- About Zambia
- Why Visit Zambia
- Places To Visit in Zambia
- When to go Zambia
- Zambia Travel Tips
- Tours & Safaris in Zambia
Zambia Historical Background and Economic Overview
Every establishment in the past has witnessed the presence of ancient stone tools dating back 2 million years, suggesting habitation by humans for a considerable time. It has been the same for Zambia. However, its original Khoisan hunter-gatherer inhabitants were gradually displaced by waves of migrating African farmers and herders in the 12th century. Later, Arab and Portuguese traders arrived, seeking gold, ivory, and slaves.
It was in the 19th century, particularly with the explorations of figures like David Livingstone, that Zambia gained prominence due to the discovery of Victoria Falls and substantial copper deposits, constituting 80% of its exports at present. Zambia was colonised and ruled as Northern Rhodesia by the British until it gained independence in 1964. Post this, the country began actively pursuing economic diversification initiatives. Agriculture and farming became a significant sector. Important cash crops include corn, sugar cane, peanuts, tobacco, and cotton, nickel, tin, and uranium mining, as well as developments in tourism and hydroelectric power projects, were concentrated on later.
Zambia People, Culture and Belief
Zambia is a culturally and creatively diverse nation. From Zambian pottery, carving, weaving, and music to country celebration of Lozi tribe's 'Kuomboka’, their rich heritage is reflective in everything they do. Comprising approximately 70 ethnic groups, traditional beliefs and languages, it stands as one of sub-Saharan Africa's most urbanised countries, with nearly half of its 13.5 million inhabitants residing in cities like Lusaka and Copper Belt towns, leaving vast rural areas sparsely populated.
But that hasn’t deterred people from following its long tradition of festivals, ceremonies and spectacular events in religious manners, wherein 90% identify as Christians and the rest lead life keeping faith in the belief systems.
To make the travellers further feel welcomed, Zambia announced English as their official language for everyday commerce and education. However, till today, for communication, locals prefer the use of commonly spoken African languages such as Nyanja and Bemba.
Zambia Landscape and Wildlife
Zambia, predominantly consists of an elevated plateau that transitions into mountains in the northeast. These distinctive 'dambos,' flat-bottomed drainage valleys on the plateau, support diverse plant life alongside being characterised by extensive open woodlands and intersecting river valleys providing water to both the Zambezi and Congo Rivers, while serving as a substantial drainage basin.
Zambia’s extensive wetlands and floodplains are home to abundant large mammals and bird species. Therefore, it is no surprise that Zambia offers some of Africa’s finest game viewing experiences due to the convergence of Southern and Central African species and the presence of water elements in its national parks, which significantly enhance biodiversity. The renowned South Luangwa National Park is its flagship reserve, teeming with classic African wildlife and predators and the Lower Zambezi National Park is also a much sought-after destination.
Notable wildlife experiences in Zambia include birdwatching in Mosi Oa Tunya National Park near Victoria Falls, guided walking safaris and night drives in South Luangwa, canoe and boat safaris in the Lower Zambezi, and encounters with predators and exceptional birding in the wild Kafue National Park.
Zambia's Capital City
Lusaka
Zambia's Population
19 million
Zambia's Currency
Zambian kwacha (ZK)
Zambia's Language
English, Nyanja, Bemba
Zambia's Calling Code
+260
Exploring Zambia offers an array of captivating experiences, from thrilling adventures to unforgettable wildlife encounters. With countless reasons to visit this beautiful country, you can embark on exhilarating activities like zip lining over Africa’s largest waterfall or conquering the formidable Zambezi River through white-water rafting. One of the most remarkable aspects of a trip to Zambia is the opportunity to encounter wildlife up close on foot, a unique and exhilarating experience. Additionally, you can enjoy luxurious accommodations in some of the finest lodges and camps on the African continent.
Visiting Zambia opens doors to Southern Africa’s most pristine and remote destinations while ensuring a comfortable and luxurious stay. Zambia’s safaris seamlessly blend exceptional big game viewing with opulent lodging options and access to some of the most knowledgeable guides in Africa. Despite the undeniable allure of Zambia’s vast wildlife reserves, they remain less crowded compared to the more famous parks in Africa. In fact, the only bustling spot you’re likely to encounter is at Zambia’s premier attraction, the breathtaking Victoria Falls.
Moreover, although many of Zambia’s reserves are situated in remote areas, the country’s capital, Lusaka, is well-connected, ensuring a convenient start and end to your safari adventure. After exploring Zambia’s wilderness, you can extend your journey with a tranquil beach holiday along the picturesque lakeshore in neighbouring Malawi or opt for further big game viewing in Kenya or Tanzania.
Immerse Yourself in the Grandeur of Victoria Falls Through Exciting Adventures
Visiting Victoria Falls is a major draw for travellers coming to Zambia on safari. This Southern African nation boasts half of the largest waterfall on the entire continent, attracting thousands of visitors from around the world every year who wish to witness this natural wonder firsthand. The Zambian side of Victoria Falls offers a wealth of experiences and is rapidly becoming a preferred destination for those exploring Southern Africa. One of its standout features is the abundance of luxurious lodges and hotels situated right along the banks of the Zambezi River, just upstream from the falls. What sets Zambia's side of Victoria Falls apart are two extraordinary experiences not found elsewhere. First, during the high-water season, you can take a thrilling stroll along the paved paths on the waterfall's edge, crossing the heart-pounding Knife-Edge Bridge.
Takebacks:
- Marvel at the awe-inspiring waterfall from up close.
- Dive into adventure with a swim in Devil’s Pool during the low-water season.
- Get your adrenaline pumping with exciting activities such as white water rafting, ziplining, bungee jumping, gorge swinging, and more.
- Explore Livingstone Island when water levels allow.
- Unwind in luxury lodges by the Zambezi River.
- Embark on thrilling game drives in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park nearby.
Extraordinary Walking Safaris in the Birthplace of the Walking Safari
Walking safaris provide a unique and immersive way to connect with the wild, offering a sensory experience that goes beyond traditional game drives. They bring you into the heart of Africa's wilderness in a primal way that can't be matched from the confines of a vehicle. On a walking safari, you become a true part of the environment, allowing you to intimately engage with nature and wildlife at a leisurely pace. And what better place to embark on this remarkable adventure than the very birthplace of walking safaris – South Luangwa. As Zambia's top wildlife destination, South Luangwa National Park is untouched, remote, and teeming with a diverse range of big game.
Takebacks:
- Rest in luxury camps and lodges perched along the banks of the Luangwa River.
- Witness incredible, close encounters with big game like elephants, hippos, buffalos, and lions.
- Delight in one of Zambia’s finest walking safari experiences in the country’s premier wildlife haven.
- Trust your adventure to experienced guides who have grown up in the area, ensuring a safe and knowledgeable journey.
Explore the Mighty Zambezi River with a Variety of Aquatic Adventures
One of the major attractions of a trip to Zambia is the opportunity to immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Zambezi River. Serving as the natural border between Zambia and Zimbabwe and situated upstream from Victoria Falls, a Zambezi River adventure offers a slice of paradise for water activity enthusiasts. While staying at the many hidden lodges and camps nestled along the riverbanks, you can indulge in a range of exciting experiences. For the thrill-seekers, white water rafting down the Zambezi's rapids is a popular choice. Boat safaris provide an excellent alternative to traditional game drives, bringing you up close to aquatic wildlife, including hippos, Nile crocodiles, and even elephants that come for a refreshing dip.
If fishing is your passion, you can engage in catch-and-release expeditions, pursuing prized catches like the elusive tiger fish or Upper Zambezi yellowfish. Enthusiastic canoeists can embark on guided trips along the Zambezi, offering an intimate encounter with wildlife and a deeper understanding of the concept of big game. To cap off your day, there’s nothing quite like a sunset boat cruise – an essential Zambezi experience that allows you to unwind with a leisurely river cruise while savouring delectable sundowner drinks.
Takebacks:
- Retreat to secluded, luxurious lodges and camps nestled along the Zambezi River.
- Engage in catch-and-release fishing, targeting more than 75 fish species.
- Partake in water-based safaris, including boat excursions and guided canoe trips.
- Satisfy your adventurous side with thrilling white water rafting opportunities.
Experience Africa's Most Enormous Bat Migration in Zambia
Just as Tanzania and Kenya have the Great Wildebeest Migration and Botswana boasts its zebra migration, Zambia proudly hosts the grand spectacle of the largest bat migration on the continent. Every year, from October to December, around 8 million straw-coloured fruit bats make a journey from the Congo to Kasanka National Park in search of the wild Masuku fruits. This natural wonder doesn't only earn the title of Africa's largest bat migration; it's also the world's most extensive mammal migration. The annual migration of bats in Kasanka is a well-kept secret of the natural world, and not many have been fortunate enough to witness this event firsthand.
Additionally, Zambia’s Liuwa Plain National Park is home to Africa’s second-largest wildebeest migration and boasts a healthy lion population. In other words, it’s like the Masai Mara but with fewer animals and even fewer human visitors.
Takebacks:
- Witness the planet’s most significant mammal migration.
- Explore Zambia, the site of Africa’s largest bat migration and second-largest wildebeest migration.
- Delight in distinctive wildlife encounters in lesser-travelled corners of Zambia.
Incredible Wildlife Adventures Across 20 National Parks
Zambia boasts an impressive lineup of 20 national parks and 34 game management areas. Among these, South Luangwa, Kafue, and Lower Zambezi stand as some of the world's most renowned national parks. However, choosing which park to explore is no simple task, for each one promises a distinctive safari adventure. In South Luangwa, you can embark on guided walking safaris, renowned for the park's remarkable wildlife diversity. In Lower Zambezi, you'll find yourself paddling alongside crocodiles and yawning hippos during a captivating canoe safari along the picturesque river.
Meanwhile, Kafue National Park offers thrilling game drives and horseback safaris in its untamed terrain, where wide-open floodplains house abundant antelope herds and an array of predators on the prowl. For an all-encompassing Zambia safari experience, we highly recommend combining visits to two or three different parks.
Takebacks:
- Marvel at phenomenal wildlife sightings, including the Big 5, majestic big cats, and beloved animals.
- Explore some of the world’s finest national parks, each offering its unique charm.
- Indulge in luxury lodges and authentic safari camps tucked away in remote, pristine locations.
4. Discover a diverse range of experiences in each national park, catering to every type of traveller.
Zambia boasts some of Africa’s most untamed and stunning national parks. These include the wildlife-rich South Luangwa, the tranquil Lower Zambezi with its riverside accommodations, and the expansive floodplains of Kafue. Then, there’s the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, a vast cascade of thundering water that makes Zambia the go-to place for a wide range of adventure activities. It’s no surprise that Zambia is often called the adrenaline capital of Africa and ranks high among the continent’s top destinations.
Victoria Falls: Nature's Marvel and Thrilling Adventures
You absolutely can't miss a trip to Victoria Falls when exploring Zambia. It should be at the top of your list of things to experience. Words and pictures can't quite capture the breathtaking sight of the Zambezi River plunging over the falls. You have to see and feel it in person. If that doesn't get your heart racing, there's a whole menu of adventure and wildlife activities waiting for you, from white-water rafting and bungee jumping to helicopter rides and lion walks. And if you prefer a slower pace, a serene sunset river cruise is highly recommended. On the Zambian side, you'll find accommodations along the Zambezi's banks, offering romantic river chalets and luxurious suites.
Scenic Air Tours
While taking a helicopter or small aircraft ride over Victoria Falls might cost a bit, the experience is priceless. It’s a treat for thrill-seekers with an adventurous spirit, but it’s not the best choice for those afraid of heights or flying. The awe-inspiring views of one of the Seven Wonders of the World from the air make it a worthy investment.
South Luangwa: Wildlife Galore and Walking Safaris
For exceptional wildlife viewing in Zambia, South Luangwa National Park is the place to be. This park boasts an incredible concentration of animals around its lakes and rivers: enormous herds of elephants, hippos, buffalos, impressive prides of lions, elegant giraffes, and watchful Nile crocodiles are just a few of the stars of the show. Take day and night drives (ideal for spotting elusive leopards) or venture out on foot for one of Zambia's finest walking safaris. South Luangwa is not only home to some of the top safari lodges but also renowned for guided walking adventures, ranging from gentle morning strolls from your luxurious lodge to multi-day excursions into the wild led by expert guides who are passionate about the bush and eager to share their knowledge.
Lower Zambezi: Tranquil Serenity and Riverside Activities
Lower Zambezi National Park offers a serene landscape with vast floodplains and a rugged mountain backdrop. It's a superb spot for game viewing. A few lodges and camps sit on the riverbank, offering a variety of safari activities to suit your preferences. This destination is perfect for those seeking a tailor-made Zambia safari experience, where you can choose between an early morning game drive or a leisurely fishing trip. Don't miss the chance to go on a canoe safari, a fantastic way to get up close with wildlife. It's in a canoe that you truly appreciate the grandeur of big game.
Conquer your Thrill
The mighty Zambezi River offers both gentle and wild rapids, making it a playground for both experienced and novice rafters. Get ready to paddle hard and hang on tight – this adventure is not for the timid! Moreover, for those with nerves of steel, the Zambezi River offers a jaw-dropping place to bungee jump as well as gorge swinging to feel the ultimate rush.
Additionally, you can also take advantage of the Zambezi’s many channels and estuaries and glide along, spotting animals, admiring the scenery and stopping for breaks along the way, by going on a canoe safari.
Kafue: Untamed Wilderness and Abundant Predators
Kafue National Park, a vast and pristine wilderness larger than Kruger Park, sees far fewer visitors. If you're looking for an intimate and untouched safari, this is the place to be. You might not spot other vehicles on your game drives, even during thrilling big cat encounters! While it's not a checklist destination, there's plenty of wildlife, including large herds of red lechwe and puku, providing prey for Kafue's numerous predators, especially lions. The best lodges in Kafue National Park are located on the Busanga Plains, renowned for top-notch game viewing in the park.
North Luangwa: Walking Safaris and Pristine Nature
North Luangwa National Park is for those who crave the raw and unspoiled Africa. There are no permanent lodges, few roads, and minimal visitors. While you may not encounter as much wildlife as in South Luangwa, the game viewing is still excellent. Expect to see vast herds of buffalo and elephants, numerous lion prides, frequent leopard and hyena sightings, and unique species like Cookson's wildebeest. Activities in North Luangwa are centred on walking safaris, one of Zambia's top experiences. Accommodations consist of a handful of seasonal bush camps operating from June to October. We recommend Mwaleshi Bush Camp, with just four cosy chalets in a beautiful riverside setting – it's comfortable, famous for its knowledgeable guides, and as remote as it gets.
The best time to visit Zambia is during the dry season which runs from May to October. These months are perfect for wildlife viewing and offer pleasantly mild daytime temperatures – although September and October do get extremely hot.
Zambia has a sub-tropical climate and has two very specific seasons, the dry months during winter and the rainy season that occurs in summer. The rainy season from December to April is commonly called the Green Season because the landscape is lush, thick and verdant at this time. This makes game viewing a bit more challenging as the vegetation can be dense, plus many animals move away from dry-season water sources.
January marks the height of the rainy season in Zambia, characterised by heavy summer downpours. This period isn’t typically recommended for a visit due to widespread road flooding and some camp closures.
Similar to January, February experiences short yet intense thunderstorms and flooded roads throughout the safari parks. To experience Zambia’s lush emerald season, fly-in safaris are the way to go. While not all lodges remain open, a select few in South Luangwa National Park offer remarkable boating safaris during this time.
As March arrives, the wet season is winding down, but rainfall persists, especially in the northern regions. This month is ideal for birdwatching, with thousands of migratory species beginning their annual journeys. March is perfect for a leisurely cruise along the lower Zambezi River and for witnessing Victoria Falls at its fullest – best observed from the skies in a helicopter or microlight, unless you don’t mind getting drenched by the spray.
While April may not be the peak season for game viewing, it’s one of the best times for a Zambia safari due to exceptionally low accommodation rates. By mid-April, the rains have mostly subsided, particularly in the south, creating a pleasant environment with cool temperatures and vibrant landscapes. Keep in mind that the lush vegetation might make it more challenging to spot predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs.
May signifies the onset of the dry season, making it a prime time for game viewing in Zambia. As the rainy season comes to a close, the country enters one of the most picturesque months of the year. Many safari camps and lodges have reopened their doors, and it’s an excellent opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls in its full splendour.
June marks the beginning of the peak safari season for game viewing. While the latter part of the dry season can become scorching, June offers milder temperatures, making it an ideal period for walking safaris in Zambia. The Luangwa Valley is renowned as Zambia’s walking safari hub, although guided walks are also available in many other major parks.
July is undeniably one of the busiest months for safaris, yet it shines as the prime time for a Zambia safari due to its spectacular wildlife sightings. Keep in mind that this is the peak season, with camps charging their highest rates. The once lush vegetation, nurtured by the previous months’ rainfall, has now receded, offering excellent visibility for spotting wildlife. Towards the end of July, the white-water rafting season commences, with the rapids’ conditions dependent on the preceding rainy season’s rainfall.
August maintains the peak safari season in Zambia, offering an ideal blend of cool and dry weather conditions. This time of year sees vegetation thinning out, providing an excellent opportunity for remarkable wildlife encounters. The arid atmosphere leads to the evaporation of surface water sources by the month’s end, driving herds to congregate at their customary watering holes. South Luangwa National Park, in particular, is exceptional during this season, offering captivating walking safaris.
September brings rising temperatures, offering spectacular opportunities for birdwatching. Sightings of eagles and storks preying on fish in the diminishing pools become quite common. Although the days are warm, the afternoons tend to cool off, providing excellent conditions for walking safaris. There are numerous activities to enjoy in Zambia during this month.
In October, Zambia experiences relentless heat, particularly in the low-lying areas of the country. This is when white-water rafting becomes not only an adventurous challenge but also a refreshing way to beat the heat. For fishing enthusiasts, Lake Kariba is the go-to destination in Zambia for tiger fishing during October. It’s possible that there’s no water flowing over the Zambian side of Victoria Falls at this time, and a visit to the Zimbabwean side may be necessary to witness the main falls.
The weather in November can be somewhat unpredictable, as it’s challenging to pinpoint exactly when the summer rains will commence. However, this month offers the advantage of lower accommodation rates. Despite the impending rainy season, the second largest wildebeest migration in Africa commences in Liuwa Plain National Park around mid-November, showcasing the spectacle of up to 40,000 blue wildebeest traversing the landscape.
December ushers in cooler temperatures compared to the preceding months, marking the onset of the rainy season in Zambia. While conditions may be cooler, the climate can still be warm and humid. Many camps and lodges close entirely due to heavy rainfall and flooding.
Zambia Travel Advice
There is more to the country than what meets the eye: be it its wildlife or community lifestyle. Therefore, as a tourist you can only imagine and as Reimagining Travels, we aid your dream by guiding you along the path.
Currency: Zambian Kwacha, along with US Dollars (widely accepted at lodges and hotels throughout the country.
Transaction: By credit card (however, popular place may charge more and the remote lodges may have difficulty in processing credit card payments)
Recommended: US $10 per person per day for your ranger and tracker | US $25 to be divided amongst the rest of the lodge staff.
Others: In urban restaurants and bars, it is common to offer a 10% tip when a service charge is not included.
Average summer temperatures: 17°C to 31°C
Average winter temperatures: 9°C to 23°C
Rainy season: November to April
Regular/Everyday: Opt for lightweight, breathable attire made of natural fabrics like cotton or linen to stay comfortably cool. It’s advisable to include a fleece or jacket for the cooler evenings and early mornings. When it comes to dressing in Zambia, remember that the dress code leans conservative. Women are advised to pack knee-length or longer skirts to wear in the towns.
Specific: Zambia is renowned for its exceptional walking safaris, so be sure to bring along a pair of comfortable walking shoes. Don’t forget a hat or cap to shield yourself from the sun’s rays. If your visit falls during the rainy season, a raincoat is a must-have, as the rains in Zambia can be intense though brief.
Special: During game drives, opt for light and neutral clothing colours such as khaki, olive, and brown. Avoid white, which tends to get dusty, and steer clear of black and dark blue, as these shades can attract tsetse flies.
Did you know you can book your flights through Reimagining Travel? For more information and frequently asked questions, please contact our travel experts.
Kenneth Kaunda International Airport: Situated 14 kilometres from Lusaka, Zambia’s primary entry point is accessible through various direct flights. However, numerous travellers opt for arriving via Johannesburg. From there, you can connect to charter flights that will take you to South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi, and Kafue National Parks.
Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (Livingstone): Just a short half-hour drive from Victoria Falls, those exploring the Zambian side of the falls typically access it through Lusaka or Johannesburg.
Zambia’s national parks are quite spread out, and road infrastructure can be limited, particularly during the rainy season. To navigate the country with ease, the most convenient method is flying. Transfers and game drives are commonly carried out in open-sided 4X4 vehicles.
It’s important to be aware that when taking internal flights, there’s usually a stringent luggage restriction of 12kg per person, and it must be packed in soft bags. Zambia enforces this policy more strictly than many other countries, and even bags with just a single hard side might not be permitted.
Every traveller to Zambia must have a passport that remains valid for a minimum of six months from their departure date. If you’re a citizen of South Africa or Zimbabwe, you can get a Zambian visa upon arrival at no cost. For visitors from all other countries, tourist visas are readily available at major border crossings, airports, and seaports. Zambia offers tourist visas in four different categories, with pricing determined by the duration of your stay: a 7-day transit visa, a single-entry visa, a double-entry visa, or a multiple-entry visa.
