Ticking off the species checklist in Zambia

“Zambia is generally known to be off the beaten track. Most people who have travelled to all the top wildlife destinations get to a point where they hunger for something untouched and unspoilt. That’s Zambia.” – Abraham Banda. 

Regarded by many as one of the last true wildernesses, Zambia is often referred to as Africa’s greatest secret – and with good reason. Visitor numbers are small and Zambia’s vast areas of pristine wilderness and abundance of wildlife make it a must-visit destination for all safari-goers — exclusivity, with no compromising on all the bells and whistles of an unforgettable safari experience.

Safari season is off to a roaring start this year with already incredible sightings of large packs of wild dogs, herds of elephants, new lion coalitions and leopard cubs, reminding us that the true heroes of the bush are: the extraordinary wildlife, the small but significant creatures and the highly-regarded safari guides who are our guardians across these wonderfully wild destinations.

Guides of Nature 

Zambia is renowned as a destination with some of the best guides in Africa. There are various levels to guiding all of which require intense theoretical studying and practical training with already qualified guides to learn the tricks of the trade. To head up any safari activity be it by boat, foot, canoe or vehicle, guides have to be qualified for each activity individually. The reason behind all the necessary qualifications is not only to learn the ‘how to’ of the activity but to ensure the safety of the guest at all times. 

In the words of Abraham Banda, safari guide of +30 years in South Luangwa National Park, who had the privilege of learning the guiding ropes from the late Norman Carr himself: “Guiding isn’t just a job. It’s a way of life, in every aspect. The book of nature is vast which means that we are always learning.”

Many of the now safari guides in Zambia grew up (and still live) in remote villages which were near to or on the outskirts of a National Park so from a young age, wildlife encounters right on their doorstep were (and still are) common. In order to survive living amongst wildlife meant learning animal behaviour early in life, and in turn, how to conduct oneself during an encounter. 

“As a young child, I was surrounded by wildlife daily, which is when my love for them began. I vividly remember being blocked by a herd of elephants on several occasions. The elephants and I used the same trail to cross the main route – they were heading to the Zambezi River from the escarpment for a drink and to cool off from the midday heat while I was making my way to school.

Seeing these giants roaming freely in the heart of Africa touched my soul. Fast forward to today, I believe that I am a student of life. I learn every day. The more you ask me questions, the more I learn.” – Costain Dube Tembo, safari guide for 10 years in Lower Zambezi National Park.

“I developed a passion for guiding because of my father who worked alongside Norman Carr. During school holidays our dad would bring books home and teach us how to use binoculars. That’s when my passion for wildlife began.” – Julius Njovu, safari guide for 17 years in South Luangwa National Park.

The Magnificent Seven

The Big Five, but better. We don’t mean to brag, but travellers visiting Zambia get to see more than just the Big Five. This country has what’s known as the Magnificent Seven – the Big Five, but with the added bonus of two incredibly special predators. Allow us to introduce you to the Magnificent Seven:

— Lion
— Leopard 
— Buffalo
— Elephant 
— Rhino
— Cheetah 
— Wild Dog

Six of the Magnificent Seven can be seen when visiting our properties in Liuwa Plain National Park, South Luangwa National Park and Lower Zambezi National Park, so if you’re looking to tick these off your species check-list (minus the crowds), a trip to Zambia is in order. Sightings of Rhino can only be seen in North Luangwa National Park.

Small and Significant 

For our safari-goers who find joy in the little things, be sure to keep a lookout for the Little Five during your Zambian safari. The Little Five are the smaller species of the bush, but are just as special:

— Ant Lion
— Leopard Tortoise 
— Buffalo Weaver
— Elephant Shrew
— Rhino Beetle 

The wilderness in Zambia is vast, boasting a plethora of vegetation. For our return-to-the-wild explorers who opt for a walking safari or bush walk, you can expect to tick the Green Five off your species check-list too:

— Lion’s Tail
— Leopard Orchid 
— Buffalo Thorn 
— Elephant Grass 
— Rhino Thistle 

Bird life in Zambia is plentiful. There are 450 bird species in South Luangwa National Park, 378 bird species in Lower Zambezi National Park and 334 bird species in Liuwa Plain National Park, making our destinations a true birder’s paradise, even more so during Green Season. 

It is for this very reason that Time + Tide offers guests activities spanning land and water. We believe that an authentic safari is best experienced by immersing yourself and becoming one with nature – the big, the small and the magnificent. 

FOLLOW THE ROAD LESS TRAVELLED

Book your safari and experience Zambia with us

Our team is available to assist you, kindly email us on travel@timeandtideafrica.com