Robin Pope's

Bat Safari

Kasanka National Park, Zambia

Mammals en masse

Every year at the end of October thousands of “straw coloured fruit bats” congregate in the trees of the Mushitu swamp forest near the confluence of the Musola and Kasanka rivers in Kasanka National Park. The bats come to feed for a short six weeks on the abundance of seasonal fruit including wild loquat and waterberries. By mid November their numbers reach into the millions. These migrations happen in other parts of Africa, but they tend to occur in urban areas, and with the growth of cities, bat numbers seem to be on the decline. To see millions of bats dispersing at dusk against the setting sun is one of the wildlife wonders of Africa, and one that definitely shouldn’t be missed.

Kasanka is famed for having over 400 bird species, as well as both the tsessebe and sitatunga species of antelope. The South Luangwa River adds to the wildlife experience with the chance to see wild dog and explore the lush, colourful landscape at this time of year.

8 UNFORGETTABLE DAYS

DAY 1 | LUANGWA RIVER CAMP

On arrival at Lusaka International Airport, you will be met by a representative, who will assist you with your luggage and check-in for your flight to Mfuwe. A guide from Robin Pope Safaris will meet you at Mfuwe Airport for transfer to Luangwa River Camp, through colourful village life.

The ten bedded camp is situated opposite the Luangwa Wafwa (a game rich area of the park) in the Upper Lupande Game Management Area. It offers all the creature comforts of a lodge yet with all the intimacy, tailored activities and flexible mealtimes you come to expect from a bush camp. The camp is unique with its décor of locally crafted and handmade details. The main area is elevated between 1-3 metres on wooden decks affording great views to the park and river. The swimming pool is sunk into the deck, linked by a waterfall. Seating areas are all elevated and open plan with a bar area as well as a dining and reading area.

Depending on your arrival time you may settle in for some lunch, siesta then off on an afternoon activity. There is an option to turn back after sundowners or continue to see what nocturnals you can spot, returning to camp by 8pm.

DAYS 2-3 | LUANGWA RIVER CAMP

The next couple of days will be spend as you wish – an option is there to take a walking activity or game drive; or even both. For those with a knack for shopping can take a trip to Tribal Textiles for locally printed fabrics which are sewn into various items – perfect for souvenirs or gifts for friends and family. Perhaps a trip to Kawaza Village to experience an authentic Zambian village, interact with the locals and even sample a local meal. Nothing is set in stone; you can discuss your specific interests with your guide.

DAY 4 | WASA LODGE

Your Robin Pope Safaris guide will accompany you for your flight to Kasanka National Park. Upon arrival you will be transferred to Wasa Camp where you will spend the next three days amongst the glory of the bat migration.

DAYS 5-6 | WASA LODGE

These days will be quite relaxed with a chance to bird-watch, spend time in the Fibwe hide to catch a glimpse of the shy sitatunga, and view all of the other fantastic species in this area such as Lichtenstein’s hartebeest, Pel’s fishing owl, etc. And of course, you can’t forget the bats!

DAY 7 | PROTEA LUSAKA TOWER HOTEL

After a relaxing breakfast, you will be transferred to the airstrip and back to Lusaka. You will be met and assisted to Protea Lusaka Tower Hotel once you land in Lusaka. You may enjoy a relaxed evening ahead of your trip back home.

DAY 8 | END OF ITINERARY

Depending on your onward flight, you may do an activity (We can provide plenty of ideas!) or go straight to the airport after breakfast. Continue with your onward arrangements or begin your journey home.

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

Set departures annually November/early Dec

From USD $5025 per person sharing

START: Lusaka, Zambia | Finish: Lusaka, Zambia

Included: Internal flights Lusaka/Lusaka and all safari costs
Not included: Visa and airport departure taxes

Flights & insurance – on request

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