5 Reasons to Choose a Zambia Safari for Your Next Adventure

If you’re looking to have an immersive experience in Africa, then a safari in Zambia – the home of walking safaris – is the ideal destination for you.

Boasting the thundering Victoria Falls – one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World – Zambia is a wildlife-rich destination blessed with extensive water sources, including major tributaries of the Zambezi River, and beautiful lakes such as Bangweulu, Mweru and Tananyika.

A Zambia safari holiday offers a variety of accommodations and the best times to visit vary, with seasonal changes affecting wildlife visibility and pricing. There are many reasons to choose this Southern African destination for your next safari, starting with these top 5 reasons.

1. Victoria Falls

Also known as Mosi-oa-Tunya, which means ‘The Smoke that Thunders,’ Victoria Falls is one of the largest and most awe-inspiring waterfalls in the world, straddling the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe with a breathtaking curtain of water cascading over 100 meters into the Zambezi Gorge.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Victoria Falls is so loud that it’s falling curtain of water can be heard up to 40 kilometres away.

This world class attraction perfectly combines the natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences of Zambia. Beyond witnessing the falls themselves, visitors can enjoy activities like river safaris, bungee jumping, white-water rafting, and guided tours of nearby national parks teeming with wildlife.

The falls are surrounded by lush tropical rainforest, offering opportunities for hiking and exploring, visitors can take a scenic helicopter flight over the falls.

The surrounding region also offers rich cultural interactions with local communities, making Victoria Falls a truly immersive and unforgettable destination for adventure enthusiasts, nature lovers, and culture seekers alike.

2. Kasanka Bat Migration

Every October, the world’s largest migration of giant fruit bats happens at Kasanka National Park. Eight million fruit bats will harmlessly pass over your head, as they dance in the sky.

Additionally, Kasanka is a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. The nearby Bangweulu Wetlands offer a chance to see the rare black lechwe and the enigmatic shoebill stork, making this region a must-visit for those seeking a more intimate and lesser-known safari experience.

Zambia tours often highlight this unique wildlife viewing opportunity, offering diverse itineraries that include both luxury and camping safaris.

3. The Zambezi River

The Zambezi River is an integral feature of Zambia’s safari appeal. The Lower Zambezi National Park, located along the Zambezi River, is renowned for its exceptional wildlife viewing and unique activities like boat trips, canoeing, and excellent fishing opportunities. Fishing enthusiasts can test their skills against the fierce tigerfish, while boat cruises and canoeing adventures offer a tranquil way to spot wildlife like crocodiles, hippos, and elephants along the riverbanks.

For an extended aquatic adventure, a visit to Lake Kariba, one of the largest artificial lakes in the world, allows travelers to combine fishing and boat trips with a serene safari experience. The lake’s picturesque sunsets and diverse wildlife make it an ideal retreat for those looking to explore Zambia’s varied landscapes.

4. South Luangwa National Park

Widely considered one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in Africa, South Luangwa National Park offers an authentic and less crowded safari experience. The park has a high concentration of wildlife, including leopards, lions, and large herds of elephants. It is also the birthplace of the walking safari, allowing visitors to explore the bush on foot with expert guides.

The Luangwa River, which flows through the park, attracts a wide array of animals, creating remarkable opportunities for up-close game viewing. South Luangwa’s combination of incredible natural landscapes, exceptional wildlife, and rich birdlife make it a must-visit destination for any serious safari enthusiast.

A Zambian safari also offers unique experiences in other key areas like Lower Zambezi National Park, featuring big-game safaris and walking safaris.

5. Remote and Untouched Wilderness Areas

Zambia is home to some of Africa’s most remote and untouched wilderness areas, offering exclusive and off-the-beaten-path experiences for walking safaris.

Kafue National Park, one of Africa’s largest protected areas, remains largely undeveloped and is known for its vast floodplains, savannahs, and forests. It’s a haven for diverse species, including cheetahs, African wild dogs, and rare antelopes.

North Luangwa National Park is another hidden gem, offering a truly wild safari experience with limited access and only a handful of bush camps. Here, travellers can enjoy guided walking safaris in a pristine environment, far from the typical tourist trails.

For those seeking an authentic, raw, and secluded safari, Zambia’s remote parks provide a unique connection with nature. Zambia safari holidays also offer unique wildlife viewing opportunities and warm hospitality at locally-run camps.

Zambia Safari Planning

Safaris to Zambia can be designed to suit a range of budgets and tastes, offering tailor-made experiences with high standards of guiding, service, and food. Costs vary depending on the type of accommodation and activities.

A mid-range Zambia safari can cost around $600 per night, while a luxury safari can cost upwards of $1,840 per night, in peak season.

It’s essential to plan ahead and book accommodations and activities in advance, especially if travelling during peak periods.

When to Visit Zambia

The best time to visit Zambia is during the dry season, from May to October, for optimal wildlife viewing and comfortable temperatures.

The shoulder season, from April to May and September to November, offers great rates and availability, but game-viewing may be compromised due to thick bush.

Avoid traveling between December and April, the hot and rainy season, as many lodges and roads are closed. Zambia trips are best planned during the Dry season for excellent wildlife visibility, while the Emerald season offers vibrant landscapes.

Luxury Zambia Safari Lodges and Camps

Zambia is home to some of the most luxurious safari lodges and camps in Africa, offering high-end amenities and exceptional service.

These lodges and camps are strategically located in prime wildlife viewing areas, meaning guests can often spot elephants, hippos, and other wildlife directly from their rooms or even during meals.

Additionally, many of these luxury properties offer unique activities like night game drives, bush dinners, and canoeing safaris that provide a closer, more intimate connection to Zambia’s diverse landscapes and ecosystems.

Top Recommendations:

• Time + Tide Chinzombo Camp (South Luangwa National Park): Known as one of the most luxurious lodges in Zambia, Chinzombo offers exclusive suites with private plunge pools, elegant interiors, and stunning river views. The camp is set in a prime location for both walking safaris and game drives.

• Royal Chundu Zambezi Lodge (Lower Zambezi National Park): This award-winning lodge offers a blend of luxury and wilderness with spacious suites featuring outdoor baths and verandas that overlook the Zambezi River. Guests can enjoy activities like canoeing, fishing, and walking safaris.

• Tongabezi Lodge(near Victoria Falls): Located upstream from Victoria Falls, Tongabezi is renowned for its romantic setting and personalized service. With beautifully designed river cottages and houses, it’s an excellent base for exploring the falls while enjoying sunset boat cruises and river safaris.

Zambia Travel Essentials

When planning a trip to Zambia, there are several important factors to consider for a seamless travel experience:

• Passport and Visa: Visitors to Zambia will need a passport with at least six months’ validity. A tourist visa is also required, which can be obtained upon arrival or through an online eVisa system. It’s advisable to check specific visa requirements based on your nationality before traveling.
• Currency: The local currency is the Zambian kwacha (ZMW), but US dollars are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas, lodges, and for tipping. Credit cards are accepted at major lodges and camps, though it’s recommended to carry some cash for smaller purchases and tips.
• Weather and Climate: Zambia’s weather varies significantly depending on the time of year. The dry season (May to October) is the best time for wildlife viewing, with cool mornings and warm afternoons. The wet season (November to April) brings lush landscapes and is ideal for birdwatching, but some areas may be harder to access due to rains. Packing should include layers for temperature fluctuations, sun protection, and insect repellent.

Discover Africa’s Travel Tip: When visiting during peak seasons (June to October), it’s essential to book accommodations and tours well in advance due to high demand. For those exploring southern Africa, iconic travel destinations such as South Luangwa, Victoria Falls, and the beaches of Lake Malawi offer a safari experience that combines adventure with relaxation.

Conservation Efforts in Zambia

Zambia’s commitment to conservation is evident through its extensive network of protected areas and ongoing initiatives focused on preserving its unique wildlife and habitats. Over 30% of Zambia’s land is designated as national parks and game management areas, where conservation is prioritized to protect species such as elephants, lions, and pangolins.

Visitors can support conservation efforts by choosing responsible tour operators and respecting local regulations and guidelines.

Key Conservation Projects:

• South Luangwa Conservation Society (SLCS): Operating within South Luangwa National Park, this organization works on anti-poaching efforts, human-wildlife conflict mitigation, and community education. It’s instrumental in protecting large mammals like elephants and wild dogs.
• Zambian Carnivore Programme (ZCP): ZCP focuses on the conservation of Zambia’s large carnivores, such as lions, cheetahs, and wild dogs. The program collaborates with local communities to ensure the protection of these apex predators while fostering sustainable coexistence.
• Conservation Lower Zambezi (CLZ): CLZ is dedicated to protecting the Lower Zambezi ecosystem through anti-poaching patrols, environmental education, and wildlife monitoring initiatives. Their work helps preserve this biodiverse region and offers opportunities for travelers to get involved in conservation tourism.

Discover Africa’s Responsible Travel Advice: Consider engaging in conservation-focused experiences, such as guided tours with experts from SLCS or CLZ, where you can learn about anti-poaching efforts and see how tourism directly supports these crucial initiatives.

Ready to start planning your ideal safari to Zambia? Reach out our expert travel consultants who can help answer your questions and ensure you choose a seamless experience from start to finish, seeing your arrive safely back home.