Zambia

A trip to Zambia immerses you in a land rich with protected natural landscapes, expansive lakes, lush wetlands, and breathtaking waterfalls. The country is often viewed as a treasure, with its name reflecting the beauty of the Zambezi River, which translates to “God’s friend.”

 

Zambia's stunning scenery is unparalleled in Africa, highlighted by the iconic Victoria Falls, referred to by locals as “Mosi-oa-Tunya” or “The Smoke that Thunders.” Additionally, the majestic Zambezi River and the vast wildlife reserves of Luangwa and Kafue National Parks further enhance its allure.

​

Renowned as the premier destination for walking safaris in Africa, Zambia offers a unique way to experience the wilderness. Venturing into the bush on foot provides an exhilarating alternative to traditional game viewing from a vehicle, allowing for a more intimate encounter with the wildlife.

​

Zambia is increasingly becoming a favored choice among discerning travelers, with its lodges and camps focusing on delivering a highly personalized experience. This attention to detail ensures that holidays in Zambia are not only luxurious but also feature some of the finest accommodations available on the continent.

 

 

Things to do​​​​

​

On a holiday in Zambia, travelers have the opportunity to witness breathtaking attractions, notably the renowned Victoria Falls, which straddles the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. The first European to behold this magnificent waterfall was David Livingstone, who famously remarked that the views were so beautiful they must have been seen by angels, subsequently naming the falls in honor of Queen Victoria. This remarkable natural wonder is celebrated as one of Zambia's most extraordinary sights and remains a key draw for tourists.

​

While guided tours of the Falls are a must-do during any visit to Zambia, there is an abundance of activities to engage in, with many visitors opting for a stay of two to three nights to fully immerse themselves in the experience. Adventurous souls can partake in canoeing excursions, fishing trips, and scenic flights over the Falls, while those seeking a more leisurely experience can enjoy lunch or sunset cruises on the majestic Zambezi River. For thrill-seekers, the opportunity to swim in "The Devil's Pool," located at the precipice of the Falls, offers breathtaking views of the gorge below, provided water levels permit. Regardless of how visitors choose to spend their time, they can expect high-quality accommodations, whether at the Royal Livingstone by Anantara or Avani Victoria Falls Resort, both of which offer direct access to the Falls, or further upstream at establishments like Tongabezi Lodge. Unique lodging options, such as Sindabezi Island Camp, situated on a small island in the river, also provide memorable experiences.

​

-South Luangwa National Park

​

Any trip to Zambia should certainly include a visit to South Luangwa National Park. Whether you are a seasoned safari enthusiast or a newcomer, the grandeur of this park is sure to impress, as it is rapidly gaining recognition as a premier destination for game viewing in Southern Africa. Named after the Luangwa River, which forms the park's eastern boundary, this waterway sustains the local wildlife throughout the year and offers stunning riverfront settings for many lodges.

​

Once a favored hunting ground for big game hunters, South Luangwa now provides reliable opportunities to observe iconic species such as lions, elusive leopards, and the stunning yet endangered African wild dog. Visitors can also expect to see large herds of elephants, zebras, and giraffes. In addition to the 60 mammal species, the park is a haven for birdwatchers, boasting over 400 bird species, including vibrant colonies of southern carmine bee-eaters. This region was the birthplace of walking safaris, pioneered by former hunter Norman Carr, who aimed to showcase wildlife in its natural habitat.

Today, the area is home to some of Africa's most skilled guides, ensuring that every walking safari is accompanied by both a knowledgeable guide and an armed scout. Game drives are a staple of any visit, and seasonal boat trips along the Luangwa River add another layer of adventure.

 

The South Luangwa area also offers a diverse range of accommodations, catering to all types of visitors while maintaining an uncrowded atmosphere. For those seeking luxury, Chinzombo is a superb option, complemented by charming rustic bushcamps like Luwi and Kakuli. Families desiring privacy will find Robin's House and Luangwa Safari House particularly appealing, while Flatdogs provides a welcoming environment for families looking to connect with others during their safari experiences.

​

-Lower Zambezi National Park​

Zambia holidays frequently feature the Lower Zambezi National Park, which shares borders with Zimbabwe and Mozambique and stretches along the lower Zambezi River. The continuous flow of water from the Zambezi contributes to the park's lush environment, making it one of Africa's most wildlife-abundant areas. Visitors have the opportunity to observe a variety of animals through specialized game viewing vehicles, guided walks, motorboat excursions, or serene canoe trips along the calm waters. Accommodation options in the park are diverse, including the highly regarded Sausage Tree Camp and its sister establishment, Potato Bush. For those seeking a more upscale experience, Anabezi Camp offers stylish amenities, while families may prefer the charming Chongwe River House, which combines a playful, Flintstones-inspired design with luxury. Additionally, Old Mondoro provides a rustic and intimate atmosphere for those desiring a more authentic experience.

​

Kafue National Park

Holidays in Zambia are increasingly highlighting the allure of Kafue National Park. Spanning an impressive 5.5 million acres, Kafue ranks among Africa's largest national parks, and its remote setting ensures a low volume of visitors, making it an ideal destination for an authentic, unspoiled safari experience, particularly from its exquisite luxury lodges. Access to Kafue is somewhat restricted during the rainy season, leading many lodges to operate only from June to October, when the dry season prevails. The park is nourished by three rivers—the Lunga, Lufupa, and Kafue—which create seasonal flooding on the Northern Busanga Plains, offering remarkable opportunities for game viewing, while the surrounding riverine forests provide a habitat for diverse wildlife. Birdwatchers will find delight in the Busanga Swamps located in the park's northwest, where a vast wetland supports an impressive array of bird species.

​

The park boasts a notably high lion population, yet visitors can also encounter the endangered wild dog and the graceful cheetah in areas where lions are absent. The plains are home to large herds of puku, lechwe, and buffalo, alongside the rare and stunning roan antelope, oribi, and Lichtenstein's hartebeest. Kafue is a veritable haven for bird enthusiasts, with its wetlands hosting a wide variety of species, including rare finds like Ross's turaco and the locust finch. For those who cherish the essence of safari, Kafue offers an unparalleled experience, with few lodges scattered across a vast expanse of exceptional game viewing, including rare sightings not commonly found elsewhere in Africa. Some camps even provide the unique opportunity to take a hot air balloon ride over the reserve, offering a fresh perspective on the landscapes typically explored by vehicle.

​

One of the true advantages of a holiday in Zambia is its excellent connectivity to the surrounding region. With daily flights from Johannesburg, it can be seamlessly combined with a trip to South Africa, while convenient road and boat transfers facilitate easy access to Botswana.