At Jackalberry Safaris, we're all about ease, comfort and unforgettable experiences. From beginning to end, we want to make your safari as stress-free as possible, so we are unique in offering transfers to and from Chipata. This means that you'll have no worries about the cost of flying to Mfuwe, or the uncertainty of using public transport or taxis to reach the Valley. Our transfers between Chipata and Mfuwe usually take between 3-4 hours in an air-conditioned minibus. Of course, if you do choose to save some time by flying in, we will be happy to collect you from Mfuwe airport at the beginning of your safari.

All safaris depart from Dean's Hill View Lodge in Chipata. Dean's is clean, comfortable and well priced, but not very big, so it's a good idea to book your accommodation prior to arrival. If you decide to stay elsewhere, such as Mama Rula's, we recommend that you book a morning taxi to Dean's the night before. Departure times may vary depending on the time of year and condition of the roads, but we'll inform you of the pickup schedule when you make your booking. Arrival time in Chipata at the end of your tour may also vary, particularly as road conditions change during the season. Again, we'll give you a better idea of journey times when you book so that you can arrange your onward travel.

Dean's Hillview Lodge: + 260 (0) 6221 673

Mama Rula's 

Chipata is easily accessible from Lusaka. You can choose to travel by bus, and arrive dusty but on-budget, or you can pay the airfare to Mfuwe and arrive unharried after a mere 1 hour flight.

By road

In Lusaka several fast, air-conditioned coaches depart daily from the terminus on Dedan Kimathi road. Smaller minibuses also run from here, although their levels of comfort and safety leave quite a bit to be desired. We recommend that you catch as early a bus as possible to Chipata, as the journey takes at least 8 hours on a coach, and longer on a minibus. Be aware that both coaches and minibuses often leave when they're full, rather than at the specified time, so you may want to arrive at the terminus in advance of your desired departure. If you intend to catch a very early bus, it may be wise to buy your ticket the day before: otherwise it's fine to pay your fare on the bus. Ticket prices vary on a yearly basis, but in 2008 the cost of a one-way Lusaka-Chipata ticket was approximately 80'000 kwacha.

By air

Flights to Mfuwe from Lusaka can cost anywhere between $80 (off-season) and $300 (peak-season), with prices dependent on demand. During the peak season there are usually four flights to Mfuwe per day. As with most airfares, the best deals are available to those who can book in advance, so try not to leave your decision until the night before! Details of the main operators Proflight and Zambezi Airlines can be found on their websites, and bookings are most easily made through travel agents in Lusaka, or through the hotel at which you're staying.

Travelling from Lilongwe to Chipata takes around four hours. Most travellers choose to take a taxi or minibus from Lilongwe to the Zambian border, and then a taxi to Chipata once across. The Zambian border post is generally straightforward, especially for travellers crossing on foot. We would recommend that you have a valid yellow fever certificate with you when crossing the border however, as immigration officials in 2009 were asking all travellers for them, and you could be denied entry to the country if you're without one. Yellow fever certificates can be organised easily before you leave home, or in one of the many clinics in Lilongwe.

If you don't fancy the idea of making your own way to Chipata, remember that we are now offering transfers from Lilongwe for a small additional fee per person per safari. Please contact us if you would like to arrange this service.