The Luangwa Valley is a beautiful, untouched wildlife sanctuary of Africa. It is an extension to the Great East African rift valley, the main arm of which runs to the east of Zambia, containing Lake Malawi. The Luangwa River rises from the dramatic Mafinga Mountains in the northeastern corner of Zambia, which reach up to 7,500 ft above sea level. The flat-bottomed valley runs from northeast to southwest and is clearly defined to the west by the beautiful Muchinga escarpment. All in all, the ecology of the Luangwa Valley is extraordinary. Dramatic seasonal variations, a dynamic river system, fertile soils, lush vegetation, prolific wildlife, a perpetual contest between the elements, hunter and prey. These are the inter-related ingredients that comprise the Luangwa Valley and engender its unique atmosphere. This is classic Africa.
Seasons
The valley experiences two distinct seasons, the Dry Season from May to November, and the Green Season from December to April. The coldest time of year is June and July, although the daytime temperatures are most pleasant, the early morning and night excursions can be cold in the open vehicles. By October temperatures reach 37 degrees centigrade but the game viewing "hots" up too as the outlying water dries up forcing the game to the riverine area. The Green Season at Tafika affords guests the opportunity of river safaris with boating, canoeing, exceptional bird watching and breath taking scenes of the Luangwa in full flood.
Wildllife
Lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and hippo are abundant. It is notable for two endemic species: Thornicroft's Giraffe and Cookson's Wildebeest. Cheetahs have been recorded but are rare. Black rhino, although once common, are sadly no longer seen. There are few, if any, rivers in Africa that contain such a high concentration of hippos and crocodiles. Night drives reveal many fascinating mammals including civet, genet, mongooses, bushbaby, serval, porcupine and aardvark. |
