Dust off your diary from your most memorable wildlife trip, and you could be published in BBC Wildlife and win a safari in Zambia.
The way to win
- The judges are looking for a short piece of travel writing that has at its heart an encounter with a wild animal (or even a plant, if it has made a big impression).
- This episode needs to be integral to the narrative thrust of your story, even if it only forms a small part of the overall tale. In other words, the reader must feel that there is a reason why the encounter is included in the piece, and that the overall story has cohesion.
- There are no extra points awarded for writing about far-flung or exotic locations, but the travel element is key. The reader must feel that you are venturing out and discovering things in a destination that is in some way alien or unknown, or seeing a more familiar location in a new light.
The prizes
The overall winner will receive an ‘emerald season’ safari for two to Zambia, courtesy of Expert Africa.
The trip begins with an overnight flight from London to Lusaka, followed by a short flight to South Luangwa National Park, noted for its walking safaris and extraordinary abundance of wildlife, particularly large predators.
You will enjoy six nights in the park during this dramatic, beautiful season. Rivers and lagoons are brimming, and boating safaris bring you eye to eye with hippos and crocs. Magnificent skyscapes and sunsets, a wealth of migratory birds, clear night skies and occasional dramatic downpours provide the backdrop for your safari.
Stay in comfort at Norman Carr Safaris’ Kapani Lodge and the tiny, tented Kakuli Bushcamp, exploring the Luangwa Valley on driving, walking and boating safaris.
This nine-day trip usually costs from £2,786 per person sharing. For the full itinerary and other information, contact Expert Africa on 020 8232 9777.
Four runners-up will receive two Lonely Planet guidebooks of their choice.
Please see website for full details.
Deadline: 28 February 2011