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Africa Untamed 2027
Zambia Wildlife Photo Safari • October 6–14, 2027Zambia’s Luangwa Valley is one of Africa’s last truly wild places. Our 9-day wildlife photography adventure combines the predator-rich floodplains of South Luangwa with remote, lesser-known Luambe. If you’ve been on safari before, this is different.
At a Glance
- Starts / Ends
- Lusaka, Zambia
- Dates
- Oct 6–14, 2027 Africa Untamed
Oct 1–6, 2027 Optional Lower Zambezi Pre-trip Extension - Fitness Level
- Easy/Moderate (see FAQ’s for details)
- Cost
- Africa Untamed: $9750
Lower Zambezi Pre-Trip Extension (Optional): $5975 - Deposit
- $2,000
- Instructors
- Leighton Lum
- Max Group Size
- 5 Participants
- Included
- Lodging, Meals per itinerary, Transportation (including internal flights), Airport Transfers, Guides & Photography Instruction
- Not Included
- International flights, Tourist Visas, Travel Insurance (mandatory), Personal Expenses, Gratuities. Anything not specifically listed as included.
All prices are per person in US Dollars based on double occupancy with Single Lodging option available (additional cost).
Experience Highlights
Predator’s paradise
exceptional populations of lions, leopards, and wild dogs across both parks. The Luangwa Valley is one of Africa’s most predator-dense ecosystems.
Beyond the Beaten Path
Luambe National Park to ourselves: the only photography group, no other vehicles, for three full days.
Walking Safaris
track and photograph wildlife on foot with expert guides. A low, ground-level angle no vehicle can give you.
Ultra-small group
max 5 photographers.
Optional Lower Zambezi pre-trip extension
arrive early and warm up the eye with four nights of game drives, boat safaris, and walking safaris along one of Africa’s most wildlife-dense river systems.
A Predator’s Paradise
Our adventure begins in South Luangwa which consistently ranks among Africa’s top destinations for apex predator sightings. Lions rule the floodplains. Leopards prowl the riverine forests. And African wild dogs — one of the most endangered large predators on Earth — range these valleys, and South Luangwa has long been one of the most reliable places on the continent to find them. Limited access and low visitor pressure have kept the wildlife here dense and largely undisturbed. That combination is getting harder to find.
Exclusive Access — private park
For the second half of our journey, we head deep into Luambe National Park. There’s only one camp in this remote park, so we have the entire park to ourselves — three full days among buffalo, elephants, lions, and leopards.
Photography on Foot — Eye Level and Immersive
Unlike traditional safari experiences, our itinerary includes walking safaris with professional guides. That means tracking animals on foot and true eye level photography — the low perspective that shows your subject in its environment and produces portfolio-worthy images. No elevated vehicle platform. No glass between you and the scene. The low angle changes everything.
Optional Pre-Trip Extension
Nine Days in Africa not enough? Arrive early and explore the Lower Zambezi — one of Zambia’s most wildlife-rich river systems — on our optional pre trip extension.
Based at Amanzi Camp, we’ll cover the floodplain by game drive, boat, and on foot. Elephants, lions, leopards, and hippos are in and along the river in large numbers. The boat safaris are a standout — eye-level encounters with wildlife on the water that no land vehicle can match.
Level Up Your Skills and Vision
Leighton will be at your side on every game drive and walking safari — offering real-time tips on technique, light, composition, and anticipating animal behavior. Evening image review sessions bring the day’s work to life and give everyone the chance to learn from each other. Whether you need help with camera settings in the field, lens selection, or post-processing techniques or workflow, this workshop is designed to push your wildlife photography forward in every dimension.
Images From Past Trips
Day by Day Itinerary
OPTIONAL PRE-TRIP EXTENSION — Lower Zambezi National Park (Oct 1–6 | 4 Nights)
| Day | Date | Itinerary | Meals |
|---|---|---|---|
| P1 | Oct 1 | Arrive Lusaka — Transfer from Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN) to our Lusaka lodge. Afternoon at leisure. Evening: group welcome at 4:00pm. Lusaka | D |
| P2 | Oct 2 | Lusaka → Lower Zambezi — Morning flight Lusaka (LUN) to Jeki Airstrip, Lower Zambezi NP (~30 min). Transfer to camp. Afternoon game drive along the Zambezi floodplain. Lower Zambezi camp | B, L, D |
| P3–5 | Oct 3–5 | Lower Zambezi — Full Safari Days – Pre-dawn game drives on the floodplain, boat and canoe safaris for eye-level encounters with elephants, hippos, and crocodiles, walking safaris, midday and evening image review and discussion with Leighton. Lower Zambezi camp | B, L, D |
Africa Untamed 2027 · Oct 6–14
| Day | Date | Itinerary | Meals |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Oct 6 | Lower Zambezi → South Luangwa — Final morning game drive at dawn, then breakfast at camp. Direct flight from Jeki Airstrip to Mfuwe (MFU), then transfer to camp. Afternoon game drive. Dinner at camp. South Luangwa camp | B, L, D |
| 2–4 | Oct 7–9 | South Luangwa — Full Safari Days – Pre-dawn drives, midday image download and review with Leighton, afternoon/sunset drives. South Luangwa camp | B, L, D |
| 5 | Oct 10 | South Luangwa → Luambe — Final morning game drive in South Luangwa. Overland transfer east to Luambe National Park. Arrive our Luambe camp in time for an afternoon game drive. Luambe camp | B, L, D |
| 6–8 | Oct 11–13 | Luambe – Exclusive Access — Three full days as the only photography group in the park. Daily rhythm: pre-dawn game drives, walking safaris with professional guides, evening image review and instruction with Leighton. Luambe camp | B, L, D |
| 9 | Oct 14 | Luambe → Lusaka → Depart — Early game drive or walking safari, then breakfast at camp. Transfer to Mfuwe (MFU) for afternoon domestic flight to Lusaka (LUN). Connect to Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN) for international departure. End of service. | B, L |
Meals: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.
Note: Itinerary is subject to change without notice based on weather, wildlife activity, logistics or other considerations.
Your Instructor
Leighton Lum — Hawaii native Leighton Lum’s jaw-dropping images simply speak for themselves. Led by his creative eye and passion for adventure, Leighton has traveled the globe to destinations like Africa, South America, Iceland, Indonesia, and Antarctica, leading photography workshops and making his own award-winning photographs. Leighton hopes his photography inspires others and raises awareness about conservation to ensure future generations can enjoy the natural world he cherishes. Read more about Leighton and see a selection of his images.
Cancellation, Refunds & Travel Insurance
We understand life happens and plans may change. If you need to cancel your reservation, the following applies:
Deposits are not refundable. If you cancel more than 120 days before the workshop start date, your deposit is transferrable to another Art of Seeing workshop for up to 24 months from the date you cancel. If you cancel inside 120 days, your deposit is forfeit.
If we fill your spot*, you receive a refund of all other fees paid, less a $150 processing fee. This applies no matter when you cancel.
If we do not fill your spot, your refund depends on when you cancel:
- More than 120 days before the start date: 100% refund of fees paid, less your deposit and a $150 processing fee. Deposit transferrable for up to 24 months.
- 90 to 120 days before the start date: 50% refund of fees paid, less your deposit and a $150 processing fee. Deposit forfeit.
- Less than 90 days before the start date: No refund. Deposit forfeit.
*Your spot counts as filled only after the workshop reaches full capacity and another participant signs up. Someone who signs up while we still have open spots has not filled your spot.
All cancellations must be made in writing. We pay refunds by the same method you used to pay.
If we cancel or substantially change this workshop before it begins and you cannot accommodate the change, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us, including your deposit. If we change the schedule or itinerary during the workshop for reasons outside our control, such as weather, wildlife, logistics, road conditions, the availability of guides and vehicles or mechanical failure, no refund or compensation is due.
Travel Insurance
A travel insurance policy which covers emergency medical evacuation is a requirement for participation in this workshop, because medical facilities and standards of care where we are going may not meet US standards. Such policies typically also provide other benefits, including coverage for lost luggage or trip cancellations.
Click here to read our complete Terms & Conditions
Alumni Discounts
If you’ve traveled with us before, thank you! You’re the reason our passion is our profession, and we are deeply grateful for this blessing.
To express our appreciation, we’ve launched our Alumni Rewards Program which gives our ‘frequent flyers’ discounts on future Art of Seeing Photography Adventures. Click here for full details
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What makes this trip different or better than other African safaris?
- Exclusive access & timing – we have secured exclusive access to Luambe National Park, where our group is the only photography operation. October brings peak predator activity and exceptional light to the Luangwa Valley.
- 100% Photography focused – everything from our itinerary, choice of lodging and daily schedule is designed around maximizing opportunities to produce portfolio-worthy images of African wildlife.
- Individualized instruction – a maximum of 5 photographers per instructor ensures plenty of personal attention to help you raise your wildlife photography skills to the next level.
- Walking safaris – the Luangwa Valley is the birthplace of the walking safari. On foot with professional guides, you photograph wildlife at ground level — a perspective no vehicle can give you.
What is the fitness level required for this trip?
This trip is rated Easy overall — most of your shooting happens from our safari vehicles. The exception is the walking safaris, which call for a reasonable level of physical condition. The terrain is relatively level, but it’s natural bush — not established trails — so expect to walk on uneven ground. If you’re in reasonable shape and comfortable on your feet, you’ll do just fine. If you have any concerns, just reach out and we’re happy to talk it through.
Is Zambia safe?
Zambia is one of Africa’s safest safari destinations. The U.S. State Department currently rates it Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions — the same advisory level as many European countries. In the remote areas where we operate, experienced guides, private camps, and carefully managed access add another layer of security. You’re free to do what you came to do: see, shoot, and be fully present in the wild.
How should I make my travel arrangements?
Book your international flights to arrive and depart from Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (airport code: LUN) in Lusaka, Zambia. Additional information to help you plan your travels will be provided after registration.
Do I need a tourist visa to enter Zambia?
US citizens do not require a visa to enter Zambia. A valid passport with at least 6 months validity is required.
What if I want to arrive early or stay after the workshop dates?
No problem, let us know your arrival/departure details and we will book the additional hotel nights on your behalf (additional cost).
Which parks/reserves will we visit?
We will visit South Luangwa National Park and Luambe National Park, both located in the Luangwa Valley of eastern Zambia. See the Daily Itinerary for more details.
What species of wildlife will we encounter?
Typical species in the Luangwa Valley include lions, leopards, African wild dogs (painted wolves), elephants, Cape buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, zebra, warthog, baboons, and a remarkable variety of birds. The Luangwa Valley is one of Africa’s last strongholds for the African wild dog and has exceptional leopard density.
What’s a Game Drive?
Game drive is the term we use for a photography excursion in our safari vehicles (modified 4X4 Landcruisers with pop-up roofs).
What’s the food like?
Most meals are served buffet style. The cuisine is mostly western, and the selections are comparable to what you would expect at a nice resort hotel.
Can my non-photographer friend/partner attend?
Absolutely, travel partners who may not share your passion for photography are very welcome. Just make sure they can handle being part of a group that wants to do nothing but eat, sleep and talk about photography. Unfortunately, due to limited space, we cannot offer a discount for non-photographer partners.
What is a walking safari and is it safe?
A walking safari is exactly what it sounds like – exploring the bush on foot with a professional armed guide. It’s one of the most immersive experiences wildlife photography has to offer, putting you at true eye level with your subjects rather than shooting from a vehicle. The pace is casual, not strenuous – think relaxed walking with frequent stops to observe and photograph. That said, this is the wild, and safety protocols are non-negotiable. You will be required to follow your guide’s instructions at all times. Our guides are highly experienced professionals who know this terrain and these animals intimately. Walking safaris are one of the highlights of this trip.
Tell me about the Lower Zambezi extension.
Arrive early and warm up before the main workshop. We offer an optional pre-trip extension (October 1–6) — arrive in Lusaka on October 1, then fly to our camp in Lower Zambezi National Park for four nights (five nights total with your Lusaka overnight), then fly directly to South Luangwa on October 6. The Lower Zambezi is known for large elephant herds along the river, good lion and leopard activity, and boat safaris with close-up hippo and crocodile sightings. October is a strong month — low water levels concentrate wildlife along the riverbanks. Activities include game drives, boat safaris, and walking safaris.
Anything we missed?
Send us a message or schedule a phone call
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