The lure of Luangwa

For self-drivers craving fresh ground and wilder horizons, Zambia is the next great frontier, says Ultimate Routes' Lea and Kobus Erasmus.

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How did your first visit to Zambia come about?

After seven years of crafting and booking self-drive adventures just beyond our borders, we finally gave in to the call of Zambia. The pull was sparked years earlier by Survivors Song: The Eye of the Elephant by Mark and Delia Owens. That spark led to an epic two-month recce through Zambia in September 2024 – a father-and-son expedition into the unknown. I was fortunate to join them for a few weeks, along with our adventurous friends, the Bernatzeders from GoCamp. Our first destination? The legendary Luangwa Valley.

What makes the Luangwa Valley special for overlanders and campers?

Picture wide, grassy riverbanks framed by towering riverine trees, ancient leadwood forests stretching into the distance, and pockets of magical mahogany groves. The total abundance of untouched nature makes it a haven for wildlife and birdlife... you feel it in every rustle and call. As our one client Cyndy Purchase said, “The park is still wild and not very busy, which is a great relief after travelling in Namibia and Botswana.” It’s adventurous with some challenging roads, but all made worthwhile with high volumes of animal sightings and very beautiful scenery.

What route do you take?

Getting there from Johannesburg takes about three days, with two border crossings, a decent amount of paperwork and some serious truck traffic. Crossing at Kazungula Bridge is your best bet for this destination. Luangwa can easily be the main event of a trip, but if you've got the time (and the appetite for adventure), it also fits well into a longer, circular route. Think hidden gems along Zambia's Great North Road like Mutinondo Wilderness, Kasanka National Park, and some jaw-dropping waterfalls along the way.