Recent Iconic Africa traveller Graham Wood has just returned from an unforgettable trip to Shumba Camp in Zambia. An old friend and expert photographer, Graham has been kind enough to chat to us about his trip as well as to share some of his outstanding pictures with us. Be sure to follow us: @iconicafrica on Instagram for our @grazwoodphoto takeover this week – lots of unbelievable photos coming your way!
In the meantime here’s what Graham had to say about his safari:
What was the highlight of your trip?
Graham Wood: “The diversity of game and the incredible landscape. It’s hard to describe but it’s Wetlands meets plains, so you almost have a cross between the delta and Serengeti. It’s also incredibly private – we saw very few vehicles in the time we were there, so when you do find something, there are no time limits, and you typically have the sighting all to yourself. It has all 3 big cats, and a variety of other animals, aardvark, clawless otter, Lichtenstein’s hartebeest, roan antelope, sable, lechwe, puku… the list goes on. It’s not the numbers of let’s say a Serengeti, or Mara, but you don’t have 10 cars in a sighting. You have 1, 2 at most… and there are plenty animals to see.”
Would you recommend this camp to fellow travellers?
Graham Wood: “If you’re into photography and a mixture of game viewing/birding, I would highly recommend this place. The sunset and sunrise light last for hours due to the marsh grass.”
What was the food like?
Graham Wood: “Food was excellent given how remote the property was and the staff really went out of their way to make the experience enjoyable. 3 course dinner, big brunch and very good tea.”
What was your accommodation like?
Graham Wood: “Rooms were large, very well built, and you couldn’t ask for more given the remoteness. Great hot water showers run by solar. Magnificent views over the plains. Central Camp area was excellent, nice pool to cool off on and the views across the plains are superb.”
What was the safari experience like?
Graham Wood: “Guide was very good – knew his stuff, and did his best to deliver a great experience.”
Any additional tips for fellow travellers?
Graham Wood: “If your guests want the water experience – Mkhoro, boating safari – I would certainly recommend June or early July. It’s the best time to see swimming lions and also huge amounts of birds. I imagine less game at the time except for lechwe/puku.
Thanks @grazwoodphoto for sharing – we are honoured to be able to share your awesome images!
These are really good pictures, thank you for posting, this is very interesting to read.