Zambia

Zambia offers a raw and intimate safari experience that is a world away from the crowded parks of other countries. The country's main draw is its spectacular national parks, such as the South Luangwa, which is famous for its incredible density of leopards and is the birthplace of the walking safari. Here, you can explore the bush on foot with an expert guide, a thrilling and immersive way to experience the wilderness. The Lower Zambezi National Park offers a unique blend of land and water activities, with game drives and canoe safaris along the mighty Zambezi River among elephants and hippos.

The country's most famous landmark is 'Mosi-oa-Tunya' ("The Smoke that Thunders")—the spectacular Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The town of Livingstone is the adrenaline capital, offering a huge range of activities from bungee jumping to microlight flights over the falls. With its focus on pristine nature and expert-led guiding, Zambia is a top-tier destination for serious safari enthusiasts.

Reasons to Visit

• Walking Safaris: Experience the thrill of exploring the African bush on foot in South Luangwa National Park, the home of the walking safari.
• Victoria Falls: Witness the awe-inspiring power and beauty of one of the world's largest and most famous waterfalls.
• Remote Wilderness: Discover vast, uncrowded national parks with incredible wildlife viewing, including a high concentration of leopards.
• Zambezi River Adventures: Enjoy canoe safaris, river cruises, and world-class tiger fishing on the mighty Zambezi River.

Things to Avoid

• Ignoring Health Precautions: Zambia is a high-risk area for malaria. It is essential to consult your doctor about prophylaxis and to protect yourself from mosquito bites.
• Walking Alone at Night in Cities: Be cautious in cities like Lusaka and Livingstone after dark to avoid crime.
• Approaching Wildlife on Foot: Never approach wild animals on foot unless you are with a certified, armed safari guide.
• Swimming in Rivers: The rivers are home to crocodiles and hippos and are not safe for swimming.

Local Transportation Tips

Domestic flights on small charter planes are the most common way to travel between the remote national parks. For travel between major towns, there is a network of long-distance buses. Within Livingstone and Lusaka, taxis are readily available. Most safari experiences are part of an all-inclusive package that includes all transfers.

Travel Etiquette

• Greetings: A friendly greeting is customary before any conversation. English is the official language.
• Respect for Guides: Your safari guide is a highly trained professional. Their instructions are for your safety and should be followed at all times.
• Tipping: Tipping your guide, trackers, and camp staff is a customary and important part of the safari experience.
• Politeness: Zambians are known for being very friendly and welcoming.

Did You Know?

Did you know? The border between Zambia and Botswana is the shortest international border in the world, at only about 150 meters (490 ft) long, meeting at a quadripoint with Namibia and Zimbabwe.

Cool Zambia Stats

• The Smoke that Thunders: Victoria Falls is classified as the largest waterfall in the world based on its combined width of 1,708 meters (5,604 ft) and height of 108 meters (354 ft), resulting in the world's largest sheet of falling water.
• A Nation of Parks: Approximately 30% of Zambia's land is designated as National Parks and Game Management Areas.
• Walking Safari Origin: The concept of the modern walking safari was pioneered in the South Luangwa National Park in Zambia by the legendary guide Norman Carr.

Recommended Age Group

Zambia is most suitable for adventurous Adults and older Teens due to the remote and wild nature of its safari experiences.

• Babies (0-2 years): Not recommended. Most safari camps have age restrictions and the environment is not suitable.
• Kids (3-12 years): Not generally recommended. Many camps have a minimum age, and walking safaris are restricted to older children (usually 12+ or 16+).
• Teens (13-19 years): Highly Recommended for adventurous teens. The thrilling activities like walking safaris and the adventures around Victoria Falls are a perfect fit.
• Adults (20-64 years): Highly Recommended. Zambia offers one of the most authentic and adventurous safari experiences in Africa, perfect for active adults.
• Seniors (65+ years): Recommended with considerations. For fit and active seniors, it's a fantastic destination. However, the travel can be rugged, and walking safaris can be strenuous.

Accessibility Level: Low

• This is a remote, wilderness destination with very limited accessibility.
• Travel is primarily by small planes and open 4x4 vehicles, which are not accessible.
• Safari camps are remote and connected by dirt or sand paths.
• Some lodges and the main viewpoints at Victoria Falls can cater to visitors with mobility issues, but this requires significant advance planning with specialized operators.