Zambia Safari

Zambia’s oldest and largest national park, the ecosystems of Kafue National Park sweep over 22,400 km2/8,648 mi2, offering an unparalleled wilderness experience for safari travellers. Explore wetlands, grasslands, and dense forests to find a variety of wildlife, including rare tree-climbing lions. Its remoteness and diversity make Kafue National Park a prime destination for classic Zambia safaris.

Must-Visit Area in Kafue National Park

During a Zambia safari, this region will give you the opportunity to see a wealth of wildlife, from large predators to waterbirds:

Busanga Plains: Land of Lions

Watch a pride of lions lazing in the grasslands, rolling around, paws up as they digest their food. Or catch these big cats as they hunch down, alert, waiting for antelope to lower their guard before they pounce. The Busanga Plains are renowned for their vast floodplains and abundant wildlife, including large predators and antelope species. As a Ramsar site, it’s considered one of Zambia’s most important wetlands, with a wealth of plains game, predators, and over 500 bird species.

When’s the Best Time to Visit Kafue National Park?

The best time to visit Zambia for safari is from May to October, during the dry season. Enjoy sunny, clear days while you explore the park on game drives and walking safaris. At this time of the year, the vegetation thins out due to the lack of rain, which makes wildlife easier to spot as they congregate around remaining water sources.

Animals Found in Kafue National Park

Wildlife safaris in Zambia feature numerous antelope species, especially kudu, bushbuck, eland, reedbuck, duiker, grysbok, lechwe, and waterbuck. Buffalos and elephants cross the plains and forests in massive herds. Lions are rather unique here; prides can often be seen climbing trees and resting in branches, taking a cue from their leopard cousins, which can also be seen prowling around the park. Hyenas and wild dog packs, too, roam this wilderness, sharing the plains and prey with the big cats.

With over 500 avian species, Zambia birdwatching safaris are thrilling. Large flocks of herons, egrets, and endangered wattle cranes can be seen in the wetlands of the park. Keep your binoculars poised to witness African finfoots, African fish eagles, and Pel’s fishing owls.

How to Get to Kafue National Park

Kafue National Park is about a six- to seven-hour transfer from Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in the capital city of Lusaka. Alternatively, you could opt for a charter flight to one of the airstrips within the park.

Even though it’s one of the smallest parks in Zambia, Kasanka doesn’t disappoint! This national park is the scene for the largest mammal migration in the world: the Kasanka bat migration. Run by the Kasanka Trust charity in partnership with the local community, you’ll explore papyrus marshes, swamp forests, and miombo woodlands home to fascinating bird species during a Zambia safari.

Must-Visit Areas in Kasanka National Park

The Fibwe Hide is ideal for capturing wildlife, and don’t miss out on a water-based adventure:

Fibwe Hide: For Wildlife Photographers

For a Zambia photographic safari, you can’t miss out on Fibwe Hide. This tree hide is one of Africa’s best vantage points for observing sitatunga antelopes. It’s located 18 m/59 ft in an African mahogany tree, affording a panoramic view over the Kapabi swamp.

From this vantage point, see herds of antelope, as well as crocodiles, waterbucks, buffaloes, and elephants. Birds such as coucals, mousebirds, Bohm’s bee-eaters, and Schalow’s louries are also often seen here.

Luwombwa River: Boat Safaris

Birdwatching safaris, fishing, and boat trips are the main activities at Luwombwa River. Glide down the river in a canoe to spot crocodiles, hippos, otters, and monitor lizards. Birders, get your binoculars out for closer looks at kingfishers, bee-eaters, herons, and sunbirds.

For anglers with permits, there are tigerfish, tilapia, and barbal to catch.

When’s the Best Time to Visit Kasanka National Park?

The best time for a Zambia safari in Kasanka to see the bat migration is from October to December, at the beginning of the wet season, with November being the best time to see roosting fruit bats.

November to April is the time of the year with the most rain and also the best birdwatching opportunities. The dry season in Zambia is from May to October; enjoy pleasant weather and little to no rain.

Animals Found in Kasanka National Park

Kasanka is home to interesting antelope species, including the swamp-dwelling sitatunga, puku, reedbuck, waterbuck, and Sharpe’s grysbok. Ten million straw-coloured fruit bats are found here during their migration towards the end of the year.

Elephants can be found wandering the park, as their numbers are recovering. There are over 470 bird species in Kasanka, including the Pel’s fishing owl, Pygmy goose, Ross’s loerie, osprey, shoebill stork, and wattled crane.

How to Get to Kasanka National Park

The national park is a nine-hour transfer from Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka. Alternatively, charter flights can be arranged to nearby airstrips.

Lake Kariba, one of the world’s largest man-made lakes, offers a tranquil retreat with opportunities for water safaris, fishing, and viewing fiery sunsets over its expansive waters. This is one of the best destinations for a houseboat safari in Zambia; picture yourself relaxing on deck as you pass hippos and crocodiles in the serene waters and elephants on the banks.

Must-Visit Areas in Lake Kariba

Enjoy serene views of the expansive lake and take in the sheer scale of the dam wall:

Siavonga Town: Riviera of Zambia

Siavonga, a tranquil lakeside town, serves as the main hub for water-based activities on Lake Kariba, including boat cruises and fishing expeditions. The town offers stunning views of the lake, and its calming atmosphere, with the gentle waters lapping at the shore, provides a sense of peacefulness. Nearby attractions include the spectacular Kariba Dam wall.

Kariba Dam Wall: An Engineering Marvel

Construction began on the dam wall in the 1950s; three million cubic feet of concrete was poured into the 36.6 m/121 feet high wall with a thickness of over 24 m/79 ft. This wall sustains the pressure of nearly 10 million litres of water passing through the spillway each second.

Best Time to Visit Lake Kariba

May to October, during the dry season, is the best time of the year to visit Lake Kariba to enjoy pleasant weather and water activities. During the wet summer months – November to March – you can enjoy green scenery and excellent birdwatching opportunities as migratory birds have arrived. Fishing in Lake Kariba is considered best around the annual tiger fishing tournament held in October.

Animals Found in Lake Kariba

The lake has high concentrations of crocodiles and hippos. For anglers eager to take to the water, Lake Kariba fishing is focused on tigerfish, bream, and vundu. Head to one of two large islands, Chete or Chikanka, to see kudu, zebra, impala, bushbuck, and elephants.

How to Get to Lake Kariba

It’s a three-hour transfer from Lusaka to Siavonga, and charter flights can be arranged to nearby airstrips.

Liuwa Plain National Park is renowned for its vast grasslands and the second-largest wildebeest migration in Africa. It’s located in Zambia’s remote west region on the floodplains of the upper Zambezi Basin. Liuwa receives annual flood waters, creating islands to explore. During a Zambia safari here, you’ll be in awe of the sheer amount of herbivores that traverse the plains with a growing population of predators hot on their tracks.

Must-Visit Area in Liuwa Plain National Park

A hotspot that’s popular among many animal species:

Munde Stream: Sweeping Vista

The Munde Stream is a vital water source in Liuwa Plain National Park that attracts an array of wildlife to its shores, making it an area not to miss when on a Zambia safari. During the rainy season, the stream and surrounding plains often flood, creating the perfect setting for birding. In the dry season, the water recedes, and animals gather around the remaining water sources.

When’s the Best Time to Visit Liuwa Plain National Park?

The onset of the rains in November sees the wildebeest arrive at the park during their migration. This makes the wet season, from November to April, the best time for a wildlife safari in Zambia. However, it’s best to plan your safari for November to mid-December; as the wet season progresses, game-drive tracks worsen. The scenery is also lush, and migratory birds are present. May and June fall in the dry season, and there are still resident animals in the area, making this time a good choice for a Zambia safari too.

Animals Found in Liuwa Plain National Park

Large herds of wildebeests, zebras, and tsessebe cross the national park. Hiding in the grasslands, you may come across reedbucks and oribi. Lions have been reintroduced to Liuwa, and the cheetah population is recovering, so you may see these big cats during your Zambia safari. There’s a strong hyena population, with over 350 of these laughing predators.

The 357 species of birds will keep birders busy during birdwatching safaris. Slaty egrets and whiskered terns come to this park to breed. Other species to keep a lookout for include the black-winged pratincole, wattled crane, and saddle-billed stork.

How to Get to Liuwa Plain National Park

Liuwa’s entry point, Kalabo, is a 10-hour transfer from Lusaka and an eight-hour transfer from Livingstone. Liuwa Plain National Park does have an airstrip inside the park but doesn’t offer any commercial flight services.

The waterways, towering escarpment, and rugged landscapes make Lower Zambezi National Park the perfect choice for an adventurous Zambia safari. Imagine travelling across the plains to sight leopards one day and then taking to the water in a canoe for a water safari the next, seeing elephants playing in the water. There are also opportunities for night drives, walking safaris, and catch-and-release tiger fishing.

Must-Visit Areas in Lower Zambezi National Park

For fantastic wildlife viewing, head to a popular water source and a sweeping plain:

Chongwe River: Water Safaris

Water sources are hotspots of wildlife activity, so the Chongwe River, a tributary of the Zambezi, is a must-visit to spot the range of animals that call this reserve home, including four of the Big Five. Go on a canoe safari here to gain a different perspective of the wildlife – imagine gliding past a herd of elephants splashing in the water, using their trunks to spray themselves with water. A quintessential safari experience.

Jeki Plains: Sundowner Spot

This plateau is well-known for abundant wildlife sightings as animals congregate here to spend the night. On a sunset game drive here, you could spot large herds of buffaloes, zebras, waterbucks, and elephants. Sundown, drink in hand, watch as the sun sets in all its fiery glory.

When’s the Best Time to Visit Lower Zambezi National Park?

May to October, during the dry season, is the best time for a Zambia wildlife safari. This is when animals congregate along the riverbanks, enhancing viewing opportunities. November to April is characterised by lush, green scenery. During these months, enjoy sightings of newborn animals and migrant birds.

Animals Found in Lower Zambezi National Park

Lower Zambezi is home to four of the Big Five (with just the rhino absent); elephants and buffaloes are abundant, as are lions, so get ready to see lion prides. This park is also a hotspot for leopards, making a Zambia safari here a fantastic choice to spot these elusive big cats.

A unique opportunity for safari goers is seeing packs of wild dogs – these predators are endangered, so seeing them in the wild is an incredible experience. While driving across the area, you’ll also spot impalas, waterbucks, and greater kudus.

With over 350 species of birds, Lower Zambezi is a prime destination for birdwatching safaris in Zambia. The riverbanks are rich in waterbirds and waders; look out for the African jacana, African skimmer, and Pel’s fishing owl.

How to Get to Lower Zambezi National Park

The national park is accessible via charter flights from Lusaka to either the Jeki or Royal airstrip, followed by a short drive via transfer to the lodges.

The Luangwa Valley, encompassing both North and South Luangwa National Parks, is often referred to as the ‘Valley of the Leopard’ due to its high density of these elusive big cats. This region is the birthplace of the walking safari; British conservationist Norman Carr first pioneered this activity in the 1960s, and it’s still a must-do during a Zambia safari.

Must-Visit Areas in North and South Luangwa National Parks

Both national parks have their charms, such as the opportunity to see the Big Five in remote settings to high concentrations of wildlife perfect for first-time safari travellers:

Mwaleshi River in North Luangwa: Big Five Safari

This region of North Luangwa National Park is popular among the resident wildlife. Visit for the opportunity to see the Big Five – lions, leopards, rhinos, buffaloes, and elephants – as well as kudus, Cookson’s wildebeests, and wild dogs. Birders can’t miss out on a birdwatching safari to see the waterbirds and waders in this area. North Luangwa also offers remote and exclusive walking safari experiences.

Mfuwe Sector in South Luangwa: Explore the Wilderness on Foot

As a prime area for wildlife viewing along with numerous lodges and camps, Mfuwe is often busy with many tourists on game drives trying to get to sightings of a leopard in a tree or a lion pride. Lodges in this region are known to get wildlife visitors right on their doorsteps. Keep your cool if you’re in the pool and a herd of elephants decides to drop by for a drink. Don’t miss out on exploring this wildlife-rich area on foot during bush walks.

When’s the Best Time to Visit North and South Luangwa National Parks?

For the best wildlife sightings, plan your safari between June and October. This is the dry season; you’ll experience little rain and better views thanks to thinner vegetation and animals congregating around remaining water courses.

November to April is the green season, with the increase in rainfall transforming the landscape. While this is an ideal time for birdwatching with migrant species flying into the parks, some lodges and camps close from December until the end of the wet season.

Animals Found in North and South Luangwa National Parks

North Luangwa National Park

This section of the valley is a Big Five safari destination in Zambia. Black rhinos were reintroduced in the early 2000s, and their numbers have been steadily growing. Another endangered animal to spot here is the wild dog.

Birders can spot southern carmine bee-eaters – one of the over 400 species found here – during a birdwatching safari near water sources. Other notable species include the babbling starling, chestnut-backed sparrow weaver, and yellow-throated longclaw.

South Luangwa National Park

Head to the southern region for more opportunities to see leopards. While there are no rhinos, the other members of the Big Five are well represented. See hippos bobbing in rivers, and keep your eyes open for rare sightings, including the roan antelope and Sharpe’s grysbok.

Pelicans and yellow-billed storks wade in the shallows near water sources, offering excellent birding opportunities. Other birds to watch out for include the grey-crowned crane, Lilian’s lovebird, and saddle-billed stork.

How to Get to the Luangwa National Parks

South Luangwa is accessible via flights from Lusaka to Mfuwe Airport, followed by a road transfer to your lodge in the national park. As North Luangwa is more remote, a charter flight is typically required, which can be taken from South Luangwa.

North-eastern Zambia offers a mix of rugged landscapes, waterfalls, and rich cultural heritage, making it a lesser-known but rewarding destination for luxury travellers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences during a Zambia safari.

Must-Visit Areas in North-Eastern Zambia

This region of Zambia is home to the longest freshwater on earth as well as the second highest waterfall on the continent, making it a spectacular stop during Zambia safari tours:

Lake Tanganyika: Inland Ocean

The longest freshwater lake in the world and the second deepest, visiting Lake Tanganyika while on a Zambia safari is a must for anglers. One of the best places for sport fishing, anglers can cast their lines for goliath tigerfish and Nile perch. The forests on the shores are home to chimpanzee colonies, which can be seen during chimpanzee trekking safaris.

Kalambo Falls: Second Highest Waterfall in Africa

Measuring at around 221 m/725 ft, Kalambo Falls is a spectacular sight. The water rushes down into a gorge below and then into Lake Tanganyika. Birdwatchers will love sighting the marabou storks that nest in the gorge below. Head to the purpose-built viewpoints to gain a sweeping view of this natural wonder. It’s also a rich archaeological site, with some of the earliest evidence of fire use by humans as well as the remains of wooden structures that date back around 476,000 years.

When’s the Best Time to Visit North-Eastern Zambia?

The dry season, from June to October, is the best time to visit north-eastern Zambia for ease of travel and clear views of the waterfalls. Water visibility at Lake Tanganyika is also optimal during the dry season, perfect for diving and snorkelling.

Animals Found in North-Eastern Zambia

Crocodiles can be found gliding in the water and relaxing on the shore of Lake Tanganyika. These prehistoric reptiles share the lake with brightly coloured cichlids, giant Nile perch, and tigerfish.

Chimpanzees call the bordering forests home, where birders will also enjoy spotting a plethora of avian species. Keep your binoculars at the ready to spot fish eagles, colourful kingfishers, and rare birds like the African skimmer.

How to Get to North-Eastern Zambia

To get to Lake Tanganyika, you can take a charter flight to Kasaba Bay Airport, which serves Nsumbu National Park on the western shore of the lake. Kalambo Falls is a boat ride away on the other side of the lake.

Sioma Ngwezi National Park is one of Zambia’s up-and-coming regions, perfect for travellers looking for a remote Zambia safari. The country’s third largest national park, it’s part of the Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area and allows the free movement of animals. Be enchanted by the striking waterfalls and less-travelled safari atmosphere.

Must-Visit Areas in Sioma Ngwezi National Park and Ngonye Falls

Enjoy the serene, lesser-visited region known for its giraffe and elephant populations. Adventurers can experience exciting whitewater rafting:

Ngonye Falls: Fishing and Watersports

Located in the village of Sioma (and also known as the Sioma Falls), this waterfall measures 20 m/66 ft. While not the tallest, the sheer volume makes these falls impressive and worth visiting. The stretch of the Zambezi River found here is popular for tiger fishing; travellers can also take to the water for kayaking and whitewater rafting.

Sioma Ngwezi Wilderness: Pristine, Undisturbed Natural Beauty

Kalahari woodland makes up the majority of this national park. The dry terrain is flat and forested with tracts of miombo, teak, and acacia woodland. Along the west, the Kwando River forms the border with Angola. After the rainy season, you’ll see wildlife congregate around the pools that form in the park, especially the elephants and giraffes that call Sioma home.

When’s the Best Time to Visit Sioma Ngwezi National Park and Ngonye Falls?

From May to early June, just after the rainy season, is the best time to visit Sioma Ngwezi National Park. The water holes are full at this time, making wildlife easier to spot as they gather to drink.

During the dry season, animals disperse to find other water sources. Whitewater rafting and watersports at Ngonye Falls are best from February to May. The dry season from June to September is the best time to see wildlife around the falls, as the animals are forced to come to main water sources to drink.

Animals Found in Sioma Ngwezi National Park and Ngonye Falls

Sioma is known for excellent giraffe and elephant sightings. Predator populations (including lions, leopards, and hyenas) are growing. During a Zambia safari here, you’ll spot herds of zebra as well as antelope species such as puku, impala, eland, and tsessebe. If you’re lucky, you may catch a glimpse of a cheetah or wild dog pack, but these sightings are rare.

How to Get to Sioma Ngwezi National Park and Ngonye Falls

Road transfers from Livingstone to Sioma National Park are available. Alternatively, you could fly to Sioma airport and get a transfer from there.

Southern Zambia is home to dramatic landscapes, luxury lodges, and iconic natural attractions, making it a key region for a Zambia luxury safari. This is the location of Africa’s most famous waterfall as well as an impressive array of birdlife and the endemic Kafue lechwe.

Must-Visit Areas in Southern Zambia

From the iconic Victoria Falls to wetlands that attract unique wildlife, here’s where to go in Southern Zambia:

Victoria Falls (Zambian Side): The Smoke That Thunders

Combine the thrill of a Zambia safari and Victoria Falls for an unparalleled African adventure. Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park in Zambia provides a unique vantage point for experiencing the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. At 1,708 m/5,604 ft wide and 108 m/354 ft high, the falls are breathtaking to behold. Choosing the Zambian side offers a less crowded and more immersive experience, perfectly complementing your safari adventure.

Kafue Flats: Birdwatching Destination

Known for its wetlands and birdlife, the Kafue Flats are made up of swamps and floodplains. This is a prime area for birdwatching, as over 400 species of birds can be spotted here, most notably waders and waterbirds.

When’s the Best Time to Visit Southern Zambia?

The ideal time to see Victoria Falls in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is from May to September, with water flow at its peak in May. The best time to visit Zambia for safari is between May and October. At this time of the year, wildlife viewing is easier with thinner vegetation and fewer water sources. If you want to focus on birdwatching, visit between November and April when migratory species arrive.

Animals Found in Southern Zambia

The Kafue Flats are well known for large herds of Kafue lechwe, an antelope species unique to this wetland. Other antelopes found in this region are the blue wildebeest, kudu, oribi, and buffalo. Hippos and crocodiles can be seen gliding in the water, with elephants and waterbirds along the banks. Birders can look out for the magpie shrike, African skimmer, and black-winged pratincole.

How to Get to Southern Zambia

Livingstone is the town close to Victoria Falls. You can land at Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula International Airport in Livingstone and take a road transfer from there.

Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, provides awe-inspiring views, adventure activities, and luxury accommodations on the Zambian side of the Zambezi River. While the falls border Zambia and Zimbabwe, the Zambian side tends to be quieter, offering a more intimate experience.

Must-Visit Areas Near Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls – or, “The Smoke that Thunders” – offers travellers a memorable Zambia safari experience, including rhino trekking and a breathtaking viewpoint:

Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park: Walk With White Rhinos

Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park encompasses the falls and a game park, which is home to Zambia’s only white rhinos. While on a Zambia safari here, you have the unique opportunity of tracking these near-threatened animals on foot.

Knife-Edge Bridge: Dramatic Viewpoint

Prepare to be immersed in the raw power of Victoria Falls from the Zambian side. The iconic Knife Edge Bridge, often enveloped in mist during peak flow, offers unparalleled views of the falls and the Zambezi River. Feel the thunderous spray and witness the immense plume rising from the cascading water – an experience that truly connects you with this natural wonder. A raincoat and waterproof casing for your electronics are highly recommended!

When’s the Best Time to Visit Victoria Falls?

The best time to see Victoria Falls in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is from May to September, with peak water flow in May. For wildlife sightings, plan your Zambia safari for the dry months, from July to September. The thinner vegetation and lack of rain provide the ideal conditions for animal viewing.

Animals Found Near Victoria Falls

Crocodiles are the only large predator in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. Elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, wildebeests, and zebras are abundant here. You’ll also be able to see vervet monkeys and chacma baboons. Over 350 species of birds call this park home – rock pratincoles, African finfoots, herons, and lapwings can all be spotted during birdwatching safaris.

How to Get to Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls and Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park are accessible via Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport in Livingstone, with a short transfer to the park.

Western Zambia is a hidden paradise of natural beauty, offering exclusivity and adventure for luxury travellers. Two rivers flow through this land: the Zambezi and the Kafue. Heavy rains from November to January cause the rivers to flood the surrounding grasslands, creating extensive floodplains. This is also the site of an ancient ceremony held annually by the local Malozi people.

Must-Visit Areas in Western Zambia

This region in Zambia offers excellent tiger fishing opportunities as well as the chance to see the second-largest wildebeest migration in Africa:

Barotse Floodplain: Perfect for Anglers

The Barotse Floodplain, one of the continent’s great wetlands, is a paradise for anglers. This floodplain offers excellent tiger and bream fishing. The region floods during the rainy summer season, creating breeding grounds for vast quantities of baitfish. The baitfish wash into the main channels, attracting large tiger fish and bream, creating ideal fishing conditions.

Liuwa Plain National Park: Wildebeest Migration

This national park is renowned for its vast grasslands and the second-largest wildebeest migration in Africa. It’s located in Zambia’s remote west region on the floodplains of the upper Zambezi Basin. Liuwa receives annual flood waters, creating islands to explore. During a Zambia safari here, you’ll be in awe of the sheer amount of herbivores that traverse the plains with a growing population of predators hot on their tracks.

When’s the Best Time to Visit Western Zambia?

Anglers hoping to catch large tigerfish should plan their Zambia safari for the dry winter months, from May to August. This is an excellent time of year to catch the enormous tigerfish and bream.

The onset of the rains in November sees the wildebeest arrive at the park during their migration. The wet season (November to April) is ideal for wildlife safaris, although it’s best to visit between November and mid-December, as game-drive tracks deteriorate later in the season. The scenery is also lush, and migratory birds are present. May and June, in the dry season, still offer good wildlife viewing opportunities with resident animals present.

For a cultural experience, visit during the Kuomboka ceremony. This festive event is celebrated each year at the end of the rainy season, normally between March and April. The ancient ceremony celebrates the move of the Litunga (King/Paramount Chief of the Malozi people) from his home at Lealui in the flooded villages of the Barotse Floodplain to his home in Limulunga on the higher ground.

Animals Found in Western Zambia

The fertile grasslands provide a spectacular environment for herbivores. While on a Zambia safari, you can spot wildebeests, zebras, tsessebes, oribis, and steenboks. Barotse is also home to the semiaquatic lechwe. Lions have been reintroduced to Liuwa National Park, and the cheetah population is recovering, so you may see these big cats. There’s a strong hyena population, with over 350 of these laughing predators.

If you’re a birder, you’ll be kept busy with over 300 species of birds, including waterbirds, raptors, fly-catchers, and bee-eaters. Notable species include the black heron, squacco heron, African openbill stork, Madagascar pond heron, rufous-bellied heron, African skimmer, and pied kingfisher.

How to Get to Western Zambia

You can fly into Western Zambia, landing at Lukulu Airstrip. From there, you’ll get a road transfer to the national park and conservation zones.

Zambia is home to what is arguably the best whitewater river on earth.

Most of the avifauna is found on the Central African Plateau as this region has a diversity of ecosystems.

Zambia is an incredible country to photograph, with its stunning wilderness landscapes, superb birdlife, and some of the best opportunities for up-close wildlife interactions in Africa. Every corner of the country has something to offer, but two experiences, in particular, stand out.

In late winter, ideally just before the rains begin in November, keen photographers should head to Liuwa Plain National Park, where tens of thousands of Blue wildebeest gather in the second-largest wildebeest migration in Africa (after the Serengeti).

Just about every kind of holiday in Zambia is intrinsically relaxing – there’s something especially rejuvenating about spending time in such wild, pristine wilderness. That said, there’s perhaps nothing more quintessentially relaxing than a fishing holiday, and a fishing holiday on a fully-catered houseboat is hard to beat.

Whether to fish or not is entirely up to you, of course.

For a more active holiday, try a walking safari in Zambia. Zambia is arguably the best country in Africa for guided game walks and is widely recognized for its enthusiastic and highly knowledgeable field guides.

Now widespread throughout southern Africa’s major parks, the concept was first introduced in the Luangwa Valley, which remains the county’s top walking safari destination. Luangwa’s walking safaris are small-scale and extremely popular.

Because of its relatively late start in the global safari market, Zambia is perfectly positioned to offer couples the kind of unique experiences that its neighbors cannot.
Many of its lodges, hotels and tented camps are small, intimate, and owner-run, which means there is healthy competition and a real commitment to giving guests a once-in-a-lifetime, truly memorable experience.

Finding the best region for a couples holiday in Zambia depends mainly on your budget. For remote exclusivity, wildlife destinations such as Liuwa Plain National Park on the Barotse Floodplain and South Luangwa National Park in the Luangwa Valley offer the kind of all-inclusive, fly-in Zambia safaris befitting a Hollywood-style honeymoon.

Generally, the more central parks, such as Kafue National Park and Lower Zambezi National Park, have a broader range of accommodations to suit couples looking for a more affordable break. Then there are the Upper and Lower Zambezi valleys, where close proximity to airports in Livingstone and Lusaka make destinations such as Victoria Falls and Lake Kariba great for couples and honeymooners looking for a short holiday.

Highlights of a couple of safaris in Zambia

For couples who love wildlife holidays, Zambia offers something genuinely unique. Towards the end of the rainy season, as the rivers swell to bursting and turn much of the landscape into inaccessible wetlands, a handful of lodges remain open, offering guests the chance to fly in and experience a safari by boat.

Certain lodges in Liuwa Plain and South Luangwa National Park are best known for these ‘Emerald Season’ experiences. Floating through extraordinary scenes of submerged trees beneath dense, green canopies alive with birds makes for a romantic safari vacation unrivaled anywhere else in the world.

More affordable safaris and some of the best dry-season game viewing in Zambia can be found inside the Lower Zambezi National Park, where 4×4 self-drive travelers are welcome, and the scope of accommodation includes budget lodges, luxury tented camps, and campsites.

Of course, no couples’ holiday is complete without a visit to Victoria Falls. The go-to African destination for romance has it all – sunset cruises on the Zambezi River, the wild rush of water over Mosi-oa-Tunya’s misty walkways, and a range of all-inclusive holiday packages for a wide range of budgets.

Travel Tips for a couple safaris in Zambia

• Because Zambia’s lodges, hotels, and tented camps are usually smaller and more intimate than those of its neighbors, they also tend to get booked up quicker. Book at least six months in advance to avoid disappointment, and a year in advance if possible.
• Ensure you have up-to-date health and travel insurance and vaccination certificates. Guests should consider their choice of clothing too.
• Revealing items, such as very short shorts and short skirts, can offend and are generally frowned upon.
• Homosexuality is illegal in Zambia, and public displays of affection (whether same-sex or heterosexual) may also cause tension. However, it should be noted that these attitudes are more relaxed within the confines of lodges and hotels.
• While rates are generally given as per person sharing, some lodges will offer special couples’ rates for extended stays.
  It’s important to ask whether these include Zambia’s compulsory bed levy, which is from $10 a person a day and can add up quickly if not included in the price.

The last decade has seen a marked rise in family-friendly safaris in Zambia, with reduced prices for children and more activities geared towards kids and young adults.
Not all lodges allow children, and some have age restrictions of eight or 12. Families, especially those with very young children, can find excellent value and flexibility in Zambia’s growing selection of exclusive-use safari houses.

These can be found throughout the country, especially in the prime wildlife regions around the Lower Zambezi and South Luangwa National Parks. The upper Zambezi Valley – Livingstone, Victoria Falls, and surrounds – is also well-suited for a family holiday. Several tour operators, lodges, and hotels have facilities and itineraries that cater to all ages.

As Zambia’s tourism hub, Livingstone has a variety of half-day and day tours with relatively short transit times that give families some flexibility when choosing what to do each day. Zambia’s major parks offer excellent wildlife and nature, so choose a destination based on a lodge or hotel’s family policy rather than focusing on a specific region.
The Lower Zambezi and Luangwa Valley offer the broadest range of family-friendly safari accommodations, from low-key camps and private houses to high-end luxury lodges.

Highlights of a family-friendly safari in Zambia

Zambia has excellent potential for a memorable family holiday for families with teenagers (and older). Whitewater rafting down the Zambezi River, bungee jumping from Victoria Falls Bridge, and abseiling into the Bakota Gorge are activities where bragging rights and family bonding are guaranteed.

For the younger ones, a half-day tour of Victoria Falls or a visit to the Victoria Falls Snake Park or Crocodile Ranch tops the list of highlights in and around Livingstone.
Zambia also boasts some of the best walking safaris in Africa. In fact, it’s in the Luangwa Valley where the concept of walking safaris first began. Zambia’s award-winning guides undergo rigorous testing, and many are specifically trained to guide young adults.

Walking through the bush with some of the world’s best safari guides can be the perfect recreation for inquiring young minds. However, it should be noted that national parks do not allow children under 12 to join a walking (or canoeing) safari. Various camps also impose higher age limits, so you must check with your hotel, lodge, or tented camp operator before you book.

Travel Tips for  a family-friendly safari in Zambia

• Ensure that your family’s immunizations are up to date, especially those for measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), tetanus, polio, diphtheria, hepatitis A and typhoid. Immunization against rabies, hepatitis B, and TB are also recommended.
• Zambia is a malaria area, so you’ll need to consult your doctor on the available prophylaxis options for children.
• Note that some lodges that allow families also insist that those traveling with children (under eight mostly) should reserve a private vehicle and/or guide for game drives.
• Make sure you’re clear on all aspects of your accommodation’s family policy before you make a booking.
• Although it may not be the most prolific period for wildlife sightings, families should also consider visiting Zambia for safari in the shoulder- or off-seasons – April, May, and November. Lodges are generally quieter then and thus often more amenable to hosting younger children. Rates are also lower out of season, and family discounts are more frequently available.

As Zambia’s road and transport infrastructure continues to develop, even its more remote regions will become exciting options for solo holidays in Zambia. For the time being, however, the country’s more isolated corners are best explored in company, ideally with an extra vehicle as a backup if you’re planning to self-drive.

In general, solo travelers in Zambia will have the best experience by basing themselves in more populated regions with good infrastructure, a host of established tour operators, and a community of fellow travelers to meet and team up with.

Livingstone delivers best on all of these. Its proximity to Victoria Falls, Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, Kafue National Park, and even Lake Kariba means that a holiday centered in Zambia’s southernmost town is still the best option for those going it alone.

Lusaka, Zambia’s capital, is the other good alternative. Many group tours start in Lusaka, and you’ll find several trusted operators offering safaris and adventure holidays in the country’s central and northern regions, especially to Lower Zambezi National Park, Lake Kariba, and South Luangwa National Park.

Highlights of a solo safari in Zambia

Visiting Victoria Falls itself is a must. The walkways through Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, which borders the falls and the stretch of the Zambezi River above them, are safe, fun, and easy to navigate alone.

Further options for solo travelers include a sunset cruise, kayaking, the famous Victoria Falls bungee jump, white-water rafting, or tiger fishing on the Zambezi River. Although the Zambezi flows through six countries, here – above Victoria Falls – is where travelers can experience Africa’s ‘River of Life’ at its finest and most spectacular.

North of the falls, Kafue National Park is great for wildlife lovers and can be visited by joining a two or three-day group tour from Livingstone. More adventurous solo travelers in Zambia can head further afield to the Barotse Floodplain and Ngonye Falls on four or five-day tiger fishing safaris.

Almost equidistant from Lusaka and Livingstone, Lake Kariba is another top highlight, with everything from water sports to Big Five game viewing safaris on offer.

Travel Tips for a solo safari in Zambia

• Solo self-driving is not recommended in Zambia for safari. While the country is relatively safe and its people among the friendliest on the continent, the lack of infrastructure outside its built-up areas makes it extremely risky to travel alone.
• As a solo traveler in Zambia for safari, your safest (and indeed most affordable) option is to join one of the many group safaris offered by private tour operators. These usually start and end in Livingstone or Lusaka, and everything from budget camping to more luxurious group adventures is available. Ensure you have up-to-date health and travel insurance and vaccination certificates.
• English is widely spoken in Zambia, but learning a little about the local customs and attitudes is always appreciated. It will also help keep you from becoming a target for thieves and swindlers.
• These are not a major problem in Zambia, but be especially careful and attentive in tourist hotspots. It’s best not to walk alone at night, especially in larger towns, and to move confidently and purposefully during the day. Take particular care when drawing money and don’t carry more than you need with you on the streets.

When choosing between a safari in Zambia or Botswana, it’s clear that both are incredibly protected and have outstanding wildlife and national parks. Still, each is tailored to a very different style of traveler.

Botswana is possibly the best self-drive safari destination in Southern Africa, with decent connecting roads, plentiful wildlife, plenty of inexpensive campsites, and an effective bureaucracy that makes camp and national park bookings pretty simple with a bit of practice.

A Botswana Safari can also be considered one of the most luxurious safari destinations in Africa, with many first-rate luxury lodges, most especially in and around the Okavango Delta. Though a Botswana safari caters to both confident self-drive 4×4 explorers and well-heeled safari-goers, quality mid-range and more affordable luxury accommodation can be difficult to come by.

When comparing Zambia vs. Botswana in this category, a Zambia safari has much more to offer, with outstanding luxury experiences that are often half the price of comparable lodges in Botswana and private, exclusive-use houses and smaller eco-lodges that provide great value, especially for families and larger groups.

Zambia’s poorer-quality highways and more difficult-to-access wilderness areas make self-drive travelers’ lives much more difficult. Many who accept the conditions are rewarded with some of Africa’s finest nature and desert views, but self-drive visitors are few and far between.

When comparing Zambia vs. Botswana, this low-density exclusivity separates a Zambian safari as the perfect location for a luxury safari experience that won’t break the bank.

But it’s Zambia’s two ‘most unique’ attractions that are also its most famous. Both are shared along the border with Zimbabwe, and both are the biggest of their kind in the world. In full flood, Victoria Falls boasts Earth’s largest sheet of falling water, and downstream, Lake Kariba is the world’s largest man-made dam by volume.

Both offer superb adventurous and more sedate activities as well, from white water rafting, bungee jumping, and skydiving to canoe safaris, fishing, and houseboat cruises.

Zambia and Namibia are two of Southern Africa’s best safari destinations, but in many ways, they couldn’t be more different. Both have vast, isolated wilderness areas where intrepid travelers can find themselves entirely alone.

But where Zambia offers a more traditional safari experience of lush, sprawling parks and abundant wildlife, Namibia is far more desolate, with breathtaking desert views and wildlife confined to a few key areas.

Both Zambia and Namibia have excellent luxury lodges and cater very well to high-end travelers. If you’re on a budget, however, a safari in Namibia is more affordable, mainly because of its more developed road and camping infrastructure, which makes self-drive holidays easier.

Driving in Zambia can be challenging, especially during the summer rains when many roads become impassable. This keeps visitor numbers low, even in the best wildlife viewing areas, an ideal setting for Zambia’s smaller, owner-run bush camps, which can offer exclusive wildlife experiences at excellent value for money.

Namibia is perfect if you love the thought of being completely independent, adore isolation and stunning views, and are more focused on the wilderness than the wildlife. A safari in Zambia, however, has some of the best game viewing and guided safaris in Southern Africa, a chance to see rare and iconic species far from any crowds, and the opportunity for action and adventure on the Zambezi River – a flight over Victoria Falls or a cruise on Lake Kariba.

Technically, Zambia has all the Big Five, but rhinos are extremely rare and confined to the Mosi-oa-Tunya (Victoria Falls) and North Luangwa National Parks. Elephants, buffalo, and lions are common across multiple parks, however, and Kafue, South Luangwa, and the Lower Zambezi are all well-known for leopards.

Look beyond the Big Five, and you’ll find Zambia full of fascinating rare and endemic species such as Black lechwe, Crawshay’s zebra, and Thornicroft’s giraffe. Liuwa Plain National Park hosts Africa’s second-largest wildebeest migration in November each year, and Kasanka National Park’s 10 million fruit bats take to the skies from October to December.

Zambia is one of the wettest countries in southern Africa, and the rivers and lakes offer excellent fishing alongside thriving populations of hippos and crocodiles. The Zambezi River is famous for its tigerfish, and numerous fishing lodges can be found throughout its length.

May to October is the best time for wildlife viewing when the weather is drier and the vegetation is at its thinnest. This makes the animals easier to spot, and the lower winter temperatures are also more pleasant.

By mid-October, however, it’s already getting scorching, and when the rains arrive in November, they can make the roads in the more isolated regions completely impassable. For this reason, many camps close their operations completely between December and March, with April, May and November considered the lower-rate shoulder season.

There are so many ways to experience a safari holiday in Zambia that an entire book would be required for an exhaustive pre-holiday checklist. If you’re on an all-inclusive fly-in safari, for example, then just about every need will be thoroughly taken care of, from food to flight transfers to emergency evacuation services.

Not so at all if you’re planning a self-drive safari. Zambia is perhaps the most challenging country to self-drive in southern Africa and should only be considered if you have prior 4×4 experience.

There is, however, some information that pertains to all visitors. Travel documents (passports and immunizations) must be up-to-date, and travel insurance is essential and required for entry into the country (you can also buy it at the border).

Besides the usual narcotics, explosives, and pornography, palm tree products and henna are also banned. Electronic items should be listed (with serial numbers) and declared upon entry. It’s a rarely enforced regulation, but a spot check could create unnecessary problems and delays.

While drunk without trouble by locals, tap water tends to upset travelers’ stomachs, so it’s best to buy bottled water to be safe. Very importantly, Zambia’s top lodges and destinations fill up quickly, especially in peak season.

Book well in advance to avoid disappointment (up to two years in some cases). Generally, it’s always best to get up-to-date information from your hotel or lodge a few weeks before travel.

Visa Requirements For Zambia

Zambia’s visa regulations are relatively complex and change regularly, but broadly speaking, there are three main categories. Firstly, those who are exempt from needing a visa at all (South African citizens, for example), then those who can purchase a visa on arrival, and finally, those nationals who need to apply for and obtain a visa before they travel.

North American and most European nationals fall into the second group and can purchase a $50 single entry or $80 double entry visa on arrival. Both are valid for 90 days, but the double entry can be used twice within that period.

In the past, this was particularly useful for a trip to the Zimbabwean side of Victoria Falls, but after being introduced, then canceled, and now apparently reinstated, the KAZA Univisa is now best for that purpose.

Available on arrival at the Livingstone and Kazungula border posts and at Livingstone and Lusaka airports, the KAZA allows multiple access between Zambia and Zimbabwe (as well as day trips into Botswana). It costs $50 and is valid for 30 days.

All visitors requiring a visa will need to provide details of their stay in Zambia (lodge or hotel name, booking dates, and telephone numbers) and produce a valid passport with no fewer than six months before expiry. You’ll also need at least three blank pages.

Zambia’s visa regulations are relatively complex and change regularly, but broadly speaking, there are three main categories. Firstly, those who are exempt from needing a visa at all (South African citizens, for example), then those who can purchase a visa on arrival, and finally, those nationals who need to apply for and obtain a visa before they travel.

North American and most European nationals fall into the second group and can purchase a $50 single entry or $80 double entry visa on arrival. Both are valid for 90 days, but the double entry can be used twice within that period.

In the past, this was particularly useful for a trip to the Zimbabwean side of Victoria Falls, but after being introduced, then canceled, and now apparently reinstated, the KAZA Univisa is now best for that purpose.

Available on arrival at the Livingstone and Kazungula border posts and at Livingstone and Lusaka airports, the KAZA allows multiple access between Zambia and Zimbabwe (as well as day trips into Botswana). It costs $50 and is valid for 30 days.

All visitors requiring a visa will need to provide details of their stay in Zambia (lodge or hotel name, booking dates, and telephone numbers) and produce a valid passport with no fewer than six months before expiry. You’ll also need at least three blank pages.

Zambia is best accessed via its two major airports – Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka and Harry Mwaanga International Airport in Livingstone. There are also several land border posts with neighboring countries: Botswana, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, and Zimbabwe.

Travelers arriving by vehicle will likely cross at one of the three most popular land borders: Kazangula from Botswana, Victoria Falls Bridge from Zimbabwe, or Katima Mulilo from Namibia.

These points of entry are all on well-established routes that connect Zambia to other major safari destinations in southern Africa. They can be a bit chaotic, especially at the border with Zimbabwe, although day-trippers at Victoria Falls are usually processed quickly.

The Kazangula border used to involve a ferry across the Zambezi River, and depending on how busy it was, the process could take all day. A new bridge opened in 2020 and has drastically speed up the process.

Flying to Zambia is easy, though not cheap, with good international deals usually available to Johannesburg, Dubai, Addis Ababa, or Windhoek, then relatively expensive connecting flights from there.
Flights from Europe are significantly cheaper than the Americas and usually have shorter layovers. More affordable flights can have very long connections. Expect to pay anything from $800 from Europe and $1200 from North America and up to twice that for minimum travel times.

Zambia is best accessed via its two major airports – Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka and Harry Mwaanga International Airport in Livingstone. There are also several land border posts with neighboring countries: Botswana, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, and Zimbabwe.

Travelers arriving by vehicle will likely cross at one of the three most popular land borders: Kazangula from Botswana, Victoria Falls Bridge from Zimbabwe, or Katima Mulilo from Namibia.

These points of entry are all on well-established routes that connect Zambia to other major safari destinations in Southern Africa. They can be a bit chaotic, especially at the border with Zimbabwe, although day-trippers at Victoria Falls are usually processed quickly.

The Kazangula border used to involve a ferry across the Zambezi River, and depending on how busy it was, the process could take all day. A new bridge opened in 2020 and has drastically speed up the process.

Flying to Zambia is easy, though not cheap, with good international deals usually available to Johannesburg, Dubai, Addis Ababa, or Windhoek, then relatively expensive connecting flights from there.

Flights from Europe are significantly cheaper than the Americas and usually have shorter layovers. More affordable flights can have very long connections. Expect to pay anything from $800 from Europe and $1200 from North America and up to twice that for minimum travel times.

The currency in Zambia is the Kwacha (K). Official regulations state that all payments within the country must be made in kwacha, but US dollars are widely accepted by many of the larger hotels, lodges and tour operators. Indeed, prices for visas at the border, import taxes, and national park fees are all quoted in US dollars, which confuses the matter even more.

If you’re on an all-inclusive Zambia safari holiday most expenses will be taken care of anyway, and any tips or sundries can be paid for in dollars. If you’re self-driving, then carry enough cash in both currencies. Purchasing fuel is almost always a cash-only transaction, and often only payable in kwacha.

Credit and debit cards (Visa more so than MasterCard) are accepted at prominent stores, major supermarkets and large hotels, although these facilities become significantly less common when you leave Lusaka and Livingstone.

Similarly, ATMs are widespread in urban centers but increasingly less frequent (and less reliable) in the country’s interior. Very few places accept travelers’ cheques or American Express, so it’s best to avoid those two options entirely.

As with most African countries, cash is king, and if you’re carrying US dollars, smaller denominations are preferable ($1, $5, $10, and $20 bills). Larger notes are the most commonly forged, and, as a result, vendors are suspicious of them.

Be sure to inform your bank of your travel plans so that your card is not blocked due to suspected fraud. If you’re bringing cash into Zambia, any amount over $5000 must be declared on arrival.

On the whole, Zambia is a safe country, and locals are generally very welcoming and friendly toward visitors. That said, it’s still very poor, and there’s a moderate risk of pick-pocketing and opportunistic theft in busy urban areas.

You can minimize the risks to almost zero with a few simple precautions and some local knowledge. Violent crime is extremely unlikely, and if you’re on an all-inclusive safari, staying in lodges and hotels, then you have no cause for concern.

• If you are on the streets, especially in busy, touristy areas such as around Victoria Falls, follow these general rules to avoid becoming an obvious target:
• Don’t carry expensive items out in the open (cameras, mobile phones, etc.), and avoid excessive, flashy jewelry.
• If you’re carrying cash, keep a small, daily amount separate. Don’t pull out your entire wad of notes for every small payment.
• Avoid walking alone in touristy areas, and never walk alone at night
• Move with confidence, and don’t act lost – even if you are! Head for somewhere that looks reputable and ask for directions
• If you have a vehicle, don’t leave valuables visible on the seats, and don’t leave it unattended at all if you have equipment strapped to the outside.
• Don’t park at night on urban streets – always find safe, secure parking when you’re within city limits.

If you find yourself a victim for any reason, the best course of action is to hand over your possessions. Contact your lodge, guide, or tour operator immediately and get their assistance and advice in reporting the matter to the police.

Zambia’s lodges serve excellent Western-style food, with a few local delicacies thrown in for the adventurous. Meats include local game, beef, chicken, and freshwater fish along with rice, potatoes, salad, fruit, and vegetables.

Outside the camps and lodges, Zambia’s staple food is nshima – a thick maize-based starch most often served with red meat, chicken, or fish and accompanied with a side of relish. You’ll find it in most smaller restaurants, and it’s delicious. Definitely worth trying at least once.

Tipping is not compulsory but always appreciated. Although when and how to do so can be tricky. At a local eatery, it’s not expected, but at more upmarket restaurants, you can tip 10% for good service. Tipping guides is the norm at camps and lodges, but different establishments handle the tipping process differently.

Some expect you to tip staff directly, while others implement a tip box which is then split between all. Many camps also exclude guides and spotters from the communal tip box, assuming that guides will be tipped individually after each activity.

As with most things on a Zambia safari, asking what the policy is ahead of time is the best way to avoid misunderstandings. As a general rule, tip guides for their efforts at the end of your stay (not after each activity), and if there’s no communal tip box, then tip the camp staff separately (assuming you feel the service has been worth it!). Between $5 and $10 is generous per activity, and around the same rate per day is a good tip for the staff.

Zambia contains a rich mix of cultures with nuances and social norms that differ between regions. Practically speaking, however, there are just a handful of social conventions you need to be aware of, and a friendly attitude and a dose of deference will smooth out most faux pas.

The first thing to note is that Zambia is relatively conservative and predominantly Christian, and many views and attitudes reflect this. Homosexuality is illegal, and although it’s overlooked within the confines of most lodges, open displays of same-sex affection can theoretically land you in prison.

Even public affection between heterosexual couples is frowned upon, and revealing clothing of any kind (including shorts for men) is considered improper. Keep your clothing choices sensible and practical, and avoid camo and military fatigues. These, in particular, are not considered appropriate civilian attire.

Interactions between Zambians are unhurried and courteous. If you need assistance or are asking for directions, be sure to greet the person first. Politeness and genuine interest will get you far in Zambia. Ask how people are doing first, and don’t jump right in with questions.

In Lusaka and Livingstone, you’ll find almost everything available in western shopping centers, save perhaps for bespoke clothing brands. There are large supermarkets, pharmacies, fashion retailers, and well-known fast food outlets, and many well-stocked strip malls are also popping up along the highways.

Smaller Asian-owned corner stores sell everything from electronics to exotic spices. These are the primary source of supplies outside the urban areas and are common throughout the country.

There are also a significant number of designer curio stores near major attractions and inside the airports. These often contain items (especially carvings) imported from Kenya, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe. Favor locally made souvenirs instead, and you’ll also be contributing to the livelihood of Zambia’s home-grown carvers, weavers, and clothing-makers. Their quality of artistry is generally outstanding, and the best deals can be found in markets away from tourist attractions.

Bargaining is an innate part of the purchasing process, and paying about half the initial asking price is usually a reasonable deal. You can also purchase fresh fruits and vegetables from markets (they’re sometimes better than those found in supermarkets) but exercise caution with raw meats. These are often kept out in the open and are susceptible to the elements (and flies!).

The first thing to do when preparing for a Zambia safari is to book an appointment with a local travel clinic and go and speak to a doctor. The internet is full of African health and safety horror stories, but the risks are generally very low and/or easily manageable for safari holidays. If you’re at all concerned, speak to a professional.

They’re likely to advise you to get your immunizations up to date and will be able to prescribe appropriate anti-malarial drugs. They’ll also have the latest information on the yellow fever vaccine. Regulations are constantly changing and have relaxed somewhat in recent years.

If you have any allergies or require chronic medication, then be sure to bring it with you. If it’s anything exotic, check whether it’s legal in Zambia, or you might run into trouble at customs. Finally, ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance including complete evacuation and repatriation cover. Familiarise yourself with all the small print and the procedures to follow should the worst happen.

The most common vaccinations for Zambia are against measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), tetanus, diphtheria, polio, typhoid, and hepatitis A. Check the latest regarding the yellow fever vaccine and, if required, don’t lose the little yellow booklet that comes with it. Regulations have relaxed recently, but that yellow booklet has been something of a passport in the region.

Not having one can stop your holiday in its tracks, especially if you plan to visit other countries in southern Africa. A vaccination against rabies is also recommended, and the course lasts at least three weeks, so it can’t be left to the last minute.

The waterborne bilharzia parasite is common along Zambia’s lake shores, and although there’s no vaccine, it’s easy to test for and treat once you get back home. It’s a sensible post-holiday precaution if you’ve been canoeing or fishing on Zambian waters.

By far the most significant health risk in Zambia is malaria. Various preventive prophylaxis treatments are available; some should be taken a few weeks and others a few days before arrival. Consult your doctor or a local travel clinic well before your departure.

Many safari operators include emergency medical insurance in their rates, but this may only cover the immediate situation and exclude further treatment and/or repatriation. In any event, it’s essential to be fully insured, especially if you’re headed into Zambia’s more remote regions.

Every travel insurance policy is different, so make sure you know how yours operates. Some policies will expect you to pay upfront and seek reimbursement later, others have ties with Zambia’s private hospitals, and direct payments are possible.

Speciality Emergency Services (SES) is Zambia’s leading country-wide emergency medical support service and your best option if you need urgent assistance. They also offer short-term medical and evacuation insurance if you’re concerned with the coverage offered by your primary provider.

Zambia has very limited mobile network cover outside the major centers. Safari camps and lodges will always have a means of contacting emergency services, but a satellite phone is highly recommended if you’re self-driving to remote areas.

Zambia’s official language is English, but there are more than 70 different languages and dialects spoken throughout the country. Almost everyone will speak or understand some English, and most Zambians living in the urban centers speak it fluently.

Signs and official documentation are almost always in English and/or Bemba and Nyanja, the country’s two most widely spoken local languages. Bemba is spoken by more than two million Zambians and is used frequently in education and administration.

Nyanja, a Bantu language spoken by approximately one million Zambians, is also prominent in major centers, especially Lusaka and Livingstone.

Nyanja is the official language of the police and is also spoken in neighboring Zimbabwe, Malawi, and Mozambique. Tonga is spoken by about 11% of the population and is commonly used in the media.

Other major languages include Lozi (about 500,000 speakers), Tumbuka (about 400,000 speakers), Nsenga (about 300,000 speakers), Lunda (about 200,000 speakers) and Luvale (also about 200,000 speakers).

Luyana, Mambwe-Lungu, Mashi, Mbunda, Nkoya-Mbwela, Luchazi, and Nyika make up the rest of Zambia’s main languages, spoken by various groups across the country.

The best time to visit Zambia is during the dry season, from May to October. These months are perfect for wildlife viewing, with animals gathering around water sources and mild daytime temperatures – though September and October can be extremely hot.

Zambia’s sub-tropical climate has two main seasons: the dry winter months and the rainy summer season.

The rainy season, from December to April, is known as the Green Season due to the lush, thick vegetation. This period makes game viewing more challenging as animals disperse and the bush becomes dense. However, it’s a great time for bird watchers and offers vibrant, scenic landscapes.

The shoulder season, just before and after the rains, refers to the transition periods in April and October. These months combine the benefits of both the dry and wet seasons, offering good wildlife viewing and stunning landscapes with fewer tourists and moderate temperatures.

Dry Season (May to October)

Overview: The dry season is ideal for wildlife viewing as animals congregate around rivers and waterholes.

Key Highlights:

• Wildlife Concentration: High concentrations of elephants, lions, and leopards in parks like Lower Zambezi and South Luangwa.
• Victoria Falls: Lower water levels offer clearer views and ideal conditions for white-water rafting.
• Comfortable Climate: Cooler, dry weather for game drives and walking safaris.

Unique Facts:

• Peak safari time with high chances of seeing the Big Five.
• Cooler nights, especially in June and July, so bring warm clothing.

Wet Season (November to April)

Overview: The Green Season transforms Zambia into a lush landscape, ideal for bird watchers and those seeking fewer crowds.

Key Highlights:

• Bird Watching: Over 750 bird species, with many migratory arrivals.
• Lush Landscapes: Rejuvenated vegetation and breathtaking scenery.
• Baby Animals: Birth season for many animals, offering unique viewing opportunities.

Unique Facts:

• Excellent for photography with dramatic skies.
• More exclusive safari experience with fewer tourists.

Shoulder Seasons (April and October)

Overview: The shoulder seasons offer a mix of the benefits of both the dry and wet seasons.

Key Highlights:

• April: End of the wet season with lush landscapes and decreasing rainfall.
• October: Pre-rain period with concentrated wildlife and warming temperatures.

Unique Facts:

• Balance of good wildlife viewing and beautiful landscapes.
• Moderate temperatures compared to the extremes of the dry and wet seasons.

Planning Your Visit

• Best Overall Time: For wildlife viewing, the dry season from May to October is ideal.
• Best for Bird Watching: The wet season from November to April.
• Best for Scenic Beauty: The wet season offers lush landscapes and dramatic skies.

Travel Tips:

• Book Early: During peak dry season, book in advance.
• Pack Accordingly: Warm clothing for dry season nights, waterproof gear for the wet season.
• Health Precautions: Take malaria precautions, especially during the wet season.

Zambia offers incredible safari experiences year-round. Plan your visit according to your interests and enjoy an unforgettable adventure in one of Africa’s premier safari destinations.

Zambia, a captivating destination in southern Africa, offers a wealth of natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage. 

From the breathtaking Victoria Falls to the rich biodiversity of its national parks, Zambia promises unforgettable experiences for every traveller. 

Here are some must-visit places in Zambia.

1. Victoria Falls

Overview: Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning “The Smoke That Thunders,” Victoria Falls is one of the most stunning natural wonders of the world. This UNESCO World Heritage site spans the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe and is renowned for its breathtaking beauty and immense power. The falls’ thunderous roar and mist create a captivating atmosphere that mesmerises visitors.

Unique Facts:

• Largest Waterfall: Victoria Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in the world, with a width of 1,708 metres and a height of 108 metres.
• Rainforest: The constant spray from the falls sustains a unique rainforest ecosystem.
• Adventure Hub: The area is a hotspot for adventure activities such as bungee jumping, white-water rafting, and microlight flights.
• Devil’s Pool: During the dry season, you can swim in the natural rock pool right on the edge of the falls.

2. Livingstone

Overview: Named after the famous explorer David Livingstone, this historic town is the gateway to Victoria Falls and offers a range of cultural and adventure activities. 

Beyond its historical allure, Livingstone’s lively community, characterised by diverse cultural traditions, festivals, and warm hospitality, adds a dynamic and welcoming atmosphere. 

Unique Facts:

• Livingstone Museum: The oldest museum in Zambia, it offers extensive exhibits on Zambian history, culture, and natural history.
• Adventure Capital: Known as the adventure capital of Zambia, Livingstone offers activities like bungee jumping, gorge swings, and helicopter flights over Victoria Falls.
• Cultural Tours: Visitors can explore local villages and markets to experience the vibrant culture and traditions of the Zambian people.
• Historical Sites: The town has numerous historical sites, including the Victoria Falls Bridge, which was completed in 1905.

3. South Luangwa National Park

Overview: South Luangwa National Park is famed for its prolific wildlife and pioneering walking safaris. This park offers one of Africa’s most authentic and thrilling safari experiences. 

Its unique landscapes, from dense woodlands to open plains, provide the perfect backdrop for spotting an array of wildlife.

Unique Facts:

• Wildlife Density: Home to over 60 species of mammals, including a significant population of leopards and one of the highest concentrations of hippos.
• Bird Paradise: Over 400 bird species can be found here, making it a haven for birdwatchers.
• Walking Safaris: South Luangwa is the birthplace of walking safaris, allowing visitors to experience wildlife up close.
• Baobab Trees: The park features ancient baobab trees, some of which are over a thousand years old.

4. Lower Zambezi National Park

Overview: Lower Zambezi National Park, located along the Zambezi River, offers stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. The park’s unique combination of river and land-based activities provides a dynamic safari experience, where the interplay of water and wildlife creates unforgettable moments.

Unique Facts:

• Zambezi River: The park’s main feature is the mighty Zambezi River, which attracts a wide range of wildlife.
• Canoe Safaris: Lower Zambezi is renowned for its canoe safaris, allowing close encounters with hippos and crocodiles.
• Fishing: The river is famous for sport fishing, particularly for tiger fish.
• Night Safaris: Unique night safaris offer the chance to see nocturnal animals such as leopards and hyenas.

5. Kafue National Park

Overview: As Zambia’s largest national park, Kafue offers a vast and remote wilderness teeming with wildlife. It is one of the oldest parks in Africa, established in 1924, and covers an area of about 22,400 square kilometres. Kafue’s diverse ecosystems, from wetlands to savannahs, support a wide array of species.

Unique Facts:

• Busanga Plains: This seasonal floodplain is a prime spot for viewing large herds of antelope and predators like lions and cheetahs.
• Diverse Habitats: Kafue’s varied landscapes include miombo woodlands, riverine forests, and floodplains.
• Endemic Species: The park is home to several rare and endemic species, such as the red lechwe and the elusive sitatunga antelope.
• Birdlife: With over 500 bird species, Kafue is a paradise for birdwatchers.

6. Liuwa Plain National Park

Overview: Liuwa Plain National Park is renowned for its dramatic landscapes and the second-largest wildebeest migration in Africa. It offers a unique and remote safari experience, where vast plains stretch to the horizon and wildlife roams freely in a pristine environment.

Unique Facts:

• Wildebeest Migration: Liuwa Plain hosts Africa’s second-largest wildebeest migration, with tens of thousands of wildebeest moving across the plains.
• Lions of Liuwa: The park is famous for its resilient lion population, particularly the story of Lady Liuwa, a solitary lioness who lived in the park for many years.
• Cultural Heritage: Liuwa Plain has a rich cultural history, with the Lozi people having lived in harmony with the wildlife for centuries.
• Birdwatching: The park is a birdwatcher’s dream, with over 330 species recorded, including the endangered wattled crane.

 Zambia’s diverse destinations provide a rich tapestry of experiences for travellers. Whether you’re seeking the awe-inspiring beauty of Victoria Falls, the immersive wildlife encounters of South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi, or the remote and untouched wilderness of Kafue and Liuwa Plain, Zambia promises an adventure of a lifetime. 

Explore the vibrant town of Livingstone for a blend of culture and thrill. Plan your trip to Zambia and discover the beauty and wonder of this incredible country.

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.