After months of waiting and planning we have arrived in Zambia, Africa

The longest travel day of my life, 3 flights, 18 hours of fly time, 6 hours of waiting between flights, 2 sunrises, and we finally arrived in Mfuwe, Zambia just as the sun was setting. 

The ride from the airport to the lodge was about 40 minutes through the village of Mfuwe. There were not many lights but lots of people walking and riding bikes up and down the road. You could smell the fires of those living in the village. 

We are staying at the Mfuwe lodge, which is one of the few places you can stay within South Luangwa Park. It is made up of 18 chalets. Once we passed through the gates of the park we had our first sighting. There in the middle of the road was a large Leopard. It just sat there for a moment before getting up, stretching, and then moving off the road.

Welcome to Zambia. 

Mfuwe Lodge, South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

Bushcamp Bonanza! South Luangwa National Park

This is where we will be in just a few days. 

Wow, it looks amazing. 

Packed!!

Call me crazy, its a week before I leave for our trip to Africa and I am already packed. I like to think of it as prepared.
  I followed my list and this is all I am taking for a 9 night safari.

I find the best way to save space and protect the clothes is to pack in zip lock bags. I prefer the gallon size freezer bags. It is a great way to keep everything organized without having to unpack, this comes in handy when you are moving from one place to another. I packed this way for a 8 day trip to Ireland and never once unpacked my suitcase. I always take a few extra bags along as they are great for so many things.

Along with my clothes we are also packing with purpose and bring school supplies to help support one of the local schools in Zambia.

I  weighed everything and all this is only 9 pds. Between all of us it should not be a problem adding these items in our bags. 

My son is bringing soccer balls which I know the children will enjoy.

Looks like I will have plenty of room.