Upemba National Park Safari Expedition – Congo Basin Wetlands & Wildlife Adventure
Why we love it?
The Upemba National Park Safari Expedition offers a six-day immersive experience in the Democratic Republic of the Congo's unique Kabanga region. This adventure is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking an in-depth exploration of the Congo Basin wetlands. Participants will benefit from the expertise of a professional safari guide and a ranger escort, ensuring a safe and informative journey through the diverse ecosystems of Upemba National Park. Distinctive features of the tour include boat safaris across the scenic Kamalondo lake system, allowing travelers to observe wildlife from a unique vantage point while navigating the park's rich landscapes.
Inclusions
- National park entry permits for Upemba National Park
- Professional safari guide throughout the expedition
- Ranger escort during park exploration
- Boat safaris across the Kamalondo lake system
- Safari vehicle and transportation within the park
- Accommodation in safari lodge or expedition camp
- All meals during the safari expedition
- Bottled drinking water during excursions
- Logistical support and conservation access permits
- Airport pickup and transfer from Lubumbashi
Exclusions
- International flights to Democratic Republic of Congo
- Domestic flight to Lubumbashi
- Visa for Democratic Republic of Congo
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Alcoholic beverages
- Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
- Tips for guides and staff
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival in Lubumbashi & Expedition Briefing
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Arrival in Lubumbashi, the main gateway to southeastern Congo. Guests are welcomed by the expedition team and transferred to the hotel for check-in.
During the evening briefing, guides introduce the Upemba safari program, conservation background of the park, and safety procedures for the expedition.
Highlights:
- Arrival assistance at Lubumbashi airport
- Welcome dinner and safari briefing
- Preparation for departure to Upemba
Overnight: Lubumbashi lodge, Upemba Lodge or hotel.
Day 2 Journey to Upemba National Park
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After breakfast, the expedition begins with an overland journey toward **Upemba National Park.
The drive crosses remote landscapes of southeastern Congo before reaching the vast wetlands and savannas of the park.
Upon arrival, guests settle into the expedition camp or lodge and enjoy the first orientation safari.
Highlights:
- Scenic overland journey to Upemba
- First exploration of the park
- Sunset wildlife viewing
Overnight: Upemba safari camp.
Day 3 Kamalondo Lakes Boat Safari
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Today focuses on the famous Kamalondo lake system, one of Central Africa’s largest wetland ecosystems.
Guests explore the lakes by boat through papyrus channels where hippos, crocodiles, and abundant birdlife can be observed.
The afternoon includes guided nature walks and wildlife tracking along the lake edges.
Highlights:
- Boat safari through interconnected lakes
- Birdwatching and wetland wildlife observation
- Exploration of papyrus wetlands
Overnight: Upemba safari camp.
Day 4 Savanna Wildlife Safari & Lualaba Source Region
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Morning game drives explore Upemba’s savanna corridors where wildlife populations are slowly recovering through conservation programs.
Guests may encounter antelope species, zebra populations and exceptional birdlife across open landscapes.
The expedition continues toward the region where the **Lualaba River begins its journey through Central Africa.
Highlights:
- Savanna wildlife tracking
- Conservation landscape exploration
- Visit to the Lualaba River source region
Overnight: Upemba safari camp.
Day 5 Lualaba River Exploration
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Today the expedition explores the region where the Lualaba River begins its long journey through Central Africa.
Guests discover river ecosystems, wetlands, and surrounding landscapes that form part of the greater Congo Basinecosystem.
Highlights
- Exploration of river ecosystems
- Wetland wildlife observation
- Cultural encounters with local fishing communities
Overnight: Upemba safari camp.
Day 6 Return to Lubumbashi & Departure
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After breakfast, the expedition departs Upemba and travels back to Lubumbashi.
Guests are transferred to the airport for international departures or onward travel.
Highlights
- Final views of Upemba wilderness
- Overland return journey
- Airport transfer and departure assistance
Experience Summary
Destination: Upemba National Park
Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights
Price: €5200 per person
Group size: 2–8 travelersThis safari offers a rare expedition into one of the most remote and untouched ecosystems in Central Africa.
Please Note
- Travelers should ensure they have a valid passport and the required visa for entry into the Democratic Republic of Congo.
- This expedition takes place in a remote national park environment and involves overland travel, boat safaris, and exploration of wetland and savanna landscapes.
- Participants should be comfortable with basic outdoor conditions and moderate physical activity.
- It is recommended to consult a travel clinic before departure regarding vaccinations and malaria prevention.
- Weather conditions can vary depending on the season, and itineraries may be adjusted for safety or conservation reasons.
- Travel insurance covering medical evacuation is strongly recommended for all participants.
Know Before You Go
- Animals or pets allowed
- Passport required
