Luangwa River, spending a full day with the artisans and makers of the valley — Mulberry Mongoose, Mwezi Blu and Tribal Textiles — enterprises that blend conservation, craft and community in genuinely compelling ways. We then move deeper into the park to Lion Camp, a more remote and traditionally structured safari experience. South Luangwa’s guiding is among the finest in Africa, and its game densities match that reputation: lion, leopard, wild dog, large elephant herds and the endemic Thornicroft’s giraffe all make regular appearances.
The final chapter unfolds on Likoma Island, a small volcanic island rising from the waters of Lake Malawi. Kaya Mawa occupies one of its most beautiful shores, and the transition from bush to water is immediate and welcome. Days here are ours to shape — swimming, kayaking, exploring the island’s quiet corners or doing very little at all. A visit to the Katundu Workshop, a women-led initiative supported by the Green Safaris Conservation Foundation, offers one last moment of connection before we depart.
You will love
- Big wildlife across two iconic parks
- Walking safaris with expert guides
- Land and water game viewing on the Zambezi
- Community and craft encounters in South Luangwa
- A heartfelt visit to the Chikumbuso Women’s Project
- Island tranquillity on the shores of Lake Malawi
- Your host, Sarah Hoyland, and a small group of likeminded ladies.
17 DAYS OF REMOTE SERENITY
DAY 1 | THU 13 MAY | LUSAKA, ZAMBIA | 2 NIGHTS
We arrive into Lusaka this evening, met at the aircraft and assisted through formalities before a private transfer to Latitude 15º. Tucked away in a quiet residential pocket of the city, this design-led boutique hotel offers a calm and considered introduction to Zambia. Given our late arrival, the evening is intentionally gentle — time for a light supper, a quiet drink or simply a cup of tea before bed, allowing us to settle in and prepare for the journey ahead.
Accommodation: Latitude 15º
DAY 2 | FRI 14 MAY | LUSAKA
Today offers a meaningful and grounding start to our journey with a visit to the Chikumbuso Women & Orphans Project, set within Lusaka’s Ng’ombe community. This grassroots initiative supports women and children through education, skills training and small-scale enterprise, creating genuine pathways to long-term resilience. Our time here is personal and unfiltered — an opportunity to connect, listen and gain insight into daily life beyond the safari experience. Returning to Latitude 15º in the afternoon, the remainder of the day is at leisure: time to pause, reflect and settle in before heading into Zambia’s wild spaces.
DAY 3 | SAT 15 MAY | LOWER ZAMBEZI NATIONAL PARK | 3 NIGHTS
This morning we transfer to the airport for our scheduled charter flight into the Lower Zambezi — one of Africa’s most scenic and least-visited safari regions. On arrival, we transfer to Royal Zambezi Lodge, set along the banks of the Zambezi River with sweeping views across to Zimbabwe’s escarpment. The afternoon is ours to settle in and begin to absorb the setting. Depending on arrival time, we may venture out for a gentle first look at the area, easing into the rhythm of safari life where the river plays a central role.
Accommodation: Royal Zambezi Lodge
DAYS 4-6 | SUN-TUE 16-18 MAY | LOWER ZAMBEZI NATIONAL PARK
The days here are defined by variety and flexibility. Morning and afternoon game drives take us across floodplains and through the mopane woodland, where elephant, buffalo, lion and occasional leopard move through the landscape with an ease that speaks to the park’s relatively undisturbed nature. Walking safaris offer a more immersive perspective — a focus on tracks, birdlife and the smaller details often missed from a vehicle. Out on the river, we explore by boat or canoe, drifting quietly past hippo and crocodile as birdlife moves overhead.
The combination of land and water creates a dynamic and constantly shifting safari experience. Elephant frequently gather at the water’s edge, and the interplay between river and bush ensures there is always something to watch, however long we sit. We can tailor the pace of each day to the mood of the group — early mornings for peak wildlife activity, quiet afternoons for rest, the river always there to draw us back out before the light fades.
DAY 7 | WED 19 MAY | SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK | 2 NIGHTS
Today we travel by charter via Lusaka to Mfuwe, the gateway to South Luangwa National Park. On arrival, we transfer to Flatdogs Camp, set along the Luangwa River in a location where wildlife is often visible from camp itself. The afternoon is relaxed — time to settle into our tents, watch the riverfront come to life in the soft evening light and let the sounds of the bush begin to build around us.
Accommodation: Flatdogs Camp
DAY 8 | THU 20 MAY | SOUTH LUANGWA - COMMUNITY & CRAFT DAY
Today we take a deliberate step away from wildlife to focus on the people and creative enterprises that shape this valley. We visit Mulberry Mongoose, Mwezi Blu and Tribal Textiles — locally driven businesses that blend conservation, craftsmanship and design in thoughtful and distinctive ways. From jewellery crafted using reclaimed snare wire to hand-painted textiles and contemporary homewares rooted in local tradition, each stop tells a different story. It is an engaging and layered day that brings real depth to our time in the Luangwa Valley.
DAY 9 | FRI 21 MAY | SOUTH LUANGWA - LION CAMP | 4 NIGHTS
A short transfer takes us deeper into the park to Lion Camp, located in a remote and wildlife-rich corner of South Luangwa. The setting is more traditional in feel — a bush camp in the truest sense, with the wilderness pressing in on all sides. This afternoon we head out for our first drive from here, beginning to explore an area known for its strong predator presence and varied habitats.
Accommodation: Lion Camp
DAYS 10-12 | SAT-MON 22-24 MAY | SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK
South Luangwa is widely regarded as one of Africa’s finest wildlife destinations, known as much for the quality of its guiding as for the density of its game. Over the course of our days here, we explore its varied habitats in detail — oxbow lagoons, mopane woodland, floodplain grassland and dense riverine forest each holding different species and different stories. Lion, leopard and wild dog are all present and regularly encountered, while large elephant herds move through the valley with a quiet authority. The endemic Thornicroft’s giraffe, found nowhere else on earth, is a particular highlight.
We may choose to join a walking safari, guided by experienced trackers who read the land with a familiarity that transforms even a short walk into something revelatory. Time in camp between activities invites rest and reflection — the kind of stillness that only comes when you are truly in the wild. Our final full day offers flexibility: a chance to revisit an area that has delivered memorable sightings, or simply to sit with the landscape and take it all in.
DAY 13 | TUE 25 MAY | LIKOMA ISLAND, LAKE MALAWI | 4 NIGHTS
Today marks a clear shift in both landscape and pace as we fly to Likoma Island in Lake Malawi. On arrival, we are transferred to Kaya Mawa, a beautifully positioned lodge on the lake’s edge. The transition from safari to water is immediate — open horizons, clear water and a slower, more reflective rhythm replace the intensity of the bush. We settle in and let the stillness do its work.
Accommodation: Kaya Mawa
DAY 14 | WED 26 MAY | LIKOMA ISLAND
Our final days are entirely at leisure, shaped by mood and inclination. Today is a day of relaxation, washing away the dust of safari and embracing lakeside serenity. We may swim in the lake, explore by kayak, wander the island’s quiet paths or simply settle into a chair and watch the light move across the water. Likoma Island carries a gentle, unhurried atmosphere — a natural and welcome contrast to the structure and energy of safari life.
DAY 15 | THU 27 MAY | LIKOMA ISLAND — KATUNDU WORKSHOP VISIT
During our stay, we visit the Katundu Likoma Workshop, a women-led initiative supported by the Green Safaris Conservation Foundation. Here, locally sourced and recycled materials are transformed into handcrafted textiles and homewares, providing sustainable income and skills development for the local community. The visit is informal and genuinely moving — a direct and personal connection to the people behind the work, and a fitting conclusion to a journey that has placed community at its heart.
DAY 16 | FRI 28 MAY | LIKOMA ISLAND
Our final full day on the island is left entirely open, shaped by nothing more than inclination and the pull of the lake. Kaya Mawa takes its name from the Chichewa word for ‘maybe tomorrow’ — a philosophy that pervades the place completely — and today we lean into it fully. The morning might begin with a slow walk along the beach as the light comes up over the water, or a snorkel from the lodge’s shore among the extraordinary diversity of cichlid fish that animate the shallows.
Those with more energy can take to kayaks or paddleboards, explore the island’s bays and coves by sailing boat, or head out on electric mountain bikes along the dusty island tracks, winding past fishing villages and enormous baobab trees that have stood here for centuries. For those who prefer to do very little at all, a chair and a view are easily arranged.
As the afternoon softens, we make our way to one of the lodge’s hidden lookout spots — a perch above the bay where the sun drops towards the lake and the water turns gold — sundowner in hand, the bush a fading memory, the stillness of Malawi complete around us.
DAY 17 | SAT 29 MAY | LIKOMA ISLAND TO LILONGWE | DEPARTURE
We depart Likoma Island by charter flight to Lilongwe, connecting onward to Johannesburg and our overnight flight home. The day is largely in transit, carrying with it the accumulated warmth of two remarkable countries — the wildlife, the rivers, the people and the stillness of the lake.
FURTHER INFORMATION
To request the whole adventure brought to life in a vibrant, full-colour itinerary please click here
WHERE YOU’LL STAY
A selection of the finest safari camps
Latitude 15º – Lusaka
Set along the tree-lined avenues of Lusaka's south-east quarter, Latitude 15° pairs cosmopolitan design with an unmistakably African spirit. From the globally inspired kitchen and curated wine list to the plant-based spa and lively Other Side members' club, this is a city stay of genuine character.Read More
Royal Zambezi Lodge – Zambezi River
Royal Zambezi Lodge is a spacious but intimate privately owned lodge, situated in Zambia on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River just minutes from the Lower Zambezi National Park and directly opposite Zimbabwe’s famous Mana Pools World Heritage Site. Read More
Flatdogs Camp – South Luangwa
Flatdogs Camp is the closest camp to the main gate of South Luangwa National Park which reduces the logistical difficulties and costs associated with extreme remoteness. It therefore offers a fabulous but affordable safari experience in one of the richest wildlife areas in Africa. Read More
Lion Camp – South Luangwa National Park
In the remote northern reaches of Zambia's South Luangwa National Park, Lion Camp rises above the valley floor in treehouse fashion, commanding panoramic views across oxbow lagoons and game-rich grasslands. An unfenced camp where wildlife roams freely, it offers walking safaris, night drives, and specialist photography expeditions in one of Africa's most prolific wilderness areas.Read More
Kaya Mawa – Likoma Island, Lake Malawi
Sitting on Lake Malawi’s historic Likoma Island, Kaya Mawa was built entirely by hand in partnership with the local community. It consists of seven stone and teak framed cottages and each has a private terrace with direct access to the crystal clear waters. We love the easy simplicity and exclusivity of this beautiful barefoot escape. Read More
NEED TO KNOW
14 Days | 13 - 30 May 2027
14 Days
13 - 30 May 2027
Price on Application
Price on Application
START: LUSAKA, ZAMBIA | Finish: LILONGWE, MALAWI
HOSTED BY ‘JOURNEYS FOR WOMEN’ FOUNDER, SARAH HOYLAND
HIGHLIGHTS OF OUR JOURNEY
- Arrive in Lusaka & connect with the Chikumbuso Women & Orphans Project
- Fly into the Lower Zambezi — one of Africa’s least-visited safari regions
- Game drive across floodplains where elephant, buffalo & lion roam freely
- Drift by canoe past hippo & crocodile on the mighty Zambezi River
- Walk the bush with expert guides on immersive guided walking safaris
- Explore the Luangwa Valley’s vibrant community of makers & artisans
- Visit Mulberry Mongoose, Mwezi Blu & Tribal Textiles in South Luangwa
- Track lion, leopard & wild dog through one of Africa’s finest wildlife parks
- Encounter the endemic Thornicroft’s giraffe, found nowhere else on earth
- Stay in carefully selected camps known for their guiding, location & soul
- Fly by light aircraft between remote wilderness areas throughout
- Cross into Malawi for a tranquil finale on the shores of Lake Malawi
- Snorkel, kayak & sail on the crystal-clear waters of Lake Malawi
- Visit the Katundu Workshop — a women-led community enterprise on Likoma Island
- Watch the sun set over the lake from Kaya Mawa’s secret hilltop lookout
- Stay in stylish eco-lodges & camps throughout
- Travel with a small group of like-minded women
- Hosted by Sarah Hoyland, Founder of Journeys for Women
- Create a lifetime of memories on this extraordinary journey!
Inclusions
- Hosted ex Lusaka by Sarah Hoyland, Founder of Journeys for Women
- Meet-&-greet and VIP arrival assistance in Lusaka
- All internal scheduled & charter flights within Zambia & Malawi
- All private transfers throughout
- 2 nights at Latitude 15º, Lusaka (Bed & Breakfast)
- 4 nights at Royal Zambezi Lodge, Lower Zambezi (All Inclusive: all meals, local drinks & safari activities)
- 2 nights at Flatdogs Camp, South Luangwa (All Inclusive: all meals, local drinks & activities)
- 4 nights at Lion Camp, South Luangwa (All Inclusive: all meals, local drinks & safari activities)
- 4 nights at Kaya Mawa, Likoma Island (All Inclusive: all meals, local drinks & selected activities)
- Morning & afternoon game drives in Lower Zambezi & South Luangwa
- Guided walking safaris (subject to conditions & guide availability)
- River activities including boating & canoeing in the Lower Zambezi
- Visit to Chikumbuso Women & Orphans Project, Lusaka
- Community & craft visits in South Luangwa: Mulberry Mongoose, Mwezi Blu & Tribal Textiles
- Visit to the Katundu Workshop, Likoma Island
- All park fees, conservation levies & government taxes
- Services of experienced local guides throughout
- And a few surprises along the way…
Exclusions
- International flights to Lusaka & from Lilongwe (or Johannesburg)
- Zambia and Malawi tourist visas
- Travel insurance & health-related costs (vaccinations, anti-malarials)
- Personal gratuities for guides & camp staff
- ‘Top shelf’ & premium spirits while on safari
- Additional meals & drinks outside of inclusions specified above
- Optional activities not included in the itinerary
- Laundry & personal purchases
- Any item not specified in the inclusions above
Minimum – 5 travellers
Maximum – 10 (including host)
FLIGHTS & AIRFARES
Airfares are not included in the tour cost to allow you the freedom to choose your preferred carrier, class of travel and/or to utilise frequent flyer points if you wish. Airfare quotes are available on request.
Terms and conditions apply – please click here for full details.
This tour departs with a minimum of 5 people and a maximum of 9 people (plus host).
If you wish to secure a twin share room as a solo traveller you are responsible for finding a ‘willing to share’ participant or the single room supplement will apply. From experience we do not pair travellers who do not know each other prior to departure.
The price is subject to change due to currency fluctuation and unforeseen changes beyond our control.
Due to situations beyond our control, we reserve the right to substitute any hotel or boat with another of comparable quality – this would be advised as soon as possible.
Any quoted airfares & taxes are subject to change at any time before, or at the time of, ticketing.
Zambia tourist visa required for Australian & New Zealand passport holders (available on arrival or online; approx. USD 50), and Malawi tourist visa also required (available on arrival; approx. USD 75). If you do not travel on an Australian or New Zealand passport please let us know.
By making any payment for this tour, and joining this tour, you acknowledge you have read and understood the content, pace and price of this tour and our Booking Terms & Conditions
Hosted by...
SARAH HOYLAND
Sarah is the Founder of our Journeys for Women collection and co-Director of The Classic Safari Company. Over the years she's travelled to all seven continents, visited over 63 countries, forged global lifelong friendships, and honed her haggling skills to perfection! In her own words, 'I am happiest when I am lost in a souk, on safari in Africa, travelling with my daughters or when I have the privilege of viewing wild and wonderful places afresh through the eyes of the ladies I host on our womens-only soirees!'.
The trip was superbly organised, the hotels brilliant and activities, informative and spectacular. This definitely won't be the last trip that I take.
KIThat was a spectacular holiday! I can't imagine how I'll answer if I am asked to pinpoint a standout experience - every day was an incredible experience never to be forgotten!
JKI'm still pinching myself a week after our return home as I remember our spectacular adventure. Thank you for an exceptional holiday!
MHThank your for the most fabulous holiday. I have not laughed that much in years! Exceptional arrangements from start to finish and a wonderful group of women - my new circle of friends & certainly my future travel companions!
DM
begin your journey now
Take advantage of our highly personalised advice, inspiration and experience