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Zambia
Zambia
Zambia
Zambia
Zambia
Zambia
Zambia
Zambia

Zambia is well known for excellent guiding and top-class walking safaris.

...while some bushcamps in the South Luangwa exclusively offer walking safaris.

There's always plenty of time in between activities to relax with a drink...

...and watch the local wildlife!

From the smaller animals...

...to the biggest - there's a huge amount of game to be viewed in the different parks.

...you can find more luxurious lodges here as well...

...and every camp goes the extra mile to provide special touches to your safari.

Zambia

Zambia Safaris

Like the butterfly that it resembles, Zambia is by turns flamboyant and shy – its showy attractions overshadowing more hidden gems.

Zambia

While the splendour of the Zambezi plunging over the Victoria Falls draws visitors by the thousand, lesser-known rivers tumble over rocky outcrops or cascade down deep fissures in the Rift Valley to create their own natural beauty, far from the crowds.

Fanning out from the rivers comes the wildlife, protected within some of Africa’s top national parks. Firmly established are the Lower Zambezi and the South Luangwa, whose permanent water sources are a magnet for animals, especially towards the end of the dry season.

Yet wildlife is not confined to these parks. Consider the raw wilderness of the vast Kafue, the remote North Luangwa, or the truly off-grid Liuwa Plain, the ancient hunting grounds of the King of Barotseland.

Make your way to Kasanka for the annual bat migration, or to the Bangweulu Wetlands, whose papyrus swamps harbour the prehistoric-looking shoebill. The variety of wildlife is astonishing.

Thrills, too, come in many guises. Think walking safaris with some of the best guides in the world, soaring in a microlight over Livingstone’s “Flight of Angels”, or canoeing down the Zambezi, the waters teeming with hippos and crocodiles.

Then discover Shiwa Ng’andu, where rampant stone lions guard an English country house, complete with a royal lake. Or contemplate the simple stone cross marking the spot where David Livingstone’s heart is buried. Hidden gems indeed.

Zambia’s key safari areas

Top of the bill is South Luangwa National Park, which offers superb big-game safaris, day and night, plus some of Africa's best walking safaris. Explore from intimate, often privately-owned lodges with some of the best safari guides in the world.

Justifying double billing, the Lower Zambezi National Park sits beside the broad, languid Zambezi River. Come for boat trips, canoeing and great fishing, as well as game drives and walking safaris, all based at intimate safari camps fringing the riverbank.

Higher, cooler and less developed is Kafue National Park, home to species like cheetah that are rare elsewhere in Zambia. Worth including in any trip to this park is the highlight: Busanga Plains.

For a very adventurous element to a Zambian safari, consider the more remote North Luangwa National Park. Sought out by safari addicts, it has just a handful of tiny bushcamps that focus almost exclusively on walking safaris.


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South Luangwa

38 places to stay

Plentiful wildlife and excellent birding combine with walking safaris, night drives and a range of lodges to underpin Zambia’s flagship national park.

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Livingstone

13 places to stay

Named after the legendary explorer, Livingstone is a must – for the Victoria Falls, for adrenalin-fuelled fun, or for sheer self-indulgence

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Lower Zambezi

13 places to stay

A lifeline for wildlife, and an unbeatable backdrop for a safari, the majestic Zambezi River is the key to this exceptionally scenic park.

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Kafue

10 places to stay

Vast in size, diverse in landscape, varied in wildlife: the Kafue rewards those who are prepared to travel around.

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Northern Zambia

5 places to stay

Lakes and waterfalls, bats and shoebills, even a grand stately home: the rarely visited north is a world apart from the rest of Zambia.

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Lusaka area

5 places to stay

Overlooked by most visitors, Zambia’s capital is an intriguing blend of creature comforts and vibrant culture – as witnessed in its colourful markets.

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North Luangwa

2 places to stay

Wild, open, and firmly the domain of walking safaris, North Luangwa is a world away from its popular sibling to the south.

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Liuwa Plain

2 places to stay

Isolated, remote and wild, Liuwa attracts wildebeest and zebra in their thousands, an extraordinarily rich birdlife – and very, very few visitors.

Ten top safari holidays in Zambia

To give you a taste of the options, we have pulled together ten suggestions for the perfect holiday to Zambia.

Ranging from five to 11 days, they feature all-inclusive safari lodges, excellent guiding and the incredible diversity for which Zambia is renowned – from the big predators of the national parks to adrenalin-fuelled walking safaris to the added bonus of the Victoria Falls.

As all our trips are tailor-made, these are just ideas. Whatever your interests – whether it’s taking in the country’s highlights or marvelling at the extraordinary fruit-bat migration, paddling a canoe along the great Zambezi or seeking out the remote Liuwa Plain – take a look, then give us a call and let us help you create your perfect safari.


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Puku Safari

11 days • 3 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LIVINGSTONE AIRPORT

Discover South Luangwa’s prolific wildlife before exploring the wildly remote pans of Liuwa Plain National Park and relaxing in one of the Livingstone area’s most romantic and exclusive hideaways. A safari of luxury, style and impressive diversity.

US$13,200 - US$19,920 per person

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Perekani Walking Trail

10 days • 5 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT

Five smart but rustic bushcamps are the comfortable staging posts for this walking safari in South Luangwa. The route offers outstanding seclusion and rich wildlife with top-quality guiding throughout.

US$9,590 - US$12,210 per person

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Crawshay's Zebra Safari

10 days • 4 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT

This superb safari combines two of Zambia’s best national parks, the South Luangwa and the Lower Zambezi. The camps are small and high quality with excellent safari guides.

US$10,460 - US$13,820 per person

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Duiker Safari

10 days • 3 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT

Three luxurious bushcamps in stunning riverside locations, split between the South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi national parks, offer a wide variety of expert-guided safari activities in stunning game-rich environments.

US$10,960 - US$14,470 per person

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Hippo Safari

10 days • 4 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LIVINGSTONE AIRPORT

Combining excellent game with aspects of remoter safari in South Luangwa, as well as the cultural delights of Livingstone, this trip also makes use of long-stay discounts, making it an excellent-value and well-rounded adventure.

US$7,360 - US$8,780 per person

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Giraffe Safari

9 days • 3 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT

A safari to the remotest parts of Zambia’s Luangwa Valley. Perfect for experienced safari goers and first-time Africa adventurers. Explore with expert guides whilst staying at small bushcamps.

US$8,700 - US$10,430 per person

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Defassa Waterbuck Safari

9 days • 3 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT

Stay in three intimate, owner-run camps during this exploration of Kafue National Park. Remote locations, true wilderness and a range of activities make for a real adventure off the beaten track.

US$8,240 - US$9,360 per person

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Civet Safari

9 days • 4 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT

Combining three intimate bushcamps in the quieter south of the South Luangwa, this safari will appeal to those looking for an interesting mix of walking and vehicle safari.

US$7,480 - US$9,970 per person

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Purple Roller Safari

8 days • 2 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT

Explore the varied habitats and terrain of Kafue National Park with stays in two wonderfully remote bushcamps: sister camps that offer access to both the centre of the park and the wildlife-rich Busanga Plains.

US$8,790 - US$9,320 per person

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Greater Bushbaby Safari

8 days • 2 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT

The perfect safari for a family or group of friends during which to create everlasting memories. Visit Zambia’s two most productive wildlife parks staying in four-bedroom houses, designed in a unique and fun way.

US$9,400 - US$13,240 per person

Our travellers' 10 most recent Zambia safari reviews

We place considerable store on feedback from our travellers. Many of them kindly send us reviews of their trips and the places that they visit, and these in turn become an important part of the way we work.

They help us and our travellers to plan their trips; they're integral to keeping us bang up to date; and they're eagerly read by the lodges in Africa, who appreciate honest and constructive feedback that is guaranteed to be genuine.

All reviews of our Zambia holidays are published in full without us editing them. See all 1343 safaris reviews here, or click on a card below to read one of our most recent reviews in full.


99%
1343 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
1288
Good
51
Average
3
Poor
1
Terrible
0
G&E from Hudson

Arrived 4 Nov 2024, 14 nights

"My Nov 2024 trip"

"Trip of a lifetime! …" Read G&E’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Ms P. from 40

Arrived 29 Oct 2024, 15 nights

"My Oct 2024 trip"

"An overall great experience - camps, service, flight transfers and game viewing …" Read Ms P.’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

jonah from london

Arrived 20 Oct 2024, 8 nights

"My Oct 2024 trip"

"The wildlife was amazing …" Read jonah’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

h_sapir from Israel

Arrived 15 Oct 2024, 14 nights

"My Oct 2024 trip"

"The planning process was seamless. A pleasure from beginning to end. …" Read h_sapir’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr Rob from Canada

Arrived 19 Oct 2024, 7 nights

"My Oct 2024 trip"

"It was a great experience, very well organized …" Read Mr Rob’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Harriet from USA

Arrived 24 Jun 2024, 11 nights

"My Jun 2024 trip"

"thoughtfully planned....my special thanks to Maruska for sharing her knowledge …" Read Harriet’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr R. from Malmesbury

Arrived 9 Oct 2024, 13 nights

"My Oct 2024 trip"

"Expert Africa excelled themselves again …" Read Mr R.’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs P from norway

Arrived 10 Oct 2024, 5 nights

"My Oct 2024 trip"

"Expert Africa and Amanda have provided a great service, not to be faulted. …" Read Mr & Mrs P’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

U. from Luxembourg

Arrived 16 Sep 2024, 13 nights

"My Sep 2024 trip"

"Excellent guides and great sightings. Everything worked flawlessly. …" Read U.’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs J from Chepstow

Arrived 4 Sep 2024, 14 nights

"Kafue and South Luangwa Sep 2024 "

"A fantastic trip... the wildlife viewing and standard of guiding was superb …" Read Mr & Mrs J’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

See all Zambia reviews

Our travellers' wildlife sightings in Zambia

We suggest to our travellers that they keep a record of their sightings of key species, including the big cats, wild dog, buffalo, elephant, giraffe, hippo, hyena, zebra and various antelope.

Many of them find this an enjoyable part of their trip, and are happy to share their information with us after their safari adventure.

In turn, their feedback helps us to build an unparalleled picture of when and where Zambia’s key wildlife species are to be found: citizen science in action. Read how this survey works. Analysing this information enables us to present a unique picture of the likely chance of sighting these key animal species on your Zambia safari. Click on a species to find out more. For much more detail, see our interactive map showing the best locations for wildlife species in Zambia.


Hippo

97% success

Elephant

95% success

Giraffe

94% success

Zebra

89% success

Lion

86% success

Buffalo

84% success

Leopard

80% success

Spotted Hyena

78% success

Wildebeest

43% success

Wild dog

42% success

White Rhino

34% success

Eland

13% success

Sitatunga

12% success

Roan antelope

10% success

Sable antelope

7% success

Cheetah

7% success

Aardvark

3% success

Black Rhino

3% success

Pangolin

1% success

Where to find Zambia’s key wildlife species

Whenever our travellers to Zambia tell us of their wildlife sightings, it helps to improve our understanding of where and when you’re more likely to see the key animal species.

You’ll find the results of this research in many ways on our website – under the individual camps, on our dedicated wildlife pages, on our maps, and on our individual holiday pages.

So whether you’re in search of giraffe or wild dogs, or the elusive leopard is high on your wishlist, we can help. Take a look at our data-driven maps to find out the best places to seek them out amongst the abundant wildlife that roams Zambia’s national parks.

For a map of the best camps and lodges for sightings of an individual species, click on a card:


Lion

Lion

Panthera leo

Lions are at the top of the food chain and also most safari wish-lists, but with their numbers falling fast, any encounter with these majestic apex predators always feels like a privilege.

81% SUCCESS

3,496 sightings from 4,319 observations

Where to see lion in Zambia

Leopard

Leopard

Panthera pardus

The most numerous of Africa’s big cats, leopard occur across many habitats, from wild tracts to populated areas. Their grace and their elusive nature make them a unique safari drawcard.

47% SUCCESS

2,259 sightings from 4,800 observations

Where to see leopard in Zambia

Wild dog

Wild dog

Lycaon pictus

African wild dogs are among the continent’s most compelling animals. Much misunderstood, these rare, tie-dyed canids are amazingly efficient hunters with a fascinating social life.

32% SUCCESS

1,015 sightings from 3,161 observations

Where to see wild dog in Zambia

Cheetah

Cheetah

Acinonyx jubatus

The cheetah is the fastest land animal and the only cat that hunts by pure speed. Found largely in open grasslands, its slim, elegant form is today an increasingly rare sight.

33% SUCCESS

1,203 sightings from 3,645 observations

Where to see cheetah in Zambia

Buffalo

Buffalo

Syncerus caffer

One of the ‘Big Five’, buffalo earned a fearsome reputation in hunters’ tales. By contrast, big herds of these sociable bovids are placid, but mount formidable defences against predators.

83% SUCCESS

2,956 sightings from 3,549 observations

Where to see buffalo in Zambia

Eland

Eland

Taurotragus oryx

Africa’s largest antelope, eland are culturally important from prehistoric rock art to modern game farms. Though widespread, they are also shy so sightings are uncommon and often fleeting.

49% SUCCESS

1,672 sightings from 3,403 observations

Where to see eland in Zambia

Elephant

Elephant

Loxodonta africana

By far the biggest of the so-called Big Five – indeed, the largest land animal on the planet – the elephant shapes the very landscape it inhabits and is a defining presence on any safari.

91% SUCCESS

4,224 sightings from 4,640 observations

Where to see elephant in Zambia

Giraffe

Giraffe

Giraffa camelopardalis

The world’s tallest land mammal, giraffes are herbivores which have evolved many unique adaptations. Their iconic outlines tower above the bush in many of Africa’s wildlife areas.

86% SUCCESS

4,074 sightings from 4,743 observations

Where to see giraffe in Zambia

Hippo

Hippo

Hippopotamus amphibius

The territorial calls of the hippo create a signature soundtrack to Africa’s rivers & wetlands. Despite an endearing smile, this aquatic herbivore has a notoriously aggressive disposition.

89% SUCCESS

3,077 sightings from 3,439 observations

Where to see hippo in Zambia

Roan antelope

Roan antelope

Hippotragus equinus

Africa’s second largest antelope and one of its most handsome, with a powerful build and distinctive markings, roan are wary of people, but renowned for their bravery against predators.

25% SUCCESS

586 sightings from 2,354 observations

Where to see roan antelope in Zambia

Sable antelope

Sable antelope

Hippotragus niger

Perhaps Africa’s most beautiful antelope, sable are renowned for their combative nature, even holding off lions. Shy and restricted in range, sightings of sable are always special.

24% SUCCESS

560 sightings from 2,369 observations

Where to see sable antelope in Zambia

Spotted Hyena

Spotted Hyena

Crocuta crocuta

The spotted hyena may be thought of as ‘ugly’ and ‘cowardly’. In fact, this versatile and intelligent carnivore is one of Africa’s most fascinating and warrants attention on any safari.

55% SUCCESS

2,506 sightings from 4,573 observations

Where to see spotted hyena in Zambia

Wildebeest

Wildebeest

Connochaetes sp.

Superficially bovine in appearance, wildebeests are known for their spectacular migrations sometimes in huge numbers. These resilient animals are some of Africa’s most successful herbivores.

67% SUCCESS

2,850 sightings from 4,236 observations

Where to see wildebeest in Zambia

Zebra

Zebra

Equus sp.

The zebra is a quintessential African animal: the horse in stripy pyjamas at the end of every child’s A–Z. There are three species, of which the plains zebra is much the most common.

84% SUCCESS

4,437 sightings from 5,276 observations

Where to see zebra in Zambia

Aardvark

Aardvark

Orycteropus afer

The aardvark is one of Africa’s most bizarre and enigmatic animals. A shy, nocturnal termite-eater, signs of its presence may be scattered about the bush whilst sightings remain elusive.

2% SUCCESS

81 sightings from 3,794 observations

Where to see aardvark in Zambia

Pangolin

Pangolin

Smutsia sp.

Pangolins appear to be more pine cone than animal in their unique armoury of scales. These nocturnal, ant-eating oddities are not only highly elusive but also increasingly rare.

2% SUCCESS

65 sightings from 3,833 observations

Where to see pangolin in Zambia

Black Rhino

Black Rhino

Diceros bicornis

The black rhino is the smaller and rarer of Africa’s two rhino species but has the more fearsome reputation. Shy and heavily persecuted, it tends to stick to cover.

30% SUCCESS

715 sightings from 2,354 observations

Where to see black rhino in Zambia

White Rhino

White Rhino

Ceratotherium simum

The white rhino is the largest and most numerous of the world’s five rhinoceros species. They are larger, easier to see and generally more approachable than the black rhino.

43% SUCCESS

576 sightings from 1,340 observations

Where to see white rhino in Zambia

Sitatunga

Sitatunga

Tragelaphus spekii

The sitatunga is the most aquatic of Africa’s antelopes and specially adapted to its swampy habitats. Though widespread across Africa, only a handful of places offer reliable sightings.

19% SUCCESS

72 sightings from 380 observations

Where to see sitatunga in Zambia

When to go on a Zambia safari holiday

Most visitors to Zambia come between June and October, when the land is drying out after the rains and animals are seeking out water.

With days becoming hotter, and relatively cool nights, this is the most expensive time of year for a safari, and the only time for a walking safari at one of the small walking bushcamps.

November, April and May, the so-called “shoulder” season months when the weather is less settled, are quieter in terms of both visitors and wildlife, and costs are generally more moderate.

At the other end of the scale is the rainy or “emerald” season, broadly in December, January and February, when rates at camps that remain open are usually lower. At the peak of bird migration season, and with clear light, this can be an ideal time for birders and photographers.

Read more about Zambia’s weather and climate here.


Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Zambia in January

At the peak of Zambia’s rainy season, you can expect heavy rainfall for a few hours most days, with sunny spells in between. Temperatures remain high, reaching over 30ºC, with high humidity. The rainfall is yet to make a significant difference to the Victoria Falls, and the flow of water here remains low. The landscapes are green and lush and the air crystal clear, but with the abundance of water the wildlife disperses, and the thick bush can restrict sightings. It severely limits walking safaris too. Migrant birds boost the species count at this time.

With seasonal rivers in flood and dirt roads and airstrips unusable, many camps in Zambia become inaccessible, and close. Only a few lodges in the central Kafue and the South Luangwa remain open. Few people visit in January, so the parks are incredibly quiet and the camps charge their lowest rates.

  • Peak of rainy season: hot & humid, with rain for a few hours most days
  • Majority of camps closed throughout the month
  • Bush incredibly green & lush, with clear air – great for photography
  • Big game dispersed & thick bush makes sightings difficult
  • Very few visitors: the cheapest time to visit

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in January

Zambia in February

February remains in the heart of the rainy season, with dramatic thunderstorms delivering a few hours of rain most days, interspersed with clear sunny skies. There is still an abundance of water in the environment, dispersing game and closing camps. With the thick bush, game viewing is limited and walking safaris restricted, but the swollen rivers allow some activities that would be unavailable in the dry season, such as boat trips on the Luangwa River.

After a couple of months of rain, water will once more be making its way to the Zambezi River, and the flow of water over the Victoria Falls will start to pick up.
Visitor numbers and costs at the few open camps remain low.

  • Peak of rainy season: hot & humid with rain for a few hours most days
  • Most camps closed throughout the month
  • Bush lush & green: good for photography but poor for game viewing
  • Very few visitors, & the cheapest time to visit
  • Water levels at Victoria Falls still low, but starting to pick up

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in February

Zambia in March

March is the last month of the rainy season in Zambia, and there are still heavy downpours most days. Water levels are at their highest making it difficult to get around the country. Temperatures still reach over 30ºC most days, too, with the rain causing high levels of humidity.

Many camps remain closed, and the thick bush limits game viewing and walking safaris. However, many animals are raising young at this time of year, with predators taking advantage of the easy prey, so sightings can be incredible, if sporadic. Wild dogs in the South Luangwa are particularly active at this time of year. With clear air and increasingly frequent blue skies as a backdrop, photography can be spectacular. The birding remains excellent as thousands of birds prepare for their winter migration.

  • Peak of rainy season, hot & humid, with rain for a few hours most days
  • Majority of camps closed throughout the month
  • Bush remains green & lush: good for photography but poor game viewing
  • High abundance of animals with young
  • Very few visitors, & the cheapest time to visit

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in March

Zambia in April

As the rains change from intense downpours to lighter and sporadic showers, April is very much a transitionary period in Zambia. The landscape remains exceptionally green and lush, with sparse viewing of larger wildlife.

Although camps start to reopen in April, most remain closed, and others that were open at the start of the year may shut to prepare for the coming dry season. This is the first month of the year when it’s possible to visit the Lower Zambezi.

The Zambezi River will be at its highest level with the Victoria Falls in full flow, but with huge amounts of spray kicked up views of the waterfall are often obscured.

  • Tail end of the rainy season; hot & humid with light rain most days
  • Some camps reopen; possible to visit the Lower Zambezi
  • Bush still green & lush: good for photography; poor for game viewing
  • Victoria Falls in full flow but with poor views
  • Very few visitors, & the cheapest time to visit

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in April

Zambia in May

May is typically the first month of the dry season. While there is the chance of an odd shower, the majority of days are clear and sunny. As winter approaches, temperatures start to drop, with most days reaching highs of around 26ºC.

As the landscape dries out, access to the parks improves, and all but the most remote bushcamps reopen. After five months of rain there is still a lot of standing water, but despite the thick bush May marks a distinct improvement in game viewing, and clear air is a continuing bonus for photographers.

The end of the month can be a popular time for visitors, taking advantage of typically good weather, improved game viewing, and the last of the low-season rates offered by the camps.

  • Start of the dry season in a typical year, with mostly clear & sunny
  • Majority of camps open
  • Bush still green & lush, with clear air for photographers
  • Game viewing starts to improve
  • Last month of low rates at the camps

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in May

Zambia in June

Zambia sees virtually no rainfall in June, with a strong chance of sunny days throughout. The humidity drops dramatically and, as winter approaches, temperatures reduce, falling to around 10ºC at night but still warming to 25ºC during the day.

The landscape remains lush but the bush starts to die back significantly, improving visibility for game viewing and walking safaris. All the camps in the South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi are open by the start of June. While some have a ‘shoulder season’, others start charging their highest rates.

The water coming over the Victoria Falls starts to recede, reducing the mist and spray kicked up, providing better views of the waterfall itself.

  • Reliably sunny days, but dropping temperatures, especially at night.
  • All camps in the South Luangwa, southern Kafue & Lower Zambezi open
  • Wildlife viewing continuing to improve
  • Increased visibility & cool weather perfect for walking safaris.
  • Viewing of the Victoria Falls at its best

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in June

Zambia in July

As the dry season continues, vegetation and long grasses have mostly died back and water starts to become scarce. Wildlife starts to cluster around the major sources of water and the game viewing approaches its best.

July is the first month of winter, and while daytime temperatures are in the 20s Celsius, temperatures at night can drop to single digits. Early morning and late evening drives in open vehicles are particularly cold, and blankets and hot water bottles are often provided.

Visitor numbers increase significantly and space at popular/small camps can get tight. Nearly all properties are now charging their highest rates. Even floodwaters on northern Kafue’s Busanga Plains have now receded, and all camps in Zambia are open.

  • Warm, dry days; cold, crisp nights
  • Significantly improved game viewing
  • Walking safaris are unrestricted by vegetation, with good temperatures
  • Approaching peak season, so significant increase in costs
  • Northern Kafue now accessible

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in July

Zambia in August

By August, the vegetation has died back and wildlife is now congregating around the remaining water sources, providing excellent game viewing. With virtually no chance of rain you are almost guaranteed sunny days, although dust and smoke in the air means a visible haze starts to appear on the horizon.

Temperatures can drop below 5ºC at night but climb to the 20s Celsius during the day. Jackets and gloves are recommended for morning and evening drives. This is one of the most popular – and most expensive – months to travel. European school holidays have little impact on travel within Zambia, but they do increase international flight costs, and all camps are charging their highest rates.

  • Very dry with warm days but cold nights
  • Excellent wildlife viewing, as animals congregate around water holes.
  • Haze developing on the horizon, potentially affecting photographs
  • Cool temperatures & clear sightlines: ideal for walking safaris
  • Peak season: camps & flights at their most expensive

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in August

Zambia in September

September is the most popular, and arguably the best, time of year to travel. Rain is almost unheard of so humidity is low, and temperatures are starting to climb. Morning drives are more comfortable, with daytime temperatures normally in the low 30s Celsius.

Water is scarce, so wildlife clusters around the few remaining sources. Game viewing is very nearly at its best, with a good chance of seeing interactions between species. Camps are charging their highest rates and are at their busiest, with popular camps often fully booked more than a year in advance.

A significant haze sometimes appears on the horizon, impacting on landscape views and affecting photography. Depending on the rainfall in the wet season, the Victoria Falls can start looking dry, with more cliff face than waterfall on show.

  • Dry hot days with clear skies, & warm nights
  • One of the best months for wildlife viewing
  • Dust & smoke creates a haze over the landscape
  • Peak season: camps are expensive & often full
  • Victoria Falls starting to look dry

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in September

Zambia in October

As the dry season peaks, the landscape in October is brown and barren, with little ground-level vegetation, though the promise of rain may bring the occasional shower. Temperatures can be uncomfortably hot, reaching over 40ºC in the daytime and rarely dropping below 20ºC at night. This is particularly challenging on walking safaris and in camps without air conditioning.

A thick haze on the horizon sometimes turns photographic backgrounds grey-brown rather than sky-blue. The lack of water sees hippos and crocodiles cram themselves into the few remaining shallow rivers, with other wildlife carefully skirting around them in order to drink. Game viewing is at its absolute best, and you’re most likely to see hunts in October.

On the Zambian side, stretches of the Victoria Falls become a dry cliff face.

  • The best month for wildlife viewing
  • Very hot both night & day, with little chance of rain
  • Air can be very hazy with dust & smoke, so not great for photography
  • Victoria Falls largely dry on Zambian side
  • Camps less busy & some start to drop their rates

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in October

Zambia in November

November typically marks the end of the dry season. Although the timing of the rains is always uncertain, temperatures remain reliably high and the humidity builds as the rains approach.

While you may avoid the rains in the first week of November, it’s not unusual to see some spectacularly heavy thunderstorms, followed by an explosion of green growth. Wildlife disperses rapidly after the rains, no longer restricted to limited waterholes closely monitored by predators. However, Kasanka’s bat migration is at its peak, and wildebeest gather on Liuwa Plains.

Many remote camps close, and those that remain open significantly drop their rates. The initial rains have little impact on the Victoria Falls, but do significantly reduce the atmospheric haze.

  • Typically the start of the wet season; very hot and humid
  • Increased chance of heavy rain as the month progresses
  • Greatly diminished game viewing once the rains arrive
  • Bat migration in Kasanka, and wildebeest migration in Liuwa
  • Camp rates lower, & visitor numbers reduced

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in November

Zambia in December

December is typically the first month in Zambia’s rainy season, with heavy thunderstorms most days interspersed by sunny spells. Temperatures start to fall, but still reach over 30ºC in the daytime, with high levels of humidity.

As the rainfall increases it brings plentiful water into the landscape, encouraging the growth of thick green vegetation. Wildlife remains in the national parks and sightings are possible, but overall game viewing is poor. Access to the parks becomes problematic and all but a handful of camps around the entrance to the South Luangwa and the centre of Kafue national parks close. Those that do remain open charge their lowest rates and are very quiet.

The rain removes any smoke and dust from the air, returning the sky to a dazzling blue that is great for photographers.

  • Start of rainy season, with hot, humid & wet days
  • Poor game viewing as wildlife disperses & bush thickens
  • Majority of camps close; others charge their lowest rates
  • Landscape green with blue skies; photographic opportunities improve
  • Victoria Falls still dry

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in December

Country guide

A guide to visiting Zambia

For many travellers, Zambia is known primarily for the grandeur of the Victoria Falls, yet a safari in Zambia is no mere add on.

Threaded with permanent rivers that prove a magnet for animals, Zambia is home to an enticing network of national parks, often less visited than their counterparts in Botswana, Tanzania or Kenya, and some considerably wilder.

While traditional wildlife safaris with great guiding are the mainstay of safari holidays in Zambia, the option of top-class walking safaris is an added bonus.

Night drives are a further draw, permitted in all of Zambia’s national parks, and affording the opportunity to see a broader range of animals, from the amusing porcupine to the normally elusive leopard. And creature comforts come courtesy of small safari lodges, many of them still owner-run and highly individual.


How to safari in Zambia

Most safaris to Zambia are tailormade, with visitors usually arriving by air at the nearest regional airport or airstrip, then continuing to their lodge of choice in an open 4WD vehicle, while enjoying a guided game drive.

Standards of guiding, service and food are almost universally high, whether you’re staying in a seemingly rudimentary bushcamp or in one of the more structured lodges. The difference is one of focus.

While all will offer the chance to sit and chat around a campfire, the more luxurious options offer increasing levels of sophistication, a greater variety of cuisine and extras that may range from swimming pools and gyms to hedonistic spas.

At the other end of the scale you’ll find small, intimate bushcamps where meals may be prepared over an open fire and the emphasis is on the adventure of walking safaris.

How to get around on a Zambia safari

The distances between Zambia's safari areas and national parks are huge and the country’s roads are often poor, so on virtually all of our trips you will fly between the parks in light aircraft. Most flights run to fixed schedules, although if you travel away from the main parks, then we'll often charter small planes.

When moving from one camp to another in the same national park, you’ll often be transferred by 4WD – which effectively becomes an extra game drive. In some specialist walking camps in the South Luangwa, you may even be able to walk between the camps.

What to expect from a Zambia safari lodge

Zambia’s safari lodges range from the seriously comfortable to the simplest of bushcamps. Some are quite small, with perhaps three or four guest rooms; large safari hotels are not the norm in Zambia. Many camps are still owner-run and are hosted by dedicated people with in-depth knowledge of the bush, thus considerably enhancing your safari experience.

Almost all safari camps have en-suite rooms or tents, most with flushing toilets and running water. The simplest may be constructed largely of reeds; others will be tented in concept, while in some you’ll find permanent structures of wood or stone, with glazed windows. Yet wherever you are, standards are generally very high – so even where mod cons are apparently lacking, you’ll still have hot water on call and exceptionally well-designed toilet facilities!

Why choose a walking safari in Zambia – and where

Walking safaris are not just about seeing wildlife, but also about understanding the ecosystem, tracking animals, and learning about the flora and fauna from experienced guides. The thrill of walking with an expert guide offers a way to connect with the African bush on a deeper level.

While most Zambian camps offer walking safaris, we at Expert Africa have our personal favourites, and we’re here to help you choose. For many of our travellers, the South Luangwa remains unrivalled.

That said, few Zambian national parks can compete with the North Luangwa for walking. The sprinkling of visitors that make it to this area are rewarded with a handful of small intimate bushcamps whose guides specialise in exploring this remote wilderness on foot.

But wherever you choose to go, be aware that exploring the wilderness on foot can be heart-stopping – and highly addictive!

Zambia in context: history, environment & people

When David Livingstone chanced upon the Victoria Falls in 1855, he brought the country that is now Zambia to the attention of the world, but it was the ambitions of Cecil Rhodes that led to the creation of a British colony: Northern Rhodesia. In its wake, this annexation brought taxation and hardship to the local people, drawn together from diverse cultural backgrounds. Many had little choice but to work in the mines, where conditions were by all accounts appalling. By independence in 1964, the new Zambia was crippled with debt, and despite the country’s considerable mineral wealth, poverty and lack of education are still major challenges for the government.

Geographically, Zambia is dominated by a high, undulating plateau, deeply incised by the great valleys of the Zambezi, Kafue, Luangwa and Luapula rivers, which in turn form the backbone of the country’s flagship national parks. While tourism in much of Zambia is still only in its infancy, these parks – and their international visitors – bring both employment and an income to the local people, and a solid reason for the conservation of wildlife.

Maps of Zambia: two styles

Zambia’s natural diversity is thrown into relief with different styles of maps. Zoom into the areas and then the lodges on our maps for some amazing views of what the country is really like.

At first glance, the country appears to be solidly green, a verdant land of trees and grasslands that supports a huge range of wildlife. Zoom in closer and you’ll understand why: the land is threaded with a network of rivers, some culminating in huge – occasionally manmade – lakes; others – like the Zambezi – broadening out as it snakes east, and forming the country’s southern border.

Click onto any of the markers, and follow the links in the bubbles until you find maps of these areas, with precise locations for the various safari camps and lodges.


Reference map
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Understanding more about travel in Zambia

Travelling to and around Zambia is a joy, especially with our team of specialists behind you, but it always helps to understand a little of what to expect.

Whether you’d like to know more about international and internal flights to and around Zambia, or need a quick fact-check on things such as currency and language, read on. Read, too, about Zambia’s attitude to LGBT travellers, and check out our advice on the sometimes complex subject of tipping.


Flights to Zambia

While we rarely arrange flights to Zambia for our travellers, as booking direct with the airlines is less expensive, we will organise a seamless itinerary that fits with your flight schedule.

From the UK, there are no longer any direct flights to Zambia, so the best options are to fly with Emirates, Qatar Airways or Ethiopian Airlines, all of which have connecting flights from London (and many mainland European cities) to Lusaka. Ethiopian Airlines also operates a flight via Addis Ababa to Livingstone.

It is also possible to fly with British Airways via Johannesburg, connecting with an onward flight operated by their subsidiary, Airlink, to Lusaka.

Travellers from the USA can fly with United Airlines via Johannesburg, or with Emirates via Dubai.

For internal flights, Zambia’s domestic airline, Proflight, operates regular flights between the Zambian capital and the country’s safari destinations, including the South Luangwa.

Flights to Zambia

Zambia general information

Zambia’s currency is the Zambian kwacha (ZMW), but most safari camps and other tourist venues charge in US dollars, or UK pounds. Most will also accept credit cards, albeit at a surcharge, so if you’re heading on safari, you’re unlikely to need any kwacha.

The country's official language is English, which is spoken by most people. Beside this, there are more than 70 different dialects spoken in Zambia, with the most common being Bemba; Bemba is also used for administration and education.

Many travellers require a visa for Zambia, but at the time of writing (April 2024) most passport holders can obtain these on arrival, either free of charge or using UK pounds or US dollars cash.

Zambia general information

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) travel to Zambia

In the 30 years or so that we have been organising trips to Zambia, we have never heard of any problems experienced by our LGBT travellers due to their sexuality, and some have returned to the country several times.

We believe this reflrects the general culture in Zambia, where the majority of people are friendly and welcoming, and care little about a visitor’s gender or sexuality. In our experience, LGBT travel to Zambia has proved to be safe and uneventful.

However, we believe it’s important for our travellers to be aware of the current laws in the country, and the opinion of the general population, so do please check your government's latest travel advice before you go.

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) travel to Zambia

Tipping in Zambia

The most important thing to remember about tipping in Zambia, as in many other countries, is that it’s voluntary – and should depend on the standard of service.

While we would encourage our travellers to tip in recognition of good service, we’d ask you to bear in mind that excessive tips can throw out the balance of the local economy.

Deciding who to tip, and when, is as important as how much. Behind every successful safari is a dedicated team of staff who work hard to ensure that you enjoy your trip. It makes sense, then, to consider tipping them as well as your guide and waiter.

Usually we recommend tipping just once, at the end of your stay. Many lodges have a staff tip box, but you could also place tips in a labelled envelope or series of envelopes to prevent any misunderstanding.

Tipping in Zambia

Zambia safari holidays

In our experience, many Zambian areas remain fairly “wild”, and many of its camps are still firmly in the “authentic” bracket, making this exceptional country a truly rewarding choice for a safari holiday.

Zambia’s small safari bush camps – some still owner-run – are renowned for their warm hospitality and great walking safaris. In all the main national parks, you’ll also find some of Africa’s best safari guides, thanks to their exceptional standards of guide training.

North and South Luangwa, in particular, are renowned for top-class walking safaris, whilst the Lower Zambezi National Park offers superb boat trips on the Zambezi River. Add in the Victoria Falls, one of the seven natural wonders of the world, and you have the makings of an unrivalled safari.

Take a look through our selection of safari holiday suggestions below, then call us, so that one of our Zambian experts can help you to design your own personal trip.


Showing 1-12 of 18
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Duration
Cost
Most popular
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Scrub Hare Safari

7 days • 3 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT

Camps run by welcoming owners with a passion for their environment are rare, and Tafika is one of the best. Combine this with walking safaris at equally excellent bushcamps for the best of the South Luangwa.

US$6,290 - US$7,630 per person

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Perekani Walking Trail

10 days • 5 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT

Five smart but rustic bushcamps are the comfortable staging posts for this walking safari in South Luangwa. The route offers outstanding seclusion and rich wildlife with top-quality guiding throughout.

US$9,590 - US$12,210 per person

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Boehm's Zebra Safari

7 days • 2 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT

This safari combines two high-quality owner-run camps in a very productive region of the South Luangwa. The guiding is excellent and with its hides this safari is perfect for serious photographers.

US$7,130 - US$9,410 per person

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Hyena Safari

11 days • 4 locations
VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT TO LILONGWE AIRPORT

Mix relaxation and adventure on a safari combining the South Luangwa with Victoria Falls and the beaches of Lake Malawi. These three locations are among the most iconic in southern Africa.

US$8,630 - US$11,910 per person

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Hippo Safari

10 days • 4 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LIVINGSTONE AIRPORT

Combining excellent game with aspects of remoter safari in South Luangwa, as well as the cultural delights of Livingstone, this trip also makes use of long-stay discounts, making it an excellent-value and well-rounded adventure.

US$7,360 - US$8,780 per person

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Robin Pope Walking Safari

7 days • 3 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT

The definitive, original mobile walking safari; explore the remote north of the South Luangwa on foot while staying in a simple mobile camp that moves with the group.

US$6,500 - US$8,500 per person

Itinerary image

Crawshay's Zebra Safari

10 days • 4 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT

This superb safari combines two of Zambia’s best national parks, the South Luangwa and the Lower Zambezi. The camps are small and high quality with excellent safari guides.

US$10,460 - US$13,820 per person

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Giraffe Safari

9 days • 3 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT

A safari to the remotest parts of Zambia’s Luangwa Valley. Perfect for experienced safari goers and first-time Africa adventurers. Explore with expert guides whilst staying at small bushcamps.

US$8,700 - US$10,430 per person

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Slender Mongoose Safari

5 days • 2 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT

A detailed exploration of Lower Zambezi from two top-notch sister camps, each in a prime location in the national park. Expect a high level of care, first-class guiding and superb wildlife.

US$6,270 - US$8,400 per person

Itinerary image

Duiker Safari

10 days • 3 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT

Three luxurious bushcamps in stunning riverside locations, split between the South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi national parks, offer a wide variety of expert-guided safari activities in stunning game-rich environments.

US$10,960 - US$14,470 per person

Itinerary image

Vervet Monkey Safari

7 days • 2 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT

Explore the world-class wildlife of Zambia’s South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi national parks in considerable luxury, guided by experts from two sister camps renowned for their excellent level of care.

US$8,370 - US$10,990 per person

Itinerary image

Fruit Bat Safari

6 days • 2 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT

Offering a highly specialised experienced, this safari uses two simple bases for access to South Luangwa and Kasanka National Parks. Visit between October and December when you will witness the world’s largest mammalian migration of millions of fruit bats.

US$4,980 - US$6,080 per person

Showing 1-12 of 18
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Let us help you customise your trip

All of our holidays on this site are just ideas; none are fixed. All of our trips are tailor-made, so we'll always adapt them to suit you. Talk to an Expert and let us help you to work out your perfect trip.


Talk to an Expert

Call us now! We’ll match you with the Specialist in our team who is best suited to help you. Then together we can start planning your trip.

Set up your itinerary

Based on our experience and your ideas, your specialist will create a detailed, costed itinerary. We’ll refine it together, until we have a trip that you’re perfectly happy with.

Prepare for your trip

The same Specialist will make the seamless arrangements for your trip, send you detailed travel documents, and be available to answer any questions before you depart.

Travel with peace of mind

After you set off, you’ll be cared for by our partners in Africa, most of whom have worked with Expert Africa for decades. And if you ever need us urgently, we’re available 24/7.

When you return

We love to learn about your trip, and so will always be grateful if you’ve the time to give feedback to your Specialist when you return.

Where to stay in Zambia

Ask us for more details of what’s where, and what’s likely to suit you best!


Tafika

Tafika

One of the best camps in Zambia, Tafika is naturally built, combining excellent service and food with top guiding skills for a superb wildlife experience.


98% (340 reviews)
Nkwali

Nkwali

On the banks of the Luangwa River, with its own access to the national park, the intimate Nkwali is open year round.


96% (253 reviews)
Avani Victoria Falls

Avani Victoria Falls

Just a few minutes' walk from the Victoria Falls, with access for guests included, the Avani features good facilities in peaceful grounds at a modest price.


85% (234 reviews)
Kaingo Camp

Kaingo Camp

Small and owner-run, the riverside Kaingo occupies a a quiet but excellent game area, with a series of wildlife hides and a focus on photography.


97% (221 reviews)
Nsefu

Nsefu

One of the Luangwa's oldest camps, Nsefu is a great safari camp in a remote, beautiful and game-rich location with top-rate guiding.


98% (204 reviews)
Mwamba Bushcamp

Mwamba Bushcamp

Small, remote and owner-run, Mwamba offers first-class walking, 4WD safari drives and superb hides, with excellent guides and a real bush feel.


99% (160 reviews)
Tena Tena

Tena Tena

One of the Luangwa's best camps, in a beautiful, remote bush location, Tena Tena is very small, exceedingly well-run and has top-rate guiding.


95% (160 reviews)
Latitude 15

Latitude 15

Latitude 15 is a decidedly eclectic boutique hotel in Lusaka's suburbs, with a modern, Africa-chic style and an excellent restaurant.


93% (146 reviews)
Pioneer Camp

Pioneer Camp

Pioneer Camp, situated 14 kilometres from Lusaka's international airport is ideal for a night's stopover at the end of your trip.


78% (145 reviews)
Old Mondoro Bushcamp

Old Mondoro Bushcamp

For an intimate safari in the Lower Zambezi, with superb guiding, Old Mondoro is up there with the best.


99% (129 reviews)
Chikoko Tree Camp

Chikoko Tree Camp

Chikoko Tree Camp is an excellent small, rustic bushcamp that concentrates on walking safaris, and is run by a top-quality operation.


99% (126 reviews)
Chongwe River Camp

Chongwe River Camp

A blend of the stylish and traditional in a most picturesque site in the Zambezi Valley, Chongwe River Camp offers an excellent safari experience and real value for money.


96% (122 reviews)
Big Lagoon Camp

Big Lagoon Camp

Big Lagoon Camp is a great little rustic bushcamp built to high standards that focuses on excellent walking safaris, with the emphasis on top wildlife guides.


98% (101 reviews)
Chiawa Camp

Chiawa Camp

One of Zambia's top safari camps, Chiawa is family owned and run, offering superb service and a flexible approach from a location well inside the Lower Zambezi National Park.


98% (93 reviews)
Royal Livingstone Hotel

Royal Livingstone Hotel

Conveniently located just a short walk from the Zambia. side of the Victoria Falls, the colonial-style Royal Livingstone has beautiful grounds and small but quite luxurious rooms.


94% (89 reviews)
Luangwa River Camp

Luangwa River Camp

Luangwa River Lodge is a small and consciously stylish lodge in the Mfuwe area, overlooking the Luangwa River and the South Luangwa National Park beyond – an area renowned for great game.


96% (83 reviews)
Flatdogs Camp

Flatdogs Camp

A relatively big safari camp, Flatdogs offers value for money with great guiding and good food in a comfortable, relaxed setting.


98% (78 reviews)
Kapani Lodge

Kapani Lodge

Kapani Lodge is now the main office base for Norman Carr Safaris, one of the Luangwa's oldest safari operations.


95% (78 reviews)
Mchenja Bushcamp

Mchenja Bushcamp

Set in a shady ebony grove on the banks of the Luangwa, Mchenja is a smart tented bushcamp. It combines well with Kakuli and Nsolo – its sister camps with a focus on walking safaris.


98% (71 reviews)
Mwaleshi Camp

Mwaleshi Camp

Mwaleshi is a particularly remote and rustic bushcamp in North Luangwa National Park that concentrates purely on walking safaris. It's very small, but run by a top-quality operation – so come here for walking safaris run by super guides and an excellent wildlife experience.


99% (66 reviews)
Kakuli Bushcamp

Kakuli Bushcamp

Beside the Luangwa River, Kakuli is a comfortable tented bushcamp offering 4WD safaris and walking safaris – the best of which are camp-to-camp walks linking Kakuli with its nearby sister camps.


97% (66 reviews)
Tongabezi

Tongabezi

Secluded on the banks of the Zambezi, less than 20km from the Victoria Falls, Tongabezi is one of the most exclusive lodges in Zambia.


94% (65 reviews)
Waterberry Zambezi Lodge

Waterberry Lodge

Offering great value for money and within easy reach of the Victoria Falls, Waterberry is a small, family-friendly lodge on the banks of the Zambezi River.


98% (60 reviews)
Nsolo Bushcamp

Nsolo Bushcamp

Nsolo is a small, comfortable bushcamp overlooking one or two pools in the usually dry Luwi riverbed. It concentrates on walking safaris in an interesting and diverse area, led by a knowledgeable guide.


97% (55 reviews)
Islands of Siankaba

Islands of Siankaba

In a lovely location on the Zambezi upriver of the Victoria Falls, Islands of Siankaba provides a tranquil setting to relax at the start or end of a safari to Botswana or Zambia.


96% (54 reviews)
Kafunta River Lodge

Kafunta River Lodge

Kafunta is a laid-back, friendly and good-value lodge on the outskirts of South Luangwa National Park.


96% (45 reviews)
Sausage Tree Camp

Sausage Tree Camp

Sausage Tree is a high-quality safari camp offering a luxurious stay and excellent personal service deep inside Zambia's Lower Zambezi National Park.


98% (44 reviews)
Radisson Blu Hotel

Radisson Blu Hotel

Radisson Blu is a modern hotel with friendly staff, spacious rooms and good facilities just 20 minutes’ drive from Lusaka Airport.


84% (41 reviews)
Musekese Camp

Musekese Camp

Musekese is a small owner-run tented camp, offering great guiding and a high degree of personal service in a stunning wilderness area, with modest game.


95% (40 reviews)
Luwi Bushcamp

Luwi Bushcamp

In a remote part of the South Luangwa National Park, Luwi is a rustic bushcamp whose emphasis is on walking safaris with great guiding and a chance of seeing some rarely seen and elusive antelope.


93% (39 reviews)
Lion Camp

Lion Camp

Lion Camp is an established and comfortable camp with a swimming pool, located near to the game-rich Lion Plain in the northern part of South Luangwa National Park.


95% (30 reviews)
Robin Pope Safaris bush-camp

Robin Pope bush-camp

RPS bushcamping in South Luangwa National Park, Zambia


99% (30 reviews)
Shiwa Ng'andu

Shiwa Ng'andu

The Old Manor House at Shiwa Ng’andu is a fascinating cultural and historic stopover, either before, after or during a safari.


98% (26 reviews)
Robin Pope Safaris Mobile Safari Camp

Robin Pope mobile

RPS mobile safari camps are at the heart of their set-itinerary walking safaris in South Luangwa National Park, which start and finish at a permanent camp.


98% (25 reviews)
Puku Ridge

Puku Ridge

Puku Ridge is a luxurious designer camp set in a stunning location, high on a hill overlooking a floodplain within South Luangwa. Explore from here on 4WD safaris and walks.


96% (23 reviews)
Toka Leya Camp

Toka Leya Camp

The new Toka Leya Camp stands beside the Zambezi inside Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park – so wildlife often passes through. It's a comfortable tented camp which has great service and includes a range of activities.


89% (23 reviews)
Takwela Camp

Takwela Camp

Remote, wild and very small, Takwela Camp offers excellent guiding on both walking safaris and game drives in Zambia's North Luangwa National Park.


98% (22 reviews)
Stanley Safari Lodge

Stanley Safari Lodge

Stanley Safari Lodge has views of Victoria Falls spray from all the rooms, and is a convenient base for exploring the Zambezi River area.


96% (21 reviews)
Potato Bush Camp

Potato Bush Camp

Potato Bush is located right in the heart of the Lower Zambezi National Park, with privately guided activities taking you on game drives, walks, boat trips and canoeing.


100% (19 reviews)
Anabezi Luxury Tented Camp

Anabezi Luxury Camp

Anabezi Luxury Tented Camp offers a high degree of understated luxury in a very lovely, quiet part of the Lower Zambezi with outstanding wildlife.


98% (21 reviews)
Busanga Bushcamp

Busanga Bushcamp

Busanga Bushcamp is a small but comfortable tented bushcamp (max 8 guests) which makes a great base for a wildlife safari to the Busanga Plains.


93% (20 reviews)
Kapamba Bushcamp

Kapamba Bushcamp

In the remote far south of South Luangwa National Park, Kapamba is a small and very comfortable bushcamp offering good walks and game drives.


95% (20 reviews)
Mfuwe Lodge

Mfuwe Lodge

In a game-rich area close to the South Luangwa’s main Mfuwe Gate, Mfuwe Lodge is relatively large by park standards, but it’s stylish, modern and family friendly.


95% (19 reviews)
The River Club

The River Club

The River Club, near Zambia's town of Livingstone and the Victoria Falls, overlooks the Zambezi River.


93% (18 reviews)
Kuyenda Bushcamp

Kuyenda Bushcamp

Kuyenda Bushcamp is a classic bushcamp with particularly delightful hosts and offers top-class walking safaris in South Luangwa National Park.


99% (16 reviews)
KaingU Lodge

KaingU Lodge

KaingU Lodge, in the centre of the southern part of Zambia's vast Kafue National Park, is in a great location for exploring this section of the Kafue River


90% (16 reviews)
Sindabezi

Sindabezi

Sindabezi, near Zambia's town of Livingstone and the Victoria Falls, is an island in the middle of the Zambezi River


98% (16 reviews)
Lilayi Lodge

Lilayi Lodge

Lilayi is a boutique lodge on the outskirts of Luaska, located on its own game farm in a lovely rural setting.


94% (16 reviews)
Luangwa Safari House

Luangwa Safari House

Luangwa Safari House is a vast and very smart four-bedroom house specifically designed for families and small groups, and offering an exclusive and flexible safari experience.


100% (14 reviews)
Three Rivers Camp

Three Rivers Camp

In the remote far south of South Luangwa National Park, Three Rivers Lodge sits at the confluence of three of the valleys rivers.


95% (13 reviews)
Ciela Resort and Spa

Ciela Resort

Ciela Resort and Spa is a smart, luxurious hotel close to Lusaka’s International Airport, with substantial grounds, a golf course and several dining options.


89% (14 reviews)
Shumba Camp

Shumba Camp

Shumba is a high-spec camp built on a tree island in the magical Busanga Plains. It opens in May, when the birdlife is particularly amazing; as the dry season progresses, the game can become remarkable.


96% (14 reviews)
Chinzombo

Chinzombo

Opened in early June 2013, Chinzombo offers luxurious and stylish accommodation with very high levels of service and excellent guiding.


98% (13 reviews)
Bilimungwe Bushcamp

Bilimungwe Bushcamp

A smart bushcamp with four very spacious chalets, Bilimungwe offers interesting walking safaris in pretty riverine woodland, as well as day and night safari drives.


95% (13 reviews)
Island Bush Camp

Island Bush Camp

Island Bushcamp is a good-value, rustic, walking-only camp, in arguably one of the most remote parts of the South Luangwa, well away from all other camps.


100% (13 reviews)
Ntemwa Busanga Camp

Ntemwa Busanga Camp

Ntemwa Busanga Camp is a simple but comfortable camp on the southern tip of the Busanga Plains which combines well with its sister camp, Musekese.


98% (12 reviews)
Chindeni

Chindeni

Chindeni Bushcamp is a very modern and minimalist camp, which is a far cry from your traditional bushcamp and unlike most of the other camps in South Luangwa.


97% (12 reviews)
Kawaza Village

Kawaza Village

Kawaza Village – beside the South Luangwa National Park, offers guests the rare opportunity to appreciate local village life. Visit for a few hours or stay overnight.


95% (11 reviews)
Robin's House

Robin's House

With your own expert guide, private vehicle, chef and valet, the two-bedroom Robin's House offers an exclusive, flexible safari experience – and is open year round.


95% (11 reviews)
Wasa Lodge

Wasa Lodge

Wasa Lodge offers easy access to Kasanka National Park, best visited in November and December to see the millions of fruit bats that arrive in the area.


89% (11 reviews)
Amanzi

Amanzi

Opened in 2015, Amanzi is an intimate and rustic yet luxury camp in a very quiet area of the Lower Zambezi, with plenty of wildlife and good birding.


96% (10 reviews)
Shoebill Island Camp

Shoebill Island Camp

Shoebill Island Camp stands on the southern edge of the Bangweulu Wetlands. It's a remote spot, and a very simple camp - but if you want to see Shoebills then it is one of the best places in Africa.


90% (10 reviews)
Kutali Camp

Kutali Camp

Kutali Camp offers the opportunity to experience the wilderness of Zambia’s Lower Zambezi National Park, in this simple tented camp located on Kulefu Island.


95% (8 reviews)
Chongwe River House

Chongwe River House

Chongwe River House is a stylish four-bedroom house designed for the exclusive use of families and small groups, affording the ultimate in flexibility on safari.


100% (8 reviews)
David Livingstone Safari Lodge

David Livingstone Lodge

The four-star David Livingstone Safari Lodge is in a lovely spot on the edge of the Zambezi River in Zambia, close to the Victoria Falls.


86% (7 reviews)
Thorntree River Lodge

Thorntree River Lodge

Rebuilt in 2017, Thorntree River Lodge is one of the best riverside lodges in Livingstone, with a strong sense of the environment and straightforward access to the Falls.


100% (7 reviews)
Chisa Busanga Camp

Chisa Busanga

Opened in mid 2021, Chisa Busanga Camp is a beautifully designed, small, intimate and rustic camp.


97% (7 reviews)
Chamilandu Bushcamp

Chamilandu Bushcamp

A comfortable little bushcamp, Chamilandu has a picturesque setting by the Luangwa River, in an area with a range of habitats to explore on foot and by 4WD.


100% (6 reviews)
Kasaka River Lodge

Kasaka River Lodge

Kasaka River Lodge is a relatively simple, family-friendly camp. It's outside the Lower Zambezi National Park and, with a recent change of ownership for the better, it offers a great-value safari destination.


93% (6 reviews)
Mwamba Camp-out

Mwamba Camp-out

The Mwamba-Camp Out allows you to have an incredibly adventurous night in the bush, sleeping under mosquito nets with activities led by some of the best guides in Zambia.


92% (5 reviews)
Chula Island Camp

Chula Island Camp

Chula Island Camp offers the opportunity to experience the wilderness of Zambia’s Lower Zambezi National Park, in this simple fly-camp located in a natal mahogany grove on a small island on the Zambezi River.


95% (4 reviews)
Zungulila

Zungulila

Zungulila is a small, comfortable tented bushcamp with an emphasis on walking safaris, in the remote southern section of the South Luangwa.


93% (3 reviews)
Shawa Luangwa Camp

Shawa Luangwa

Opened in June 2021, Shawa Luangwa Camp is a small, intimate and rustic camp, with a good location in a remote section of the South Luangwa National Park.


93% (3 reviews)
Mukambi Safari Lodge

Mukambi Safari Lodge

Mukambi Safari Lodge is a solidly built, comfortable property just off the main road from Lusaka, making it one of the most convenient camps in Kafue.


80% (3 reviews)
Mukambi Plains Camp

Mukambi Plains Camp

Mukambi Plains Camp is a rustic, tented property located in the middle of the vast Busanga Plains in Kafue National Park.


70% (2 reviews)
Lolebezi

Lolebezi

A chic safari spot, luxurious Lolelbezi is the Lower Zambezi’s newest camp and offers a mix of walking, canoeing and game drives led by excellent guides.


100% (2 reviews)
Luwi Riverbed Sleepout

Luwi Riverbed Sleepout

For an adventurous night in South Luangwa National Park, come and sleep out in the bush, around a campfire, with an experienced guide and game scout.


100% (2 reviews)
Luwombwa Lodge

Luwombwa Lodge

Luwombwa Lodge in Kasanka National Park, northern Zambia


90% (2 reviews)
Mutinondo Wilderness

Mutinondo Wilderness

Visiting Mutinondo Wilderness near Mpika in northern Zambia - the accommodation, wildlife, birds and animals


100% (2 reviews)
Chichele Presidential Lodge

Chichele Lodge

Currently in the final stages of an extensive rebuild, Chichele Presidential Lodge stands high within the park, with superb views, and is due to reopen in early 2025.


100% (1 review)
Fig Tree Camp

Fig Tree Camp

Fig Tree camp is in the centre of Kafue National Park, and in addition to having a stunning location is well placed to start or end your trip in the park.


100% (1 review)
Liuwa Plains Mobile Safari

Liuwa Plains Mobile Safari

Liuwa Plains Mobile Safaris offer a remote and authentic safari adventure, into the heart Liuwa Plain National Park.


100% (1 review)
King Lewanika Lodge

King Lewanika Lodge

King Lewanika Lodge, opened in 2017, is the only permanent safari camp in Liuwa Plain National Park.


100% (1 review)
Ila Safari Lodge

Ila Safari Lodge

Ila Safari Lodge is a comfortable lodge just outside Kafue National Park, with convenient access from Lusaka.


80% (1 review)
Tangala House

Tangala House

Tangala House, the family home near Zambia's town of Livingstone and the Victoria Falls


No reviews yet
Sussi & Chuma

Sussi & Chuma

Sussi & Chuma combines a luxurious, laid-back camp with a good location on the Zambezi River, with quick access to the Victoria Falls.


No reviews yet
Royal Zambezi Lodge

Royal Zambezi Lodge

This family-friendly lodge is located just on the outskirts of the Lower Zambezi National Park, in a great location overlooking the river.


No reviews yet
Chikunto Safari Lodge

Chikunto

Chikunto Safari Lodge is a more traditional property in the South Luangwa National Park, sitting on a peninsula of land created by the meandering Luangwa River.


No reviews yet

Special types of holiday to Zambia

Zambia’s safari attractions include many that appeal to individual travellers, whether on family holidays or travelling solo, with interests that range from birdwatching and photography to culture – and even adrenalin activities.

A few safari camps are set up for photographers, with specially trained guides and wildlife hides that offer superb vantage points. Those hides can be equally valuable for birdwatchers, who may be intent on seeking out the country’s 750+ bird species, or trekking in search of the rare shoebill.

While some camps genuinely welcome children, families often prefer the flexibility, relaxed atmosphere and space offered by Zambia’s private houses – the perfect spot for a family safari holiday.

Honeymoon visitors will find romantic hideaways and secluded private dinners, whereas solo travellers will appreciate the shared activities and dining that’s the norm elsewhere. And for culture, there’s no more fascinating place than Shiwa Ng’andu.

To find out more, or to get the lowdown on horseriding, wellbeing or even adrenalin sports at Victoria Falls, talk to us and we’ll help you to organise your perfect safari holiday.


Birdwatching

Birdwatching

Diverse habitats, discreet hides and superb guiding.

Cultural experiences

Cultural experiences

Get an insight into Africa's cultures and history.

Family holidays

Family holidays

Hand-picked camps for an incredible family safari.

Honeymoons

Honeymoons

Romantic safaris and castaway island retreats.

Luxury

Luxury

First-class service, scenic vistas and unparalleled comfort await you during these carefully selected luxury holidays. 

Photography holidays

Photography holidays

Great holidays to suit the keen photographer.

Private villas & houses

Private villas & houses

Enjoy Africa with just your friends & family

Riding holidays

Riding holidays

Explore Africa's wilderness on horseback.

Solo Travel

Solo Travel

Trip ideas ideally suited for a solo traveller.

Walking

Walking

Explore Africa's most scenic trails on foot.

Walking safaris

Walking safaris

Explore Africa's untouched wildernesses on foot.

Wellbeing

Wellbeing

Wellness escapes in stunning locations

Wildlife safaris

Wildlife safaris

These trips include hard-hitting game and fascinatingly elusive species alike, as well as superb guiding and a variety of diverse ecosystems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Zambia FAQs

Planning a holiday to Zambia can throw up all sorts of seemingly trivial questions, the sort of thing you’d like to ask someone you know.

Yet these questions are important, so below we’ve included some of those that we’re frequently asked – from how long you need for a Zambia safari to what you can expect to eat and what sort of activities you can enjoy.

No matter what you’d like to know, please don’t hesitate to ask us; we’re here to help.


How long should I stay in Zambia?

Even with just four–seven nights’ vacation, you could combine a Zambia safari in one of the national parks – typically the South Luangwa or the Lower Zambezi – with a grand finale at the Victoria Falls.

Just a few days longer would allow you to explore at least two of the parks, perhaps taking part in more activities such as walking safaris or canoe trips, while leaving time simply to gain a real sense of place.

Longer still and the choices burgeon – depending on the time of year and your interests. This is when you could head to one of the more remote parks, such as North Luangwa National Park or Liuwa Plain, or seek out the extraordinary manor house in the bush that is Shiwa Ng’andu. There could be time for adrenalin activities at the Falls, or to seek out wildlife sightings – such as the shoebill – that few travellers are lucky enough to witness.

What’s a typical day on safari in Zambia?

At most safari lodges in Zambia, there are two activities a day: one in the early morning, the second in late afternoon. After an early-morning wake-up call – usually at or just before sunrise, when wild animals are at their most active – you’ll be offered a hot drink and a snack, or a more substantial breakfast, before you set out. Depending on the location, this could be a game drive, a walking safari, a boat trip, or even a short canoe safari.

Typically you’ll return late morning for a substantial meal, which is followed by a couple of siesta – time to relax with a pair of binoculars and take in the local wildlife, or perhaps to read or take a nap. Mid-afternoon sees tea or coffee with cake, or a savoury snack, before your second activity. Sometimes you’ll return to the lodge before sunrise; at others you may stay out for sundowner drinks before returning for dinner.

What sort of food can I expect on safari in Zambia?

The standard of food at Zambia’s safari camps is very high, even at the simplest of bushcamps, where it is often cooked over an open fire. The majority serve delicious international fare, from breakfast to a substantial brunch or lunch, followed up by afternoon tea, and – typically – a three-course dinner. Add to that a range of snacks – often homemade – while you’re out on activities, and you won’t go hungry!

While on safari, you may have the chance to sample the local Zambian cuisine. This is based on nshima, which is made from ground maize, a little like polenta, and is served with tasty meat or dried fish.

The local beers (Mosi, Castle and Rhino) are good, as are imported South African beers and wines. Soft drinks are available everywhere, although choices are often limited.

What’s it like on a Zambia walking safari?

A walking safari with big game is an amazing experience – and you don't need to be especially fit. These aren’t route marches; rather they're about taking time to spot the signs of wildlife around you and to learn how the ecosystems work.

Walks have a maximum of seven guests, but up to five is more usual. Distances will depend on the wildlife that you find and the interests of the walkers, but two to five miles (3–8km) is typical. You'll stop frequently for your guide to educate, enlighten and often entertain you with tales of the bush around you.

Zambia's safari lodges differ, but usually you'll set off with a guide, an armed game scout, and often a tea-bearer carrying refreshments. Sensible shoes or light boots are best and ideally you should wear natural, muted colours and a hat. All you need to carry is your camera and binoculars.




What activities can I do on a Zambia safari?

At most safari camps in Zambia you’ll spend your days (and evenings – something that is not possible in national parks in many countries) exploring either from an open-topped 4WD game vehicle, or on foot.

Camps near navigable rivers, for example in the Lower Zambezi National Park, usually also offer boat safaris, as well as guided canoeing trips – usually in two-person canoes – and catch-and-release fishing from a pontoon boat.

For almost all of these, you will be given the options at the camp, so there's no need to decide before you get there. The exceptions are a handful of tiny bushcamps in the more remote areas of South Luangwa National Park, which offer only walking safaris - and where you may even be able to walk between camps.

Walking safaris can also be done in the company of a small group; see our Robin Pope Walking Safaris for departure dates and prices.


Our other African destinations

As specialists in safari destinations, we at Expert Africa are well-placed to ensure that you choose the right country for your safari holiday.

As an alternative to Zambia, consider the more rustic Zimbabwe, where wildlife guiding is equally impressive and the Victoria Falls, a highlight of Zambia, can also be experienced.

If Zambia or Zimbabwe feel a little too “wild”, or you’d like to experience the more open savannah of East Africa, take a look at Kenya or Tanzania, whereas for a self-drive holiday, Namibia is a must.

Botswana may be costly, but its exclusive private concessions are a big draw for many, coupled with the natural grandeur of the Okavango Delta, whereas in Rwanda, visiting a family of mountain gorillas is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Then there are the countries where beaches and watersports can be combined with a safari: think Kenya, Mozambique, Malawi and South Africa, or how about an idyllic island add-on to Zanzibar or even the Seychelles?

The choices are many and varied, so do call us; we’re here to help you plan your perfect safari.


Botswana

Botswana

With big game, glamorous lodges and one of the greatest unspoilt wildernesses on Earth, Botswana is perhaps Africa's most exclusive safari destination.

Read more about Botswana
Kenya

Kenya

Humanity’s ancestors lived in Kenya, which is now home to people speaking 42 languages, and some of Africa’s rarest, most magnificent wildlife.

Read more about Kenya
Malawi

Malawi

With tropical rivers, Rift Valley plateaux, the crystal-clear waters of Lake Malawi and a stunning lakeshore, Malawi invites relaxed exploration.

Read more about Malawi
Mozambique

Mozambique

An ocean paradise protected by world-class marine parks, Mozambique’s idyllic archipelagos offer heavenly hideaways, outstanding diving and laid-back luxury.

Read more about Mozambique
Namibia

Namibia

Spectacular scenery, diverse wildlife and a rich cultural heritage await discovery by air, with a guide or on a self-drive adventure.

Read more about Namibia
Rwanda

Rwanda

This small, mountainous country offers Africa’s best gorilla treks, other good safari options and a profound human element in every trip.

Read more about Rwanda
Seychelles

Seychelles

The ultimate glamorous getaway: the lush islands of Seychelles are enchantingly beautiful and stylish sanctuaries for both wildlife and ocean-lovers.

Read more about Seychelles
South Africa

South Africa

Cosmopolitan Cape Town, world-class wineries, brilliant ‘Big Five’ safaris and spectacularly diverse scenery make South African holidays fabulously exciting and enjoyable.

Read more about South Africa
Tanzania

Tanzania

East Africa’s biggest country has a wide range of parks to explore and some of the Indian Ocean’s best island retreats.

Read more about Tanzania
Zanzibar

Zanzibar

The ultimate Spice Island: Zanzibar’s mystique, marine life and chic beach retreats make it Africa’s most alluring archipelago.

Read more about Zanzibar
Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe

Stunning national parks teeming with game, plus Africa's finest professional guides and the spectacular Victoria Falls: Zimbabwe is enthralling.

Read more about Zimbabwe

Elephant safari
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