Zambia Unveiled: Victoria Falls to South Luangwa National Park

There's a good reason Tongabezi is listed among the 1000 Places to See Before You Die. The accommodations are luxurious and romantic. Combined with wonderful food, setting and many surprises and private experiences, the lodge is a wonderful beginning to any adventure.

Included Experiences at Tongabezo:

• Victoria Falls - Witness the power of one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Additional charges apply for a helicopter ride to view the falls from above. During the dry season, a swim to the Devil's Pool (additional charge) is a must do for those with an adventurous spirit.

• Boat Cruises - Sunrise and sunset cruises on the mighty Zambezi River. You'll see the eyes of submerged hippos checking you out. Keep an eye out for wildlife on the riverbanks.

• Sampan Dinner - A romantic dinner on a barge in the river. Your food is paddled out to you via canoe. Très romantique.

• Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park - A nice warmup safari before heading out into the wilderness. There is an opportunity to have a close-up experience with the park's rhinos for an additional charge.

Following a flight from Livingston to Jeki Airstrip, the final leg of the trip to Chiawa is via boat. The family-owned camp is a perfect blend of authentic safari and comfortable luxury. Each tent has a plunge pool where you can often watch wildlife wander along the riverbank. Meals are communal, however we were treated to surprises throughout our stay.

Included Activities at Chiawa:

• Morning and Evening Game Drives - We had the opportunity to watch a pride of female lions with absolutely no one else around us. An evening highlight was the most amazing view of the Milky Way.

• Walking Safaris - Get a backstage pass to Zambian wildlife. Learn about the interaction between the birds, insects and plants.

• Canoe Safaris - A relaxing canoe paddle in one of the river channels above the camp. It's a totally different perspective looking up at a herd of elephants crossing in front of you as you look up from a canoe!

• River Safaris and Fishing - View wildlife along the banks and try your hand at catching the elusive tiger fish. Catch and release only.

A flight from Jeki to Mfuwe, followed by a 1.5-hour road transfer to one of the great remaining unspoiled regions of Africa. Upon entering the park, we were treated to two male lions resting after a kill. Arrive at the lovely Mchenja, which is located above the Luangwa River in a grove of ebony trees.

Accommodations are canvas and thatched chalets. Enjoy an outdoor shower or relax in the oversized claw-foot tub while watching the sunset. Add a glass of wine for the perfect experience. With only 5 units, the staff is able to cater to your every need.

Included Activities:

• Day and Evening Game Drives - View lions, leopards, hippos, elephants and buffalo. South Luangwa is known for the Crawshay zebra. There are also 400 different species of birds. A tradition with the evening game drive is finding a great location to enjoy sundowners. Nothing tastes better than a gin and tonic while watching a herd of elephants.

• Walking Safaris - Done in the morning before the sun gets strong, these offer an opportunity to see the ecosystem from a different perspective. Not to worry as you will be accompanied by a ranger trained to keep you safe.

• Overnight Campout (Additional Charge) - This was one of those life changing experiences. An overnight in a dry riverbed with a mosquito-net tent and comfortable bedding. You'll be surrounded by a border of bonfires to keep you safe!