A Journey Through Zambia: Lessons from a Trade Fam Trip
In November, The PC Agency proudly hosted a trade fam trip in Zambia, partnering with Zambia Tourism Agency to introduce UK tour operators to the wonders of this diverse destination. With representatives from Yellow Zebra Safaris, Freedom Destinations, Carrier, and Far & Wild, this week-long journey offered an immersive look at Zambia’s natural beauty, exceptional lodges, and unparalleled safari experiences. Here’s a detailed look at our journey and the invaluable learnings we gathered.
Image © - Lilayi Lodge
Arrival at Lilayi Lodge, Lusaka
The journey began in Lusaka, where the group stayed at Lilayi Lodge, a family-run retreat located within Lilayi Game Park. Activities included an evening bush walk, during which they spotted antlions - one of the ‘Small Five’ - and indulged in a signature wine-tasting experience featuring South African wines paired with local delicacies, including crocodile.
Image © - Kaingu Safari Lodge
Exploring Kaingu Safari Lodge, Kafue National Park
After an early start, the group embarked on a five-hour drive to Kaingu Safari Lodge in Kafue National Park, stopping for site inspections at Mukambi Safaris and Ila Safari Lodge en route. Upon arrival, the group was welcomed into the relaxed, family-style atmosphere of this rustic lodge. The adventure here began with a morning game drive, where the group spotted elephants, warthogs, baboons, and even two black mambas. This was followed by a surprise bush brunch on an island in the Kafue River, and later, a chance to cool off in the river rapids while rock-hopping. The day ended with a guided nature walk and sundowners on Mpamba Rock, offering panoramic views of the bush. On day three, the group enjoyed a river cruise, during which they observed impalas, marabou storks, and more warthogs. The group praised the exceptional guiding team, Kebby and Israel, for making this part of the journey unforgettable.
Image © - Royal Zambezi Lodge
Luxury and Adventure at Royal Zambezi Lodge
The group boarded a thirty minute Proflight journey to Lower Zambezi National Park, flying over the city to farmland, the Zambezi Escarpment mountains, and ending over the Zambezi River, where they were transferred to Royal Zambezi Lodge. This luxurious property, with its private suites and open-plan communal areas, provided a blend of relaxation and adventure. While here, the group enjoyed an evening boat trip to a Zambezi River island for sundowners, spotting pods of hippos and their calves along the way. Later, they were treated to a surprise bush dinner featuring traditional dishes like nshima and impala curry. Across three game drives, the highlights included a lion spotted on two separate occasions, playful elephant calves, and the thrilling experience of tracking a pack of 35 wild dogs. Between activities, the group also visited Zambezi Grande and Baines River Camp for site inspections.
Image © - Time + Tide Chongwe River Camp
Community and Wildlife at Time + Tide Chongwe River Camp
The final day was spent at Time + Tide Chongwe River Camp, reached via a scenic boat transfer. The lodge’s most memorable welcome came from a majestic bull elephant standing inside the main tent upon arrival - a surreal and unforgettable moment. The group visited the "Girls Club" in Mugurameno Village, part of the Female Empowerment Programme run by the Time + Tide Foundation. This initiative provides at-risk girls with academic support and self-esteem-building activities to help them remain in school. Led by a guide, the group also explored the smaller details of the bush, from termite mounds and animal tracks to insect life, offering a new perspective on Zambia’s ecosystems.
Image © - Time + Tide Foundation
Key Learnings
Our team are destination experts, leaning on their prior experience working in house at leading tour operators, to craft immersive yet educational itineraries that get results. Poppy Weldon, Trade Account Executive, shares her top tips for hosting trips:
Preparation is Key: Taking the time to check in with participants with a pre-trip call and by sharing a detailed itinerary well in advance really helps to set realistic expectations, especially for an unfamiliar destination such as Zambia.
Tailored Itineraries: Personalising trips for trade participants is important to make sure that the product they see and attractions they experience are relevant to their customers. Through our contacts across the sector, our trade team can help identify the right operators and agents to get results for your brand
Balance is Essential: Striking the right balance between activities and downtime is crucial to allow attendees to absorb and reflect on their experiences. Work doesn’t stop so agents often appreciate this time to catch up on emails, quotations, and life back home.
Seasonal Timing: This ensures participants get to see a destination at its best. Our team visit the destinations they represent within six months of working on the account. This level of knowledge means we know where to go and when.
Flexibility Matters: Unexpected changes, like missed flights, happen! Having a host on hand to help, something The PC Agency provide as standard on all our trips, helps to navigate these challenges!
Want to know how we can help you create unforgettable trade fam trips too? Get in touch with our team at trade@pc.agency.
