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A safari in Zambia is renowned for its authentic and remote experiences. It offers everything from rustic bush camps to ultra-luxurious lodges, all within some of the continent’s most pristine wilderness areas.
Whether you’re exploring the vast plains of South Luangwa, canoeing along the mighty Zambezi River in Lower Zambezi National Park, or experiencing the thunder of Victoria Falls in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, our safari packages are designed to cater to all budgets while ensuring a deeply immersive and sustainable experience.
When planning your trip, remember that international flights are a significant part of the overall cost and are not included in the quoted safari prices.
Key Factors for Setting Your Budget
At Discover Africa, we ensure that our pricing is clear and straightforward, with no hidden fees.
Inclusive Estimates, No Hidden Fees
Our Safari Cost Estimator provides all-inclusive estimated pricing for Zambia, covering park fees, conservation fees, and all necessary levies. Our expert travel consultants are on hand to help you determine your exact safari budget based on your expected levels of comfort and safari experience.
This allows you to plan your safari with confidence, avoiding unexpected expenses.
Destination:
Zambia’s national parks each come with their own cost implications.
South Luangwa National Park, known for its bush walking safaris and dense wildlife populations, is the easiest to reach. However, fly-in destinations like Mfuwe can be more challenging. Similarly seasonal bush camps, offering immersive walking safaris, are in the remote section of the park. These can be more expensive due to their remote location.
Safaris in areas like Kafue National Park offer more affordable options while still providing rich wildlife encounters. The Lower Zambezi, with its unique canoeing safaris, tends to be more exclusive and thus more costly.
Accommodation:
Accommodation in Zambia is a significant portion of your safari budget, starting from $600 per person per day in the low season, all the way to luxury high season costs of $1840 per person per day.
Luxury lodges, which often include private guides, gourmet dining, and premium activities, can be more expensive, particularly in peak season.
From the rich wildlife encounters in South Luangwa National Park to the serene beauty of the Lower Zambezi, we help you discover the very best of Zambia.
Time of Year:
The cost of a Zambia safari is highly influenced by the time of year. The dry season (June to October) is the most popular and expensive time to visit Zambia, as wildlife is easier to spot around water sources.
However, the wet season (November to April) offers lower rates and a more lush, green landscape, though some camps may be closed, and wildlife viewing can be more challenging.
Duration:
The length of your safari will directly impact your overall budget, depending on your accommodation choices, activities, and level of luxury.
Extending your stay allows for a deeper exploration of Zambia’s diverse ecosystems but will increase your total cost.
It’s useful to note that some of our preferred partner lodges offer discounts for longer stays during the low season.
Group Size:
Zambia’s safari tours are mostly fly-in, except for some road transfers in Kafue. This destination is well-suited to private tours, as opposed to scheduled tours. Our expert advisors can help you find the right tour suited to your travel needs.
Type of Safari:
Zambia offers a variety of safari experiences, and depending on the number of regions you’d like to visit, it can affect your budget differently. A multi-day walking safaris with a private guide, seen as a signature experience, can typically be more expensive. Our expert advisors can help you explore the right option suited to your budget.
Activities and Excursions:
Zambia offers a range of activities that can enhance your safari experience. In addition to game drives, you might opt for walking safaris, river safaris, or even a helicopter tour over Victoria Falls.
These activities typically range from $100 to $500 per person, depending on the experience. For example, a hot air balloon ride over the plains of Kafue might cost around $450 per person.
Park Fees and Permits:
Park fees in Zambia are relatively affordable but vary by location. For example, entry fees for South Luangwa National Park are about $25 per person per day, while the Lower Zambezi National Park charges approximately $40 per person per day. Victoria Falls National Park charges approximately $30 per person per day.
These fees contribute to conservation efforts and help maintain the parks’ infrastructure.
Keep in mind that some outfitters add their own conservation and community levies, which will be in addition to the quoted price, depending on the camp. These fees are compulsory and are added directly.
Travel and Transfers:
Due to Zambia’s size and the remote location of many camps, domestic flights are often necessary.
Flights between Lusaka and Mfuwe (gateway to South Luangwa) or Jeki (Lower Zambezi) typically cost between $300 and $500 per person each way.
Road transfers, where available, are more economical but can be time-consuming given the distances involved.
Meals and Drinks:
Most safari lodges in Zambia operate on a full-board basis, including all meals. However, it’s important to verify if drinks and other services like laundry are included in the package.
Luxury lodges often include a selection of house beverages, while mid-range options may charge extra for alcoholic drinks and premium services. Our travel consultants can help ensure you know what you’re paying for.
Travel Insurance:
Comprehensive travel insurance is essential for your Zambia safari, covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen events.
We do not sell travel insurance directly but our travel experts can provide guidance if needed.
Insurance costs typically range from $100 to $300, depending on the coverage level and duration of your stay.
Tipping and Gratuities:
While not compulsory, tipping in Zambia is voluntary and should depend on the quality of the service. We encourage guests to see this as a way to show appreciation and support for the community. Our guidelines suggest $10 to $20 per person per day for guides and about US$5 to 10 per guest per day for the general staff (tips are usually split amongst the staff).
Most places have a ‘tip box’ for staff (excluding guides), allowing you to leave a collective tip and tip your guide separately. Tip once at the end of your stay at each lodge or camp.
Visas and Vaccinations:
Zambia requires a valid yellow fever certificate for all visitors over 1 year old coming from or transiting through infected areas (Republic of Congo, Kenya and Uganda).
Additionally, consider any necessary vaccinations for malaria prophylaxis, to safeguard your health during your trip.
Be sure to check for related information depending on your nationality, including whether you have visa-free access.
The cost of vaccinations and medication varies but can range from $50 to $200 per person.
Personal Expenses:
Allocate a budget for personal expenses, including souvenirs, additional activities, and incidental costs. Depending on your preferences and the nature of your trip, this could range from $100 to $500.
