ZAMBIA’S RIVERS CONNECT OUR STORY ACROSS LAND AND SEA

This month, we celebrate journeys, and take a closer look at Zambia’s rivers and how their journey reflects our own and connects our family of luxury safari and island properties that stretch across land and sea.

 

STARTING AT THE SOURCE OF THE MIGHTY ZAMBEZI

The journey of the rivers begins in Zambia, where our roots spread, and our story began. In the North-West, you will find the source of the mighty Zambezi. From here the river runs its course and ventures into Barotseland where it passes Time + Tide King Lewanika, situated on the vast Liuwa Plain. A land unchanged by time, this expansive savannah has been protected for over 100 years, and remains one of Africa’s best-kept secrets today.

FLOWING INTO THE LOWER ZAMBEZI

The Zambezi flows further south and the journey continues into the Lower Zambezi National Park where it meets with the Chongwe River. Here, Time + Tide Chongwe happily rests. Winding through the forested valley, the rivers create a haven for wildlife such as lions, leopards and wild dogs before continuing to travel across borders and towards the sea.

THE ZAMBEZI MEETS THE LUANGWA

On its way, the Zambezi is met by the Luangwa River, which has travelled from the South Luangwa Valley where Time + Tide Chinzombo and its seasonal camps lie.

Nestled in the Valley of Leopard, on the river banks and along oxbow lagoons, the ultimate in wild luxury awaits.

VENTURING OUT TO AN ISLAND IN A FORGOTTEN SEA

As the Luangwa joins the Zambezi, it travels across borders towards the coast, plunging into the Indian ocean to carry our story to an island in a forgotten sea. Off the north-east coast of Madagascar sits a remote island sanctuary, Miavana by Time + Tide – with azure seas, palm trees rustling in the breeze and a host of activities and wild adventures attracting travelers of all kinds.

Our distance apart is a lot smaller than it seems, as put by Emmanuel from the Time + Tide Chinzombo team – “we all drink the same water, and we are all connected, not only by belief but by nature itself”. The Journey of the Rivers has made us one.

To visit Zambia’s rivers or follow them across the sea, discover more with our Two Rivers and Jetset Safari Itineraries.

COME LET US SHOW YOU

Book your own river safari and experience Zambia with us

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Destinations

Zambia

Zambia is Africa's best kept secret, with its vast landscapes, thriving wildlife and welcoming culture. Trace the steps of early explorers while experiencing immersive safaris in the South Luangwa and the Lower Zambezi. Two of Zambia's most spectacular National Parks with diverse activities and renowned guiding with deep roots in early conservation for generations.

Destinations

Madagascar

Madagascar, an island nation off the southeast coast of Africa, is celebrated for its unique biodiversity and vibrant culture. Home to species and ecosystems found nowhere else on Earth, it offers a vivid exploration of nature's rarities. Discover the unexplored on land and sea.

Zambia

South Luangwa

Just a one hour flight from Lusaka, the South Luangwa is known for its big cat sightings and often referred to as the Valley of the Leopard. It is in the South Luangwa that the legendary Norman Carr pioneered the walking safari and conservation-based tourism in Africa. Zambia's outstanding reputation of guiding is ever prevalent in our team with some of our guides having trained with Norman himself.  Our guides offer guests a raw, authentic safari experience and don't let the finer details in these vast spaces pass you by. 

Zambia

Lower Zambezi

Nestled between the imposing mountain escarpment to the north and the mighty Zambezi River to the south, the Lower Zambezi Valley has a variety of activities that few, if any, other destinations can offer. It has been described by guests as their "happy place" because of its beautiful scenery, peaceful riverside woodlands and abundant wildlife. The Lower Zambezi is just a short 30 minute flight from Lusaka and offers guests the thrill of tiger-fishing to peaceful wildlife sightings on the banks of the river while canoeing or boating. Our guides strive to make each guest feel like they are part of the landscape and not a mere spectator.

Madagascar

Nosy Komba

Just off the northwest coast of Madagascar, a short boat ride from Nosy Be, Nosy Komba is an island celebrated for its lush volcanic landscapes and vibrant culture. Often referred to as the 'forest gem of the Indian Ocean', it provides a spectacular backdrop for Time + Tide Tsara Komba. The lodge blends luxury with nature, offering guests direct access to both the pristine forests and the azure waters of the surrounding archipelago. Known for sustainable luxury and immersive experiences, our guides are expertly trained to reveal the secrets of Nosy Komba’s rich biodiversity and local traditions. 

"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