Zambia: A Hidden Gem of Wild Beauty
Zambia flies under the radar of the typical safari circuit, embodying the essence of untamed Africa. Whether it’s rafting under the mighty Victoria Falls or tracking lions by foot in South Luangwa National Park, Zambia offers an authentic slice of African wilderness. Catering to adventurers with a mix of luxurious and rustic lodging, top-tier guides, and exceptional wildlife, the country promises an adventure at every turn.
Accessing Zambia’s Untouched Wilderness
Zambia’s principal international airports facilitate easy global access and domestic connections, primarily between Livingstone and Lusaka, the country’s primary entry points. Further travel into the heart of Zambia’s national parks is typically achieved through private or scheduled charter flights.
Straddling the border with Zimbabwe, the magnificent Victoria Falls, known as ‘The Smoke that Thunders’, creates a breathtaking spectacle. Its mist, visible from miles away, cascades into a gorge over one hundred meters below. While Zimbabwe offers broader vistas of the Main Falls, Zambia allows for an intimate experience with nature’s marvel. Listed among the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Zambian side features unique attractions like the Boiling Pot and Devil’s Pool, accessible from the tourist-friendly town of Livingstone. Renowned as the adventure capital of southern Africa, Livingstone draws thrill-seekers worldwide with its exceptional whitewater rafting, bungee jumping, and other exhilarating activities.
Lusaka, Zambia’s bustling capital, stands on the country’s vast plains and is rapidly evolving into a key transport hub. This burgeoning city has witnessed a revival, boasting vibrant markets, sophisticated dining and nightlife options, and convenient domestic flight links. Although Lusaka is often a brief stop for travelers on their way to Zambia’s national parks, it deserves a few days of exploration as more than just a transit point.
Premier Walking Safaris Across Africa
Zambia is renowned as the origin of the walking safari, offering one of the most immersive ways to experience the African wilderness and its diverse wildlife.
Earning a visit to South Luangwa National Park is a significant achievement for any safari enthusiast. This park, situated in the Luangwa Valley, is where the concept of the walking safari was first developed and is considered by many experienced safari-goers as the quintessential safari activity. Walking safaris here vary in duration from a couple of hours to several days, designed to accommodate various fitness levels without being overly demanding. South Luangwa is one of Africa’s prime locations for leopard sightings, thanks to the high concentration of wildlife around the Luangwa River, including large groups of hippos, lions, buffalo, elephants, and African wild dogs. The park is also a paradise for birdwatchers, with more than 400 bird species recorded.
Premier Walking Safaris Across Africa
Zambia is heralded as the origin of walking safaris, offering one of the most immersive ways to experience the African wilderness and its diverse wildlife.
Earning a visit to South Luangwa National Park is considered a prestigious achievement. This location is where the concept of the walking safari was first developed, in the Luangwa Valley, and is esteemed by safari aficionados as the pinnacle of safari activities. These walking safaris, ranging from a couple of hours to several days, are designed to be accessible rather than challenging, and can be tailored to accommodate various fitness levels. South Luangwa is one of Africa’s prime locations for leopard sightings, boasting a high concentration of wildlife around the Luangwa River, including large groups of hippos, lions, buffalos, elephants, and African wild dogs. It also serves as a haven for bird enthusiasts, with the park cataloging over 400 bird species.
For those looking to extend their South Luangwa safari adventure, the park’s less traversed sibling offers a more rustic experience, encouraging visitors to connect with the natural environment on foot, guided by some of Zambia’s finest bush experts. The lodges in this area provide a genuine bush camp atmosphere, situated among plentiful lions, large buffalo herds, and the unique Cookson’s wildebeest. Visitors can also explore Mwaleshi Falls on a day trip, adding another dimension to their safari experience.
Lower Zambezi National Park, set along the Zambezi River’s northwestern banks, is another top destination for wildlife enthusiasts, offering exceptional opportunities for close encounters with big game. The park’s geography, with an escarpment on the northern boundary, focuses wildlife activity in the valley, where visitors can observe large elephant herds by the river and a robust population of lions and leopards.
The Kafue National Park, known for its pristine condition, dedicates 67 percent of its area to wilderness zones designated exclusively for walking safaris. As Zambia’s oldest and one of Africa’s largest national parks, Kafue provides endless opportunities for engagement with the wild. The Busanga Plains, the park’s crown jewel, are renowned for the vast herds of red lechwe and buffalo, which attract the region’s major predators, offering an unparalleled safari experience.
SAMPLE ITINERARY
Zambia
Ultra-Luxe
8 nights / 9 days from US$ 12,900 per person
Explore the authentic essence of Africa in Zambia’s premier wildlife regions, guided by exceptionally skilled professionals. Zambia offers a land of remarkable experiences, encompassing vast expanses of big game, serene landscapes, and thrilling encounters with wildlife.
Luxury
8 nights / 9 days from US$ 7,000 per person
This exceptional safari experience merges the renowned wildlife observation regions of Zambia’s South Luangwa Valley with the unparalleled freshwater diving and snorkeling opportunities at Lake Malawi.
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