Welcome to our latest newsletter!
It is the end of October, the hot season is at its peak and it’s about time we give you some news of what has happened since our last newsletter. The months of July and August were still quiet in terms of guests, however, September and October have been a great boost for all of us, with Kafunta River Lodge and Three Rivers Camp welcoming a total of 72 guests, many having travelled from Europe or the United States.
Even if our overall year revenue will only represent about 25% compared to pre-covid times, it has been great to finally see the opening of borders and the willingness of so many guests to overcome travel hurdles in order to make their long-overdue safari happen.
Of course, the pandemic remains a challenge, but for the most part, the days of lockdown are behind us and we hope that this newsletter will boost our readers’ confidence that a visit to Zambia is indeed possible.
2022 awaits, it’s time to book!
Learning to travel again
Indeed, we do everything we can to facilitate your trip and make it safer.
Did you know for example that 99% of our staff is fully vaccinated? And that we continue to promote reasonable protocols to guarantee our guests a safe environment?
Zambia only requires a negative PCR test for arrival (except if travelling from a “high-risk” country). And if travellers need an exit test, there are several trustworthy systems in place to obtain PCR results on fairly short notice.
Flight-wise, most airlines, including newly added Qatar Airways, have resumed their flights to Lusaka. And Proflight flies daily to Mfuwe.
And finally, last August saw the opening of the brand new international terminal – known as T2. All international flights now arrive and depart from T2, while domestic flights (such as Mfuwe) use the T1 terminal (a short walkway links both terminals).
Welcome to our new President!
On August 12, Mr. Hakainde Hichilema (59) of the United Party for National Development was elected Zambia’s 7th President, replacing Mr. Edgar Lungu (64) of the Patriotic Front, who was at the head of the country since 2015.
News from our Staff
Anke & Ron Cowan are still “stuck” in Australia, but they are looking forward to December when they will finally travel to Zambia, and reunite with the Kafunta staff.
They’ve been exploring more of Australia, and as seen here hiking the Stirling Range.
We were delighted to have the temporary help of Lisa Peake and Andrew Fullerton this year. Both had worked for us before and they’re always fun to have on board!
Sadly we had to say goodbye to Wilson Malambo who is moving on to a different work environment.
For 17 years Wilson has been a wonderful member of the team, wearing multiple caps. Officially the Assistant Manager, he was also our community liaison, representing us to many meetings. But he is most famous for the development of the Mfuwe football league and Luangwa sports association!
Luckily he will continue to support sport in Mfuwe.
All the best to you Wilson! Thank you for your smile and your hard work, you will be greatly missed.
Talking about safaris…
The safaris continue to be amazing, with a great diversity of wildlife, including leopards, lions, buffaloes, and more.
There is no shortage of wildlife and birdlife in South Luangwa, and we’re so privileged to be part of this ecosystem.
Wild dogs have also been seen in great numbers, and now that their denning season is over, we can even enjoy the company of young pups in several of the groups.
South Luangwa now has the largest population of wild dogs in the country.
And we’re particularly delighted with the game viewing at Three Rivers Camp with a great turn out of the usual plains game around and in the camp, as well as frequent sightings of lions and leopards.
Animals do remain “wilder” in that extremely remote area, although they are getting more accustomed to us now. All very exciting!
Thank you to Aaron Mwale, Frank Tenczar, Silvia Phillips, and Jean-Louis Scheppers together with TJ and Lisa, for sharing their photos. I look forward to receiving more photos in the weeks to come from our recent visitors.
Don’t hesitate to share your own photos taken during your stay, even if it’s not from this year, I’m always on the lookout for more photos to feature in our social media or newsletter! Simply email me with the photos or a link.
I will be back soon with more news of our 2021 season.
Meanwhile, take good care of yourself, stay safe and be in touch should you have any questions about a safari with us.
Sincerely
Izzy and the Kafunta Team
