Intial Planning Stage

1. When can I stay at Lion Camp ?
Lion Camp is open between 15th May and 31st October which is Zambia’s dry season. (Access during the rainy season is impossible by road due to Lion camps remote location. This means the area reverts to the wildlife).

2. When is the best time to visit ?
There is no one answer to this question, as each month has its own merits. If you come between May & Aug, expect exceptional game viewing, at a comfortable temperature. From Sept to Oct, you can expect even higher concentrations of game, with more action, however it is extremely hot (up to 37 C) and dry.

3. What should I expect on a typical day on safari?
There is no ‘typical day on safari’ as every day on safari is different, but we suggest an early morning walk or drive, this (and late afternoon) is when the animals are most active. Then return to Lion Camp for breakfast and a quiet / rest period in order to catch up on your journal or take a swim in the infinity pool. After lunch and a siesta you will head out on an afternoon game viewing activity with a ‘sundowner’ stop in a picturesque spot to watch the setting sun. The game drive will continue into a night drive – game viewing by spotlight which focuses on nocturnal animals. You will return to the lodge around 20h00 followed by dinner.

4. Will I be fit enough to try a walking safari?
Yes, if you are of average fitness. Walks normally cover 4 - 6 km with plenty of informative stops along the way. However, each walk is tailored to the participants involved.

5. How much will it cost to stay at Lion camp ?
Please contact us for up-to-date rate information. We offer fully inclusive packages and are able to organise your local flights to/from Mfuwe for a small booking fee.

Further Planning

6. Is Lion Camp suitable for children?
In general we suggest Lion Camp is more suitable for accompanied children aged 12+. However please contact us to discuss your specific requirements

7. How long is the transfer to Lion Camp from Mfuwe Airport?
As most of the transfer is inside the national park it is more of game drive than a ‘transfer’. Depending on what you encounter it takes between 3-4 hours.

8. I want to have my own vehicle & guide – Is that possible?
Yes it is possible for an additional fee, it should be booked ahead of time to avoid disappointment – Please contact us to discuss your requirements.

9. Will I be able to charge my electrical equipment?
We have a 220V inverter system, meaning you can charge equipment at your convenience in your room. We have south african round pin sockets, but provide adaptors for UK & US plugs.

10. What type of plane is used for the flights between the capital Lusaka and Mfuwe?
A turbo prop Beechcraft, seating 18 is normally used. The baggage allowance on these planes is 15kg and a per kilogram USD charge (around US$1.00 / kg) is applied to items carried in excess of this. However, please be aware that the airlines exercise the right to refuse excess baggage if there is not enough space onboard the aircraft.

11. Are you able to cater for special dietary requirements?
Yes, but please inform us ahead of time of any specific dietary needs. We offer a set menu as is usual in most remote safari camps. For vegetarian/vegans, please just mention this to your hosts on arrival.

12. I want to get married under the African sky – Can you help me?
We’d love to help you plan your special day – please contact us for more information.

Pre-Departure

13. What should I pack for my safari?
Binoculars (one pair per person is essential), high factor sunscreen & a hat are the most important things to bring. For walking safaris bring khaki or neutral coloured clothing (white / light colours are not suitable) and comfortable closed toe shoes/ trainers. There is a daily laundry service in camp, so this should help to limit your packing.

14. Do I need a visa to enter Zambia ?
Entry visas are needed are for most passports, however tourists on a pre-booked safari may be exempt. We are happy to assist and advise you on the latest requirements - please enquire when booking.

15. Do I need to bring cash with me ?
If you want to bring spending money, then US Dollar Cash (notes must have ‘large’ heads) is widely accepted and will be needed for Airport Departure Taxes. Please enquire when booking for up-to date information on departure taxes.

16. What medical precautions should I take ?
Malaria is present in the Luangwa Valley so we recommend you take malaria prophylactics – please consult your doctor.

17. Insurance
Please ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance for your trip, including medical cover. Lion Camp though taking every care to ensure your health & safety will not be held responsible for any loss or delays, injury, illness, death, cancellation of flights, change of itinerary.

Zambia, South Luangwa & Lion Camp

18. Why Zambia ?
English speaking Zambia is a peaceful, friendly and welcoming country. Independent since 1964 it is a country of rich culture and vibrant contrasts, where it is possible to experience both an exclusive safari, and the thrill of Victoria Falls.

19. What will I see that is unusual / special to South Luangwa ?
Particularly of note are the endemic Cooksons wildebeest and Thornicrofts Giraffe, however the Luangwa river has possibly the highest concentration of hippos & crocodiles in southern Africa and the valley is known for its excellent leopard viewing. For ‘twitchers’ it is possible to see: Pels fishing owl, Western banded snake eagle, Lilians lovebirds and from mid August the Luangwa river banks house extensive carmine bee-eater colonies.

20. Will I see Lions during my stay at Lion Camp ?
We cannot guarantee it, but it is highly likely. Lion Camp was situated and named for the high density of lions in the immediate area.

21. How long has Lion Camp been in existence?
There has been a ‘Lion Camp’ on this site on and off in various guises since the 1980’s. The current Lion Camp was established in 2000, and the existing owner has been involved since 2004.

22. How many people can you accommodate, are there twin or double beds ?
We have 9 chalets meaning we can accommodate up to 18 guests. This enables us to offer all the luxuries of a 5 star retreat, yet still retain a feeling of intimacy.
5 rooms have king-size double-beds, and 4 are twin-bedded rooms. All have luxuriously draped mosquito nets, stand fans and comfortable day beds.
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23. Is it safe to be on safari at Lion Camp ?

• Your safety is of paramount concern to all at Lion Camp. At all times on game viewing activities you will be accompanied by a qualified and experienced guide.
• All vehicles are fitted with VHF radios and walking guides carry handheld radios, both allowing communication with the main lodge at all times.
• In camp it is safe to move around on the raised walkways, however Lion Camp staff are happy to escort you between your room and the main area should you wish.

24. Where does the drinking water come from ?
All water comes from a borehole in camp. The drinking water is treated and filtered but bottled mineral water is available from the bar if you prefer.

For more information email us at info@lioncamp.com.

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