Useful Information
Preparing for a journey into some of Africa’s most remote and spectacular wilderness areas requires a little planning. To help you get the most from your experience on the Emerald Odyssey Photographic Safari, we have compiled a selection of useful information for guests joining the expedition.
In this section you will find guidance on important topics such as travel insurance requirements, recommended packing lists, photographic equipment suggestions, travel logistics and general preparation for safari. These notes are designed to ensure that you arrive well prepared and able to focus entirely on enjoying the extraordinary landscapes, wildlife encounters and photographic opportunities that await.
While every effort has been made to provide helpful guidance, guests should always consider their own personal travel needs and circumstances when preparing for the journey.
If you have any questions while planning your trip, please do not hesitate to contact us and we will be happy to assist.
What to Pack
• Passport
• Visa (if required)
• Insurance details (please see Travel Insurance below for more information)
• Cash (US dollars are the most useful currency in Zambia/Zimbabwe)
• Credit card (MasterCard and Visa are the most widely accepted cards)
• Warm clothes (including hat, gloves and a lightweight puffer jacket for cooler mornings)
• Rain jacket (lodges provide ponchos in the event of rain, however having your own is useful)
• Sun hat
• Sunglasses
• Footwear (comfortable walking shoes or boots if appropriate)
• Swimwear
• Binoculars
• Mobile (cell) phone
• Chargers and adapters (Zambia and Zimbabwe generally use UK Type G plugs with three square pins)
• Torch or headlamp
• Insect repellent
• Insect bite cream such as Antisan for biting flies
• Sunscreen
• Prescription medicines and a copy of your prescription (if required)
Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance
Participation in the Emerald Odyssey Photographic Safari requires that all guests have comprehensive travel insurance in place before travelling. Your insurance policy must provide adequate cover for any medical emergency that could arise during your journey, including the potentially significant cost of emergency medical evacuation and repatriation to your home country. As this expedition travels through remote wilderness areas, appropriate medical coverage is essential. In addition to emergency medical protection, travel insurance policies typically provide cover for trip cancellation, curtailment of your journey, and loss or theft of personal belongings, including photographic equipment. While we require all guests to hold suitable travel insurance, we do not sell insurance policies and cannot recommend specific providers. We encourage all travellers to research and select a policy that best suits their individual needs and circumstances.
When to Arrange Your Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend arranging your travel insurance as soon as you confirm your place on the Emerald Odyssey safari. Doing so ensures that you are protected in the event that unforeseen circumstances require you to cancel your trip prior to departure. Some insurance policies also require that cover is purchased within a certain period after your initial trip deposit, so arranging insurance early helps ensure you are fully protected.
Medical Cover
Emergency medical cover is the most important component of your travel insurance. In the unlikely event of an accident or medical emergency while travelling in remote safari areas, costs for treatment and evacuation can be significant. It is therefore essential that your policy provides sufficient coverage for medical care, evacuation to appropriate facilities, and repatriation to your home country if required. When selecting a policy, ensure that the maximum medical cover limit is appropriate for international travel and remote destinations.
Insuring the Full Value of Your Trip
When purchasing travel insurance, it is important that the full cost of your safari is covered by your policy. Some insurance providers place limits on the total value of trips they will insure. If your policy only covers part of the total trip value, insurers may only reimburse the same proportion of any claim. Always confirm that the maximum trip value covered by your policy matches the full cost of your booking.
Choosing a Travel Insurance Policy
There are many travel insurance providers and policies available worldwide, and the most suitable policy will depend on your country of residence, personal circumstances, and travel plans. For this reason we recommend that all travellers conduct their own research and select a policy that offers comprehensive coverage for international travel and safari activities.
What's in your Camera Bag?
Camera Bag check
Camera Equipment Packing List
• Two camera bodies (recommended for quick lens changes and backup)
• Telephoto zoom lens (100–500mm recommended for wildlife photography)
• Medium zoom lens (70–200mm) for closer wildlife encounters and environmental shots
• Wide-angle lens (15–35mm) for landscapes, dramatic skies and camp scenes
• Spare batteries (at least 3–4 per camera body recommended)
• Battery chargers
• Sufficient memory cards for the duration of the trip
• Card readers for downloading images
• Laptop or portable storage device for backing up photographs
• Charging cables and power adapters
• Lightweight tripod (keep weight manageable for travel)
• Beanbag or camera support for vehicle-based photography
• Lens cleaning cloth and cleaning kit
• Camera rain cover or protective bag
• Split ND filters or graduated ND filters for landscape photography
Additional Information
The equipment list above is an approximate guide and may vary depending on your preferred camera system and brand.
For wildlife photography we strongly recommend bringing a teleconverter (1.4x or 2x) if you have one available. If you own a long prime lens in the 400–600mm range, this can also be an excellent addition for capturing distant wildlife and creating powerful subject isolation.
Both Michael and Nick will be available throughout the safari to provide guidance on equipment setup and photographic techniques in the field.
Travel & Routing Information
International Arrival into Zambia
Guests travelling from international destinations will typically arrive into Kenneth KaundaInternational Airport (LUN) in Lusaka, Zambia’s main gateway.
From Europe & UK: Direct or 1-stop via Johannesburg, Addis Ababa, Nairobi or Dubai.
From USA: Typically 1–2 stops via Johannesburg, Dubai, Doha or Addis Ababa.
From South Africa: Direct flights from Johannesburg to Lusaka (approx. 2 hours).
Lusaka → Liuwa Plain National Park
From Lusaka, guests connect to the remote and untouched Liuwa Plain via light aircraft charter.
Travel time is approximately 2–3 hours including transfers. Due to its remote nature, Liuwa is one of Africa’s most exclusive wilderness areas.
Liuwa → Victoria Falls (Livingstone)
Guests continue toward Victoria Falls, typically via charter flight or routed via Lusaka if required.
Access is through Livingstone Airport (LVI).
Victoria Falls → Hwange National Park
Travel into Hwange National Park by light aircraft (45–60 minutes) or road transfer (2–3 hours).
Hwange offers large herds, open plains and exceptional predator sightings.
Hwange → Victoria Falls
Return via short charter flight or road transfer back to Victoria Falls.
Victoria Falls → Onward Travel
Victoria Falls serves as a gateway to extend your journey to Cape Town or return home via
Johannesburg, Nairobi, Addis Ababa or Dubai.
From the wild remoteness of Liuwa to the thundering edge of Victoria Falls, this journey flows seamlessly through some of Africa’s most iconic landscapes — each step revealing something new, while leaving just enough undiscovered to draw you back again.
Where you'll stay
King Lewanika
King Lewanika Lodge by Ker & Downey – Liuwa Plain National Park
King Lewanika Lodge is one of the only permanent lodge's within the remote wilderness of Liuwa Plain National Park in western Zambia, offering a truly exclusive base from which to explore one of Africa’s most remarkable landscapes. Set on the edge of the vast plains, the lodge provides uninterrupted views across the endless grasslands that define this extraordinary ecosystem.
The camp combines understated luxury with a strong sense of place. Spacious canvas-and-wood villas are raised slightly above the plains and feature comfortable interiors, private decks and panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. After days spent exploring Liuwa’s sweeping landscapes and dramatic skies, guests return to warm hospitality, excellent cuisine and the quiet atmosphere of a camp immersed in one of Africa’s last great wild places.
Mukwa River Lodge
Mukwa River Lodge – Victoria Falls, Zambia
Set along a quiet stretch of the Zambezi River, just upstream from the thunder of Victoria Falls, Mukwa River Lodge offers a moment of calm within one of Africa’s most iconic landscapes. Framed by riverine forest and flowing water, the lodge blends contemporary design with natural textures, creating a space that feels both refined and deeply connected to its surroundings.
Between the wild drama of Liuwa and the intensity of Hwange, Mukwa provides a gentle pause in the journey — a place to reset, review, and absorb the experiences of the days before. Mornings begin with soft light over the river, while evenings unfold to the distant sound of the Falls and the quiet rhythm of the Zambezi. It is here that the pace slows, and the story of the journey continues in a different light.
Somalisa Camp
Somalisa Camp by African Bush Camps – Hwange National Park
Somalisa Camp is an intimate luxury safari camp located in the heart of Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe’s largest and most diverse wildlife reserve. Set within a private concession beneath a grove of acacia trees, the camp overlooks a natural waterhole that regularly attracts elephants and other wildlife, creating exceptional viewing opportunities directly from camp.
The accommodation consists of elegant canvas suites that blend comfort with a strong connection to the surrounding wilderness. Each tent features spacious interiors, private verandas and views across the bushveld. Known for its warm hospitality, excellent guiding and close wildlife encounters, Somalisa offers an authentic safari atmosphere while maintaining a high level of comfort and luxury.
Emerald Odyssey Terms & Conditions
EMERALD ODYSSEY PHOTOGRAPHIC SAFARI
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
27 November – 9 December 2027
1. DEFINITIONS
In these Terms and Conditions:
“The Trip” refers to the Emerald Odyssey Photographic Safari
“The Hosts” refers to Michael Davy and Nick Riddin
“The Operator” refers to Zambian Ground Handlers
“The Client” refers to any person booking or participating in the Trip
“Suppliers” refers to all third-party providers including lodges, airlines, transport operators, and service providers
2. BASIS OF CONTRACT
A booking is confirmed upon receipt of the required deposit and constitutes acceptance of these Terms and Conditions.
By confirming a booking, the Client agrees to be bound by these Terms and Conditions, the Terms and Conditions of the Operator (Zambian Ground Handlers), and the Terms and Conditions of all third-party Suppliers.
3. ROLE OF THE HOSTS
The Hosts act solely as agents, facilitators, and tour leaders.
The Hosts do not own, control, or operate any accommodation, airline, or transport services and are not responsible for acts, omissions, or defaults of Suppliers. The Hosts act only as intermediaries between the Client and Suppliers.
All services are delivered by independent third-party Suppliers.
4. BOOKING AND PAYMENT TERMS
A 30% non-refundable deposit is required to secure a booking.
The balance is due 90 days prior to departure. Bookings made within 90 days must be paid in full immediately.
Failure to pay by the due date may result in automatic cancellation and loss of all monies paid. The Hosts reserve the right to cancel any booking not paid in full by the due date.
5. PRICING AND AVAILABILITY
All pricing is subject to availability at the time of booking and is based on supplier rates which may change.
The Hosts reserve the right to adjust pricing due to currency fluctuations, supplier rate increases, or changes in government taxes or levies.
6. CANCELLATION POLICY
All cancellations must be made in writing.
Cancellation charges will apply as follows: the deposit is non-refundable, and cancellations within 90 days of departure may incur up to 100% cancellation fees, subject to supplier terms.
No refunds will be given for late arrival, early departure, no-show, or unused services.
7. FORCE MAJEURE
The Hosts shall not be liable for any failure or delay caused by events beyond their control, including but not limited to natural disasters, weather conditions, pandemics or health emergencies, government restrictions, political instability, airline disruptions, wildlife movement, or mechanical failure.
In such circumstances, the itinerary may be altered or cancelled, no compensation shall be payable, and any refunds will be strictly subject to recovery from Suppliers.
8. LIABILITY DISCLAIMER
To the fullest extent permitted by law, the Hosts shall not be liable for injury, illness, or death; loss, theft, or damage to property; delays, disruptions, or inconvenience; or any indirect or consequential losses.
This includes losses arising from acts or omissions of Suppliers, travel delays or cancellations, and environmental or wildlife-related incidents.
9. INDEMNITY
The Client agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Hosts against any claims, damages, losses, liabilities, or expenses arising from participation in the Trip, breach of these Terms, or negligent or unlawful conduct by the Client.
This indemnity includes legal costs incurred.
10. ASSUMPTION OF RISK
The Client acknowledges that the Trip takes place in remote wilderness areas where wildlife encounters are unpredictable and travel conditions may be hazardous.
The Client voluntarily assumes all risks associated with participation.
11. THIRD-PARTY SERVICES
All accommodation, flights, transfers, and activities are provided by third-party Suppliers.
The Hosts accept no liability for Supplier performance and are not responsible for Supplier insolvency or failure. All Supplier terms apply directly to the Client.
12. FLIGHTS AND TRAVEL DISRUPTIONS
The Hosts are not responsible for international or domestic flight delays, missed connections, airline schedule changes, or lost or delayed baggage.
All claims must be made directly with the airline.
13. LUGGAGE AND EQUIPMENT
The Client is solely responsible for all personal belongings, camera equipment, and luggage.
The Hosts accept no liability for loss, theft, or damage.
14. TRAVEL INSURANCE
Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory.
The policy must cover medical expenses, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation, personal liability, and loss or damage to equipment. Failure to obtain adequate insurance is at the Client’s own risk.
15. ITINERARY CHANGES
The itinerary may be altered due to weather conditions, wildlife movement, or operational requirements.
The Hosts reserve the right to substitute accommodation or services or modify routing. No compensation shall be payable.
16. HEALTH AND FITNESS
The Client warrants that they are medically fit to travel and capable of participating in safari activities.
The Client is responsible for vaccinations, medication, and seeking appropriate medical advice prior to travel.
17. TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
The Client is responsible for ensuring a valid passport, appropriate visas, and compliance with all entry requirements.
No liability is accepted for failure to comply.
18. AUTHORITY ON TOUR
The Hosts retain full authority during the Trip and may make decisions in the interest of safety and group wellbeing.
The Hosts reserve the right to remove any participant. No refund will be given in such cases.
19. PERSONAL EXPENSES
The Trip excludes personal purchases, gratuities, premium drinks, optional activities, and items of a personal nature.
All such costs are the Client’s responsibility.
20. GOVERNING LAW
These Terms shall be governed by applicable law in the jurisdiction of operation.
21. ACCEPTANCE OF TERMS
Payment of a deposit confirms that the Client has read, understood, and accepted these Terms and Conditions in full and agrees to be bound by them.