Zambia: reviews from our travellers

"Having talked about this trip for about five years, when we got round to booking it we had a marvellous and unforgettable experience. It was everthing we hoped - and more.

Very glad that local Zambian staff are being used so extensively - we found them to be among the most impressive.

The organisation and Anna's recommendations were spot on - and she couldn't have been more helpful.

Suggestions for improvement:

The brochure needed explanation as to how a package covering several different camps run by different companies could be put together. So the personal service is essential." Read full review: 13 nights in Africa; 10 on a Zambia safari

"Excellent. A wonderful holiday. Brilliantly organised." Read full review: 24 nights in Africa; 5 on a Botswana safari

"The whole trip was a once in a lifetime experience.

Even the travel days were fun and the Zambian people were friendly and professional. Because there are so few camps the experience felt very select and it was rare to encounter any other vehicle when out and about.

The scenery was fantastic and very varied - I was not expecting to see such lovely stands of leadwood and ebony trees. Altogether the best safari experience we have had.

Suggestions for improvement:

I cannot really think of anything. I always dither a lot before finally selecting an itinerary and Claire was very patient as I kept coming back with questions or changes of date!" Read full review: 14 nights in Africa; 13 on a Zambia safari

"RPS in South Luangwa was first class once again and their operation the reason we went back to Zambia.

Kafue with Wilderness' Rivers and Plains Exploration was more of a economic extension to enable us to see a different area and generally we very much enjoyed it." Read full review: 19 nights in Africa; 11 on a Zambia safari

"Fantastic trip

Suggestions for improvement:

We could not dream of a better travel agent.
Thank you Susannah" Read full review: 8 nights in Africa; 6 on a Botswana safari

"From start to finish, the whole trip went very smoothly, with all movements linking seamlessly, especially in the bush where the logistics of moving people and supplies around between camps must be a nightmare. Congratulations to the unseen logistics team.

As far as the safari experience went, the whole holiday was a marvellous experience. I consider it to be a privilege to be lucky enough to visit places as wild as Luangwa with such a high level of comfort, and with such friendly people, whose sole aim seemed to be my enjoyment. Poor Theresa was distraught when previous guests ran her out of Mosi, but we made do with red wine OK, until the truck arrived next morning with fresh supplies.

I know Anna was in the bushcamps at the same time as me, but unfortunately our paths never crossed. I hope her experience was on a par with mine. I returned home a happy bunny with lovely memories of a great part of Africa, apart from the Tetse bites which still itch a little!

Thankyou all.

Suggestions for improvement:

It is always helpful to have an up to date indication of tipping levels, and the fact that dollars are acceptable virtually everywhere.
Similarly with extra expenses eg airport/flight taxes. Then one can ensure one has the correct amounts available in the necesary denominations, with no nasty surprises at barriers.

There was a lot of uncertainty as to the obligation to tip or not, the armed scout ,as he is not employed by NCS. The requirement to tip the guide separately is covered in Chris's book, but perhaps all the above could be swept up into the 'Notes for travellers' booklet" Read full review: 12 nights in Africa; 11 on a Zambia safari

"This. for all was a tremendous trip, loved by all. We could not have wished for anything better. The locations, accomodation, Staff, Guides were outstanding

Most of the trips success must be attributed to Anna Devereux-Baker, who has the patience of Job when dealing with clients like us, her suggestions on camps to visit, duration of stay and travel arrangements were from the Top Draw. She is to be congratulated!

We even saw the animal that all wanted to see - The Leopard not once , but four times, how about that!! Did Anna arrange this we ask?

Suggestions for improvement:

How can one improve on the perfect holiday? If only you were in charge of the catering on BA. (You probably would not want this tankless task)." Read full review: 11 nights in Africa; 10 on a Zambia safari

"Very enjoyable" Read full review: 13 nights in Africa; 12 on a Zambia safari

"Met all out expectations - great trip!" Read full review: 18 nights in Africa; 8 on a Botswana safari

"If you are interested in birds or anything other than just large game animals, consider arranging a private guide. With a group, the guide does not tend to devote much time to small birds.

Late August/early September daytime weather was perfect, but night game drives were much cooler than we expected: bring warm clothing!

We never saw a single mosquito (or any other insect).
Although not covered in this questionnaire, we also enjoyed our stay at !Xaus Lodge in Kgalagadi TransFrontier Park in South Africa. Less game-intensive than the Botswana camps, and slightly more modest accommodations, but still a great nature experience of the Kalahari desert---plants, wildlife, start, and native people (Bushmen & Meir). Even a nature walk (impossible in Botswana camps). Wonderful managers Arne & Pieter, both 10th generation South Africans. Food surprisingly good. More European guests, fewer Americans. Less expensive than Botswana camps.

Also highly recommended for a late August/early September visit are Goegap Nature Reserve and Namaqua National Park (Skilpad), both near Springbok, S.A. for fantastic wildflower displays.

Northern & Western suburbs of Johannesburg were much nicer than we had been led to believe. We had no problems driving our rented car." Read full review: 19 nights in Africa; 9 on a Botswana safari