ZAMBIA • AUGUST 16-25, 2026

Zambia rejects the circus of mass tourism, offering instead a rugged wilderness defined by geographical extremes and an elite low-density travel model. Unlike more commercialized safari zones, this nation’s commitment to minimal human footprint means visitors are genuinely scarce, with national parks like the Lower Zambezi remaining largely untamed. The terrain itself is a brutal tapestry of vast, seasonal floodplains and dense miombo woodlands. Then there is the life-giving Zambezi River—allowing for unique riverine safaris by boat or canoe that offer intimate perspectives on high-density populations of elephant and buffalo, alongside the country’s infamous proliferation of leopards in the Luangwa Valley. This is a destination for the discerning traveler, where exclusivity is not a luxury upgrade, but the standard operating procedure (totally Seasick’s style).

To reiterate, the (included) luxury camps of Zambia operate on an inherent principle of exclusive isolation, positioning them not merely near wildlife, but often as the singular human outposts in vast, predator-rich concessions. Unlike high-traffic destinations, establishments in the Lower Zambezi or the remote sections of South Luangwa restrict guest numbers to an intimate few—often as low as eight or ten—with individual suites strategically spaced to grant absolute privacy and uninterrupted vistas over rivers or floodplains. This commitment to low-density tourism means the prime game-viewing spots are routinely reserved for the guests of a single camp, offering a level of unhurried, proprietary wilderness access that is virtually extinct elsewhere on the continent.

This ten-day safari is a faultless, full-service spectacle, where every conceivable need is secured before the journey even begins. From the second the private jet (albeit an African winged bus from the early 2000s) arrives onto a forgotten dirt strip, to the grim (tears may be shed) final exit, every obstacle is demolished, and every craving is already achieved. Seasick's premier, relentless commitment to excellence isn't a bonus; it's the bare minimum required. Serving as more than simply an agency, Seasick functions as the unseen masters of this brutal yet beautiful theatre. The ultimate goal—allow the individual’s gaze to be fixed only on the raw cycle of life, utterly unconcerned with the amount of planning and preparation required to be present at that moment. Truth.

AFRICA

Africa is an ancient terrain—expansive, elemental, and still writing the original story of life on Earth. Nicknamed the Mother Continent for good reason, it’s where human history began and where it continues to unfold in color, cadence, and wild scale. With 54 recognized countries, over 1,500 languages (depending on who’s counting), and ecosystems that stretch from coastal jungle to bone-dry desert, Africa doesn’t do small. It’s the second-largest continent on Earth, home to more megafauna than anywhere else: lions, elephants, crocodiles, giraffes, and creatures with no business being that large, roaming free.
Its terrain is stitched with 3,000+ protected areas: marine sanctuaries, biosphere reserves, rainforest pockets, and endless open plains. From the Congo Basin to the Kalahari, from the Sahara to the Serengeti, the continent breathes contrast, both ancient and urgently alive. Cultural diversity? Off the charts. Religion, cuisine, textiles, music, architecture—it’s not a monolith, it’s a mosaic. And when it comes to wildlife, Africa isn’t a highlight reel; it is the show.

Countries: ≈54 (recognized + semi-recognized) • Area: 11,730,000 sq mi • Population: 1,550,000,000 (2025) • Languages: 1,500 - 3,000 • Religions: Christianity (49%), Islam (42%), Traditional (8%) • Megafauna: Most on Earth • Protected Areas: 3,000+ (198 marine, 50 biosphere, 80 wetlands) • Largest Country: Algeria • Largest City: Lagos (Nigeria) • Smallest Country: Seychelles • Longest River: Nile

ZAMBIA

Zambia, situated in the heart of Southern Africa, is celebrated for its incredible abundance of water and mineral wealth. The landscape is dominated by a high, well-watered plateau, vast woodlands, and dramatic river valleys. Towering waterfalls, major river systems, and massive lakes are all stitched together by a warm tropical climate and fertile soil. The country’s two defining natural features, the mighty Zambezi River and the extensive Copperbelt, stand in striking contrast. One is the lifeblood of agriculture and hydroelectric power, featuring the breathtaking Victoria Falls (Mosi-oa-Tunya—The Smoke that Thunders), the other is a region rich in copper and cobalt that drives the national economy. Together, they form a nation poised on the cusp of immense development. Formerly the British protectorate of Northern Rhodesia, Zambia gained independence in 1964 and has since sought to diversify an economy heavily reliant on a single commodity. Bordered by eight countries, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe, Zambia’s (relatively) large population is concentrated along the historic Line of Rail. Just under ten percent (3,000,000+) live in the capital city, Lusaka. Its wilderness areas are expansive and biodiverse. Over 20 national parks, including the world-renowned South Luangwa and Kafue National Parks, support numerous big game species and host one of the largest concentrations of leopards in Africa.

Official Name: Republic of Zambia • Continent: Africa • Capital City: Lusaka • Oldest Settlement: The Old Drift (1897) • UK Independence: 1964 • Land Area: 290,590 sq mi • Population: 21,750,000 (2025) • Time: UTC+2 • Industries: Tourism + Mining + Agriculture • Official Currency: Kwacha (USD 1 = ZMW 23.7) • Electricity: 230V • Official Language: English • Religion: Christian (95%) • Driving Side: Left

WEATHER AND CLIMATE

For those willing to spend five figures on an African safari, the time of year selected is critical. Forget about wind, heavy rain, or thunderstorms. Even worse, during the wet season the vegetation is so dense that the wildlife can’t be seen. Lame! That is why Seasick selected the best six weeks of the year to visit. August falls squarely within Zambia's cool dry season, offering superb conditions across the country. Rainfall is virtually non-existent, and the skies are typically clear and sunny, allowing for excellent daytime visibility. While the afternoons are pleasantly warm, the mornings and evenings remain chilly, especially in the plateau areas, requiring warm layers for early game drives. As the landscape continues to dry out, the vegetation thins and animals congregate heavily around permanent rivers and waterholes, marking this month as a prime time for intensive wildlife viewing in parks like South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi.

AUGUST AVERAGES

Lusaka (Ciela Resort & Spa) – Mean: 64°F • High: 78°F • Low: 51°F • Sunshine Hrs: 11.5 • Rainy Days: 0 • Rain Total: 0 in
Located in south-central Zambia, the capital city of Lusaka is the country's central hub, famous for its rapid development, vibrant markets, and role as the main gateway to the national parks. In August, Lusaka enjoys some of the most pleasant weather of the year: dry skies, warm afternoons, and cool, crisp mornings. This weather is perfect for exploring the city's lively commercial districts or making a comfortable departure for the safari circuits. As the cool dry season begins to transition, Lusaka acts as the lifeline for the country, facilitating the movement of people and commerce, linking the major mining regions and agricultural provinces to the wider world.

South Luangwa National Park (Kakuli Lodge + Mchenja Lodge) – Mean: 74°F • High: 86°F • Low: 63°F • Sunshine Hrs: 11.5 • Rainy Days: 0 • Rain Total: 0 in
South Luangwa National Park is world-famous as the "Valley of the Leopard" due to its exceptionally high density and reliability for spotting the elusive big cat. August falls at the height of the dry season, providing consistently sunny days and clear, thin bush that makes wildlife viewing—especially of concentrated animals near the Luangwa River—supremely rewarding. August in South Luangwa National Park is characterized by ideal, mild, and dry weather, marking the transition from the cool winter into the hot season. The complete lack of rain, thinning vegetation, and scarce water throughout the park forces wildlife to concentrate heavily around the Luangwa River, making it a prime month for walking safaris and exceptional game viewing.

Lower Zambezi National Park (Chongwe Camp) – Mean: 65°F • High: 79°F • Low: 53°F • Sunshine Hrs: 11.5 • Rainy Days: 0 • Rain Total: 0 in
Lower Zambezi National Park is world-famous for its incredible water-based safaris, where visitors can canoe among large herds of elephants and hippos on the mighty Zambezi River. In August, the weather is defined by exceptionally dry, clear conditions, which intensify the wildlife viewing experience as the animals gather at the life-giving riverbanks.

ROUTE AND MODES OF TRANSPORT

• Round-trip international commercial flight: USA → Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN). Duration varies. Not included in Seasick package
• 1→2: One-way regional charter flight: Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN) → Mfuwe International Airport (MFU). 1hr 10min
• 2→3: One-way land transfer (4x4 Land Cruiser): Kakuli Camp ⇄ Mchenja Camp. 20min
• 3→4: One-way regional charter flight: Mfuwe International Airport (MFU) → Royal Airstrip (RYL). 1hr
• 4→5: One-way regional charter flight: Royal Airstrip (RYL) → Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI). 1hr 15min

CIELA RESORT & SPA

Ciela Resort & Spa in Lusaka is recognized as an oasis of refined luxury, instantly setting a new benchmark for upscale accommodation in the capital city. Guests experience a seamless blend of natural tranquility and meticulous comfort, delivered through an attentive and personalized service model. The resort boasts a comprehensive suite of amenities designed for relaxation and indulgence, typically including exclusive spa treatments, pristine swimming and lounging areas, and several premier dining venues that offer sophisticated culinary experiences. This focus on five-star service and plush facilities establishes Ciela as a prestigious, full-service retreat, ensuring every guest enjoys a secluded and pampered escape from the city's bustle.

Built: 2020 • Rooms/Suites: 245 • Pool: Outdoor • Spa: Yes • Fitness Center: Who cares • Chapel: Yikes • Golf: Yes • Brewery: Yes • Onsite Dining: Elements + Botanica • Breakfast: Included • WiFi: Included

CIELA RESORT & SPA ACCOMMODATIONS

DELUXE ROOM
The 325 sq. ft. rooms are stylish, spacious accommodations, featuring premium bedding like Egyptian cotton sheets and down comforters, along with modern amenities such as a mini-fridge and coffee/tea maker. Guests will also appreciate the bright en-suite bathroom which is equipped with a large shower and a rainfall showerhead. 1 King bed or 2 Twin beds available.

SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK (KAKULI CAMP + MCHENJA CAMP)

South Luangwa National Park is an ecologically vital sanctuary defined by the meandering Luangwa River, which forms the lifeblood of its valley ecosystem. This dynamic riparian zone (look it up, it’s a real term)—one of Africa’s most intact major river systems—features seasonally fluctuating floodplains, oxbow lagoons, and dense woodlands, including mopane and ebony forests. Whatever that means, right? Wrong. For those who want varied landscapes, not simply a week of open savanna or grasslands, the SLNP (Seasick just made that up) is the place. This rich mosaic of habitats supports one of the continent's most intense concentrations of wildlife, featuring most of the famous faces that visitors expect to encounter. The park is even home to several endemic subspecies, including the distinctive Thornicroft's giraffe and Cookson's wildebeest, and is globally renowned as the "Valley of the Leopard" due to its exceptional density of the elusive cat.

The preservation of this ecosystem is a testament to dedicated, community-integrated conservation efforts, tracing back to the principles established by conservationist Norman Carr in the mid-20th century (the parent company to both Kakuli Camp and Mchenja Camp was first established as Norman Carr Safaris more than 70 years ago). The park, along with its surrounding Game Management Areas, is protected through a collaborative approach spearheaded by organizations like Conservation South Luangwa (CSL) and Zambia's Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW). These initiatives employ comprehensive anti-poaching strategies, including ground patrol teams, specialized K9 units, and aerial surveillance, which have contributed to the recovery of key species like the endangered African wild dog. Furthermore, programs focus on mitigating human-wildlife conflict—particularly with elephants—by empowering local communities with alternative livelihoods, thereby cementing the local populace's role as custodians of this remarkable natural heritage.

Established: 1972 • Land Area: 3,490 sq mi • Acres: 2,233,600 • Elevation: 1,640' - 5,085' • Wildlife Species: ≈400 bird + ≈60 mammal + ≈2,000 plant • Camps/Lodges: 21 • Human Residents: 0

KAKULI CAMP

Kakuli Camp occupies a prime, elevated position at the confluence of the Luwi and Luangwa Rivers in the game-rich heart of South Luangwa National Park, granting guests unrivaled vistas over wildlife activity. The camp style is one of luxurious minimalism, utilizing natural thatch and timber to construct only a handful of tented suites with open-air bathrooms and large, river-facing facades—eschewing excessive amenities like pools or spas to focus purely on the visceral bush experience. With only a few exclusive accommodations, the camp embodies high-end exclusivity, ensuring a deeply intimate and unhurried safari where the spectacle of resident lion prides and prolific leopards is viewed in splendid isolation.

Note: Kakuli Camp and Mchenja Camp are sister properties that are located six miles apart and have a very limited capacity (10 guests max). The group will be split amongst the camps and guests will rotate while enjoying two nights at each property. The entire group will connect during game drives, happy hour, and an occasional meal during those four nights.

Built: 1956 • Safari Suites: 5 • Max Guests: 10 • Game Drives: 4x4 vehicle + walking • Pool: No • Spa: No • Fire Pit: Yes • Dining + Bar: Included • Laundry: Included • WiFi: Included • Electricity: 24hrs

KAKULI CAMP

SAFARI SUITE
The suites are spacious, thatched-roof safari tents set on an elevated ridge, designed to maximize comfort while embracing the wilderness. Each dwelling features a unique open-air en-suite bathroom and a fully opening canvas front, allowing guests to enjoy uninterrupted, panoramic views of the Luangwa River and its wildlife from their feather-top beds. 1 King bed or 2 Twin beds available.

MCHENJA CAMP

Mchenja Camp secures a prime riverfront location beneath a magnificent grove of ebony trees on a sweeping bend of the Luangwa River, establishing itself as one of South Luangwa's most picturesque and game-rich bases. The camp balances rustic elegance with discreet luxury, offering just five stylish, octagonal tented suites that feature deep, clawfoot baths and open-air bathrooms with spectacular river views. While amenities remain minimal to honor the authentic bush experience—foregoing air conditioning or permanent structures—the camp retains an exclusive plunge pool overlooking the hippos in the Luangwa. This intimate, five-suite exclusivity ensures guests experience the superlative predator action of the area, often viewing elephants crossing the river or leopards hunting in the adjacent ebony forest without the distraction of crowds.

Note: Kakuli Camp and Mchenja Camp are sister properties that are located six miles apart and have a very limited capacity (10 guests max). The group will be split amongst the camps and guests will rotate while enjoying two nights at each property. The entire group will connect during game drives, happy hour, and an occasional meal during those four nights.

Built: 2001 • Safari Suites: 5 • Max Guests: 10 • Game Drives: 4x4 vehicle + walking • Pool: Yes • Spa: No • Fire Pit: Yes • Dining + Bar: Included • Laundry: Included • WiFi: Included • Electricity: 24hrs

MCHENJA CAMP ACCOMMODATIONS

SAFARI SUITE
The suites are spacious, thatched-roof safari tents set on an elevated ridge, designed to maximize comfort while embracing the wilderness. Each dwelling features a unique open-air en-suite bathroom and a fully opening canvas front, allowing guests to enjoy uninterrupted, panoramic views of the Luangwa River and its wildlife from their feather-top beds. 1 King bed or 2 Twin beds available.

LOWER ZAMBEZI NATIONAL PARK (CHONGWE CAMP)

The Lower Zambezi National Park stands as the definitive sanctuary for the safari elite; its ecosystem deliberately kept in a pristine condition that fundamentally rejects the over-commercialization found across the border (no offense Zimbabwe). This fierce preservation is historically rooted; until 1983, it functioned as the President's private reserve (now that’s an impressive backyard), a unique form of state control that ensured human impact remained minimal and visitor numbers acutely limited. The Zambezi River and its dramatic northern escarpment act as natural funnels, compelling massive congregations of elephant and buffalo onto the flat valley floor for intense, predictable viewing.

The true appeal lies in the absence of a crowd: land-based drives traverse a visceral terrain of floodplains and dense thickets, while signature canoe safaris provide an unnervingly intimate, water-level engagement with the river’s apex species. The deliberate scarcity of vehicles ensures that any viewing of a lion or leopard is an uninterrupted, solitary privilege. Lower Zambezi doesn't sell a packaged experience; it provides direct access to the untamed, demanding that the wilderness alone dictates the terms of the encounter.

Established: 1983 • Land Area: 1,580 sq mi • Acres: 1,011,170 • Elevation: 1,110' - 4,550' • Wildlife Species: ≈375 bird + ≈50 mammal + ≈75 fish • Camps/Lodges: 12 • Peak Season: July to October

CHONGWE CAMP

Chongwe Camp is the Lower Zambezi's adrenaline junction, strategically set at the dramatic confluence of the Chongwe and Zambezi rivers, making it a magnet for colossal elephant herds drawn to the seasonal winterthorn groves. This is a non-stop, multi-modal operation that dispatches guests onto water and land with equal velocity; one minute you're silently stalking large game on a canoe safari at river level, and the next you're plunging into a night drive on the hunt for the area’s prolific leopards. The environment itself is a dynamic battlefield where hippos police the water and elephants regularly stride right through the unfenced camp, proving that the luxury is simply a backdrop to the uncompromising reality of the wild.

The camp runs on a high-octane philosophy of varied immersion, offering everything from intense tiger fishing to profound walking safaris and exclusive Sleepouts Under the Stars. The classic canvas tents, though spacious and stylish, are intentionally minimal, serving primarily as a brief anchor point between relentless, high-quality excursions. With only a handful of units, Chongwe guarantees every activity feels like a private charter into the Lower Zambezi’s most fertile game zones, ensuring the focus remains squarely on the unscripted, visceral action that this pristine river valley consistently delivers.

Built: 1992 • Tents/Suites: 8+2 • Max Guests: 20 • Game Drives: 4x4 vehicle + boat/canoe • Pool: Yes • Spa: No • Fire Pit: Yes • Dining + Bar: Included • Laundry: Included • WiFi: Included • Electricity: 24hrs

CHONGWE CAMP ACCOMMODATIONS

CLASSIC TENT
The riverfront canvas accommodations are designed with large open-air bathrooms and private decks to maximize views of the Chongwe and Zambezi River confluence. The tents provide a luxurious yet authentic bush experience, featuring comfortable beds, overhead fans, and essential charging points powered by the camp's generator system. 1 King bed or 2 Twin beds available.

ZAMBIA POTENTIAL

SAMPLE ITINERARY

PACKAGE INCLUDES

¹Kakuli Camp, Mchenja Camp, and Chongwe Camp include house wines, spirits, local beers, soft drinks, juices, and water. Premium brands not included.

FLIGHTS + TRANSIT HOTELS

SAMPLE ITINERARY AS OF SEPTEMBER 25, 2025
ESTIMATED COST: $2,180

LOS ANGELES - LUSAKA
DEPARTING: FRIDAY, AUGUST 14

LIVINGSTONE - LOS ANGELES
RETURNING: TUESDAY, AUGUST 25

LIVINGSTONE HOTEL

Radisson Blu Mosi-Oa-Tunya
• Superior (≈$365) - Premium (≈$465) - Suite (≈$580) - Premium Suite (≈$620) - Villa (≈$640)
• Reservations include breakfast 2 pax. Airport transfers in Seasick package

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

DEFINITIONS: “Company” is defined as Underwater Exposures, Inc. dba Seasick Productions, incorporated in terms of the laws of California, United States of America. "Company Affiliated Parties" is defined as the Company, its directors, members, partners, employees, agents, consultants, suppliers, and contractors. “Guest” is defined as any person or persons placing a booking (whether provisional or confirmed) with the Company and who contracts with the Company for any of the Services together with his/her spouse, dependents and companions. “Services” is defined as the provision of accommodation, transport, transfers, scuba diving and snorkeling activities, tours or any other activities or services provided by the Company and the procurement by the Company of the provision of accommodation, transport, transfers, scuba diving and snorkeling activities, tours or any other activities or services by any Third-Party Contractors.

GENERAL: Price based on double occupancy group rate. Single supplement, extensions, additional services, and all other items not listed in itinerary are not included. All prices subject to change without notice. A $4,000.00 deposit per person is required with each Guest reservation. Company reserves the right, without advance notice, to make changes or cancellations, in part or in whole, as circumstances dictate. Any deposit or payment made to Company or any representative of Company shows acceptance and acknowledgement of the terms and conditions as stated herein.

CHANGES TO RESERVATIONS: Any request by Guest to amend or change a booking once it has been confirmed, may be accommodated by Company subject to availability. If Company is able to assist, a reasonable administrative fee may be charged. Any such administrative fees shall be invoiced to the Guest and must be settled as per the standard terms applicable to the booking. If the invoice is not paid within such time, Company may construe such non-payment as an act of cancellation on the part of the Guest and the provisions of the cancellation clause shall apply. All reservations, confirmed bookings, and Company’s services are non-transferable.

CANCELLATIONS TO RESERVATIONS: Refund (less cancellation fee) may be issued if reservation is cancelled four months prior to departure date and if another Guest can fill the vacancy. All authorized refunds will be assessed a $4,000.00 cancellation fee. No refund or credit will be made for Services not utilized by Guest. No cancellations shall be accepted within 30 days of trip departure.

FORCE MAJEURE: “Force Majeure Event” is defined as any event which is beyond the control of the Company, including, but not limited to a national strike, act of war, armed conflict, insurrection, civil commotion, terrorism or the threat of terrorism; any act of God including but not limited to epidemic, pandemic, lightning, earthquake, flooding, fire, cyclone, hurricane, typhoon, tidal wave, storm, volcanic eruption and other unusual and extreme adverse weather or environmental conditions; any event which falls within any of these categories that is suffered by Third-Party Contractors of the Company, who are involved in the receipt or provision of the Services; and or any other cause or contingency beyond the control of the Company. The Company shall not be deemed to be in breach of any of its obligations to Guest due to any Force Majeure Event. If the Company is affected by a Force Majeure Event, it may in its sole and absolute discretion, amend or cancel any of the Services or the remainder thereof, or to make any alteration in route, accommodation, transportation or arrangement in the event of the Services or any part thereof being rendered impossible, illegal or inadvisable.

GUEST INSURANCE: If scuba diving is a Service used by Guest, Company requires Guest to possess a dive accident insurance policy prior to using any of Company’s Services. If scuba diving is not a Service used by Guest, Company requires Guest to possess an international accident and medical evacuation insurance policy prior to using any of Company’s Services. Information on dive accident insurance can be found at the Divers Alert Network’s website: www.diversalertnetwork.org. In addition, Company recommends trip insurance in the event a Guest must cancel the trip. Information on trip insurance can be found at the Divers Alert Network’s website: www.diversalertnetwork.org or the DiveAssure website: www.diveassure.com.

RESPONSIBILITY: Company acts only as agents for the Third-Party Contractors providing transportation, accommodations, diving and other Services. All tickets and vouchers issued constitute the sole contract between the Guest and Company. Company or its representatives shall not at any time be responsible in any way for loss, injury, or damage arising from any Force Majeure Event, act of government, theft, sickness, customs regulations, delay, cancellation error, or any cause beyond its control. Company or its representatives accepts no liability for the consequences of the personal activities of any Guest who is personally responsible for decisions concerning health, safety, fitness for diving and snorkeling, or any other circumstances beyond its control.