Zambia
The four main attractions in Zambia are the legendary South Luangwa, the more remote North Luangwa, the Lower Zambezi National Park, and the Victoria Falls. Each offers unique elements to your safari, either complementing each other or providing standalone safari experiences.
Why We Love It
Zambia is the birthplace of walking safaris, dating back to the 1960s, and continues to be a top destination for this experience in the Luangwa Parks. The Lower Zambezi National Park, bordering the Zambezi River, adds water-based activities such as boating and canoe safaris, along with excellent tiger fishing. Combined, these parks create a varied and exciting itinerary.
Favoring rustic luxury over bush glamour, Zambia’s charm lies in its simple yet high-quality bush camps. Often consisting of only 4 rooms, either tented or made from thatch and reed materials, these camps are situated in remote settings, offering a very intimate experience. For the adventurous, Zambia excels in walking mobile safaris, where you stay in walk-in luxury tents, moving every few days.
The upper Zambezi, upstream from Victoria Falls, provides a restful start or end to your itinerary, with beautiful accommodations on the banks of the Zambezi and, of course, the iconic Victoria Falls.
Good to Know
- Country: Zambia
- Visa Requirements: British and North American passport holders will require a visa to enter. This can be easily purchased on arrival or prior to departure from your nearest embassy.
- Health: Anti-malaria pills are advised for your trip. No specific shots are required to enter. If combining with South Africa, a Yellow Fever certificate is necessary. A visit to a travel health clinic is recommended to ensure standard travel vaccinations are up to date.
- Languages Spoken: Numerous, but English is widely spoken.
- Currency Used: Zambian Kwacha & USD
- Time Zone: GMT +2
Useful Information
How to Get Around
Due to the remoteness of many areas, most travelers fly in scheduled planes or light aircraft. Self-driving is not recommended.
How to Get There
Most travelers fly into Johannesburg (a major African hub) and then onto Lusaka or Livingstone in Zambia. Regular direct international flights are available to South Africa from London Heathrow and major US hubs like Atlanta and New York. Some international airlines also fly directly into Lusaka.
Is It for You?
Zambia suits adventurous types and those seeking a more authentic safari experience. It is ideal for honeymooners, older families, and couples.
When is Best?
Zambia’s safari camps are generally open from mid-April to mid-November, when temperatures are cooler and there’s less rain. Victoria Falls is spectacular year-round, with the best viewing from April to June when there’s a lot of water. White-water rafting is best from August to December when the water is at its lowest.
What Should I Combine It With?
Zambia offers excellent safari and river experiences on its own. However, if extending your safari, it pairs well with South Africa for a broader experience. Victoria Falls is also a great addition to your itinerary.
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