A Family Reunion Across Zambia, A Journey of Home, Wildlife, and Heart -Trip to Zambia
- Mwape Bellonie
- 2 hours ago
- 5 min read
Rediscovering a Journey
While organising old files on my laptop, I stumbled upon a folder of photos from a family trip to Zambia a few years ago. Looking through those images, the colours, the wildlife, the smiles, I felt it would be a shame not to share them. That trip was more than a holiday; it was a dream I had carried with me for years.
The Dream of a Reunion-Trip to Zambia
I had always imagined a reunion in Zambia: my French family, my siblings scattered across the world, and my loved ones back home all coming together in one place. After weeks of comparing calendars across time zones, the dates were finally set, and the planning began in earnest.
Arrivals From Every Corner
My little family and I arrived in Zambia on the same day as my sister, who flew in from Namibia, and my brother, who travelled from the UK. We all came in from different directions, converging in Zambia just as I had hoped. Our French family would join us a week later. Piece by piece, our global puzzle came together. All of us were headed for Zambia, ready for a reunion that was long overdue.
A House Full of Noise, Plans, and Mosi’s
We spent our first night in Lusaka at my brother and his wife’s flat, a lively and welcoming space that somehow accommodated us all with ease. That evening, plans were sketched out and ideas exchanged for the adventures ahead, but more than anything, we celebrated simply being together. Food was shared generously, stories flowed freely, and bottles of Mosi were opened and enjoyed. Laughter filled every corner of the flat late into the night. It felt like the perfect beginning.
A Quiet Pause in Kalulushi
From Lusaka, we headed to Kalulushi, my hometown, to spend a few precious days with my parents before the rest of our party arrived. Being back home, with the familiar sounds, the warmth of well-known faces, walking old paths, and eating food that only home can make, reminded me why this reunion mattered so much. I wanted to share this feeling of home.
Back to Lusaka, Back to the Buzz
After those days in Kalulushi, we travelled back to Lusaka, where we regrouped and finalised plans for the journey ahead. A week later, our French family arrived, and with that, our long-awaited reunion was finally complete.
Livingstone: The Adventure Begins
The following morning, we set off on a road trip to Livingstone. The journey itself was an experience, unfolding through wide-open landscapes, roadside stalls, small villages, and long stretches of open road that seemed to invite conversation and reflection.
We reached Livingstone buzzing with excitement, even though it was the same week as the UNWTO General Assembly and accommodation was scarce. We found a simple but comfortable lodge in town.
Elephants on the Road and the Magic of Victoria Falls
On the way to Victoria Falls the next morning, traffic came to a sudden stop. Not roadworks, elephants. A herd crossed calmly in front of us, following their ancient pathways. Watching them, dignified and unhurried, felt like the most beautiful interruption.
Sunset Over the Zambezi
On our first day in Livingstone, we chose to stay close to the Falls and simply take it all in. Hearing the distant rumble of Victoria Falls, feeling the cool mist on our skin, and standing beside one of the world’s greatest natural wonders filled us with quiet awe. August may not bring full spray, but Mosi-oa-Tunya was still breathtaking.
We visited the Victoria Falls Field Museum, then wandered to the gorge to watch the sun melt into the Zambezi. Golds, purples, quiet wonder.
Driving safari in the Livingstone National Park
The next morning brought one of the trip’s highlights: a driving safari in Livingstone National Park. Giraffes, elephants, warthogs, antelopes, birds — it felt like heaven on earth.
Famous Sunset Cruise
That evening, we boarded the famous Zambezi sunset cruise. Hippos bobbing, elephants cooling off, birds skimming the surface, the river turning to gold. Peaceful, wild, unforgettable.
Lower Zambezi National Park: A Sanctuary by the River
From Livingstone, our journey continued to the Lower Zambezi National Park, a place I had long dreamed of sharing with my family. Where Livingstone was dramatic and powerful, the Lower Zambezi felt serene and deeply peaceful, guided by the slow rhythm of the river.
We stayed at Nsofu Lodge, which at the time had a wonderfully rustic charm, a mix of simple hostels and fisherman-style chalets scattered along the riverbank. It wasn’t luxurious, but it had soul. The kind of place where you wake up to birdsong, fall asleep to the chorus of the bush, and feel the Zambezi flowing just steps away from your door.
Water Safaris and River Giants
The water safari was the highlight. Drifting down the Zambezi, hippos rising and sinking like shadows, crocodiles basking on the banks, and then, the elephants. Watching them swim across the river, trunks raised like snorkels, families moving together, was a rare and sacred sight.
Birdlife Like a Living Gallery
Birdlife was everywhere: tiny Blue Waxbills like ornaments in the trees, vivid bee-eaters swooping gracefully, and proud eagles circling above, echoing the strength of the Zambian flag. It felt like a living gallery of colour and sound.
Closing the Circle
After our days on the river, we returned to Lusaka, then once more to Kalulushi for the final days of family time: slow meals, familiar laughter, and the comfort of being home.
Eventually, it was time to scatter again to France, the UK, Namibia, and beyond. Suitcases heavier, hearts fuller.
Looking back now, years later, this trip feels even more precious. It was one of those rare moments when everyone came together, without knowing just how significant that time would become. What stays with me most is not only the landscapes or the wildlife, but the gift of togetherness. Zambia gave us space to slow down, to listen, to laugh, and simply to be present with one another. It reminded me that home is not just a place, but a shared history and a bond that time inevitably reshapes. I am deeply grateful we chose Zambia for this reunion. The memories from that journey have grown quieter, deeper, and more meaningful with time.
Gentle Recommendations for a Similar Trip
If you are thinking of planning a similar journey to Zambia, here are a few reflections from our experience:
Take your time. Zambia is not a destination to rush. Build in space to pause, absorb, and simply be present.
Mix family and adventure. Combining time at home with wildlife and nature made the trip richer and more balanced.
Travel by road when you can. Some of our most memorable moments happened between destinations.
Do a Zambezi sunset cruise. It truly is a must and offers a peaceful way to experience wildlife and the river.
Visit the Lower Zambezi if possible. The water safaris offer a completely different and unforgettable perspective.
Embrace simplicity. You do not need luxury everywhere. Some of the most meaningful moments came from simple places with soul.
Most importantly, go with an open heart. Zambia has a way of giving back more than you expect.
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