Zambia
The four main attractions to Zambia are the parks of the legendary South Luangwa, the lesser known and more remote North Luangwa, the Lower Zambezi National Park and of course, the Victoria Falls. All of them bringing varying elements to your safari which either complement each other or can be used as one-off safari experiences.
Why we love it
With Zambia being the original birthplace of the walking safaris dating back to the 1960’s, it continues to be one of the main draw cards in the Luangwa Parks. The Lower Zambezi National Park bordering the Zambezi River, also blends in more water-based activities such as boating and canoe safaris as well as some of the best tiger fishing. All in all, combined this allows for an itinerary that is as varied as it is exciting.
Favouring rustic luxury over bush glamour, Zambia’s charm comes in the simple, yet high quality bush camps. Often with only 4 rooms, either tented or made from thatch and reed materials, they are strung out in remote settings offering a very intimate experience. For the active person looking for a sense of adventure, Zambia excels in walking mobile safaris, where you stay in walk-in luxury tents, moving every day or so.
The upper Zambezi, upstream from Victoria Falls, provides a restful start or finish to your itinerary, with some beautiful accommodation on the banks of the Zambezi, and of course taking in the mother of all waterfalls.
Good to know
Country
Zambia
Visa requirements
British and North American passport holders will require a visa to enter. This can easily be purchased on arrival or prior to departure from your nearest embassy.
Health
You are advised to take anti-malaria pills for your trip. No specific shots are required to enter. If combining with South Africa, then you will need to take your Yellow Fever certificate. We do recommend you visit a travel health clinic prior to departure to make sure your standard travel vaccinations are up to date.
Languages spoken
Numerous, but English is widely spoken everywhere.
Curency used
Zambian kwacha & USD
Time Zone
2 hrs +GMT
Useful Information
How to get around
Due to the remoteness of many of the areas, most travellers fly in scheduled planes or light small aircrafts. We do not recommend self-driving.
How to get there
You will most likely fly into Johannesburg (one of Africa’s major hubs) and then onto Lusaka or Livingstone, Zambia. There are regular direct international flights to South Africa from London Heathrow and some of the major US hubs, such as Atlanta and New York. Alternatively, some international airlines fly into Lusaka.
Is it for you?
Zambia suits adventurous types and those looking for a more authentic safari experience. It is ideal for honeymooners, older families, couples.
When is best?
Zambia tends to be quite seasonal with the majority of camps open from mid-April – mid November, when the temperatures are cooler and less chance of rain. However, there are a few camps open throughout the year. Victoria Falls is year-round, but they are at their most spectacular April/May/June when there is a lot of water going over the falls. White water rafting is from August – December when the water is at its lowest.
What should I combine it with?
Zambia tends to be quite seasonal with the majority of camps open from mid-April – mid November, when the temperatures are cooler and less chance of rain. However, there are a few camps open throughout the year. Victoria Falls is year-round, but they are at their most spectacular April/May/June when there is a lot of water going over the falls. White water rafting is from August – December when the water is at its lowest.
