General Visitors Guide to Zambia.
North Luangwa - The North Luangwa / Buffalo camp season begins in early June, however this poses more of a challenge as the grass is still tall and the game is more dispersed, though the bird life is abundant. The evenings are cool and warm clothing is essential. Through August and September the wildlife concentrates along the Mwaleshi river, making spectacular game viewing a certainty. By this time of year temperatures have risen to 'comfortably warm'. By October the wildlife around Buffalo camp and along the Mwaleshi river is at its best. An abundance of wildlife and bird life makes for unbelievable sightings. BUT... The temperatures soar into the mid forties (40 degrees centigrade) Normally at this time of year, the Mwaleshi river has dropped to its lowest and is safe to wade and swim in. Kapishya Hot Springs - Kapishya Hot springs is accessible all year round and is of a moderate climate during January to the beginning of May, but be cautious to bring raincoats and weatherproof tents (if you decide to camp) and a four wheel drive vehicle is also recommended. From June to July the evening temperatures drop dramatically and warm clothing is a must. From August to December the temperature is pleasant but a few warm things wouldn't go amiss.
North Luangwa - There are a number of ways to getting in to North Luangwa, there is the main gate on the Western side of the park at Mano Park Headquarters. This is 42 kilometres from the Great north road. The turn off is roughly 60 kilometres from Mpika and 26 kilometres from the Shiwa Ng'andu Estate turn off. There is another two entrances on the eastern boundary of the park. The Northernmost entry on the eastern side is serviced by a pontoon for early season crossing of the Luangwa river. This is for people travelling to or coming from South Luangwa National Park. Please be sure to check Google earth as maps are available with GPS coordinates and waypoint markers. However, the quickest way to get to North Luangwa is by chartering a light aircraft from Lusaka or Mfuwe. (see links on contact details page) Kapishya Hot Springs - The hot springs are approximately 9 hours drive from Lusaka along the Great North Road. It is advisable to fill up with fuel at any fuel station you pass as fuel is NOT always available! The great North road is in reasonably good condition but there are numerous police and immigration checkpoints so please make sure you have all the correct documentation such as passports and visas. It is also possible to fly into the airstrip at Shiwa Ng'andu which is 19 kilometres from the lodge. GPS coordinates are available on request should you wish to self fly.
This is a general guide as to what to bring with you when you come out to deepest darkest Africa. Warm clothes, a torch with some spare batteries, a wide brimmed sun hat, swimming costumes (towels are provided), binoculars, mosquito repellent, high factor sun cream (SPF 30+) and a camera battery charger that will run off a 12 volt power supply such as a car power point. Although the North Luangwa and Kapishya Hot Springs lodge are not a high risk malaria areas we do recommend that you do take a prophylactic so please consult your doctor. |
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