Many people have different expectations of a safari on the African continent: some enjoy relaxing in five-star accommodation with a spa and the latest treatments, with first-class dining and fine wines, while others want to fully immerse themselves in the jungle. Either experience will allow for high-quality gaming, but the latter definitely gives you a real feel for ‘unplugged’ Africa.

Walking safaris were pioneered in South Luangwa in Zambia by the renowned Norman Carr over fifty years ago and today his legacy is a small selection of high quality ‘jungle camps’ that are platforms for exciting walking safaris. “Jungle camps” tend to be much smaller than traditional safari lodges, accommodating 6-10 guests at a time and are more traditional in layout with a handful of thatched-roof huts, usually opening up to a quiet bend of the Luangwa River.

The key to any safari in Africa is the quality of the guide and Zambian guides are among the best – taking guests on foot requires a high level of concentration and sensory perception. Imagine coming across all the wildlife you would see from the comfort of your set in a large 4×4 vehicle, now imagine the same experience on foot. Safety is paramount and the experience is unforgettable. My first walking safari in South Luangwa brought our small group to within 100 feet of a mating pair of leopards!

Zambia’s national parks are well established and during the dry season, which runs from May to the end of October, South Luangwa offers exceptional game viewing. Large breeding herds of elephants trail through the mopane forests, along with equally large herds of buffalo. Large prides of lions defend their territories from local competition and the chances of seeing leopards in the wild are perhaps higher than elsewhere in Africa. Many different species of antelope thrive in Zambia, as well as Thorneycroft’s giraffe and Cookson’s wildebeest, which are more unusual.

The Luangwa River is home to high concentrations of hippos, and as the dry season progresses and the river shrinks, it is not uncommon to see groups of several hundred hippos congregating in the deeper channels. Strategically placed photo blinds provide exceptional opportunities to get up close to these large “river horses” and observe their behavior.

Zambia is easily accessible with direct flights from the UK to the capital, Lusaka. Then a short flight takes you to the small town of Mfuwe, which is the gateway to a South Luangwa safari. And as you make your way to camp, the spectacular beauty of one of Africa’s last truly wild areas unfolds, drawing you in and holding your imagination captive for days to come.

If a Zambia walking safari sounds like the style of safari you would enjoy, be sure to speak to someone who has visited the area and can give you an unbiased insight into the best location and camp for you based on your expectations, as some camps are more rustic than others.