Zambia is an enchanting safari destination. This Southern African country embodies the finest qualities of its more renowned neighbors, such as Kenya, Tanzania, and South Africa. Every kind of explorer will find something to delight them, whether they are embarking on their first journey, celebrating love, or are experienced adventurers and families seeking a memorable getaway.

Brimming with breathtaking natural marvels, a rich variety of wildlife, powerful waterways, and expansive, wild landscapes, Zambia presents a complete safari adventure in the untamed heart of Africa. This stunning country is the origin of the iconic African walking safari, and it boasts the magnificent Victoria Falls and the majestic Zambezi River. This captivating destination offers endless activities and sights, which is why we’ve created the ultimate safari guide for Zambia.

Reasons to Visit Zambia

Some people view Zambia as one of Africa’s hidden gems. This hidden safari treasure may not boast the fame of Kenya, Tanzania, or South Africa, but those in the know truly appreciate the incredible experiences this game-rich, untouched paradise has to offer.

The allure of Zambia as a safari destination stems from the abundance of captivating tourist attractions the country presents. Stunning vistas of cascading waterfalls, rivers mirroring the breathtaking sunrise, and wild landscapes teeming with diverse wildlife are a regular sight across Zambia. Zambia is brimming with exciting activities waiting to be explored. From the limitless excitement of activities that await in Victoria Falls and the thrilling water-based experiences on the Zambezi River to the heart-pounding walking safaris in one of the most remarkable wildlife sanctuaries in the world, South Luangwa National Park.

In addition to the remarkable wildlife and stunning landscapes, Zambia boasts some of the most exquisite safari lodgings. The golden era of safari might have had you braving the wilderness with only a canvas tent between you and the untamed beauty of Zambia, but today’s experience in this stunning Southern African country feels like a luxurious getaway in Europe. A Zambia safari presents an extraordinary blend of genuine wildlife encounters in untamed, secluded locations alongside exquisite lodges and camps that provide exceptional amenities, outstanding service, and all the modern comforts one could desire.

What awaits in Zambia?

Exciting Experiences in Africa’s Adventure Hub: Victoria Falls

Experience the thrill of a microlight flight soaring above the breathtaking Victoria Falls in Zambia.

Zambia is home to Africa’s largest waterfall, which it shares with its neighbor, Zimbabwe. This breathtaking natural wonder serves as a stunning border between the two nations. Locally referred to as Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning ‘Smoke that Thunders’, Victoria Falls draws around one million visitors each year to witness the breathtaking spectacle of water plunging into the powerful Zambezi River. This definitely deserves to be at the top of your list of destinations in Zambia.

On Zambia’s Victoria Falls side, you’ll experience breathtaking views of the waterfall up close, along with access to Devil’s Pool – a natural rock pool perched right at the edge of the waterfall, famous for offering an exhilarating swim during low-water season. Furthermore, you can embark on a journey to Livingstone Island (when water levels allow), indulge in the luxury and comforts of the enchanting riverside lodges that line the Zambezi River, and immerse yourself in thrilling game viewing within Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park.

To enhance your journey, you can effortlessly cross the border from Zambia into Zimbabwe to immerse yourself in the thrilling activities and experiences that await on the other side of Victoria Falls. The Zimbabwean side is where you’ll discover all the thrilling experiences that have given Victoria Falls its reputation as “Africa’s Adventure Capital.” From white-water rafting and cruises on the Zambezi River to gorge swinging, bungee jumping, or ziplining from the Falls, there’s an exhilarating experience waiting for everyone.

The origin of the Walking Safari: South Luangwa National Park
Adventurers encounter an elephant while trekking through the stunning landscapes of South Luangwa National Park, Zambia.

Game drives through wildlife-rich regions are awe-inspiring, but there is one safari type that surpasses the traditional – the walking safari. Born in one of Zambia’s hidden gems, South Luangwa National Park, walking safaris provide an exhilarating way to immerse oneself in the African wilderness and encounter the remarkable wildlife that calls it home. Since the beginning of walking safaris in the region in the late sixties, South Luangwa continues to be the ultimate destination to immerse oneself in this incredible experience.

Transformative in its essence, walking safaris immerse you beyond the boundaries of a game vehicle, placing you directly in the heart of the action – allowing for intimate encounters with Zambia’s wildlife. Accompanied by a knowledgeable Game Ranger and trackers who are intimately familiar with the terrain, you’ll venture into the heart of big game territory on foot, experiencing the wonders of nature in an entirely new way.

The duration of your journey is entirely in your hands. It can range from a brief hour’s walk to several days, pausing to rest beneath the shimmering stars at secluded lodges or tented camps throughout the journey. Your journey will be filled with excitement and discovery, as you are guided by remarkable professionals who know the area intimately and bring decades of expertise to enhance your experience.

Exploring the Wonders of Kafue National Park: A Safari Adventure A safari group encounters a majestic lion during their game drive in Kafue National Park, Zambia.

Kafue National Park is Zambia’s largest conservation area and ranks as the second largest in the world. Spanning an impressive 22,400 square kilometres (8,649 square miles), Kafue is a remarkable treasure that provides outstanding opportunities for big game viewing, often with hardly another vehicle in sight.

Ideal for adventurers looking for a unique safari experience, visitors to this area can anticipate a selection of luxurious tented camps with stunning vistas of the expansive Busanga Plains below. A range of thrilling safari activities awaits, including game drives, night drives, motorboat safaris, guided walking safaris, and canoe trips, all offering excellent opportunities to encounter buffalo, wildebeest, cheetah, wild dog, spotted hyena, lion, puku antelope, leopard, and other captivating wildlife.

Exceptional Wildlife Encounters in the Pristine Wilderness: Lower Zambezi National Park
A majestic elephant encountered by adventurers on a canoe journey through the stunning Lower Zambezi National Park, Zambia.

Zambia’s most renowned safari destination, the Lower Zambezi National Park sits across from Zimbabwe’s Mana Pools National Park, with the majestic Zambezi River acting as the only barrier between them. Similar to its counterpart nearby, Lower Zambezi is a remarkably wildlife-abundant area that provides exceptional safari adventures in a wild, pristine environment.

During your visit, immerse yourself in exhilarating day and night game drives, guided nature walks, river cruises, and fishing expeditions. Be on the lookout for the diverse wildlife that calls this area home, such as crocodiles, hippos, elephants, buffalo, leopards, lions, wild dogs, and spotted hyenas.

Your experience here will be elevated by the breathtaking, cozy lodges, tented camps, and exclusive villas that sit perfectly along the water’s edge, offering you all the luxury and comfort you desire.

Experience the breathtaking spectacle of Africa’s second-largest wildebeest migration at Liuwa Plain National Park, where safari enthusiasts gather to witness this incredible natural event in Zambia.

Liuwa Plain National Park stands as one of the globe’s most ancient conservation areas, boasting a rich history that traces back to the 19th century. Today, it remains a remarkable testament to the harmony between people and wildlife, showcasing the benefits of sharing a vibrant landscape.

Liuwa Plain is not only a haven for conservation but also showcases the continent’s second-largest wildebeest migration and is famous for its impressive lion population. It’s like the Masai Mara, but with a more intimate experience, featuring fewer animals and even fewer people – creating an ideal safari spot for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure.