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African Safaris and Tours
Zambia Safari Holidays
Planning a Zambia Safari
Zambia is safari country with real variety. In one trip you can walk with a guide and armed scout in South Luangwa, paddle past elephant and hippo on the Lower Zambezi, take open-vehicle game drives across Kafue and the Busanga Plains, and finish at Victoria Falls on the Livingstone side.
The safaris below are starting points. Each one is tailor-made around you:
- Walking safaris — on foot in the Luangwa Valley, reading tracks and noticing the small things a vehicle drives straight past.
- Canoe safaris — drifting down the Zambezi in the Lower Zambezi, with Zimbabwe's Mana Pools on the far bank.
- Game drives — by day and after dark, with a spotlight on night drives.
- Ballooning — floating over Kafue's Busanga Plains at dawn.
- Specialist trips — photographic safaris in South Luangwa and the bat gathering at Kasanka.
- Victoria Falls — the falls from Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, white-water rafting in the Batoka Gorge and the bungee off the Victoria Falls Bridge.
Between the parks, fly. Light-aircraft transfers save long days on roads that are often poorly maintained, flooded or eroded, and hand that time back to you in the bush.
We've been arranging safaris across Africa since 1999, and Zambia is a country our team loves. Tell us what you'd like to see and do and we'll build the itinerary around it — start planning your Zambia safari, or browse Zambia lodges first.
Start Planning Your Safari in Zambia
Authentic Zambia Safari
This Safari is Tailor-made Rates On request
A 15-day journey through three of Zambia's great wildlife areas: the Zambezi River, Kafue National Park and South Luangwa. Expect game drives, boat cruises and comfortable camps, with every stretch of the route shaped around the way you like to travel.
Best Of Zambia Safari
This Safari is Tailor-made Rates On request
A tailor-made safari built around Zambia's highlights, pairing time in the national parks with Zambian culture and village life. Game drives, river time and comfortable camps come together in one route, adjusted to your interests and pace.
Kasanka Bat Safari
This Safari is Tailor-made Rates On request
Each year millions of straw-coloured fruit bats gather in a small patch of evergreen swamp forest in Kasanka National Park, a spectacle still little known outside wildlife circles. This safari is built around watching and photographing the bats as they pour out of the trees at dusk.
Luangwa Photographic Safari
This Safari is Tailor-made Rates On request
A South Luangwa safari built for photographers and led by wildlife photographer David Rogers. Beginners learn the basics in the field, while experienced photographers get guidance on light, composition and fieldcraft, with game drives set up around the camera.
Luangwa Walking Safari
This Safari is Tailor-made Rates On request
Explore South Luangwa on foot with a specialist guide and armed scout. Walking changes the pace of a safari: you track, stop, listen and notice the details a vehicle passes by, then return to camp to swap stories round the fire.
Zambia Two Rivers Safari
This Safari is Tailor-made Rates On request
A tailor-made safari across two of Zambia's great river systems, pairing two contrasting wildlife areas in one route. Dawn birdsong, game drives among riverside wildlife and quiet evenings under the stars, with each stay set to your pace.
Zambia Safari FAQ
What kinds of safari can you do in Zambia?
Beyond day and night game drives, Zambia offers walking, canoeing, boating and ballooning safaris. You can walk with a guide and armed scout in South Luangwa, paddle the Lower Zambezi, cruise the rivers by boat and drift over Kafue's Busanga Plains in a hot-air balloon. Specialist trips cover wildlife photography and the Kasanka bat gathering.
How long should a Zambia safari be?
Long enough to settle into each area rather than rushing between them. Our Authentic Zambia Safari runs over 15 days and covers the Zambezi, Kafue and South Luangwa. A shorter trip works well if you focus on one or two parks, or pair a single park with Victoria Falls on the Livingstone side.
Should I fly or drive between Zambia's parks?
Fly. Light-aircraft transfers are the better choice between Zambia's parks, because many roads are poorly maintained, flooded in the rains or badly eroded. Flying turns what would be a lost day of driving into extra time in the bush. Light aircraft carry strict luggage limits, so pack in a soft-sided bag.
What does a typical day on safari in Zambia look like?
Days follow the rhythm of the wildlife: out early, rest at midday, out again in the afternoon. You set off at first light on a walk or drive, return for brunch and rest through the heat. After tea comes the afternoon activity, sundowners and, in many parks, a night drive back to camp for dinner.
Can I combine a Zambia safari with other countries?
Yes, Zambia pairs naturally with its neighbours. Victoria Falls sits on the border with Zimbabwe, so you can see it from both sides, and Chobe in Botswana is reached by road from Livingstone via the Kazungula crossing. The Lower Zambezi also faces Zimbabwe's Mana Pools directly across the river.
Can a Zambia safari itinerary be customised?
Every Zambia safari we arrange is tailor-made, and the itineraries on this page are starting points. Change the parks, the camps, the pace or the length of stay, add Victoria Falls or a specialist trip, and we'll price the whole journey as one itinerary. Tell us what you're after through our safari planner.
What is a walking safari in Zambia like?
A walking safari is slow, quiet and completely absorbing. You move on foot with a specialist guide and an armed scout, reading tracks, dung and birdcalls, and stopping often to look closely. South and North Luangwa are Zambia's main walking areas, and some camps there are built entirely around walking.
Map of Lodges in and around Zambia
Zambia Travel Topics
10 Must See Attractions in Livingstone
Located in the heart of Africa, Livingstone is a beacon of adventure and culture. Here, the mighty Zambezi River plunges into the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, creating a world of wonder and excitement for travellers. Our latest blog post, "10 Must-See Attractions in Livingstone," guides you through this breathtaking region, showcasing the very best experiences it has to offer. This guide takes you to a place where nature's beauty meets vibrant cultures and thrilling adventures. Whether you're drawn to the wild or inspired by local traditions, Livingstone is the perfect backdrop for your African dreams. Join us as we explore the top 10 attractions that make Livingstone a destination full of discovery and wonder.
The Perfect Zambia Honeymoon Safari
Embark on a journey where the wild heart of Africa meets your newlywed bliss. Our latest blog, "The Perfect Zambia Honeymoon Safari," explores one of the world's most secluded and stunning safari destinations. With untouched landscapes and incredible wildlife, Zambia is the perfect place for couples to create unforgettable memories of adventure, romance, and natural beauty. In this post, we delve into the heart of Zambia's majestic wilderness to uncover why it's the perfect destination for couples seeking an unforgettable journey. From the gentle flow of the Zambezi River to the thunderous spray of Victoria Falls and the remote bush where stars light up the night sky, Zambia sets the stage for an epic romance.
5 Best Lodges in Livingstone
Embarking on a journey to discover the heart of Zambia, our latest blog series dives into the enchanting city of Livingstone, a gateway to the majestic Victoria Falls and a hub for adventurers seeking the thrill of Africa's wilderness. In this series, we meticulously explore the "5 Best Lodges in Livingstone," offering you a guide to unparalleled comfort amidst nature's splendour. Each lodge in Livingstone has been selected based on its unique charm, exceptional service, and proximity to Livingstone's captivating attractions, ensuring your stay is nothing short of extraordinary. From family-friendly accommodations to romantic hideaways, our guide is your first step towards planning an unforgettable getaway in Livingstone.
10 Reasons To Visit Livingstone
Nestled on the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia, Livingstone is a treasure trove of natural beauty, adrenaline-pumping adventures, and rich cultural experiences that beckon travellers from around the globe. It's not just a destination; it's the gateway to exploring the majestic Victoria Falls, known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya or "The Smoke That Thunders." This awe-inspiring wonder of the world serves as the perfect backdrop for what promises to be an unforgettable journey. As you delve into our latest blog, "10 Reasons to Visit Livingstone," prepare to be captivated by a land where nature's power is matched only by its beauty, and every experience is steeped in wonder.
10 Best Lodges in Zambia
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Africa as we unveil the 10 best lodges in Zambia, each offering a perfect blend of opulence and adventure. Known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife, Zambia is home to some of the world's most exquisite safari lodges. From the majestic Victoria Falls to the serene Zambezi River, each lodge provides a unique gateway to Zambia's natural wonders. Picture yourself waking up to the sounds of the wild, enjoying world-class amenities, and engaging in thrilling activities like game drives, walking safaris and canoeing safaris.
10 Reasons to Visit the Luangwa National Park
If you're dreaming of an unforgettable safari adventure, look no further than Zambia's stunning South Luangwa National Park. Known for its incredible wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and unique safari experiences, this Zambian gem offers something for everyone. From walking safaris to birdwatching, here are 10 compelling reasons to visit Luangwa National Park and immerse yourself in the heart of Africa's wilderness. Whether you're an avid wildlife enthusiast, a photography buff, or simply looking for an unforgettable safari, Luangwa National Park has something to offer for everyone.
Zambia Travel Bucket List
Are you dreaming of an unforgettable adventure in Africa? Look no further than Zambia! This travel bucket list covers the top must-see destinations and experiences, from the majestic Victoria Falls to thrilling safaris and vibrant cultural festivals. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie, a wildlife enthusiast, or a culture lover, Zambia offers a diverse array of activities and sights that cater to every type of traveller. Get ready to explore vast landscapes, immerse yourself in local traditions, and enjoy unique wildlife encounters that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
Devil's Pool Victoria Falls
Nestled precariously at the very lip of the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, the Devil's Pool is an absolutely phenomenal natural wonder. Carved out over millennia by the mighty Zambezi River, this extraordinary geological formation is, without a doubt, one of nature's most thrilling creations. Imagine swimming to the edge of the world's largest waterfall! With only a natural rock lip between you and a 100-meter drop, the sensation is breathtaking. The roar of countless tons of water thundering over the falls just meters away is an unforgettable, almost dizzying experience. Witnessing such raw power up close is a privilege.