Zambia

Zambia, located in southern Africa, is often overlooked in favor of its more famous neighbors, but those who venture here are in for a real treat. This hidden gem offers some of the most authentic and untamed wilderness experiences on the continent. 

4 reasons to visit Zambia

With rich cultural traditions, exciting adventure activities, and landscapes that range from sunny savannas to powerful rivers, Zambia offers a unique escape into the heart of Africa. You’ll find fewer crowds, more wildlife, and the chance to experience a country that still feels wild and off the beaten path.

1. To see the wildlife

Zambia offers some incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. South Luangwa National Park is well-known for its walking safaris, where you can track animals like lions and elephants on foot. The parks here are less crowded than in other safari destinations, so you get a more intimate experience. In Lower Zambezi National Park, canoe safaris allow you to paddle quietly alongside hippos and elephants. 

2. To experience Zambia’s natural landscapes

Zambia’s natural beauty is staggering. The country is home to 20 national parks, each offering something different—from the sprawling plains of Kafue National Park to the lush wetlands of the Bangweulu Swamps. The country's diverse ecosystems include rugged mountains, dense forests, and expansive grasslands. The mighty Zambezi River carves its way through the landscape, offering views and opportunities for river safaris, fishing, and canoeing. You’ll find Zambia’s landscapes are wild and pristine.

3. To experience the cultures of Zambia

Zambia is home to 72 ethnic groups, each with its own traditions and customs. You’ll find many opportunities to engage with local communities, whether through village visits, cultural festivals, or learning about traditional crafts. Events like the Kuomboka Ceremony, where the Lozi people transport their king to higher ground in a ceremonial barge, offer a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural life. Visitors are welcomed to participate in many local customs, from village homestays to guided visits to community-run conservation projects.

4. For adventure

Zambia is full of options for those who enjoy outdoor adventure. The Zambezi River is famous for its white-water rafting, with challenging rapids like "The Gnashing Jaws of Death." If you're up for it, you can bungee jump from the Victoria Falls Bridge or take a microlight flight over the falls for a unique perspective.

Top 5 places to visit in Zambia

There are plenty of things to do in Zambia, but here are our top five places to visit:

#1: South Luangwa National Park

Often described as one of the greatest wildlife sanctuaries in the world, South Luangwa National Park is the heart of Zambia’s safari industry. Covering 3,500 square miles (9,050 square kilometers), the park is home to some of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Africa. South Luangwa is famous for its walking safaris, where expert guides lead you through the bush, pointing out animals, plants, and even the smaller wonders of the ecosystem, like insects and tracks. It’s one of the few places where you can experience the thrill of walking just meters away from elephants, giraffes, and sometimes even lions, with nothing between you and the wildlife but the open air.

#2: Victoria Falls

You might know that Victoria Falls is shared between Zambia and Zimbabwe, but the Zambian side gives you a more intimate view. Locally called Mosi-oa-Tunya (The Smoke That Thunders), the falls are absolutely massive—355 feet tall and over a mile wide. The Zambian side offers some of the best viewpoints, including Knife-Edge Bridge, where you can feel the spray from the falls up close.

For the ultimate thrill, swim in Devil’s Pool, a naturally formed pool right on the edge of the falls, where you can peer over the lip into the gorge below. 

#3: Kafue National Park

Kafue is Zambia’s largest and oldest national park, and it’s a bit off the beaten path, so you won’t run into too many tourists. It’s massive, covering about 8,650 square miles, with a range of habitats that support elephants, lions, leopards, and even cheetahs. The birdlife is incredible too, with over 500 species to spot. The Busanga Plains area, in particular, is perfect for game viewing when the floodwaters recede from July to October.

#4: Lower Zambezi National Park

If you like the idea of combining water activities with a safari, Lower Zambezi National Park is perfect. You can go on a canoe safari and get super close to elephants, hippos, and crocodiles. It’s a more rugged, less developed park, which means fewer people and more untouched wilderness. Game drives and walking safaris are also available if you want a different angle on the wildlife.

The Lower Zambezi is less developed than other parks, which adds to its charm. The absence of paved roads and large lodges means that visitors often have entire areas of the park to themselves.

#5: Livingstone

This is your gateway to Victoria Falls, but the town itself has a lot to offer. Named after explorer David Livingstone, it’s got a rich history, and the Livingstone Museum is worth checking out. The town is also a hub for adventure sports including white-water rafting on the Zambezi, bungee jumping from the Victoria Falls Bridge, and helicopter rides over the falls. If that’s not your thing, a sunset cruise on the Zambezi or a visit to a local village might be more your speed.

Practical travel tips

If you’re getting ready to head off to Zambia, here are some tips to consider to make the most of your trip.

Getting there

When you’re flying internationally to Zambia, most flights land at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka, the capital. From Lusaka, you can easily catch domestic flights to places like Livingstone, Mfuwe (for South Luangwa National Park), and the Lower Zambezi. Alternatively, overland travel is possible from neighboring countries like Zimbabwe and Botswana. Direct flights are also available from Johannesburg.

When to visit

The best time for your trip depends on what you want to experience. If you’re into wildlife, visit during the dry season (May to October) when animals gather near rivers and waterholes, making game viewing easier. For a stunning view of Victoria Falls at its peak, plan your trip between March and May, right after the rainy season. 

Travel requirements

You’ll need a passport with at least six months of validity from your entry date. Many nationalities, including those from the US and UK, can get a visa on arrival, but it’s a good idea to check the latest requirements before you go to avoid surprises.

Visa information

A single-entry visa for Zambia costs $50, while a double-entry visa is $80. If you’re planning to hop between Zambia and Zimbabwe, the KAZA UniVisa is a great option. For $50, it gives you unlimited crossings between the two countries for 30 days—perfect if you’re staying near Victoria Falls and want to explore both sides.

Health tips

Zambia is a malaria-endemic country, so it’s smart to take anti-malarial medication, especially if you’re traveling during the wet season. Don’t forget to pack insect repellent and use it regularly. Make sure your routine vaccinations are up to date, and depending on your health history and plans, you might need shots for yellow fever, hepatitis A, or typhoid. Stick to bottled or boiled water to avoid any waterborne illnesses, and be cautious about eating uncooked foods unless you’re sure they’re safe.