What Sets Zambia Safaris Apart
Reasons to add Zambia into your Bucketlist
Zambia is a premier wildlife destination, often called the “Real Africa” because its parks remain untamed and less crowded than those in neighboring countries. Zambia, a wilderness destination with some of the best national parks and destinations in Africa. When in here, you can enjoy some of the best sightings of the big cats and the big five. Also known as the birthplace of walking Safaris, it’s a destination with many other sites and places to visit to spice up your safari in Africa. You can enjoy visiting the Victoria Falls, enjoy a wild, thrilling swim overlooking the cliff, or you can dare to walk with lions, cheetahs, leopards, and elephants in the wild South Luangwa or Lower Zambezi parks.
There is much to discover on the Zambian side of the Victoria Falls, a destination fast becoming a favorite for those journeying through Southern Africa. Here, travelers find themselves immersed in luxury, with a collection of magnificent lodges and hotels lining the banks of the Zambezi River, only a short distance upstream from the falls.
You can indulge in the best experiences that the Zambezi River offers from the riverside lodge. You can engage in the exciting white-water rafting ride down the best rapids in the world or opt for a boat safari for a closer look at hippos, crocodiles, and even elephants cooling down in the river. As a fish lover, you can opt for a catch-and-release fishing trip for landing tiger fish or Upper Zambezi yellowfish.
While Tanzania and Kenya are famous for the Great Wildebeest Migration, and Botswana for its plains black ibises, Zambia holds a different spectacle: the largest bat migration on the continent. Every year from October to December, about 8 million straw-colored fruit bats come in from the Congo, lured by the fruits of the Masuku trees ripening in Kasanka National Park. This isn’t just Africa’s premier bat migration; it is actually the largest mammal migration on Earth. Despite its scale, Kasanka bat migration remains one of the natural world’s best-kept secrets-a rare privilege for the few who witness it.
Wildlife to see in Zambia while on Safari
Zambia has some of the best wildlife sightings, including the big five, the big cats, and bird species. You can easily spot big cats like lions, leopards, elephants, and cheetahs while on a guided game drive. From the classic walking safari, it’s easy to encounter wildlife on foot. It’s common to spot wildlife like elephants, lions, giraffes, impalas, kudus, and many others.
Zambia is also home to the wild dogs, commonly known as the painted dogs of Africa. Other species you can come across are hyena, birds like vultures, and common bird species like the superb sterling and other birds of prey. In parks like Kasanka National Park, you can witness the common and unique bat migration, which only happens here yearly in October and November.
Key Safari Destinations in Zambia
There are amazing safari destinations in Zambia, but these are the most key and recommended destinations we offer for either first timers or repeat guests. Exploring parks like the South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi for the ultimate wildlife safari, or stay in Livingstone, to enjoy one of the best Victoria Falls tours before embarking ona perfect and guided safari in one of the many parks in Zambia.
Despite their international recognition, South Luangwa, Kafue, and Lower Zambezi each have something very special to offer. For example, you can go on a guided walking safari to experience nature up close while in South Luangwa. You may paddle along this magnificent river in the scenic Lower Zambezi, squeezing past crocodiles and hippos as you go. On the other hand, Kafue offers horseback safaris through this stunning but wild park, which is home to antelope and different types of predators. Because of their distinctiveness, it’s crucial to go on an adventure by combining parks to create a memorable experience.
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Best Places to Visit in Zambia For Safaris
Explore the Best Safari Destinations in Zambia
Zambia is said to host some of the best safari regions in southern Africa, and is home to some of the most welcoming locals. It is not hard to identify the best places to visit in Zambia.
From cultural encounters to the magic of Victoria Falls, Zambia boasts numerous highlights that showcase nature’s raw power and unforgettable beauty, culminating in an incredible combination of urban and bush experiences that will leave you eager to explore further.
Whether enjoying Zambia for days at a time or on a return visit, the must-see destinations are a handful of ways you can discover the country’s diverse wonders.
Zambia Map - Zambia Safari Map
Zambia National Parks Map
Zambia is a large, landlocked country with an area of approximately 752,614 sq km and around 20 to 21 national parks, with an approximate 36 reserves also known as conservation areas, covering roughly 30-31% of the country’s size, acting like buffer zones between national parks and developed areas.
Liuwa Plains National Park is located in the far west of Zambia. Classified as a remote...
Neighboring the famous Mana Pool National Park of Zimbabwe, Lower Zambezi is a wide, vast wilderness...
Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, located in Livingstone, Zambia, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to...
The Best Time to Visit Zambia for a Luxury Safari
Plan a Luxury Zambia Safari at the best time
The best period to go on a safari in Zambia is during the Dry Season, which spans from June to October. However, it is better to visit during July to September. When the bush becomes dry, and deciduous trees drop their leaf cover, animals congregate at waterholes like the Luangwa and Zambezi Rivers. This makes it much easier to spot them. Although it may be very chilly in the early morning, after sunrise, there is usually plenty of sunshine and blue skies.
For those aiming to get the perfect blend of a traditional safari experience and a visit to Victoria Falls, the months of July and August are the perfect option. For travelers seeking a premium experience but at a slightly reduced price, the shoulder months of June and September should be considered. Lastly, if your main aim is a birding adventure or witnessing the landscapes in their most fertile state, the rainy season from November to March is the unrivaled option.
Zambia Safaris Seasonal Guide
The best time to visit Zambia is from April to August. The temperatures are pleasant, and it’s usually easy to spot animals on safari. The summer months from September to March are often very wet, as this is also known as the wet or green season for the region. The major parks and destinations like the South Luangwa and Victoria Falls get flooded, and access becomes an issue.
| Season | January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lower Zambezi | Fair | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Good | Best | Best | Best | Good | Fair | Fair |
| South Luangwa | Fair | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Good | Best | Best | Best | Good | Fair | Fair |
| Livingstone | Fair | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Good | Best | Best | Best | Good | Fair | Fair |
| Kasanka National Park | Fair | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Good | Best | Best | Best | Good | Fair | Fair |
| Fair | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Good | Best | Best | Best | Good | Fair | Fair | |
| Fair | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Good | Best | Best | Best | Good | Fair | Fair | |
| Fair | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Good | Best | Best | Best | Good | Fair | Fair |
Low Season
High Season
Peak Season
Low Season
The Green Season and Birding: November – April
The “Green Season” is characterized by strong rainfall, which converts the barren terrain into a lush paradise. Since the roads of Zambia are generally composed of clay material, a number of the more remote camps are closed at this time due to accessibility issues.
For those who do have the opportunity to visit, however, the experience is definitely spectacular from an ornithological standpoint, as the migratory birds from the northern hemisphere arrive dressed in their breeding plumage to compete with the local residents and provide an oasis for the pursuit and photography of singularly colorful birds.
High Season
The “Hot” Season and Victoria Falls: October & June – August
While it is known as “Suicide Month” due to extreme temperatures, which often go above 40 degrees, it is the month with the greatest game viewing, especially for seasoned wildlife enthusiasts and photographers, as the animals are desperate to find water.
When it comes to the falls themselves, the months with the perfect balance of substantial flow and clarity of view is June, July, and August. While it would seem sensible to visit between March and May, as the water is at its absolute peak, the spray can be so severe that the falls themselves are hidden from view.
Peak Season
Peak Season and Walking Safaris: July – October
This is the peak season for safaris in Zambia, especially around South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi National Parks. As the “home of the walking safari,” the best months to go on foot in Zambia are between June and September.
In these months, the temperatures are moderate, making long walks comfortable, while the sparse bush provides clear lines of sight-an important determinant for safety and spotting wildlife at ground level. This is the ultimate time for enthusiasts who seek an intimate, unscripted bush experience.
Combining Zambia Safaris with Other Destinations
Visit more countries with a combination of Zambia Safaris
A combination of safaris in Zambia with neighboring countries is one of the most valuable African travel experiences. A combination of the very best walking safaris in South Luangwa or the water safaris in the Lower Zambezi, with the all-time favorite Okavango Delta or Lake Malawi beach vacations, is the only way to experience a truly authentic African vacation.
These combinations are intended to provide exposure to the immense geographical as well as biological diversity of Southern and Eastern Africa.
Zambia & Zimbabwe: The Victoria Falls & Hwange Combination
This is arguably the most seamless and popular combination. Here, one is allowed to enjoy both the Zambian and Zimbabwean sides of the Victoria Falls. This grants one a two-in-one experience; one gets to view the Smoke that Thunders from different perspectives. Beyond the falls, one can enjoy Zambia’s famous walking safaris while in Hwange National Park for the high-density wildlife viewing. These two countries share a border, making it easy to get to either one of them if one is to visit by land. Thus, it can be great for first-timers who want to visit a Natural Wonder of the World.
Zambia & Malawi: The “Bush & Beach” Adventure
If the perfect balance of thrills and relaxation is the objective, then nothing can compare with a combination of Zambia and Malawi. This typical itinerary starts in the Luangwa Valley, where the opportunity for leopard spotting is high, and walking safaris are popular.
After the adrenaline-filled experience of the bush, the next destination is provided by a short flight over to the crystal waters of Lake Malawi. Again, the “beach” experience is defined by snorkeling over the colorful cichlids, paddling through the uninhabited islands, and cruising around the relaxed boutique-style lake lodges.
Zambia to the Coast: South Africa, Mozambique, Madagascar, or Zanzibar
If you wish to have a luxurious and diversified vacation, then you can consider concluding your Zambian safari with a beach holiday in Zanzibar Island and Nosy Be in Madagascar. Now, with direct flight connections through major hubs such as Johannesburg and Cape Town, you can combine your safari experience with the sophisticated urban delights that cities such as Cape Town, Mozambique, and Zanzibar have to offer. By concluding your safari experience with this approach, you can look forward to your much-needed R and R before the journey back home.
Zambia & Uganda: The Ultimate Wildlife Expedition
It is a premier, high-adventure combination that will allow travelers to experience the “walking safari capital” of the world, as well as the profound experience of a gorilla trekking adventure. Travelers will get to visit the savannahs of Zambia as well as the ancient rainforests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, where they will get to spot the “Big Five” as well as spend an hour with endangered mountain gorillas. It is a logistically ambitious trip that travelers will love if they desire to experience two of Africa’s most bucket-list-worthy animal spotting adventures.
Best Places to Stay While on Zambia Safari
Top Safari Accommodations in Zambia
Zambia has some of the best safari accommodations that offers all inclusive safari experiences. Known for its classic walking safaris and magical wild national parks, you are guranteed of the best safari in Zambia.
We have listed some of the best safari accommodations in Zambia, from Livingstone to Lusaka to the wild side of the country. Stay in luxury camps in Kasanka, or Lower Zambezi, but you can fly too, to South Luangwa and enjoy exclusive safari experiences.
Royal Zambezi Lodge is a luxury safari lodge located on the banks of the Zambezi River in Zambia, offering breathtaking
Our Tailor Made Zambia Safari Packages
Luxury Zambia Safaris and Tours - Custom Itineraries
Our team understands that each safari-goer will have different requirements when it comes to designing their dream safari getaway, which is why we offer a variety of different Zambia tours for you to select from.
Whether you are looking for a day trip or a long-haul expedition, we are confident that we have an amazing tailor-made Zambia safari that matches what you’re looking for. In addition to this, we also have different accommodation options for you with optional extras available, so be sure to speak to a member of our team to explore your full range of options.
Why Book Your Zambia Safari with Us
Lets make Your Zambia Safari Holiday the best.
Our team understands that each safari-goer will have different requirements when it comes to designing their dream safari getaway, which is why we offer a variety of different Zambia tours for you to select from.
Whether you are looking for a day trip or a long-haul expedition, we are confident that we have an amazing tailor-made Zambia safari that matches what you’re looking for. In addition to this, we also have different accommodation options for you with optional extras available, so be sure to speak to a member of our team to explore your full range of options.
Our Zambia Safaris are very original, authentic, and wild. Accessing most of Zambia’s safari destinations is a challenge due to poor road networks. The best way to access Zambia destinations is by flying over the majestic landscapes.
Discover our luxury Zambia Safaris by flying over the famous long Zambezi River, as you visit Lower Zambezi and South Luangwa National Parks. Explore major National Parks with exclusive game drives, spotting all the big five and other wildlife species like wild dogs and birds.
You can extend your Zambia Safari to other destinations like Livingstone and enjoy helicopter tours over the Victoria Falls. While on a private exclusive safari, some other activities you can indulge in include the river cruise over the Zambezi River as you enjoy your sundowner.
Financial Protection
You are guranteed of a safe, and peace of mind booking process, and as well safari payments. We ensure that your payments are secure and safe.
Sustainable Practices
Keeping in mind our efforts in wildlife, environment and natural resources protections, we are sustainable travel conscious and aware.
Ground Safari Expert
We Know Africa more than any one. We love taking our guests to the less explored destinations. Experiencing the magical touch of African Wild.
Positive Impact
Our Safaris are not only sustainable, but create very positive impacts to so many. We engage in school programmes, that inspires our future leaders.
15 Years of Experience
Cheetah Safaris has a combined of 69 years of safari expertise and practice in Africa. We will take care of your safari from arrival till departure.
Proffessional Guides
We have the best safari guides in East Africa. All our guides are Silver and Gold Guides. Hence you will learn so much with them while on safari.
Looking For a Safari in Africa?
Explore our collection of over 70 luxury African safaris. You can also contact us to design a bespoke, tailor-made adventure just for you.
Travel Tips for a Zambia Safari Tour
Best Safari and Travel Guides to plan your Zambia Safaris
As you plan your Luxury Zambia Safari with us, there is some important information you need to know before visiting. Our travel guide will help you plan effectively, know what you need ahead of your trip to Africa, and gain a basic understanding of what a Zambia safari entails.
What Does a Zambia Safari Cost?
To determine the amount you will spend on your safari, a budget from our expert and cost guide is important. A Zambia Safari can cost between USD 500 and up to more than USD 2,000 per person per day. Get the full guide of our African Safari Cost Guide to help you plan your safari well.
What to Pack For a Zambia Safari in Africa
When packing for your Zambia safari holiday, Pack items that won’t make your safari tiresome and hectic. Light packaging helps you move easily from one safari destination to another. We have prepared a comprehensive African Safari Packing list to guide you through.
When to Visit Zambia, the Best Time, and the climate or weather
It’s vital to know when it’s the best time to visit Zambia, as well as understand if your preferred month of visiting is perfect for an amazing wildlife experience. Our safari destinations in Africa that we cover have varying weather conditions and climatic conditions. It’s important to get in touch with us, and we can advise you on the best place you can visit within your travel dates.
Documentation for travelling to Zambia
Now that you have managed to plan and book your safari, it’s important to be legal and find out what documents are required to visit Zambia. You will need a valid eVisa, a passport that is more than 6 months old, and it is recommended to have a yellow fever vaccination.
Safety and Health While on Safari in Zambia
This is most important, as you will need to know how safe Zambia is, and also what you need to do when it gets uneasy. Safety is paramount to all of our guests, and we do our best to offer safety measures to all our guests when on game drives in parks, when driving on roads, and in our booked accommodations, or in case of any security threat.
In terms of health, we have made sure we have measures to manage our guests’ health conditions, but we advise our guests to share any of their health conditions so we can know how to handle incase anything happens.
All FAQs About Zambia Safaris
FAQS and Questions and Answers about Zambia
Frequently Asked Questions About our Zambia Safaris. If you have any queries regarding our Zambia safaris and tours, no need to worry, as we have gathered some of our customers’ most frequently asked questions below to help you make your decision on whether Zambia is the place for your safari holiday.
Is Zambia Safe to Visit For Safaris
It is very Safe to visit Zambia for a luxury safari. According to the Global Index, Zambia, as a safari destination, ranks among the safest safari destinations in Africa.
Which Are the Best Destinations to visit in Zambia?
The best places to visit in Zambia for your safari holiday include South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi National Park, Kafue Park, and Kasanka National Park, known for bat migration.
Are Zambia Safaris Expensive?
Zambia safaris can be affordable, averaging between USD 900 Per Person Per Day to 4,000 Per Person Per Day.
What do I need to Visit Zambia?
To visit Zambia for a safari, you will need a passport that is more than 6 months valid and a valid travel visa. We recommend having travel insurance and malaria and yellow fever vaccinations.
What animals can I see on a Zambia safari?
A Zambia safari tour gives one a chance to view the Big Five, except for the hyena, as well as other game such as hippos, crocodiles, and lesser-known animals like bats of Kasanka, giraffes, Cookson’s wildebeests, and Crawshay’s zebras. The top places are South Luangwa National Park, Lower Zambezi, and Kafue for savannah, riverine, and forest creatures.
Are walking safaris safe?
Generally, walking safaris are safe, and this is one of the most exhilarating and safest ways to see game, as long as they are guided by experienced and licensed guides.
How long should a Zambia safari be?
An ideal safari in Zambia would last around 10 to 14 days to take in key, diverse locations such as South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi, and Victoria Falls. While shorter, more focused holidays of seven days are possible where two main areas can be seen, a ten-day itinerary is considered the “sweet spot” for combining wildlife viewing with the falls.
Do I need a visa for Zambia?
The need for a visa depends on your nationality; most tourists from the US, EU, UK, and Commonwealth countries such as Kenya and Tanzania are allowed visa-free entry for up to 90 days. A passport valid for 6+ months and 3+ blank visa pages is required.
What is the best season for wildlife in Zambia?
The best time to visit Zambia to view wildlife is between June and October because it is dry. This period is split into two peak periods, August to October. During this period, wildlife may be seen as the vegetation sorts of cover become thin and water dries up as animals congregate around water sources like the Luangwa River and the Zambezi River.
Pack For a Purpose
Cheetah Safaris is a serious advocate of sustainable safari practices in Africa. As part of our efforts and initiative, we engage and support schools and children who need knowledge to better their lives. The best gift a child can be given is education, skills, and creativity.
In this case, we request our guests booking with us, to bring an extra back of supplies. This can be in terms of books, sports materials, and any other items that would change the lives of these kids.
- Education
- Sustainable Travel
- Wildlife Conservation
Let us help you customize your trip
Like all of our holidays on this site, this is just an idea. All of our trips are tailor-made, so we’ll always adapt them to suit you.
Talk to an Expert
Browse our Cheetah Safaris Website. We’ll match you with a Specialist in our team who is best suited to help you plan your next safari adventure. To start, submit your Safari Inquiries.
Prepare for your trip
Our Safari experts will be of help in planning your safari from start to end. They will advise you on all that you need to pack and travel documents, too. They will be ready to answer any queries you have.
When you return
We would love to hear from you about your trip with us. Your feedback will help us always work better and try to be the best. You can leave your review on our Reviews Page or TripAdvisor Page.
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