chaminuka wildlife safari

Chaminuka Game Reserve

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The Outdoors Adventure

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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Chaminuka Game Reserve - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

10 Things to Do in Chaminuka Game Reserve (Lusaka, Zambia)

•  Arcades Shopping Mall
•  Chaminuka Cultural Village
•  Chaminuka Game Reserve
•  Chilanga Caves
•  Kalimba Reptile Park
•  Levy Shopping Mall
•  Lusaka Botanical Garden
•  Lusaka Central Park
•  Lusaka City Council
•  Lusaka City Market
•  Lusaka City Tower
•  Lusaka Golf Club
•  Lusaka National Museum
•  Lusaka National Park
•  Lusaka Planetarium
•  Lusaka Playhouse
•  Lusaka Water and Sewerage Company
•  Lusaka Zoo
•  Manda Hill Shopping Mall
•  Mukuba Mall
•  Zambia

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Chaminuka Nature Reserve and Lodge

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About Chaminuka Nature Reserve and Lodge

Chaminuka Nature Reserve and Lodge is a synopsis of Africa - from the concept, to the design, to the execution, to its collections of African art and wildlife, to its way of life. Chaminuka is a village located on a hill overlooking Lake Chitoka. It is some 10,000 acres of pristine Miombo woodland and savannah, it is the roar of the lion and the laughter of the hyena, it is the fish eagle and the kingfisher and the other migratory birds that visit its lakes for rest and recuperation during their long annual sojourns from the Antarctic to the Russian steppes and back. Today, this luxurious i

Chaminuka Nature Reserve and Lodge is a synopsis of Africa - from the concept, to the design, to the execution, to its collections of African art and wildlife, to its way of life. Chaminuka is a village located on a hill overlooking Lake Chitoka. It is some 10,000 acres of pristine Miombo woodland and savannah, it is the roar of the lion and the laughter of the hyena, it is the fish eagle and the kingfisher and the other migratory birds that visit its lakes for rest and recuperation during their long annual sojourns from the Antarctic to the Russian steppes and back. Today, this luxurious intimate lodge welcomes discerning travellers from around the world, who seek excellence and style and an extraordinary chance to commune with real Africa in all its magnificence. Chaminuka Lodge offers accommodation in 30 separate suites, each with en-suite bathrooms and air-conditioning, and elegantly decorated in a fusion of contemporary and traditional African themes. There are several "insakas" or village lounge areas where guests can relax in private, enjoying the glorious panoramic views across Chaminuka's African Eden which melts into the wilderness beyond. The lodge also contains three libraries, two restaurants, and an elegant dining room for private functions. The billiard room features a full-size snooker table and there is also a pool table and table tennis table. Guests can wear themselves out on the floodlit tennis court or relax and unwind in the swimming pool or Jacuzzi, and an art and artefact shop offers a collection of paintings, sculptures and traditional artefacts. A free valet and laundry service can be provided, nanny and babysitting services can be arranged, and health and beauty treatments are available on request. Broadband Internet access and cellular and land line telephone access is also provided. Using as many organic, locally grown products as possible, Chaminuka´s food is a combination of the best international cuisine, transformed into a Zambian culinary delight, and vegetarians and those with special dietary needs can be individually catered for. Chaminuka offers a wide range of activities to keep you entertained during your stay at the lodge. Guests can partake in morning, afternoon and evening drives in open-top safari vehicles conducted by qualified guides, conversant with the wildlife, birdlife and the trees of Zambia. The Chaminuka Nature Reserve boasts more than 72 species of wildlife - a combination of mammals, reptiles and amphibians. Bush walks, horseback safaris and fishing and boating can also be done on the reserve. The lakes are stocked with four varieties of bream, catfish and nchenga, and guests can fish from the banks or from the floating pontoon.

Conference Venues: Chaminuka offers two conference rooms equipped with fixed frame and portable projector screens, DLP and LCD projectors, DVD and LCD players, flip charts and stationery. Delegates are also able to access 24-hour broad band Internet.

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Chaminuka Game Reserve

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The Outdoors Adventure

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Chaminuka Game Reserve - All You MUST Know Before You Go (2024)

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distinctive Camp | Lusaka, Zambia

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Chaminuka Lodge is surrounded by 10,000 acres of pristine Miombo woodland and vast savanna lands—an authentic wildlife paradise. A short, 30-minute drive from the Lusaka airport in Zambia, Chaminuka creates a wonderful safari atmosphere within a spacious and stylish lodge, once the residence of Lusaka’s most affluent citizens. Chaminuka's stunning main lounge sits atop a hill, providing 360-degree views of the crystal-blue, tree-lined Lake Chitoka in the distance.

Our Expert Says Although the actual rooms are basic, Chaminuka Lodge is a great pick for guests with an extra day or more to spend in Lusaka. There is so much to do onsite, from horseback wildlife viewing on the private reserve to cheese making tours with the staff. Chaminuka also has a notable collection of African art and artifacts, which resonates well with art lovers from around the world. – Aly Jacobsen

Location: Lusaka, Zambia Number of Rooms: 30

Important Note: This property offers Distinctive level amenities, but charges Premier level pricing because a variety of unique activities are included in the cost.

Chaminuka Lodge features 30 suites, elegantly decorated in a fusion of contemporary and traditional African themes. Rooms contain en suite bathrooms, telephone, air-conditioning and doors opening onto lush lawns. Four fully furnished, well-equipped villas, each with lounge, dining room, kitchenette, four bedrooms and en-suite baths are also available. Inside Chaminuka a dining room, sauna, three libraries and a snooker room are accented by a private collection of contemporary African artwork. Several 'Insakas' – cozy village lounge areas – provide glorious panoramic views of the vivid sunsets across Lake Chitoka. Outside, two swimming pools, an adjacent terrace, a tennis court, sauna and a jacuzzi offer options for relaxation and recreation. Surrounding it all is a private nature reserve stretching 60 square miles, where wildlife drives, walks, fishing outings and horseback riding reveal the great diversity of animals roaming the plains nearby.

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Facilities & Amenities

• Two Restaurants • Three Libraries • Billiard Room • Swimming pool • Tennis court • Health and Beauty Treatment • Jacuzzi • Art & Artifact Shop • Internet • Telephone • Laundry Service • Babysitting Service

Wildlife Viewing & Activities

Lusaka offers direct access to Zambia’s best wildlife viewing areas, such as Kafue National Park, South Luangwa National Park and the Lower Zambezi National Park.

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Chaminuka Game Reserve

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The Outdoors Adventure

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

CHAMINUKA GAME RESERVE (Lusaka) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

THREE WAYS TO PLAN AND BOOK YOUR ZAMBIA SAFARI WITH AFRICANMECCA

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Understand Safari Tier Ratings & Experiences In Zambia | Why Visit Zambia For Your Safari Vacation Or Holidays In Africa

OVERVIEW ON CHAMINUKA LODGE IN LUSAKA

Chaminuka Lodge is ideally situated, only 25 minutes drive from Lusaka International Airport and 45 minutes from Central Lusaka. Andrew and Danae Sardanis built Chaminuka Lodge in the style of a Zambian village where they lived with their staff until 1998 when they opened it to the general public as a luxury lodge. It now has 30 luxury suites and also houses their huge private collection of African contemporary paintings and sculpture as well as traditional artifacts some one thousand pieces acquired from all over Africa over a period of 50 years. The collection spreads throughout the main house, the guest suites and the gardens and highlights the African culture and way of life over the centuries. The ecology of Chaminuka: miombo woodland, the savannah and the wetlands have been left untouched; the owners have planted (and keep planting) thousands of trees in order to rehabilitate the forest that had made way to farmland; they built dams to conserve the waters of the Kasenga stream that traverses the 10,000 acres of the estate; and they declared the entire property a Zambian nature reserve called The Chaminuka Game Reserve. The Chaminuka Game Reserve is now the habitat of 72 species of Zambian mammals, reptiles and amphibians and some 300 species of birds many native to the area and others visiting the Chaminuka lakes and wetlands for rest and recuperation during their long annual sojourns from the Antarctic and Southern Africa to the Russian steppes and back. Chaminuka area is a microcosm of today’s Zambia, a mixture from all the tribes with many kids of all ages, and churches and schools and its own soccer team that competes with those of the farms in the area. Its people breathe life into Chaminuka and make it a successful all-Zambian self sustaining enterprise that is the livelihood of the 130 families who live on the estate and the financial focus of the many villages that surround it,

Accommodation, Facilities & Amenities At Chaminuka Lodge

• There are 30 separate Chaminuka Lodge suites, each with en-suite bathrooms and air conditioning elegantly decorated in a fusion of contemporary and traditional African themes.
• Several ‘Insakas’ village style lounge areas where guests can relax in private, enjoying the glorious panoramic views across Chaminuka’s African eden which melts into the wilderness beyond.
• TV, Minibars, safes and hairdryers in every room.
• Valet and laundry service, Nanny and babysitting service.
• Internet connectivity services, Three libraries.
• Billiard room with full size snooker table, Floodlit tennis court.
• Pool table and table tennis table.
• Sauna, Swimming pool , Jacuzzi.
• Art and artifact shop offering a collection of paintings, sculptures and traditional artifacts.

 Dining At Chaminuka Lodge

• Using as many organic, locally grown products as possible, Chaminuka’s food is a combination of the best international cuisine, transformed into a Zambian culinary delight.
• Lunch is served by the swimming pool. It is a barbeque and buffet offering a mixture of influences French, Italian Greek, Eastern Mediterranean and Oriental Cuisine. It provides an array of dishes to satisfy all tastes.
• Dinner at Chaminuka Lodge is served in the terraced restaurant and offers a variety of Zambian game dishes along with French, Italian, Greek, Indian, Portuguese and Chinese. Vegetarians and those with special dietary needs can be individually catered for.

Activities From Chaminuka Lodge

• Tour of the Chaminuka Art Collection. You can marvel at the art and by special arrangement you can meet many of the artists in person. They can share their experiences with you and explain what motivates and inspires them.
• Wildlife viewing and game drives in the Chaminuka Game Reserve.
• Lusaka City and Day Tours.
• Visit the Kalimba Reptile Farm.
• Visit The Lusaka Museum.
• Experience Kabwata Cultural Village.
• Shopping for tribal arts and craft.
• Visit Mundawanga Botanical Gardens.
• Visit the Chaminuka Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Tours to Victoria Falls, Livingstone and Safaris in Mosi-O-Tunya.
• Connect with wildlife viewing and safaris in South Luangwa, North Luangwa, Lower Zambezi, Kafue and Lochinvar.
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AN ECO SYSTEM OF 40 YEARS IN THE MAKING

Chaminuka Nature Reserve (the Reserve) was officially licensed in the late 1970’s, though efforts to create it started earlier. Its origins were agricultural land used for the production of tobacco and for cattle ranching. The reserve was licensed at a time when there was an over population of elephants in Zambia’s national parks. They had caused untold destruction on the environment, the flora and fauna, which in turn saw the demise of many species of Zambia’s precious wildlife.

It was in this wake that the Reserve was established. Over a period of almost 40 years, thousands of indigenous trees and plants were planted. Four lakes were created providing water and adding diversity to the habitats. Strict conservation management practices to protect the forests and the trees were exercised. Wildlife from all the national parks was trans located and introduced to the Reserve. And the reserve began to thrive naturally. Those animals that were already in the Reserve settled down, and bred prolifically. Those that were translocate have settled in and made Chaminuka their natural habitat as if they have been there for centuries. It also witnessed the successful reintroduction of the blue-necked ostrich that had become extinct in the 1940’s.

Today the Reserve has several habitats, from marshy swamps to open plains, Savannah to Miombo forests. There are more than 76 species of wildlife, featuring a three of the Big Five and all Zambia’s major antelope. In fact there are 18 varieties of antelope. The Reserve is also within an ornithological important bird area – a true testimony to its tranquility and peace. More than 300 species of bird can be spotted at Chaminuka lakes and wetlands, many permanent and other passing through as part of their annual migration from Southern Africa to West Africa and the Russian steppes and back.

Almost 40 years in the making there are now more than 7,000 animals in the Nature Reserve. The Reserve covers approximately 10,000 acres (an area totaling 40 square kilometres) in size. It is settled and its ecosystem is well established.

In and amongst the rapidly expanding Lusaka, Chaminuka Nature Reserve will remain an oasis that will continue to nurture, the Giraffe and the Zebra and the Eland and the Sable and the Hartebeest and the other antelopes of the Zambian bush and the Elephant and the Lion and the Cheetah and the Hyena and the Eagle and the Kingfisher and the Ibis and all the other 300 or so species of birds most of them native, and others visiting the Chaminuka lakes and wetlands during their annual sojourns.

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Moscow Travel Guide: Best Things to Do + More [2023]

· everything to know about visiting moscow, including the best things to do and how to get around. ·.

Moscow is Russia’s vibrant capital city, and it also happens to be the largest city in all of Europe. The city’s long and infamous history makes it one of the most unique places we have ever visited.

The architecture ranges from centuries-old palaces to uniform, gray concrete buildings. The people range from cold and private to warm and welcoming. Moscow is a city is strong juxtapositions, and we learned a lot during our time there.

This post will break down all you need to know about visiting Moscow, including the best things to do, how to get there, how to get around, and more.

The Best Things to Do in Moscow

1. explore the red square.

The Red Square is the heart of Moscow. Most of the city’s top attractions can be found here, including just about everything on this list. The Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and Lenin’s Mausoleum are all located here, and the State Historical Museum and GUM are not far from here, either.

The Red Square is a common home for parades, protests, and seasonal celebrations. There are massive Christmas celebrations here, with food vendors and carnival rides set up in numbers.

2. Check Out the Ziferblat

The Ziferblat is a café in Moscow that is unlike any café we have ever been to. While most cafes charge you for your drinks and food, the Ziferblat charges you for your time.

Upon arrival, you are given a clock. When you leave, the barista calculates how much time you spent in the café and charges you accordingly. This concept was created to help visitors to be more intentional with their time, and the cafe itself is incredibly charming.

For a detailed look at everything you need to know before you visit, make sure you read my post about visiting the Ziferblat Cafe in Moscow .

3. Marvel at St. Basil’s Cathedral

St. Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic churches in the world, and it was the single thing we were most excited to see while in Moscow. Built almost 500 years ago, St. Basil’s Cathedral is recognized by its colorful domes and whimsical style. The church is of the Russian Orthodox faith, and the inside is just as wondrous as the outside.

St. Basil’s Cathedral is located on the edge of the Red Square, making it incredibly convenient to visit. Entrance for non-worshippers costs 800 rubles, and tickets can be bought at the church

4. Explore the Kremlin

The Kremlin is the largest active fortress in Europe, and it is the site of most of Russia’s government affairs. In addition to government buildings, the Kremlin Complex is filled with courtyards, towers, and museums that are open to the public. If you have the time, you could spend a couple of days fully exploring all that there is to see in the Kremlin.

5. Walk Through Lenin’s Mausoleum

Vladimir Lenin is one of the most important figures in Russian history, and his body is located perfectly embalmed in a mausoleum in the Red Square. The Mausoleum is open to the public to visit, and as long as you are willing to go through a few security checks, it is easily one of the best things to do in Moscow. Its convenient location in the Red Square makes it a can’t miss attraction.

There is absolutely no photography allowed inside the Mausoleum. Do not test this rule.

6. Wander Along Arbat Street

The Arbat is a very popular street in Moscow that is lined with stores, cafes, and other touristy attractions. It is one of the oldest streets in the city, dating back to the 1400s. This street is both quaint and trendy, and there are many walking tours that introduce tourists to the neighborhood’s wonders and highlights.

7. Catch a Show at the Bolshoi Theatre

As a lover of the arts, it is hard to think of Moscow and not think of ballet. Russia has always been a top dog in the world of fine arts, and Bolshoi Theater is one of the best places to catch a performance. We were lucky enough to attend an Opera here, and it is a venue that you don’t want to miss out on if you enjoy opera, ballet, or orchestral performances.

8. Visit the State Historical Museum

The State Historical Museum is one of the most respected museums in Moscow. Despite its name, it is not really focused on the history of Russia as a nation. Rather, it contains a collection of artifacts from all throughout Russia’s history.

The museum’s collection is very broad in nature. It houses some items from indigenous tribes that used to occupy the region, pieces collected by the Romanov family, and more.

9. Wander Around GUM

GUM is an absolutely massive mall within walking distance of the Red Square. It isn’t just the size that draws visitors here; it’s the sense of luxury. The mall is so beautiful inside, much like the metro stations.

While visiting a mall might not sound like it belongs on a bucket list, this mall does. You will not want to miss out on visiting GUM while in Moscow.

10. Admire the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

While St. Basil’s Cathedral is the most iconic church in Moscow, it isn’t the only one. The Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is absolutely stunning, with massive golden domes. It is the tallest Orthodox church in the world, and it is the seat of the Orthodox Patriarch of Moscow.

It is located just about a mile from the Red Square, just south of the Kremlin Complex. You can walk to it from the Red Square in about 20 minutes.

How to Get to Moscow

Flying to moscow.

Moscow has three major international airports: Sheremetyevo (SVO) , Domodedovo (DMO) , and Vnukovo (VKO) . All three of them are directly connected to downtown Moscow by the Aeroexpress trains, which leave every 30 minutes throughout the day. By Aeroexpress train, you can expect to get to the city center in 25-45 minutes depending on the airport that you fly into.

Sheremetyevo is the biggest and busiest of the three airports, and it is the one you are most likely to fly into – especially if you are coming from outside of Europe or the Caucus region. We flew into Sheremetyevo on a direct flight from New York City.

I usually provide backup airport options, because flying right into the city isn’t always the cheapest way to get where you’re going. Unfortunately, when it comes to Moscow, don’t really have a choice other than to fly right into Moscow. It is a very remote city, and it is usually the cheapest place to fly into in Russia as a whole.

Since Sheremetyevo is so busy, you will probably find a great flight option anyway. I wrote in  my post about finding cheap flights  that using hub airports will lead to more affordable airfare, and the same logic applies here. Even though Russia’s national airline, Aeroflot, is no longer a member of the SkyTeam Alliance, Moscow is still a major hub connecting passengers from all over the world.

READ OUR CHEAT SHEET

Train or Bus to Moscow

Trains and buses are one of the most popular ways to get around Europe. However, they’re of very little use when you’re trying to get to Moscow.

Moscow is hundreds of miles from the nearest major cities. The only major European city that can even be reached within 8 hours on the ground is St. Petersburg, and even the Baltic capitals of Riga, Vilnius, and Tallinn are over 12 hours away.

If you want to get to Moscow, the best option is almost always to fly. While the train routes to Moscow are scenic, they simply take forever.

How to Get Around Moscow

METRO | TROLLEYS | TRAMS | BUSES

Moscow has one of the most memorable metro systems in the world. Its metro lines are very deep underground, and the stations are absolutely stunning. Each station has its own unique style, but all of them contain escalators that seem to go on forever.

The system was built in an effort to showcase the power of the Soviet Union and its bright future. The plans were a form of propaganda, but they resulted in what is still one of the most visually appealing subway systems on earth.

Moscow’s metro system isn’t just pretty. It is also very useful and accessible. The system has 17 lines that connect the city and its surrounding area.

But wait; there’s more!

The Moscow metro system is also incredibly affordable, with each ride costing less than a dollar. The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow, as it is almost impossible to beat the connection times and the low cost to ride.

Tickets can be bought at electronic, English-speaking kiosks in stations, or directly from ticket counters at certain larger stations. There are also day passes available, which are a very solid option if you plan on riding the metro several times per day.

The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow.

In addition to the metro system, Moscow also has a network of buses, trams, and trolleys. This system is nowhere near as convenient or well-connected as the metro, though, and is likely of little use to you during your trip. There is no Uber in Moscow, but a similar app named Yandex is available if you need a ride in a pinch.

How Many Days Do You Need in Moscow?

Moscow is the biggest city in all of Europe, and it is absolutely loaded with things to do. You could spend weeks in Moscow and still find new things to do. Of course, most travelers don’t have that kind of time to spend in one place!

I recommend spending no less than three full days in Moscow, and ideally closer to five or seven.

Moscow is very spread out, and it can take some time to get from one major point to another. There are also so many places that are nice to just sit back and relax, which is hard to do when you’re in a hurry trying to cram activities into just a few days.

If you only have a week to visit Russia, I’d advise spending all of the time in one city. If you decide to split your time between Moscow and St. Petersburg, I recommend not trying to squeeze in any day trips beyond those two cities.

When Is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Moscow?

There are two different ways to approach this question. Personally, I think the best time to visit Moscow is around Christmas and New Year’s Day. While the weather will be absolutely freezing, Moscow is a surreal winter wonderland in December and January.

We were in Moscow right before Christmas. While it was very cold, you can always bundle up. Exploring the Christmas markets and pop-up ice skating rinks throughout Moscow is one of my favorite memories from anywhere I’ve traveled, and I dream of going back to do it again.

If you aren’t fond of the cold, Moscow is beautiful in the summer. It tends to get pretty cold in the shoulder seasons, so if you want warm weather, you should plan to visit in the summer. Moscow actually gets pretty warm in July and August, and there are a bunch of fantastic places to soak up the sun within the city.

The best time to visit Moscow is either around Christmas or from late May to August.

Is Moscow Safe to Visit?

While Moscow is a truly wonderful city, there’s no denying that visiting Russia comes with risks. As the country is run by an infamous communist dictator, concerns about visiting are valid. While we didn’t experience any sort of threat or negative treatment during our time in Moscow, we visited in a peaceful time.

In our experience, Russia doesn’t seem to detain normal Americans or Westerners to use as pawns. As a regular person, as long as you don’t commit any crimes, there is a slim chance you will run into any issues. However, Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

To make matters worse, Russia has a bad reputation for gang violence. While the Russian mafia has very little interest in normal Western tourists, they won’t hesitate to pick a fight with anyone who ventures into their sphere of influence. If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

Finally, since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, things are all very different. Russia is currently at war, and there are battles raging within 8 hours of Moscow. While it is still relatively safe to visit, that could change at any time as the war with Ukraine continues.

Is Moscow Worth Visiting?

Without a doubt, Moscow is worth visiting. It is one of the most unique major cities we have ever visited, and we hope to make it back one day. The Russian Orthodox churches are stunning, the city’s history is unlike any other, and the food is to die for.

While many visitors prefer St. Petersburg to Moscow, I think Moscow deserves a lot of hype of its own. Moscow is the beating heart of Russian culture and history, and it’s a place I highly recommend checking out if you have the chance.

That’s all we have for you about Moscow! I hope this post was helpful as you plan your trip to Russia’s capital.

Have you been to Moscow? Or is this your first time visiting? Comment below if you have anything to add to our travel guide!

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

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• Conferences
• Private Events & Weddings
• Reservations

Day trips to Chaminuka include extensive buffet lunch, activities and use of all of our facilities. Please note that beverages are billed seperately at the bar, and not inclusive of your package. Additionally we can arrange transfers to and from Lusaka.

Family-friendly food with something for everyone, inspired by continental, Mediterranean and Greek cuisine. Much of our ingredients are organic and locally grown or produced on or around Chaminuka Nature Reserve. Our meals are rounded off with a selection of desserts and our very own Kaposhi cheese.

Things to do at Chaminuka

Activities designed to make your stay at Chaminuka memorable.

Get close and see over 7000 animals in their natural habitat at Chaminuka.

Cheese and Wine tasting

Join us in the Kaposhi Art Cave and excite your taste buds with our award winning varieties of cheese.

Breathtaking views on Lake Kasenga, with an opportunity to see different species of bird life.

Fish at Lake Kasenga and be at peace with yourself and nature

Horseback Riding and Safaris

Immerse yourself in nature riding a horse in the Chaminuka woodlands.

Walking Safari

Be one with wildlife under the care of our experienced and friendly guides.

Lion Feeding

See the king of the jungle like you never have before. Lions spend a limited amount of time hunting and eating, and the remainder of it resting. This means they are mostly seen at ease and one might assume they are lazy. This still does not take away from their majestic appearance, and encountering a lion that is about to eat is an unparalleled experience. The look in their eyes, their roaring and pacing will a raise primal energy never felt before. Join our expert staff during our lion feeding for an unforgettable moment.

Elephant Interaction

Follow in the steps of the largest land mammal on the planet and see nature from its perspective. Kachele and her young spend most of their day wandering the property eating and don’t mind having some human company.

Kachele was an orphan adopted by Chaminuka in 1992 and she likes to return to her “house” in the evenings. In 2016, the experienced Chaminuka staff decided to bring in 3 more elephant calves, which Kachele naturally adopted and are now part of our daily lives. Come and experience the tranquility, freedom and peaceful co-existence this elephant family experiences with other animals and humans.

Cheetah Walk

Ever wondered what it feels like to walk with the fastest animal on the planet? Elegant in its stride, this makes it one of the most thrilling wildlife experiences ever. Chipo and Chaminuka have lived on the estate since they were cubs and the staff has a long-term commitment to preserving and protecting this incredible and near-endangered species.

Drive around our 40+ square kilometer estate to see a variety of wildlife and spot some of the most intriguing animals (some found only in Zambia) with the help of our experienced guides. Chaminuka has over 7,000 animals and is still making additions to the large family. The reserve plays host to several habitats and from marshy swamps to open plains, savannah to miombo forests; more than 70 species of wildlife call it home. It features three of the Big Five and all of Zambia’s 18 antelope species.

The Reserve is also within an important ornithological area – a true testimony to its tranquility and peace. More than 300 bird species can be spotted around Chaminuka’s lakes and wetlands, many permanent and others flying through as part of their annual migration from Southern Africa to West Africa, the Russian steppes and back.

From Cheddar to Cheshire, Edam to Emmenthal, and Gouda to Gruyere, our award-wining cheeses are made on the estate and we would love for you to find out why they are revered. This activity is set in an aesthetically rich grotto designed by renowned Zambian artists.

If you are looking for a quiet escape that allows you some inner peace and reward, fishing is a recommended activity. We have varying types of bream, catfish and nchenga for you to catch in the lake’s water.

Enjoy a romantic couple’s ride or an exciting group outing in a speedboat on our very own Lake Chitoka. With over 300 species of birds spread around the reserve and its water bodies, you’ll get the chance to spot some interesting winged creatures in their natural habitat, or simply enjoy the cool wind whispering in your ear.

Traverse landscapes that motor vehicles can’t reach and immerse yourself even more into nature on horseback. This guided tour allows you to explore the estate in unmatched serenity that lets you encounter far more animals than you would in a car.

The truest and most rewarding safari experience is to be at the same level as the animals. Explore our estate and get acquainted with its ecosystem. Not just the wildlife either: it’s the plants, the trees, the fruits, the calls, sounds, chirps, sights and the smells. Let our guides impart their knowledge on the cycle of nature and the delicate balance that Chaminuka has preserved in the wake of an ever-expanding urban civilization.

Bird Watching

The diversity of the habitat at Chaminuka makes it a premier birding destination. More than 300 species of birdlife have been recorded at the Nature Reserve, among them the Chaplin’s barbet- a species unique to Zambia. Should you wish to go bird watching please ask at the Front Desk and they will be happy to make the necessary arrangements.

If you’d like a guided tour of the Sardanis’s extensive art collection, please make arrangements with the Front Desk. It is a brief journey into the history of Zambia, and also a glimpse into other African cultures through art collected over a period of 50 years. The Chaminuka Art App will be available on Google Play store, Android Gallery App and Apple. Please consult with the front desk if you wish to download and use this app.

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Visit Chaminuka Today to book your unforgettable experience in this unique wilderness setting.

Booking hours: 7.00 am – 9.00 pm

Safari Tours

Take a Tour of a Wildlife Safari Zoo in Central Pennsylvania

Guided safari tours in central pennsylvania.

The dry plains of Africa and the woodlands and forests of Australia have never felt closer thanks to the incredible safari tour at Lake Tobias Wildlife Park. Like our other amazing attractions , the safari allows you and your family to see first-hand the various animals native to those lands and learn about their natural habitats. Discover more about our animal safari in Central Pennsylvania and all you can expect to see on your journey.

Guided Safari offered May thru October.

Self Drive-Thru Safari Available Only in April and November

Guests who wish to enjoy our safari tour from the comfort of their vehicles can do so with our self drive-thru option. VEHICLES WITH HARD DOORS AND HARD TOP ROOFS ONLY. Those interested in this experience should first read the Self Drive-Thru Rules to ensure their safety and the wellbeing of our animals. You will be required to sign a vehicle waiver prior to entering the safari fields.   

SELF DRIVE-THRU RULES AND INFORMATION PER USDA:

All vehicles MUST have hard tops and doors. Sunroofs and trunks must be closed-USDA requirement (Mesh doors on jeeps are not permitted).

Strict 5 mph speed limit (USDA requirement for animal safety).

You MUST remain in your vehicle during the entirety of the tour.

Pets are not permitted in vehicles.

No riding in the bed of pickup trucks.

No motorcycles, motor homes, buses, or trailers are permitted.

Touching animals is not encouraged.

Feeding animals is prohibited.

LOUD NOISES --honking horns, music and yelling--are not permitted.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

The drive-thru trail is an unpaved dirt trail with loose stones, possible animal dung, and occasional mud puddles.

Some animals may not be visible on every drive-thru.

No refunds will be given for any reason after entering the safari fields.

ZOO EXHIBITS ARE NOT AVAILABLE  during the weekends of the self drive-thru.

Admission for the self drive-thru will be $9/person ages 3 through adult.

The Self Drive-Thru Safari pre-season/post-season option is available on select weekends only in April and November

from 10:00 a.m.  to 3:00 p.m.  

Please note: Only the Safari Tour Fields are open for the Self Drive-Thru option. Zoo exhibits are open during our regular season May 1st through October .

Adventure Awaits at Our Wildlife Safari Zoo

Say Hello to Our Animals

One of the best parts about our safari zoo in Pennsylvania is all the different animals you may see. More than 500 animals roam the safari fields freely at Lake Tobias Wildlife Park. You may meet curious critters that are just as interested in you as you are in them — it is common for animals to approach the tour bus and get close enough for guests to reach out and touch them. Interacting with these animals is sure to be an unforgettable and highly beneficial experience for your party.

Our New Safari Station

Dedicated to providing our guests with the best possible experience, we are happy to introduce our safari station. Built and launched in 2015, the safari station includes the following:

• A comfortable holding area large enough to fit guests as they wait for their turn to hop aboard the cruiser
• A snack shop where you can grab a drink, some food for the ride, and even feed to give the animals while on the tour
• Well-maintained restrooms for your convenience

Things to Keep in Mind for Your Next Safari Tour

To help guests get the most out of their animal safari in Pennsylvania, we encourage all to be mindful of when the tours begin. Rides go out right when the park opens, and guests are welcome to come early to avoid crowds or waiting in long lines. Our tours last around 45 minutes, providing plenty of time to take in the entire tour without tiring out the youngest in your group. The last tour departs our Safari Station one hour before closing.

Please be advised that we do not accept reservations for our tours as they are offered on a first come, first serve basis. However, even if you miss your preferred time, another is coming up shortly!

Plan Your Visit Today to Our Safari in Pennsylvania

Lake Tobias Wildlife Park welcomes guests from Central Pennsylvania and the surrounding areas to enjoy a first-hand experience with animals from six continents. Our safari tour allows visitors to witness a variety of majestic animals and gain insight into their way of life. Contact us today to learn more about our Pennsylvania safari tours and rates , or to view our park hours .

Safari Times

• Safari tours begin when the park opens.
• Tours last approximately 45 minutes.
• Last tour goes out one hour before closing.
• Tours are offered on a first-come, first-serve basis and depart multiple times per day.

Attractions

Zoo Exhibits

Petting Zoo

Reptiles & Exotics

Baby Animal Program

J.R. Tobias Museum & Education Center

Catch & Release Fishing

Dining & Food

New Giraffe Exhibit

Visitor information.

Directions/Parking

Handicapped/Accessibility

Table Reservations

Groups & Parties

Accommodations

About/History

Educational Outreach

ZooVenture Summer Camp

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