Robin Pope Safaris Offers 'Best of Africa Circuit'

Robin Pope Safaris' Best of Africa Circuit will take visitors through Livingstone, Zambia, home of Victoria Falls, on to game-rich South Luangwa National Park, and then to beautiful Lake Malawi in Malawi. The itinerary includes three nights at Stanley Safari Lodge, followed by three nights at Luangwa River Camp, and culminates in four nights at Pumulani Lodge (pictured at top). Rates start at US$4456 per person and include all transfers between the properties, as well as full board, local drinks, all activities (except motorized water sports) and laundry. Offer is valid from April to November.

The trip begins in Livingstone, Zambia, where visitors can see Victoria Falls. In addition to being one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the falls features the largest curtain of falling water in the world. Its spray, billowing up to 1300 feet, can be seen 30 miles away. After visiting the falls, guests can enjoy lunch or high tea on Livingstone Island, river tours on the Zambezi, and sunset cruises. Wildlife enthusiasts can take elephant rides and game-viewing treks to see the rare white rhino. Canoeing, white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and micro lighting are available for thrill-seekers.

After thoroughly exploring Livingstone, guests are taken to the South Luangwa National Park, which many consider to be the best wildlife sanctuary in all of Africa. Located at the end of the Great Rift Valley, and bordered by the Luangwa River, the pristine park is home to 60 different species of animals and over 400 species of birds. Guests can explore all of the natural riches that the park has to offer on safari and even visit the Chipembele Wildlife Orphanage.

Animals aren't the only inhabitants of the region, however: RPS will take guests to Kawaza Village to interact with locals and engage with their culture.

What better way to conclude the journey than a trip to the beach at Nankumba Peninsula? Revered as one of the lake's most beautiful shores, these pristine white sand beaches are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guests will stay at the ruggedly opulent Pumulani Lodge in Malawi. With all imaginable water sports available, there's enough to entertain even the biggest fitness buff. In the immortal words of Candide, this truly is the best of all possible worlds.

For more information, contact: info@robinpopesafaris.net or visit www.robinpopesafaris.net

Stanley Safari Lodge

DETAILED ITINERARY

Day 1 On arrival at Livingstone International Airport a representative from Stanley Safaris will meet and transfer you to the lodge (20 mins), where you will settle into your accommodation. Stanley Safari Lodge is located on the hills overlooking the Zambezi River and Victoria Falls in a bush location. Accommodation is in 10 uniquely designed chalets that are constructed of teak and local stone. Some are open-fronted; others closed and designed in Colonial-style brick and tile. Each features a plunge pool and private balcony ensuring spectacular views overlooking the Zambezi River. STANLEY SAFARI LODGE

Days 2 & 3 There is a wide range of activities on offer in the area that can be booked through the lodge. These include trips to see the falls, town museums and markets and sunset cruises. For the more adventurous, Livingstone boasts a whole host of adrenaline-filled activities including whitewater rafting, bungee jumping and micro lighting. Or you may just wish to rest in camp and enjoy the spectacular scenery and peaceful atmosphere. The day will end with a relaxed dinner and perhaps drinks in the wine cellar. STANLEY SAFARI LODGE

Day 4 Depending on your flight time, you will be transferred by vehicle to Livingstone Airport to connect with your onward flight to Mfuwe, South Luangwa. A guide from Robin Pope Safaris will meet you at Mfuwe Airport for transfer through colorful village life to Luangwa River Camp. The ten-bedded camp is situated opposite the Luangwa Wafwa (a game-rich area of the park) in the Upper Lupande Game Management Area. It offers all the creature comforts of a lodge yet with all the intimacy, tailored activities and flexible mealtimes you come to expect from a bush camp. The camp is unique with its décor of locally crafted and handmade accessories. The main area is elevated between 3 and 9 ½ feet on wooden decks, affording great views to the park and river. The swimming pool is sunk into the deck, linked by a waterfall. Seating areas are all elevated and open plan with a bar area as well as a dining and reading area. Depending on your arrival time, you may settle in for some lunch, a siesta, then set off on an afternoon activity. There is an option to turn back after sundowners or continue to see what nocturnal animals you can spot, returning to camp by 8pm. LUANGWA RIVER CAMP

Luangwa River Camp

Days 5 & 6 The next couple of days will be spent as you wish. You can opt to go walking activity or game drive; or even both. Those with a knack for shopping can take a trip to Tribal Textiles for locally printed fabrics which are crafted into various items – perfect for souvenirs or gifts for friends and family. Perhaps a trip to Kawaza Village to experience an authentic Zambian village, interact with the locals and even sample a local meal. Nothing is set in stone; you can discuss your specific interests with your guide. LUANGWA RIVER CAMP

Day 7 After an early breakfast, transfer to Mfuwe Airport for your flight to Lilongwe. The flight time to Lilongwe is approximately 50 minutes. On arrival at Lilongwe's Kamuzu Airport, you will be met by our staff, who will assist with immigration procedures and the payment of airport taxes. Then onto your road transfer to Pumulani. Pumulani is situated on the West side of the Nankumba Peninsula in the South end of Lake Malawi – romantically called “The Lake of Stars”. The ten villas are scattered around the hillside and are individual in shape and style, but all have a spacious bedroom, bathroom and extensive sitting area. The front sliding doors open onto the deck – elevated above the ground, affording optimal views. The central dining and bar area is high above the lake with the most spectacular views and leads onto an expansive deck. The infinity swimming pool is on a lower terraced deck. The lake shore bar offers light snacks as well as refreshments. Meals will be served in the dining area, on the beach or by arrangement on your private deck. The stunning setting of the lodge and the unique comfort of the rooms means that many guests choose to make relaxation their main activity, but there are enough activities available to keep guests busy. PUMULANI

Day 8 Enjoy the first full day of relaxation at Pumulani. Our remote beach setting is ideal for those who simply want to soak up the sun and swim in the clear blue waters of the lake. Those who prefer can take a dive in the infinity swimming pool near the central dining area with grand views over the lake. For those seeking activity we offer many water sports such as snorkelling, fishing, sailing, kayaking, waterskiing, wake boarding and tubing (all motorized activities are excluded). At the end of the day, climb aboard our dhow and let our experienced local crewmen take you sailing into the sunset. PUMULANI

Day 9 Lake Malawi is the world's most ecologically diverse lake. Its crystal clear waters are home to more than a thousand species of fish, including hundreds of species of colorful cichlids. We offer special diving courses at the best diving spots near one of the islands. For those who are interested in the real Malawian village life, we offer guided walks through one of the local villages. Malawians are renowned for being among the friendliest people in Africa and during your stay you will have the opportunity to meet them. OR you can also simply relax in the beautiful and tranquil scenery or enjoy many other activities. PUMULANI

Day 10 Your last day at the lodge. Today you have the opportunity to continue to relax in the beautiful surroundings, play on the lake, or take a walk to the local village for an insight into Malawian village life, while locals explain their traditions and rituals. PUMULANI

Day 11 Today you will be transferred back to Lilongwe in time for the connecting flight back home. END OF SAFARI