South Luangwa & Sabi Sand: Luxury Family Safari

Embark on an unforgettable safari journey to South Luangwa National Park, a pristine wilderness gem nestled in the heart of Zambia. This remarkable destination is a hidden treasure for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering an authentic African safari experience that’s second to none. South Luangwa is renowned for its rich biodiversity and exceptional game viewing opportunities, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking an up-close encounter with Africa’s magnificent wildlife.

South Luangwa National Park is often referred to as the ‘Valley of the Leopards’ for a reason, as it boasts one of the highest concentrations of these elusive big cats in Africa. As you venture through the park’s diverse ecosystems, you’ll have the chance to spot not only leopards but also lions, elephants, hippos, buffalo, and a vast array of bird species. The park is particularly famous for its walking safaris, led by experienced guides who will help you uncover the park’s hidden wonders, from tracking spoor to observing the incredible adaptability of South Luangwa’s wildlife.

The park’s landscape is a blend of lush riverbanks, dense woodlands, and open grassy plains, with the meandering Luangwa River at its heart. This striking setting not only provides a stunning backdrop for your safari adventures but also offers unique opportunities for both day and night game drives. South Luangwa’s night safaris are especially thrilling, allowing you to witness the nocturnal activities of its inhabitants, including predators on the prowl and captivating stargazing in the African skies.

Visiting South Luangwa National Park is not only an opportunity to witness the majesty of African wildlife but also to contribute to conservation efforts. Many lodges and safari operators in the region are dedicated to sustainable and responsible tourism, supporting local communities and preserving the park’s pristine environment.

Nestled on a sweeping curve of the Luangwa River, Time+Tide Chinzombo brings a unique blend of style and elegance to the untamed beauty of the Luangwa Valley. This luxurious camp retains its deep connection to the wilderness, with grass and canvas walls blending seamlessly into the serene riverside setting. Each spacious villa is crafted for relaxation, with feather-top beds, soaking tubs, and private plunge pools that overlook the river, offering a front-row seat to the region’s abundant wildlife. Beneath the shade of ancient trees, guests can unwind while listening to the calls of hippos echoing across the water.

Activities & Highlights
Chinzombo is set in one of the most wildlife-rich areas of South Luangwa National Park, giving guests privileged access to Zambia’s flagship reserve. Guided by experienced rangers, explore the park’s wonders with day and night game drives, tracking the area’s famous lions, leopards, and other big-game predators. Guests may also embark on seasonal boat safaris and scenic river cruises, taking in views and close encounters with Luangwa’s rich biodiversity. Walking safaris provide a thrilling ground-level perspective, and for an unforgettable night, the ‘Sleepout Under the Stars’ experience offers a magical, immersive stay in the wilderness. Activities include in-room spa treatments and family-friendly options for a personalized and memorable safari adventure.

Accommodation
The villas at Chinzombo are an ideal blend of wilderness luxury, with private decks, plunge pools, and large bathrooms featuring both showers and soaking tubs. Designed to enhance the surrounding beauty, each villa opens to the river and forest through wide verandas and oversized windows that create a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces. The Family Safari Tent accommodates up to five guests, with thoughtful touches to welcome families and expansive views of the river. An open veranda, outdoor shower, and ample living spaces make this safari tent an ideal retreat, with a private plunge pool that provides a refreshing respite during the day’s warmest hours.

Johannesburg serves as a vibrant gateway to Africa, making it an ideal stopover on any safari journey. With the Gautrain network linking the airport to key destinations such as the bustling financial district of Sandton and the historic sites of central Johannesburg and Pretoria, travellers can maximize their time exploring the city, whether they have a few hours or several days.

For those interested in delving into South Africa's complex history, Johannesburg boasts significant landmarks such as Constitution Hill and the Apartheid Museum, both just a short drive away. The Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing ancient human history, is also within reach. Beyond history, the city offers vibrant shopping and cultural experiences, with popular spots like Sandton City and Nelson Mandela Square just a quick Gautrain ride away, as well as the trendy Maboneng Precinct, known for its art and nightlife.

Whether visitors are stopping for a layover or extending their stay, Johannesburg is a dynamic city that enriches the safari experience.

Conveniently located just steps from the international terminal at O.R. Tambo International Airport, the InterContinental Johannesburg O.R. Tambo Airport Hotel offers guests a blend of style, comfort, and upscale amenities. With its prime location, visitors can easily access Johannesburg’s vibrant attractions, from art galleries and museums to boutique shopping.

Activities & Highlights
The InterContinental Johannesburg O.R. Tambo Airport Hotel offers a range of services and facilities designed for both leisure and business travellers. Unwind at the luxurious spa with views of the city skyline or savour a meal at the Quills Restaurant, renowned for its gourmet dining. The hotel also features state-of-the-art conferencing facilities, making it ideal for business meetings and events.

Accommodation
The hotel’s Classic Rooms provide comfort and elegance with a choice of a king bed, double bed, or two twin beds. Each room includes an en-suite bathroom, and some may feature a private balcony, allowing guests to enjoy views of the surrounding area. With modern amenities and a tranquil atmosphere, these rooms ensure a restful stay before or after a long journey.

With its ample size (65 000 hectares) and prime location adjacent to the world-famous Kruger National Park, the Sabi Sand Game Reserve offers an entirely unique luxury private safari experience. The two reserves share a fenceless boundary, so wildlife can wander freely. The game viewing possibilities are unparalleled. Alongside the Big Five, the reserve is home to hundreds of mammal, bird, amphibian, reptile, fish species, and more.

Leopards are the reserve’s greatest claim to fame. Normally shy and elusive, these big cats are frequently spotted by visitors across the reserve – particularly on a morning or late-afternoon safari game drive. Beyond the vast grasslands and woodland savannah, the Sabi and Sand rivers run through the reserve providing water to a diverse and abundant variety of wildlife. The rivers also create the riverine vegetation that provides such an excellent habitat for the wildlife.

The exceptional hospitality, luxury accommodation, and fine African cuisine add to the experience, giving you an entirely unique African safari adventure that will linger in your memories forever. In terms of quality and diversity, the game viewing and wildlife encounters in Sabi Sand Game Reserve are among the best in Africa, and in the world. From luxury bush camps to opulent private villas, and from intimate hideaways to family getaways, the Sabi Sand Game Reserve has a wide range of safari lodges for you to choose from.

Set within the wild beauty of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Londolozi Pioneer Camp offers an unforgettable blend of heritage and sophistication. Inspired by timeless elegance, the camp brings together classic safari style and contemporary comfort, evoking the spirit of Africa through rich textures, clean lines, and a refined aesthetic. Every detail at Pioneer Camp reflects Londolozi’s commitment to restoring the legacy of traditional safari living, inviting guests into a space that is both simple and luxurious, exuding an ambiance of secluded bushveld living.

Activities & Highlights
Experience the rhythms of the African wilderness through immersive activities at Londolozi Pioneer Camp. Game drives, led by expert rangers and trackers with over 350 years of combined experience, allow guests to explore 16 000 hectares of pristine wilderness, encountering diverse wildlife in their natural habitats. Photography is at the heart of every drive, as skilled guides ensure the perfect angles and share insights to enhance each guest's photographic journey. Additional activities include visits to The Londolozi Photographic Studio, Healing House, and Living Boutique, alongside guided Village Walks for a cultural experience with the local community.

Accommodation
Londolozi Pioneer Camp features three luxurious interconnected suites that offer sweeping river views. The camp’s flexibility allows it to transform into a private homestead for families or groups, accommodating up to 12 guests comfortably. Each suite is thoughtfully equipped with modern amenities, including air conditioning, Wi-Fi, a well-appointed kitchen, bar, lounge, expansive deck, gardens, and pool. The Healing House offers tranquil wellness treatments, while the Photographic Studio enhances the experience for photography enthusiasts.