LION TRAILS - Mobile Tented Safari

Matusadona National Park on the southern shores of Lake Kariba is said to have the second best concentration of lions anywhere in Africa. The open grassland where the water level has receded provides an ideal habitat and with large herds of buffalo and impala, there, is a more than ample food supply. It is not -unusual to find prides of up to thirty individuals and given the habitat and a bit of luck it may be possible to find lions hunting. An ideal method of finding the lions is to walk the shoreline between two given points.

 

Lion trails are designed to give maximum possibility of finding the big cats. Each night is spent camping in one of the many bays or inlets that so characterise the shoreline of the park. Once the group has left to go tracking in the morning, a staff of three pack up the camp and move it by boat to a predetermined destination. The group then arrives in the evening to a set up camp, cold drinks and a hot shower.

Although finding lions will obviously be the highlight of these trails, there will be plenty of exciting encounters with Elephant, buffalo, numerous antelope species and possibly the elusive black rhino or leopard. These trails are led by an armed professional guide to ensure you get maximum enjoyment and good instruction on your safari. Although the emphasis is on walking, it is possible to reach camp relatively early in the afternoon and do an evening boat cruise.

 

The fly camps are comfortable, the tents being medium sized dome tents with mattresses and duvets. There is a wash basin outside each tent for convenience. The shower is of the bucket variety with shower rose which is filled with hot water before each guest uses it.

 

There is a box toilet, but no flush loos. The dining is set under the stars with table and chairs and is catered for by three helpful staff providing good wholesome meals. Drinks around the fire are provided but if you have special requirements it is advisable to let your tour agent know first.

 

Daily Itinerary

Arise with the dawn for tea/coffee and cereals.

Leave camp to search the shoreline for lion.

Have a brunch at about 10:30 a.m.

Find a secluded shaded spot to rest during the heat of the day.

Resume the search for lions at about 3:00 p.m.

Arrive at camp at sunset for drinks by the fire and hot showers.

Have a good evening meal under the stars.

 

This is only a suggested itinerary and can and will vary according to guests on the trail. The distances covered are not long but one should be relatively fit to deal with the heat and camping out.