Gateway to the Wildlife Wonders of Zambia: Mfuwe Airport
Introduction
Located in the heart of Zambia's Eastern Province, Mfuwe Airport is an important gateway to some of the country's most famous wildlife areas, including South Luangwa National Park. Unsurprisingly, Mfuwe Airport is a lifeblood for the flourishing tourism sector that celebrates the unique combination of ecosystems and breadth of wildlife within Zambia's Luangwa Valley.
Airlines and Destinations
As of 30 June 2014, the Mfuwe Airport is served by scheduled passenger flights to four destinations. The main domestic flights from the airport are between Lusaka and Lower Zambezi. These flights are serviced by the country's leading airline, Proflight Zambia.
Passengers and Flights
Over the past years, we have seen a gradual growth in passenger numbers at Mfuwe Airport, after having taken an unprecedented hit from COVID-19. In 2022, the airport reached 267% of pre-pandemic levels, and 265,185 passengers were carried in total. As of now, the airport manages an average of 81 flights per month or 21 per week, and about three per day.
How to Get Here
Mfuwe Airport is located 1,170 km (727 miles) by road in south-east Zambia's Eastern Province, from Lusaka. Guests can access the lodge by domestic flights from Lusaka and other major Zambian cities, private charter flights, or road transfers.
Parking
Short-term and long-term parking services are available on-site at Mfuwe Airport. There are several parking areas reserved for visitors near the terminal building, where they can park private cars or rented vehicles.
Transportation Prices
Transportation to and from Mfuwe Airport will depend on whether you use road, water, or air transfer, and the closeness of your destination. Airport-to-lodge/hotel taxi services cost between $20 and $50 per trip, while shuttle ($$) or private transfer are available at prices a little more expensive than the average.
Terminal Layout
The terminal building at Mfuwe Airport is quite small and houses both arrival and departure areas. It is a high-quality passenger terminal with dedicated check-in counters, security control points, and baggage power on/power off (PBPO) - designed to enhance operational convenience for passengers.
Navigate the Airport
The terminal at Mfuwe Airport is easy to navigate. You can't get lost, as there are signs all over the airport guiding you to different facilities at the departure lounges, arrival and check-in desks, as well as security screening.
Getting Between Terminals
There are no terminals as such; however, the airport has a single terminal for both domestic and international departures. Once you get to the airport, everything else will be handled in the very same building - from arrival to departure.
Services and Amenities
The airport provides basic facilities for the convenience of its passengers. It comes with amenities like toilets, drinking water stations, and sitting areas. Most of the services available are to move travelers, serving time with minimal comfort, as it serves a crucial role in allowing people access to different game reserves, which are flanked by World Heritage sites.
Restaurants and Shops
There are limited food and shopping facilities available to passengers at Mfuwe Airport. Two have a small café or snack bar, and the others provide only basic retail outlets selling essential travel items and souvenirs.
Security and Customs
International and domestic air travel security/customs standards are implemented at Mfuwe Airport. Travelers will be screened and have their documents verified before they can board the plane. Airport security personnel are on alert to help ensure the safety and well-being of all passengers.
Accessibility
Mfuwe Airport is disability and special needs friendly. Both the terminal building and its services are ramped, and have some designated seating areas which accommodate passengers with restricted mobility.
Travel Tips
If you're flying to Mfuwe Airport, be sure to arrive at the airport early for your scheduled flight time - during high tourist season, the airport can become very busy. In the same time, we advise you to check airports and services for having an easy flight travel.