Wild Zambezi News - April 2020

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We promote travel opportunities to the Zambezi's wild areas:
Victoria Falls, Zambezi National Park, Lake Kariba, Matusadona National Park, Kariba Town, Chirundu Mana Pools National Park and Sapi

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WILD ZAMBEZI NEWS: APRIL 2020

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experiences on our website www.wildzambezi.com
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THIS MONTH, WE FEATURE: THE MAGIC OF THE ZAMBEZi

to give us all something to look forward to...

The COVID-19 virus has put the world on hold, amid a period of turmoil and uncertainty. Travel even to the remote Zambezi areas has temporarily ceased. Lockdown has most of us confined to home to wait it out for better times ahead. But thanks to the Internet and Social Media platforms, WILD ZAMBEZI is able to bring the MAGIC of the Zambezi's wonderful wildernesses and wild places straight to you.
This month, we asked our travel network partners to send us their contributions outlining their own particular MAGIC.
As a result, our April 2020 News is longer than usual.
Bear with us.. there's a lot of MAGIC out there..many wonderful moments to relive, many beautiful videos to share, and SO much to look forward to.
The African wilderness is a wonderful healer, and the Zambezi abounds with it.
Sit back, make yourself comfortable, and enjoy the ride.

LAKE KARIBA

WHEN THIS IS OVER... TRAVEL LOCAL

When the storm has passed, when the danger is over, let’s do something good for our country, Zimbabweans stand together and spend your holidays exploring what our wonderful country has to offer. Spurwing Island, situated on the seemingly eternal shimmering waters of Lake Kariba, overlooking the majestic Matusadona mountain range remains one of Zimbabwe’s most stunningly remote wilderness areas. The park, with its 2000km of shoreline to explore, offers a rich wildlife-viewing experience. Safaris are by vehicle or by boat, enabling you to combine your game viewing with fishing in different locations. This is a truly unparalleled safari destination of outstanding natural beauty. The history, the landscapes, the storms, the sunsets, the fishing and the wildlife make it so. There is not much that can beat sitting on the lake watching the sun go down on another epic Kariba day. And now... heavy rains in the upper catchment of the Zambezi River are reaching the lake and water levels are rising fast. When the time comes - don’t miss out on the show! Spurwing Island will be there to help you enjoy it to the full!

CHANGA MAGIC TO LOOK FORWARD TO...

With Lake Kariba rising, and all the rain we’ve had, you will enjoy a new and beautiful landscape which is ever changing whether you love walks, game drives or fishing at Changa Safari Camp. There is something magical to look forward to as the animals are thriving… our Camp Manager recently went on a game walk and saw a baby elephant moments after it was born. Our guides spotted a pride of 10 lions on a game drive plus a leopard was sighted twice close to camp. Our incredible Chef is also taking this time to work on some delicious new dishes for you to try out on your next visit. We cannot wait to offer you wide open spaces where you can breathe in nature surrounding you in all its glory showing off sunsets and silhouettes for magical photographs and memories!

A CLOSE-UP MATUSADONA MOMENT

The truly magic moment for 2020 at Rhino Safari Camp has to be the sighting we had of this cheetah on Valentines Day. We had all decided to go out for a drive, and as we got to the edge of the camp just past room 7, we noticed the resident impala herd all on high alert STARING with great intensity into the bush, JUST THERE. All eyes peeled, we couldn't see exactly what it was that they were worried about, but slowly edging forward, our eagle eyed guest spotted this magnificent cheetah under a Zambezi Cocoa Bush, all but hidden under the low hanging branches. We must have sat there for fifteen minutes watching and taking photographs. The cheetah then seemed to feel its cover was blown, stood up and stretched and then wandered slowly into the bush. Moments later it reappeared on the shoreline and stood totally still assessing the scene, then made its way to a nearby Cork Bush to resume it's afternoon siesta. This was an absolutely breathtaking moment to witness what is possibly the last remaining cheetah in the Matusadona National Park so relaxed and at peace.

HOLIDAYING AT HOME IN PARADISE!

Wendy and Steve Edwards, owners of Musango Island Safari Camp on Lake Kariba report: "There's a cheetah taking advantage of the abundance of impala on the floodplain opposite the camp, whilst elephant, hippo, buffalo, waterbuck, warhogs and kudu are all out enjoying the rich grazing, almost oblivious to the goings-on around them. In the meantime, bream and catfish are feeding along the shoreline in the grass that is being slowly covered by the rising water, and lurking in the deeper water are tigerfish waiting for a hunting opportunity. We have lots of renovations going on in between being out and about enjoying ourselves in this piece of paradise. So, here we are, locked down on the island, and wondering how we got so lucky to be "stuck" here holidaying at home!"

ULTIMATE LUXURY IN KARIBA

Recently voted the ‘Best New Establishment 2019” by the Association of Zimbabwe Travel Agents, Kariba Safari Lodge is nestled on a mountain side with sweeping views over the blue water and islands of the eastern basin of Lake Kariba. The Lodges and Suites are spread over 33 acres of forested hillside which slope down to the lake shore and beach area. There is a sandy beach and a swimming cage in the lake which allows you to swim safely in the lake without fear of crocodiles and hippos. Nine open fronted, en-suite lodges, each have their own patio and offer broad views of the lake directly from your bed, along with 8 suites, all with en-suite bathrooms and private patios. Your ultimate luxury when staying in Kariba.

CRUISE LAKE KARIBA WHEN THIS IS ALL OVER

Imagine a few days of complete relaxation and recharging your batteries. The ultimate experience on Lake Kariba is a few days cruising on any of the Zambezi Cruise & Safaris fleet of houseboats, Umbozha, Sovereign, Karabezi and The Shikra. Enjoy the luxury of the en-suite cabins, escape the heat in the air conditioned bar, lounge and dining room and let us look after you. Head out in the smaller pontoon tender boats to explore the remote areas with stunning scenery, resident hippos and crocodiles whilst you fish, enjoy the prolific bird life, and appreciate the game. End the day with a drink in hand and watch the breathtaking sunsets this magnificent body of water has to offer. Opt to cruise around Kariba's eastern basin or Kariba to Binga – covering 270kms of this iconic Lake or explore the many islands near Binga, on the western shores.

CROSS-LAKE TRANSCRUISER TO LAUNCH 2021

Set to launch in 2021, Zambezi Cruise & Safaris' new Transcruiser MV Zambezi Adventurer is progressing well. Watch the video HERE (or click on the image). This magnificent 54m long and 11m wide vessel will traverse the 270kms of Lake Kariba, between Kariba Town and Binga (or vice versa), on guaranteed set departure dates, thus opening up tourism by linking Victoria Falls, Hwange and Mana Pools through Lake Kariba. The vessel will have 28 state of the art en-suite cabins, 2 pools, 2 reception rooms and numerous outdoor decks, along with a facility for carrying vehicles. Each deck, Lower, Mid and Upper will offer different levels of accommodation to suit different travelers. A wide range of water and land based activities will be offered during the cruise when the boat is moored. The 3 night epic cruise will depart at mid-day, allowing time for inbound or outbound travellers to arrive from Mana Pools, Hwange, Chobe, Lusaka, Victoria Falls or Livingstone, and will cruise to her first evening’s stop, for optional water based activities, including game viewing, birding, fishing or just enjoying the scenery and sundowners from her 4 x 18 pax tender boats. Now.... there's something to look forward to.....!

FISHING ON THE ZAMBEZI RIVER

ESCAPE TO THE ZAMBEZI WHEN YOU CAN

Simwenge Fishing Lodge is serenely located on a tranquil stretch of the mighty Zambezi River, downstream of Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. On offer to our valued clientele is a 12 bed luxury tented camp inclusive of comprehensive catering options for the discerning fisherman. Brisk Zambezi waters at your doorstep house cornish jack, tilapia, barbel, nkupe as well as the world’s most famous fresh water fishing challenge, the Zambezi tigerish. With remote sandy islands, quietly grazing impala, fun loving warthogs and a plethora of knowledgable staff, we hope to be welcoming you to our beautiful home in the near future.

DREAM OF THOSE LAZY DAYS ON THE RIVER

In light of the current, troubling and uncertain situation, Tiger Safaris (the popular fishing camp on the Zambezi River at Chirundu) is full of a hopeful future for tourism in Zimbabwe. As we are all facing challenges and trying to stay healthy, now is the time where we need to come together, support one another and overcome the crisis we are in. We would like to promote inspiration and imagination about the Lower Zambezi Valley now more than ever, as we believe there is much to look forward to once this crisis has passed. We would like to keep up spirits and inspire travel-lovers to enjoy what our wild spaces and wildlife have to offer through your imagination and hopefully one day in person. We, at Tiger Safaris, want you to dream of those lazy days, sipping on G&Ts by the pool after a full day fishing on the Mighty Zambezi. Stay safe everyone, keep hopeful and inspired.

MANA POOLS

MAGICAL MANA POOLS: MUSINGS FROM A GUIDE

One night, on a Natureways mobile canoe and camping safari in Mana Pools, we were all relaxed around the campfire, sipping ice cold gin and tonics, in the soft evening light, when we saw 3 lions on a sandy ridge just above our camp. It was a perfect photo opportunity! We watched them as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting the bush in an ethereal glow. Just before dinner they came back into our camp and sat about 10 meters from one of our tents and started roaring!! Our night's rest was punctuated by these roars and answering calls from lion further afield. It is moments like this that make me appreciate all we have on our doorstep - we have the Magic of Mana almost every day. We have so much to share with the world!

TOUCHING THE EARTH LIGHTLY

When we cannot go outside, we go within, and do some soul searching, a journey of the imagination. We know an excellent spot for your imagination to settle. Mana Pools. Let's throw in some other ingredients...
1.   A comfortable bed.
2.   Minimal modern distractions (think no electricity, fences, Wi-Fi, phones, hairdryers, buildings, noise)
3.   A phenomenal wildlife guide
4.   Good food
5.   Your five senses – sight, sound, smell, taste & touch.
Et voilà, we have Camp Mana. Easy as that. You’re on your way.  Picture the setting. Mana’s signature big trees with that dappled light, so loved by photographers. The river showcasing sunrises and sunsets. And there are the elephants, always in view and quietly guiding you on this journey. They bring a sense of calm, confidence and balance - when they are at a safe distance. Up close, elephants take you out of your comfort zone (don’t kid yourself), teach you something about boundaries and respect. At Camp Mana, our philosophy is Touch The Earth Lightly, - we treat our environment with the greatest respect and leave no evidence of our presence after we have gone. We keep noise and light to a minimum and have no permanent structures - our impact on the movement of wildlife is minimal. After all, we are visitors too. Come and join us soon.

A SPECIAL RELATIONSHIP WITH ELEPHANTS

Stretch Ferreira, who has spent most of his life in Mana Pools as one of Africa's top professional guides, now operates Goliath Camp under Stretch Ferreira Safaris . He describes the special relationship he has with the area's elephant bulls. "Gentle afternoon drives ending with a sundowner on the Zambezi are always a good time to look for my favorite elephant bulls - especially the ones that can get up on their back feet. The most popular one is a bull I named Boswell (after the Boswell and Wilkie Circus that used to come through my home town when I was a young school boy - they had elephants that they had trained to do this). Not many bull elephants can do it, and I have only come across a small number who have this ability over the many decades I have been in Mana. Over the years I have built up a special relationship with some of these great characters and they bring a lot of joy to my guests. We have had fun naming them, often based on their characteristics and behaviour, JD, Fred Astaire, Paul Newman, Eric, The Boris, The Donald to name a few.... These elephants often come out onto the grassy areas along the Zambezi to graze in the late afternoon, and you can get some amazing sunset shots with them silhouetted against the sun setting in the west. Come and experience this with us on your next trip to Mana Pools."

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN NATURE

The leading professional guides of African Bush Camps, who operate in Mana Pools from Kanga Camp, Zambezi Expeditions, Nyamatusi Camp and Nyamatusi Mahogany, have produced an inspiring video called Expedition of a Lifetime, about their very particular approach to introducing guests to the African safari experience. There is only one way to fully explain and experience this… to immerse yourself within this that is Africa. I think we have a sense of longing for Nature and to reconnect with it and learn from it. The bush itself has got a language and it has something to tell you. Every single day is an absolutely new day. So we create memories… It’s like we want people to open a new chapter, and have the first experience of what Africa is all about. The quietness… the wilderness, the wildness, the remoteness, the culture. That is part of you. That’s what makes Africa, Africa. Enjoy the video AT THIS LINK (or click on the above image). Also, check out African Bush Camps' incredible Book Now Travel Later Specials HERE.

NATURE RETURNS WITH A HEALING HEART AT INGWE

At a time when it’s hard to fathom which is up or down or whether the answers are in the sky or on our land, we should know just one thing..... Nature and Nurture will always help to re-align us, both physically and emotionally. Machaba Safaris, have sent us some Magic to look forward to when we all have a chance to experience their newest camp at Ingwe Pan in Mana Pools. In April last year, most of the smaller pans in Mana Pools were dry and it didn’t take long for Long Pool to dry up too. But as always, Nature returned with its healing heart, and we’ve had rain at the right times to ensure that not only did the pans and pools fill overnight, but they’ve then been kept steadily refilled. The grass is as tall as Siraaj; ducks and darters dive amongst water-lilies and hippo; and baby waterbuck drink alongside old elephant cows. It’s back to how it should be……and we hope it won’t be too long before you can come back to it all too!

VICTORIA FALLS

A MESMERISING SIGHT TO BEHOLD!

The Victoria Falls is magnificent right now as it nears its peak flow, but the rainforest is closed due to a national lockdown to protect Zimbabwe against the global coronavirus pandemic. However, Africa Albida Tourism decided the mesmerising sight was too good not to share, so had this drone footage and image taken on April 3, 2020, bringing to life explorer David Livingstone’s famous words, “scenes so lovely must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight”. Victoria Falls is a sight to behold with nearly five times as much water flowing over it now, compared to the same time last year, as the world’s largest waterfall rushes towards its peak flow, which usually occurs in May. According to the Zambezi River Authority on 2 April 4,153 cubic metres flowed over the Falls, compared to 831 cubic metres on the same day last year, but it still has some way to go to reach the incredible record 10,000 cubic metres of 1958! The Zambezi River, which tumbles over a 1.7km wide gorge to form one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, is rain fed, so water levels fluctuate greatly throughout the year, and even year to year. The magic of Victoria Falls awaits you!

LIFE ON A TINY ISLAND IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ZAMBEZI

When you live on a tiny island in the middle of the Zambezi River, it’s very hard to grasp the scale of what is happening as the enormous economic, social, and political impact of the Coronavirus starts to affect us here in Victoria Falls…. reports PJ Dunning, who manages the Victoria Falls River Lodge Treehouse Suites on Kandahar Island in the middle of the Zambezi River upstream of the Victoria Falls. It seems unjust, he says, that cancellations have been almost total for the next few months, given that holidaying in very small lodges in the bush ought to be one of the safest places on the planet. Indeed, it is a true privilege to live on the banks of a big, free-flowing river whose rise and fall through the course of every year heralds the changing of the seasons. This year, we watch with anticipation and some trepidation to see how high this year’s giant flood from the upper reaches of the Zambezi gets this year. This makes the absence of guests even sadder. Visitors may be absent, but the seasonal wildlife continues as usual…. As if by magic, the first breeding herds of elephants have arrived on the Zimbabwe banks of the river... There are leopard tortoises, dung beetles, scarab beetles, and various types of fungi in abundance, and the water-berries and Ilala Palms are in full fruit. We send our very best wishes to everybody to stay safe through the coming months. We might be waterlogged by the end of April, but we will still be here, ready to show off the beauty of our part of Africa!

PROTECTING ALL THIS...HAS BEEN SO WORTH IT

In amidst the unthinkable humanitarian and financial crises currently happening worldwide, on a recent Discover Victoria Falls safari led by professional guide and renowned conservationist Charles Brightman, we found ourselves surrounded by a world that is oblivious to the craziness. Watch the video HERE. Says Charles: Listening and watching these majestic, magnificent creatures go about their business, in the Zambezi National Park, I know that all the years spent doing my best to protect such creatures with my anti-poaching work and from conservation through tourism, has been so worth it. It is at a time like this, when so many are experiencing so much and despair, the beauty of the scene in front of me reinforces the absolute need to preserve what we have. When the world has healed, we and the wildlife will be here waiting for you to enjoy with us. Come see for yourself!

CLOSE-UP EXPERIENCES WITH ZAMBEZI HORSE SAFARIS

Wild Zambezi is delighted to welcome Zambezi Horse Safaris - the latest addition to our network of travel companies whose activities focus on the Zambezi's wild areas. Explore the wonderful wildlife and scenic landscapes of Victoria Falls and the Zambezi River close up on horseback with Alison Baker and her team of experienced guides. Novice or experienced riders are welcome, and are provided with good quality horses they might even want to own themselves for morning or half-day rides. For the more adventurous, multi-day riding safaris can be tailored to guests' requirements. The safaris mostly take place in wild areas around Victoria Falls and within the Zambezi National Park with transfers and accommodation options included, if required. Conservation is at the heart of the Zambezi Horse Safaris ethos, and the company assists various local wildlife organisations with animal welfare and veterinary work, when often close access on horseback is easier than on foot. When you're ready to travel again, Zambezi Horse Safaris are waiting to welcome you.

MAGIC FROM THE AIR

Imvelo Safaris (who operate Gorges Lodge downstream of the Victoria Falls and Zambezi Sands River Camp in the Zambezi National Park upstream of the Falls), have shared this special video of some of favourite scenes shot from the air of their magnificent locations – as hope and inspiration for everyone at this current time. Watch HERE or click on the image above. Here's what they want to tell you: African landscapes will leave you hungering for more – the sun-filled savannas, woodlands and waters of south-central Africa are the specialty of Imvelo. All of our lodges are located in beautiful places - whether the rolling plains of Hwange or the dramatically changing geography of the Zambezi River. We are all in this together right now, but we look forward to having many more happy guests visit these wonderful areas of Zimbabwe and experience not just the landscapes, but the smiling people and the spectacular wildlife as well.

A JEWEL FROM THE EAST ADORNS THE ZAMBEZI

A triangular sail in silhouette emerges from a sunset sky. With a backdrop of pink and orange hues, the dhow appears nothing less than magical - a jewel originating from East Africa’s treasure chest - its presence on the Zambezi River unexpected, its arrival roped in mystery. The Zambezi Truth is a tale of Eastern wind meets Southern African spray, mooring above the mighty Victoria Falls. Until now, these waters were virgin to sailing boats, and the experience of pioneering these channels is truly a life-changing experience. The voyage begins with a glass of champagne, setting the tone for the afternoon. Sipping bubbles while listening to the Captain recount tales of how David Livingstone navigated these waters, the true pioneer of the Zambezi, sailing commences. Flanked by Zimbabwe and Zambian national parks, an abundance of nature compliments this sensory feast. A variety of bird-life embraces the banks in residence, and the promise of elephants keeps eyes in a visual pursuit throughout the journey. A gust of wind and a fortune of stories collect in the sails as the sky begins to share the shades of champagne. Returning to land, mellow with the magic of time travel and fresh adventure, sails roped to the mast and tales of the Zambezi woven into memory. Contact the Zambezi Truth for more details and specials in the coming year.

TRAVEL PLANNERS

Here's who to contact for help when you're able to travel again

A LIFE-AFFIRMING FAMILY SAFARI

Family safaris are always special, but we venture to say that they’ll be even more so when the world emerges from COVID-19… this reflective time, slowing down and caring for those we love, has refocused our priorities and helped us understand what’s truly important. There is nothing more heart-warming for us at John Stevens Guided Safaris Africa than the joy and pleasure that family safaris, each uniquely bonding times, can bring. Nicci and John Stevens’ children and grandchildren have been fortunate to live or visit Africa’s beautiful wilderness areas regularly. Introducing kids to Africa is certainly an unforgettable experience for the whole family and the excitement begins the minute you start planning. Zimbabwe’s Zambezi Valley offers the most incredible wildlife experiences, but also fishing, boating and walking activities, all perfect for family groups across the generations. We’ve been known to organise furiously competitive scavenger hunts at John's Camp in Mana Pools; finding nature’s treasures in guide-lead teams… we’ve pushed adventurous limits in Victoria Falls, set jewellery-making challenges out of fishing tackle on a Lake Kariba houseboat, made impressive elephant dung cakes (a fun trick to play on unsuspecting birthday boys and girls!) and we’ve sought out the lesser known “Small 5” and shared clever bush craft and tracking skills in Matusadona… Sharing the ways of the wild with your children teaches lifelong values, creates amazing memories, instills confidence, empathy and care and nurtures a sense of wonder that none of should ever lose. A family safari in the magical Zambezi Valley of Zimbabwe is that delightful dream on the horizon on which we should all be setting our sights right now. Keep the passion, stay safe.

INSPIRATION FROM HEARTVELD ADVENTURES

The sun rises over the sparkling blue waters,
Fish eagle cries.
Come join us close your eyes,
Splendid beasts come down to drink.
Empty your mind, feel don’t think.

Hear nature’s majestic call,
Feel the mighty Zambezi - Magical!

It’s all here waiting for you
Contact us at Heartveld Adventures

TAKING YOU OFF 2 AFRICA

There's a special magic in that feeling of being awake when the morning dawn sunlight first peaks over the horizon and its rays dance across the landscape as if warmly tickling everything awake. Where everything is still so peaceful and quiet and you can almost imagine you're the only person for miles around. One by one, the birds start to awaken first and begin their happy choruses, forever trying to outdo one another. The hippos grunt their greetings to each other all the way down the river and the silent crocodiles eerily drift past, beginning their daily vigil again for an easy meal. If you listen closely you might hear the Ground Hornbills' booming "hudu hududu" territorial calls which is one of our favourite sounds to listen out for at dawn. But then, not to be outdone, and a sound which touches the depths of our souls, is the roar of the lions letting everyone and everything know who is still King and Queen.... We can't wait to take you once more "Off 2 Africa".

A MAGIC MOMENT WITH SAFARIS 4 AFRICA

I was sitting with a friend, on the banks of the lower Zambezi River in Mana Pools National Park, on a night of a full moon. We had a very small fire and were quietly listening to the night sounds of Africa, when suddenly the impala started alarm barking, then the baboons. I thought it must be the pride of lions coming past the camp, as they had the previous evening, but suddenly I saw very close to the camp, a long white tail highlighted by the moon light. Out of the shadows appeared a female leopard, closely followed by her male consort. We sat like statues hardly daring to breath, but they were oblivious to our presence, (as they walked by so close to us), intent on their evening endeavours. We sat stunned in total silence absorbing the magic of this very special African moment! Contact us at Safaris 4 Africa - and let us help you share the magic.

TRAVEL PORTFOLIO : WEAVING EXPERIENCES

At Travel Portfolio, we’ve had many magical moments in our 26 years in the tourism business…. and we enjoy nothing better than having the opportunity to weave some of these incredible experiences into the dream safari itineraries that we create for our clients. There are SO many superlatives: stunning Lake Kariba sunsets, the thundering Victoria Falls at peak flow, tracking the Big 5 on foot with a professional guide, dinosaur fossils hundreds of millions of years old, camping under the stars, canoeing the Zambezi in Mana Pools, and gliding silently past elephants swimming in the river… Our safaris are varied – some are luxurious, some are adventurous, some involve interactive elements (learn bush survival skills, put up your own tent etc), and some are designed for people with special interests (e.g. birding enthusiasts keen to spot a Lifer like the African Pitta). All are carefully crafted with your very specific needs in mind. The Travel Portfolio team has the local knowledge you need to turn your dream safari into reality! We are ready and waiting. Contact us so we can start planning together!

TAIL ENDER

The last word goes to well-known psychiatrist, wilderness guide and poet, Dr Ian McCallum, who shared his much-loved poem titled 'Wilderness' (based on his experiences with Wilderness Safaris) for their current #IDreamofAfrica poetry blogs inspired by the wild. Read it HERE (or click on the image).

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