THE BEST OF GREEN SEASON WITH GREEN SAFARIS

Robyn Simpson | September 16, 2024

From around November, Green Season, affectionately known as Secret Season, comes to life. Often overlooked, this time of year is truly remarkable, marked by a burst of abundant life.

Green Season, and its unique magic, offer distinct advantages: breathtaking scenery, fewer crowds, and a cooler, more comfortable climate.

Expect vibrant colours, dramatic skies, and unique activities and experiences for all, making this a truly magical time to explore Zambia and Malawi with Green Safaris.

*Green Season rates are an added bonus to travelling during these months. Enquire at reservations@greensafaris.com.

HOW TO GREEN SEASON

Eight unique properties, six mind-blowing destinations, two epic countries, and lifelong memories to be made.

With a five-star presence in all of Zambia’s major national parks, plus a tranquil retreat on the shores of Lake Malawi on Likoma Island, we present a customisable dream circuit that elevates each guest’s adventure.

From the beach to the bush and beyond, our goal is to captivate travellers who dream of Africa and inspire them to discover the wonders of Zambia, Malawi and Africa beyond well-trodden, typical tourist destinations.

To further enrich the experience, we offer our Wings & Wheels service, covering all internal flights and transfers for bookings of four nights or more. This incorporates the option of tailored travel, whereby our reservations team custom-create itineraries for specific goals, such as birding, predator-focus, photography, family, romantic or solo travel (etc).

*Green Season Property Spotlights: Ila Safari Lodge, Tongabezi Lodge, Sindabezi Island Lodge, Kaya Mawa Island Lodge, focusing on a Island-to-Island with Bush In-Between itinerary in mind.

TOP STAYS DURING GREEN SEASON

ILA SAFARI LODGE, KAFUE NATIONAL PARK

Situated in Africa’s second largest National Park, in the Kafue Region, Ila Safari Lodge remains a year-round treasure for guests to uncover. Far from the well-trodden tourist trails, Kafue offers a truly immersive experience for those seeking to connect with nature in its purest form, with the rare chance of encountering another game-viewing vehicle.

Spanning 22,400 square kilometres (about the size of Wales or Massachusetts), Kafue is vast and sparsely populated with lodges and camps. This ensures you won’t find yourself waiting in line for wildlife sightings.

At the heart of Kafue National Park flows the mighty Kafue River, a lifeline that sustains a diverse range of ecosystems from lush floodplains to dense woodlands, creating a haven for a remarkable array of wildlife.

Among the park’s jewels is Ila Safari Lodge, Green Safaris’ inaugural property and a symbol of the group’s commitment to sustainability and conservation. Founded by Vincent Kouwenhoven, who fell in love with Zambia here, Ila embodies his dedication to the country and its preservation.

Guests at Ila Safari Lodge are in close proximity to wildlife, with elephants, leopards, and other animals frequently seen around the lodge. Luxury Safari Tents (including a family option), Ila Safari House (an exclusive villa), Ila’s Infinity Boma, sampan spa, and even the pool offer prime vantage points for wildlife viewing.

The lodge’s team of experts and guides enhance the experience with immersive nature encounters and activities. For instance, an e-boat safari along the river’s winding channels provides excellent opportunities to spot hippos, crocodiles, and a wealth of bird species. As the sun sets, the call of the African fish eagle creates a quintessential soundtrack, perfect for a sundowner on the water.

Birdwatchers will be captivated by the vibrant carmine bee-eaters, whose colourful plumage and aerial skills are a highlight. These birds, known for their precision in catching flying insects, create a swirling spectacle of colour against the backdrop of the river.

Kafue is also a prime destination for big game enthusiasts, made all the more alluring with twice-daily game drives supported by our pioneering electric game vehicles which have spurred our Silent Safari offering (these vehicles emit less harmful gasses and reduce wildlife disturbance due to their silent engines).

Remarkably, the park has Africa’s highest population of wild dogs, also known as painted wolves. These endangered creatures are a rare sight, making viewing in such an undisturbed park a significant privilege.

Among Kafue’s iconic residents is the majestic Kafue elephant. Known for their impressive size and distinctive behaviours, these elephants shape the landscape as they roam freely throughout the park. Observing a herd as they traverse the plains or bathe in the river is a memorable experience and underscores the importance of conservation efforts.

Kafue’s Iconic Elephants viewed on a Boat Safari

For photographers, Kafue is a paradise of diverse landscapes. The minimal light pollution offers unparalleled stargazing opportunities. Ila Safari Lodge’s stargazing deck atop its Infinity Boma provides stunning views of the Magellanic Clouds—two irregular dwarf galaxies visible only in the southern hemisphere. For those less familiar with the night sky, Ila’s knowledgeable guides can provide expert insights into the celestial wonders beyond Earth.

ENJOY AT ILA SAFARI LODGE

Wild Luxury: Luxury accommodation in the form of Luxury Safari Tents, Luxury Family Tents, and Ila’s Exclusive Safari House.
Relaxation: A floating sampan spa, stretching out from the banks onto the Kafue River.
Special Features: Certain tents have private, outdoor baths to enjoy. All rooms have en-suite bathrooms.
Amenities Galore: The Infinity Boma for dining, stargazing and swimming in the infinity pool. Ila Safari House has a private plunge pool.
Unique Ways To Safari: Various game viewing experiences such as Silent Safaris (twice-daily in an electric game vehicle), e-boat safaris and sundowner cruises, and walking safaris.
Destination Dining: Incredible dining experiences, such as bush meals and e-boat lunches.
Endless Activities: Fishing, birding and various community activities, including community garden visits, local school visits, and a Predators-Research Safari*.
*Predators Research Safari: Get ready for an unforgettable adventure with us on our exclusive Predators Research Safari, a collaboration with Panthera and the Zambian Carnivore Programme (ZCP). This week-long expedition is crafted for the passionate wildlife enthusiast, offering a rare, intimate glimpse into Zambia’s pristine landscapes and its magnificent predators. Ila Safari Lodge: November 15th – 18th, 2024. Read more here.

COMBINE ILA SAFARI LODGE WITH VICTORIA FALLS

Livingstone Island, situated amid the roaring waters of the Zambezi River, boasts a rich history intertwined with the exploration and discovery of Zambia’s natural wonders. Named in honour of the famed Scottish explorer, David Livingstone, who traversed Africa in the 19th century, this island serves as a testament to the spirit of adventure that defined an era.

It gained worldwide attention when Livingstone first laid eyes on Victoria Falls, named after Queen Victoria of England, marking the beginning of its modern significance as a gateway to one of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural marvels.

But the Falls has a history long before European discovery. Its original name, “Mosi-oa-Tunya,” comes from the Lozi and Kololo languages, meaning “The Smoke that Thunders.”

During peak flow season, which typically occurs between February and May, the Zambezi River reaches its highest levels due to the rainy season. At this time, the Falls can discharge up to 500 million litres (132 million gallons) of water per minute, making it one of the largest waterfalls in the world by volume.

The force of the water creates a deafening roar that can be heard from several kilometres away, while the cascading water creates a perpetual cloud-like mist that blankets the area. This is “The Smoke that Thunders”.

The mist and spray generated by the falls also give rise to vibrant rainbows, adding to the allure of this iconic waterfall. These rainbows, often visible during sunny days or when the sun is at the right angle, create a mesmerising display of colour against the backdrop of the tumbling waters.

In addition, Victoria Falls is renowned for lunar rainbows, or “moonbows,” which occur during full moon nights. This rare phenomenon, created by the interaction of moonlight with the mist rising from the falls, offers visitors a magical and enchanting experience under the African moon.

Green Safaris offers inclusive, daily trips to Livingstone Island from Tongabezi Lodge and Sindabezi Island Lodge. Guests embark on an exhilarating boat ride through the Zambezi’s channels before arriving at Livingstone Island.

Here, guests have the opportunity to experience the Falls in a way that’s entirely unique to the Zambia side of the chasm: swimming in the iconic Devil’s Pool or Angel’s Pool! (Water-level dependent, although there are various year-round Livingstone Island Experiences).

Read more about our Livingstone Island Experience here.

TONGABEZI LODGE, LIVINGSTONE

Tongabezi Lodge, honoured as Africa’s Most Romantic Safari Property by The Safari Awards, is a sanctuary for guests in search of romance.

Additionally, its expansive grounds feature a community vegetable garden, two swimming pools, a gym, and various other amenities, making it equally enjoyable for families and groups who love to explore.

Tongabezi is set on a spacious property overlooking the Zambezi River, leaving more than enough room for different kinds of guests to get what they came for, be it a honeymoon, family getaway, or solo adventure.

A selection of accommodations includes five River Cottages, four Houses, and three Family Houses, each designed to offer a unique and exclusive experience. It is important to carefully choose the room that best suits the Tongabezi experience your guests envision.

Tongabezi’s Bird House, Nut House, Dog House, and Honeymoon House are popular choices among couples, seasoned travellers, and those seeking a more intimate getaway.

Nature enthusiasts will feel right at home in the Tree House, while the River Cottages, which boast space, private decks overlooking the river, and gorgeous decor remain a solid choice for all.

For families, Tangala Private House is prime. The Garden House is equally stellar for groups who want to remain on the main grounds.

ENJOY AT TONGABEZI LODGE

Personalised Service: Personalisation is our hallmark at Tongabezi. Each guest is assigned a personal valet who oversees their experience throughout their stay.
Unique Accommodation: Tongabezi is anything but a cookie-cutter hotel. Each of our rooms is a distinctive experience. For example, our Tree House offers a cosy ambience with warm woods, open living spaces with no built-in windows, a semi-outdoor bathtub, and tree trunks as focal points—ideal for nature-loving couples. In contrast, our Dog House combines opulent indoor-outdoor living, boasting a spacious dining area and a private plunge pool, making it perfect for families who crave luxury.
Amenities Galore: Tongabezi boasts two main swimming pools along with a range of private plunge pools. Each room offers unique features, such as outdoor bathtubs or private decks with river views. Guests can enjoy various viewpoints, including our iconic raised hangout and the sunken sunset deck. The property also includes a fully equipped gym with access to a personal trainer, expansive lawns, continuous river access with activities, and exceptional dining from our talented chefs. We also have an on-site vegetable garden, a curio shop filled with local crafts and clothing, and much more.
Destination Dining: We are the only lodge in Livingstone that offers every guest the opportunity to experience a unique, private dining experience (sampan meals, e-dhow lunches, Lunar Rainbow private bar set up, sandbar sundowners, private in-room service, dining in our hangout overlooking the Zambezi from above, plus much more).
Bath Menu and Spa Treatments: The implementation of our unique bath menu (each of our rooms has a bathtub and we now offer a menu with different herbs, spices and eco-friendly products, so guests can curate their perfect soak) and private in-room spa treatments.
Our various Livingstone Island Experiences: Devil’s Pool, Angel’s Pool and the Rock Pool; The Boiling Pot; Lunar Rainbow Tours; Walking Tours (Tongabezi Lodge is the only property in Livingstone to include a Livingstone Island Experience free of charge for all guests).
Pick Your Plate: The implementation of our Pick You Plate activity allows guests to harvest their own ingredients from our vegetable gardens, which are then used by our chefs to cook a specialised meal.
Conservation Itinerary: Guests have access to a variety of community and conservation-based activities, including village tours, rhino walks, school visits and much more to add to a meaningful experience. Tongabezi features Zambia’s first electric dhows, powered entirely by solar energy to reduce our carbon footprint on the Zambezi.

SINDABEZI ISLAND LODGE, LIVINGSTONE

Despite its close proximity to Tongabezi Lodge, Sindabezi Island Lodge holds its own as a premier luxury island experience on the Zambezi River. It is entirely unique, and combining Sindabezi and Tongabezi stays shouldn’t be overlooked.

Sindabezi Island Lodge is ideal for guests seeking solace in nature. “Nature therapy” is a phrase which underscores time spent here. It’s a more intimate experience, with a smaller site (completely surrounded by water) and fewer accommodations.

Relish the panoramic vistas of the Zambezi River floodplain and Victoria Falls National Park from open-fronted Chalets or the single Honeymoon Chalet. With only the resident wildlife as your neighbours, you can truly embrace the serenity of this secluded island.

Whether you prefer quiet hang-out spots or the lively ambience of the main camp, Sindabezi offers the perfect setting to unwind.

Recognised as one of Africa’s Top 10 Eco-Lodges by Fodor’s, Sindabezi operates entirely off-grid. This eco-conscious approach ensures minimal environmental impact, allowing guests to leave nothing behind but their footprints on the island’s silky soft sand.

ENJOY AT SINDABEZI ISLAND LODGE

Destination Dining: Dining on a floating sampan, on an electric dhow on the river, or privately within your personal suite, and cruising the Zambezi with a Sandbar Sundowner pitstop.
Our various Livingstone Island Experiences: Devil’s Pool, Angel’s Pool and the Rock Pool; The Boiling Pot; Lunar Rainbow Tours; Walking Tours.
Conservation Itinerary: Guests have access to a variety of community and conservation-based activities, including village tours, rhino walks, school visits and much more to add to a meaningful experience.
Endless Activities: Cast a line on a catch-and-release fishing adventure, hang out at the main pool, find a hammock to lounge in, visit Tongabezi for a garden tour or meal, cruise the river, dine on a private sandbank, plus much more.

KAYA MAWA ISLAND LODGE, LAKE MALAWI

Set on the pristine white sands of Likoma Island (Lake Malawi), Kaya Mawa Island Lodge is a boutique property designed for honeymooners, families, and friends in search of a blissfully carefree escape.

The name Kaya Mawa, which means “maybe tomorrow” in Chichewa/Nyanja, captures our easygoing spirit. This said, there’s plenty to do and see while staying here, with a range of activities fit for every kind of traveller.

Furthermore, beach-chic accommodations of all kinds await, from a private house to lake-facing gems for couples, featuring private plunge pools and direct beach access.

Whether you’re plunging into exciting water sports like kayaking, enjoying a soothing spa treatment, or simply relaxing on the beach with your loved one, Kaya Mawa offers an unparalleled lakeside and island life experience.

ENJOY AT KAYA MAWA ISLAND LODGE

Destination Dining: Private in-room and beach dining options, beach picnics, and sundowner cruises. Kaya Mawa focuses on delicious fine dining dishes, and our Head Chef, Cefus, has spent time training in a two-Michelin restaurant in Holland.
Water Activities: Snorkelling, sailing, kayaking, diving (PADI-certified), stand-up paddle boarding, kite surfing, skiing, wakeboarding, and guided fishing experiences (and more).
Island and Cultural Activities: Community school and empowerment programme visits, birding, St Peter’s Cathedral visit, village tours, electric bicycle safaris, island tours in a game vehicle, chefs tour of community garden, Katundu crafts workshop, discover the secret sunset spot at the lodge, plus more.
Lake Spa: Enjoy a private spa treatment in our spa, which is located in the lake and connected to the lodge by a bridge.

A GREEN SEASON NOTE ON SUSTAINABILITY

At Green Safaris, we’re more than just a safari company; we’re dedicated to preserving our planet and uplifting local communities. Our mission transcends traditional tourism; we focus on managing entire ecosystems rather than just lodges.

Guided by our principle, “Ethical Equals Unforgettable,” we ensure that every aspect of our guest experiences and communications reflects our commitment to sustainability. When you choose Green Safaris, you support our Green Safaris Conservation Foundation (GSCF), with a portion of every booking directly contributing to our conservation and community initiatives. Further, our Conservation Itinerary invites guests to explore our initiatives at our various properties firsthand.

At each of our 8 Green Safaris properties, we have implemented some, if not all, of the following sustainable practices:

Running our properties off solar energy. 80% of our lodges operate entirely on solar power, with plans in place to reach 100%.
Our activities allow guests to experience pioneering eco-inventions, such as our electric game vehicles, dhows and boats, saving 29,200 litres of diesel per year.
Implementing the use of grey water systems, saving 850,000 litres of water annually.
Serving smaller meal portions to avoid waste, with the option to order more rather than throw away, and using what waste there is for organic fertiliser in our community gardens.
The implementation of a strict 0% single-use plastics policy and the introduction of stainless steel water bottles for every guest. Guests are welcome to purchase these bottles and 100% of the proceeds are allocated to our Green Safaris Conservation Foundation.
Our Litterbug Campaign in Livingstone addresses the issue of waste endangering the local habitat, including the habitat of the endangered white rhino in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park.
The use of sustainable building materials wherever possible, such as bricks made from abandoned termite mounds. Green Safaris specifically purchased the machinery needed to make these bricks to continue enhancing sustainable buildings at all properties. Eco bricks, using collected plastic waste, have also been implemented at Livingstone Island.