A spectacular journey across the African sky
Every year, as the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop in Central Africa, the call of the Southern Carmine Bee-eater migration beckons. With their striking carmine plumage, gracefully elongated tail feathers, and unmistakable chirps, carmine-bee eaters set the sky ablaze at the end of August as they journey across the continent by the thousands.
Their destination? The wilderness of Zambia. The water levels drop along the river banks in Zambia during the dry winter months, revealing the perfect nesting sites for these burrowing birds. With the banks at their most exposed during this season, the carmine bee-eaters choose this time for their annual pilgrimage for breeding to the South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi, returning to the same banks every year.
The diverse landscapes provide a haven for these travellers, with the riverbanks and savannahs offering an abundant supply of insects, the primary diet of these bee-eaters. Bees, wasps, dragonflies, and other insects that inhabit the ecosystem of these regions are a vital source of nourishment for these birds during their stay.
Upon their arrival in Zambia, the bee-eaters set up temporary residences, creating nesting colonies along the riverbanks. Their remarkable communal nests, consisting of tunnels dug into the soft riverbank soil, become bustling centres of activity. Here, the birds engage in courtship rituals, establish their territories, and rear their young in a synchronized dance of life.
The presence of carmine bee-eaters enriches Zambia’s ecosystem in numerous ways too. Carmine bee-eaters are insectivores meaning that they assist in controlling the pest populations, fostering a delicate balance in the local environment. Moreover, their vibrant colours and behaviours add a touch of wonder to the natural tapestry, drawing the admiration of seasoned birders, photographers and safari-goers alike.
Guests joining us on safari in South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi have the opportunity to witness these striking birds from September to November every year, a bucket-list-worthy spectacle for sure.
Did you know? Carmine bee-eaters are known to time their breeding season with the emergence of certain bee species. They rely on these bees as a primary food source for themselves and their chicks, hence their breeding synchronization with the bee populations.
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"The uniqueness of being in a camp with only four safari tents is the ultimate feeling of luxury. Luwi overlooks a wide open grassland that on my first morning we watched a high speed chase - a pack of Wilddogs on a hunt. It was exhilarating to watch and sent our heart rates through the sky adding a lot of chatter and laughter once the pack had passed by."
Jessica, Guest Time + Tide Luwi
"The authenticity and remoteness of the seasonal camps will be a special experience that I will long to return to. There really is no place on earth that you can really escape like you can at the seasonal camps. Falling asleep at Kakuli to the distant lion roars and waking to the call of the fish eagle - really what a magical walking safari!"
Lara, Guest Time + Tide Kakuli
This is the most magical place you're ever likely to experience. Nestled under a grove of imposing Albida trees, it is clearly favoured by the many elephant who graze on the Albida pods. Their presence adds an incredibly special energy to the camp.
Charles, Guest at Time + Tide Chongwe Camp
The lodge is stunning and all the staff are utterly wonderful. The views from the lodge are outstanding, lovely Liuwa wilderness.
My bedroom was incredibly comfortable, very stylish, hitting a difficult combination of minimalist yet luxury. Incredibly comfortable bed and many relaxing areas to rest.
Mandy, Guest at Time + Tide King Lewanika
Our family had the most joyful time at Chongwe, really everything was perfect and every detail taken care of. The team ensured we had the best time at every activity (even tiger fishing!). We felt privileged to spend a few days here and look forward to returning.
Richard, Guest at Time + Tide Chongwe
"Thank you for embracing the unique culture of Barotseland through storytelling, song, dance, drums and the marimba - this is a jewel in the necklace of the African Parks managed conservation areas we are visiting across Africa - much appreciated."
Kingsley Holgate, Guest at Time + Tide King Lewanika
Chinzombo is a stunning lodge in a beautiful location of the South Luangwa. The rooms are luxurious and spacious, with a deck and plunge pool overlooking the Luangwa River. There is always an abundance of wildlife around the rooms, we had a banded mongoose, bushbuck, elephants and hippo's - just to name a few.
Michael, Guest at Time + Tide Chinzombo