The Luangwa Valley is one of Africa’s prime wildlife sanctuaries, with concentrations and varieties of game and birdlife that has made it world famous.
The Luangwa Valley lies at the tail end of the Great Rift Valley as the Rift reaches Zambia, it divides; one arm to the east encompasses Lake Malawi and the western arm becomes the Luangwa Valley. Down the center of the valley flows the Luangwa River, fed by dozens of sand rivers that come down during the rainy season.
The countryside is spectacular in its rugged beauty, the vegetation thick and, near the Luangwa River and its many tributaries, a lush riverine forest occurs that is green all year round. Flanking the rivers western banks are the North and South Luangwa National Parks separated by the 30km Munyamadzi corridor. To the east, between the two main parks lies another Park called Luambe National Park…
The development of game protection in the area began in the late 19th century when British South Africa Company was administering the territory and they imposed a total ban on the hunting of hippo and elephant in the area – Today there is an over-abundance of hippos along the Luangwa River.
We hunt predominantly in the Luangwa Valley, the block lies between the North and South Luangwa National Parks.We offer the best Zambia hunting prices. You might also like hunting in Tshipise Reserve.
Climate:
Zambia‘s climate is generally sunny and pleasant. June and July are the middle of winter and are in general cool to mild. The average morning temperature in Winter is 50 degrees F and in the afternoons between 72 -77 degrees F (October) November through to March which are our summer months are warm and some days are very hot.
Hunting Season: Hunting season is from 1 May to 31 December
Our Hunting areas:
Hunting takes place in the Luangwa Valley , Kafue Flats, Zambezi Valley and Bangweulu Swamps in governmental conservation areas or large privately owned ranches, depending on the required species.
Health and safety:
Fully equipped medical kits and telephone (Satellite phone) or radio communication are available in case of an emergency. Zambia is a high-risk malaria area, we suggest you consult your medical practitioner or travel clinic and take the necessary precautions. Always carry your travel and personal documents, travellers’ cheques and cash on your person or ask us to keep it in safe custody.
Travelling, accommodation and meals:
Please make provision for all accommodation and travel expenses before and after your safari as this is not included in your contracted Safari. Upon your arrival in Zambia, you will be welcomed by our staff at the nearest port of entry(airport) to the hunting area and transported to Safari camp/lodge by either air charter or ground transport. Depending on the required species and hunting areas, you will be based in a comfortable grass thatched lodge or tented camp. Linen and basic toiletries are provided. All meals, soft drinks and daily laundry (except on travelling days) service are provided.
Customs, visas and insurance:
Customs clearance is operative at your port of entry into Zambia . Zambia requires a passport valid at least 6 months beyond your departure date and depending on your country of origin, a visa. Insurance for personal effects, luggage and trip cancellation as well as medical “casevac” is strongly recommended. A visa can be obtained at the airport on arrival. There is also a $20 departure tax when leaving Zambia.
Firearms and ammunition:
A firearm import permit is required for Zambia . Once your Safari is booked we will get all the necessary permits and clear your firearms on arrival.
Currency & Spending money:
The local currency is the Kwacha. In general cash is preferred. It is customary to tip staff in recognition of good service.
General packing list
Ammunition in a locked container (please confirm with Hunters’ Support / African Odyssey regarding the weight restrictions on ammunition for different airlines as well as the regulations on how to transport ammunition)
Ammunition pouch
Binoculars (8 x 30 to 10 x 40 or 10 x 32)
Camera – Extra memory card – Memory stick to download pictures
Cellphone and instructions for use in the country you will be visiting
Chap stick
Comfortable attire to wear around camp at night
Comfortable, well-worn hunting shoes/boots
3-4 Pairs of socks
3 x Shirts (hunting shirts)
2-3 pairs of hunting shorts
2-3 pairs of hunting trousers (during June & July we usually wear long pants while hunting)
During June / July we recommend you bring gloves and a beanie
Flashlight & batteries
Hat
Insect repellent
Insurance information
Medical prescriptions
Passport (make copies of all paperwork and put in a separate bag or your rifle case)
Rifle, sling & soft bag
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Toiletry bag
Belt
Warm jacket
# Laundry is done daily in our hunting camps
# May, June & July are our coldest months
Packing, dipping and shipping of trophies:
An import and export CITES permit for Appendix I and an export CITES permit for Appendix II animals are required for each shipment. Field preparation of trophies are done in camp and transported to a shipping agent designated by the outfitter. Clients will be put in touch with the shipping agent to discuss their requirements and arrange for the payment of services. Clients should have sufficient trophy tags and full shipping instructions handy and should make sure that their skinning instructions are clearly recorded in the outfitter’s hunting register.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the requirements for obtaining a hunting license in Zambia?
To obtain a hunting license in Zambia, you must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid hunting permit. Additionally, you must demonstrate proficiency in the handling of firearms, provide proof of hunting liability insurance, and have a valid passport. A professional hunting guide must also accompany you during your hunting expedition.
What is the best time of year to go hunting in Zambia?
The best time of year to go hunting in Zambia is during the dry season, which typically runs from May to October. During this time, the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot game, and the animals tend to gather around water sources, making them more accessible for hunting.
What types of animals can be hunted in Zambia?
A variety of game species can be hunted, including African elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, hippopotamus, crocodile, various antelope species, and more. However, the specific types of animals that can be hunted may depend on the hunting area and the hunting regulations in place at the time. It is important to consult with a licensed hunting operator or the Zambia Wildlife Authority for more information.
Are there any restrictions on the types of weapons that can be used for hunting in Zambia?
Yes, there are restrictions on the types of weapons that can be used for hunting. Only shotguns, rifles, and muzzleloaders are allowed, and they must meet specific caliber requirements. Handguns and automatic weapons are strictly prohibited. Additionally, there are rules regarding the type of ammunition that can be used, such as the use of lead-free bullets in some areas. It is important to check with the hunting outfitter or the Zambia Wildlife Authority for specific regulations and requirements.
What is the process for importing firearms for a hunting trip in Zambia?
To import firearms for a hunting trip in Zambia, hunters need to obtain a temporary import permit from the Zambia Police Service. The following documents are required for the permit application:
- Valid passport
- Return air ticket
- Hunting permit or invitation letter from a registered hunting outfitter in Zambia
- Proof of ownership or a license for the firearms to be imported
- A valid firearm license from the hunter’s home country
- A completed application form
Once the permit is granted, the hunter can bring their firearms into Zambia. It is important to note that the permit is only valid for the duration of the hunting trip and hunters must re-export their firearms at the end of their stay.
