Searching for the best wildlife-viewing experiences in Africa without the crowds? Well we’ve got a little secret for you: Zambia is one of our favorite wildlife-rich African countries that hasn’t made it to the mainstream traveler’s list yet. Rather, it’s a destination for discerning travelers who love to explore nature in its purest form and experience some of the world’s most exotic locales without the crowds and droves of travelers.
Take a look at our Zambia guide below to see if this extraordinary country should be the next destination to check off on your bucket list:
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Top 3 places to visit while on a Zambia safari vacation
Livingstone: Neighboring one of the natural wonders of the world, Victoria Falls, the quaint town of Livingstone is celebrated for its history, cozy restaurants, and exciting activities.
Once the capital of Zambia (up until 1935 to be exact), Livingstone is renowned for its early-colonial architecture, Zambezi River-side activities, and charming village life.
Some of our clients’ favorite adventurous activities in and around Livingstone include white-water rafting, canoeing the Zambezi, helicopter rides above the Victoria Falls, bungee jumping, horseback riding, and elephant-back safaris.
And for a relaxing morning or afternoon in the old-world town of Livingstone, visit the Livingstone Museum (Zambia’s oldest and largest museum, filled with natural and cultural history, archeology, historical artifacts, David Livingstone memorabilia, and more), or take a stroll through the Mukuni Park Market or Kubu Crafts.
Image above taken from the Sussi & Chuma website
South Luangwa National Park: As one of the best wildlife reserves in the world, South Luangwa attracts nature enthusiasts, explorers, wildlife photographers, and other curious and talented individuals to its enchanting, natural ambiance and mysterious eco-systems and habitats.
Although game drives are fantastic in the park, we always suggest walking safaris for individuals who are interested in getting even closer to the wildlife, and exploring the purest connection to nature.
There is nothing quite like the excitement and unpredictability of a walking safari. As you venture deep into the bush, your expert guide will point out some of nature’s most fascinating plants, birds, insects, and other small critters. He or she will also bring to your attention any signs that a large animal was in the area by searching for animal tracks and droppings.
During a walking safari in South Luangwa National Park, it is extremely likely to come across big game, including baboon, leopard, lion, wild dog, elephant, antelope, buffalo, zebra, giraffe, and much more.
Bird watching is also incredible in South Luangwa. Even if you’re not an avid birder, we guarantee that you’ll find excitement in finding the elusive and breathtaking birds of Zambia. Some of the most commonly seen birds in the park include yellow-billed storks, crowned cranes, bee-eaters, and the African fish eagle, as well as a variety of water-dwelling birds.
Lower Zambezi National Park: One of Africa’s newer parks, the Lower Zambezi was declared a National Park in 1983 and is home to a mix of wildlife. Although not as famous as South Luangwa National Park, the Lower Zambezi offers stunning landscapes and game-viewing opportunities.
Arguably, the best activity to do in the Lower Zambezi National Park is a canoe safari. Most camps and lodges in the Lower Zambezi area offer half-day and full-day canoe safaris, and each safari is equipped with a knowledgeable and certified safari guide.
As you paddle down the Zambezi, you’ll have fantastic game-viewing opportunities on both sides of the river. With frequent sightings of hippo, crocodile, elephant, buffalo, kudu, baboons, and more, you’ll find that canoe safaris are not only exciting, but also soothing, allowing you to absorb the delicate sounds of nature.
Image above taken from the Sussi & Chuma website
Top accommodations in Zambia
- Sussi & Chuma (situated near Victoria Falls)
- Chindeni Bushcamp (South Luangwa National Park)
- Bilimungwe Bushcamp (South Luangwa National Park)
- Chiawa Camp (Lower Zambezi)
- Old Mondoro Safari Camp (Livingstone)
- Sausage Tree Camp (Livingstone)
When to go to Zambia:
The best part about Zambia is that game-viewing is exceptional year-round. April – October is the dry season, with warm days and chilly nights, while November – March is the rainy season. During the rainy season, the terrain transforms from dry, cracked earth to lush grasslands—a great time to witness migrant birds.
I’ll second that. We went to Zambia for the first time in 2012 (Livingstone and South Luangwa mainly – brilliant) and we’ll definitely be back. It’s hard to find friendlier people too.
Roxanne, Yes, Zambia truly is amazing! The people are extraordinary and it is a real treat to interact with them.
-Sandy