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Nestled between an imposing mountain escarpment to the north and the mighty Zambezi River to the south, the Lower Zambezi Valley boasts a variety of activities that few, if any, other destinations can offer. It is often described by guests as their “happy place” because of its calming scenery, peaceful riverside woodlands and abundant wildlife.

Breathe in the earthy scent of the river bank as you slip past wading elephants in your canoe or get your hands on a glittering tiger fish before releasing it back into the water. Drift off to sleep with the sound of the grunting hippos and whooping hyenas of the Lower Zambezi and wake to birdsong over the river as the sun rises.

The Lower Zambezi is at its most magical from April to November, when the river is perfect for boating safaris and canoeing, as well as sightings of wild dogs, lions, leopards and other predators.

Region information

  • 4,000 km2
  • Home of world-class tiger fishing (catch and release)
  • Famous for elephants
  • Burgeoning population of wild dogs
  • Variety of activities

Our story in the Lower Zambezi dates back to the early 80’s when the Liebenberg family were inspired by legendary conservationist, Norman Carr, to create their dream of conserving these areas.

Captivated by the beauty and wilderness of the Lower Zambezi, the family set up a camp on the banks of the Chongwe River in 1992. Initially drawn to the blend of excellent fishing, plentiful wildlife and immense natural beauty, the father and son duo envisioned sharing the region through sustainable tourism.

Time + Tide is deeply involved with Conservation Lower Zambezi and is instrumental in the development and conservation of the Chiawa Partnership Park, an area bordering the Lower Zambezi National Park.

This spectacular region is famous for its canoeing safaris and water activities. It is also widely known as one of the best places to catch (and release) a tiger fish or two. For wildlife photographers, few places compare thanks to the unique combination of rivers and the escarpment.

Camps in
Lower Zambezi

Venture to the edge of a mighty river in the shadow of a mountain, where you’ll feel right at home nestled under a shady grove of trees.

Day + Night Drives

Nothing beats encounters with magnificent African wildlife during both day and night drives. Our expert guides provide a wealth of knowledge to enrich the experience.

Fishing

When it comes to fishing, the Lower Zambezi is tiger country! With a fighting spirit, the tiger fish is one of the world’s top game fish. We are strictly catch-and-release to preserve stocks of this and other incredible fish, such as the bream. All equipment is provided, with both conventional and entry-level fly rods available. We recommend serious fly fishermen bring their own rods.

Boating

A river safari offers a fresh perspective on the breathtaking scenery and wildlife, from predators on the bank to the diverse birdlife. The Zambezi River is high all year, allowing boating safaris all season.

Walking Safaris

Explore the untamed beauty of the Lower Zambezi with our experienced guides at your side, sharing their knowledge of flora and fauna. Our amazing guides make every step thrilling, allowing you to become part of the landscape rather than a mere spectator.

Canoeing Safaris

Enjoy the Lower Zambezi’s abundant wilderness and game while canoeing on Africa’s fourth largest river. Floating metres away from elephants or buffalo on the river’s edge is an experience both peaceful and exhilarating all at once.

Sleepout

Feel the thrill of early explorers while camping out high in the Zambezi Escarpment with only the wildlife and stars for company. It’s an experience you will never forget.

Lower Zambezi, Zambia

Ready to plan your trip?

Nestled between an imposing mountain escarpment to the north and the mighty Zambezi River to the south, the Lower Zambezi Valley is rich in it’s variety of activities that few, if any, other destinations can offer.

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Our Story

Our Legacy

We believe you’ll never truly know and understand a country until you’ve walked it. We are still following in the footsteps of early explorers and the ideals that they believed in:

SAFARI WAKALE
Safari the traditional way
SHARING + PRESERVING
the unique wilderness of the Luangwa Valley
OFFERING
immersive and authentic safari experiences
COMMITMENT
to the welfare and development of our community
RECOGNISING
and developing potential in people
PROMOTING
Zambia as a destination for international visitors

"The uniqueness of being in a camp with only four safari tents is the ultimate feeling of luxury.  Luwi overlooks a wide open grassland that on my first morning we watched a high speed chase - a pack of Wilddogs on a hunt.  It was exhilarating to watch and sent our heart rates through the sky adding a lot of chatter and laughter once the pack had passed by."
Jessica, Guest Time + Tide Luwi
"The authenticity and remoteness of the seasonal camps will be a special experience that I will long to return to.  There really is no place on earth that you can really escape like you can at the seasonal camps.  Falling asleep at Kakuli to the distant lion roars and waking to the call of the fish eagle - really what a magical walking safari!"
Lara, Guest Time + Tide Kakuli
This is the most magical place you're ever likely to experience. Nestled under a grove of imposing Albida trees, it is clearly favoured by the many elephant who graze on the Albida pods. Their presence adds an incredibly special energy to the camp. 
Charles, Guest at Time + Tide Chongwe Camp
The lodge is stunning and all the staff are utterly wonderful. The views from the lodge are outstanding, lovely Liuwa wilderness. My bedroom was incredibly comfortable, very stylish, hitting a difficult combination of minimalist yet luxury. Incredibly comfortable bed and many relaxing areas to rest. 
Mandy, Guest at Time + Tide King Lewanika
Our family had the most joyful time at Chongwe, really everything was perfect and every detail taken care of. The team ensured we had the best time at every activity (even tiger fishing!). We felt privileged to spend a few days here and look forward to returning.
Richard, Guest at Time + Tide Chongwe
"Thank you for embracing the unique culture of Barotseland through storytelling, song, dance, drums and the marimba - this is a jewel in the necklace of the African Parks managed conservation areas we are visiting across Africa - much appreciated."
Kingsley Holgate, Guest at Time + Tide King Lewanika
Chinzombo is a stunning lodge in a beautiful location of the South Luangwa. The rooms are luxurious and spacious, with a deck and plunge pool overlooking the Luangwa River. There is always an abundance of wildlife around the rooms, we had a banded mongoose, bushbuck, elephants and hippo's - just to name a few.
Michael, Guest at Time + Tide Chinzombo