Zambia under the stars

In Zambia’s remote South Luangwa Valley, you can take a “Return to the Wild” sleepout safari with Norman Carr Safaris (Mfuwe, Zambia; phone + 260 216 246025).

It costs $200 each (four guests, maximum, ages 12 and up) and is available during the dry season (May 25-Oct. 31) as part of a three-night or longer stay in one of their bush-camp sites ($480-$550 per person per night, double occupancy) or the Kapani Lagoon House ($455-$525 per person, double occupancy).

Mid afternoon, walk to the dry, wide Luwi riverbed, where each guest sets up his mosquito-net tent over a mattress and bedroll. Dinner is prepared by a game ranger with guests’ help. Stories around the fire until bedtime. A guide and scout keep watch till morning. After toast and coffee, walk to the next camp for showers and breakfast.