Mwinilunga is already on international birders’ radar. The ecology in Northwest Zambia combines one of the country’s largest wet and dry evergreen forests with miombo woodlands, Kalahari sands and grasslands. One of Zambia’s top birding guides has recently opened a bush camp and a fly camp in this far western corner which will prove a great destination for not only dedicated birders, but for Zambia’s visitors who seek off the beaten path travel. Those travellers might just get drawn into birding as a result.

The guide’s fly camp in Nyachisala Forest is for spotting Vermiculated fishing owl; Spot-breasted ibis; Spotted thrush-babbler; Bamboo warbler; Shining-blue kingfisher; Compact weaver; Rufous ant-thrush; and Grey-winged robin. MTT has designed several interesting itineraries by road which begin in Lusaka, work their way northwest via some interesting stops along the way – Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage for chimpanzees for example – and which, on the return, transit through North Kafue National Park, weather and time of year permitting.

The Likumbi Lya Mize festival of the Luvale people which is held over several days in late August, culminating on the last Saturday of August, can be included in a Northwest Zambia safari. You need time for these itineraries! Give yourself at least 14 days.