This 15 day birdwatching trip focuses on the eastern regions of Zambia. The tour starts in Lusaka, located in the south-central part of Zambia, introductory birding in the Lusaka area, where the Chaplin’s Barbet will be the main target, before departing northwards en route to the Bangweulu Swamps, located in northern Zambia. The quest to find the elusive Shoebill ranks among Africa’s greatest birdwatching adventures. Navigating through the vast, watery expanse by canoe at dawn, patience is rewarded with the sight of this prehistoric-looking stork, standing motionless amid papyrus and floating lilies. The shoebill’s massive bill and towering stance make it instantly recognisable, while its solitary, enigmatic nature adds to the thrill of each encounter. Sharing a quiet moment with this magnificent species, surrounded by the swamp’s haunting tranquillity and chorus of waterbirds, is a privilege few experience and a true highlight of visiting Bangweulu.
From Bangweulu we move on to nearby Kasanka National Park, a hidden gem for birdwatchers. The park’s diverse landscape, ranging from swamp forests and floodplains to miombo woodlands, provide sanctuary for over 400 bird species. In addition to sublime birdwatching opportunities, the park is famous for its annual bat migration, which in turn attracts raptors in impressive numbers.
From Kasanka we shift over to the Mutinondo Wilderness. Nestled in the miombo woodlands and granite inselbergs of northern Zambia, this private reserve is renowned for its pristine landscapes and remarkable avian diversity, with over 450 species recorded in the area. Mutinondo is undoubtedly the best place to see Bar- winged Weaver, but other target species including Anchieta’s Barbet, Böhm’s Bee-eater, Böhm’s Flycatcher, Chestnut-headed Flufftail, Anchieta’s Sunbird and Reichard’s Seedeater.
After spending three days in Mutinondo, we travel to the world famous Victoria Falls, straddling the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe, one of nature’s grandest spectacles. Known locally as “Mosi-oa-Tunya,” or “The Smoke That Thunders,” its cascading waters plunge more than 100 metres into the deep, mist-filled gorge below. The thunderous roar and shimmering spray create a perpetual rainbow, enchanting visitors and wildlife alike. The Zambezi Valley is a birdwatcher’s paradise, renowned for its sweeping river vistas, lush floodplains, and mosaic of woodland habitats that support a remarkable avian diversity. Over 400 bird species have been recorded here with some iconic species including Livingstone’s Flycatcher, Black- cheeked Lovebird, Pel’s Fishing Owl, African Skimmer, Red-throated Twinspot and Racket-tailed Roller as well as and it is one of the best places to see African Pitta.
From the Zambezi Valley we make our way to the Nkanga area for the endemic Chaplin’s Barbet, along with a wide variety of Miombo species before ending the tour in Lusaka.