Chikoko Trails

AREA & ACTIVITIES

Habitat & Wildlife
The Luangwa Valley is one of Africa’s most scenic and game-rich National Parks. Forming part of the southern end of the Great Rift Valley, the wide valley floor is about 1,000ft lower than the surrounding plateau and through the centre flows the Luangwa River which is fed by dozens of sand rivers during the rainy season, causing it to become a raging torrent. It frequently alters its course from season to season, causing many ox-bow lakes to form. These lakes are very important to the ecology of the valley and account for the high carrying capacity of the park.

Elephant, although slightly smaller than their southern African savannah counterparts, are plentiful, as are buffalo (in huge herds), kudu, waterbuck, puku, impala, bushbuck and warthog. Thornicrofts giraffe (endemic to the region) are commonly seen and the Cookson’s wildebeest can be seen in the northern sector of the park. Along the river hippo can be seen in their hundreds, in the late dry season packed into ever decreasing water pools, whilst huge crocs laze on the many sand banks. However, the park is perhaps best known for its predator populations, in particular lion and leopard, the latter of which are seen regularly by day and at night. Wild dogs have made a good comeback in the park in recent years and are often sighted. Night drives can also be very productive, with nocturnal species such as civet, genet, honey badger, white-tailed mongoose, spotted hyaena and porcupine regularly seen in addition to the many superb leopard sightings.

The birdlife of the Luangwa is equally exceptional, with over half of the total Zambia species (around 700) being recorded here. Commonly sighted species include crowned crane, carmine and white-fronted bee-eaters (which nest in the banks of the river from late August onwards), Lilian’s lovebird, purple-crested turaco, paradise whydah, striped kingfisher and the impressive saddlebill storks. Pel’s fishing owl are also regularly seen.

Activities
The Chikoko Trails are a dedicated walking safari, usually for a minimum of two nights in duration, and catering for a maximum of six participants at any one time. Specialist walking guides from Remote Africa Safaris are knowledgeable and experienced and host all walking safaris. It is usual to spend nights in both Big Lagoon and Chikoko camps, and walk between them, however on shorter trails of two nights it is possible that you could stay in just one camp. Whilst it is possible to undertake Chikoko Trails as a stand-alone safari, it is usual to combine the experience with a stay at Tafika Camp, which offers a more traditional safari experience including game drives, night drives and cultural excursions.

Seasons
The Chikoko Trails operate from late May through to October, though whilst June is arguably the most attractive month to visit, the walking and game viewing conditions are generally better from July onwards.