The country is also home to the breathtaking Victoria Falls
Home of the first ever walking safari and teeming with leopards, Zambia is an incredible safari destination for travellers of all levels of experience.
Landlocked Zambia shares borders with Angola, Namibia, DRC, Tanzania, Malawi, Mozambique and Zimbabwe as well as the world’s second shortest border – a mere 157 metres where it briefly meets Botswana at Kazungula. Formerly known as Northern Rhodesia, Zambia is one of the largest and most diverse countries in Sub-Saharan Africa but, despite this, doesn’t have quite the same notoriety as some its neighbours as a major safari destination. Of course, visits to the Zambian side of Victoria Falls have long been popular, but relatively few visitors venture any further than the environs of the Zambezi River.
Tamara, one of our Zamia experts, says:
"The most incredible thing about Zambia and the reason I love it so much is the size and wildness of the National parks and how few visitors they get in comparison to other Safari destinations. It feels so unspoilt and exclusive which is becoming more and more unique.... With incredible wildlife, landscape and within throwing distance to Lake Malawi which makes the perfect beach alternative!"
However, those in the know who visit regularly for a tailor made Zambia safari holiday are happy for things to stay this way as it keeps the bountiful National Parks lovely and quiet and creates an extraordinary safari experience. The best known of the parks are the South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi National Parks, both of which have abundant wildlife and a wonderful array of places to stay. Easily linked by daily flights to both Livingstone and the capital Lusaka, they are often combined with Victoria Falls to create a delightfully varied safari circuit.
For visitors looking for almost complete privacy when on safari, the smaller North Luangwa and Luambe National Parks border the more famous South Luangwa and are great for escaping the crowds, exploring on foot and getting a feel of what safaris must have been like many decades ago. Equally, the Western and Northern parts of the country have some breathtaking places to visit, including the Kafue National Park and the truly wild Liuwa Plain National Park where just one permanent lodge sits right at its heart.
True adventurers will relish the chance to make their way North, visiting the Bangwelu Swamps, the source of the mighty Congo River and the Kasanka National Park, which plays host to the world’s largest bat migration in November and December. When planning a luxury Zambia holiday it is worth noting that the whole country, with the exception of Livingstone, is very much a seasonal destination. The summer rains render much of the country inaccessible between November and April each year, although a small handful of camps within the South Luangwa, and one in the Lower Zambezi remain open.
Unsure where to start? Give us a call and speak to our team.
Classic Zambia Safari
- Victoria Falls
- South Luangwa
- Lower Zambezi
From the mighty Victoria Falls to the floodplains of the Zambezi River and the iconic South Luangwa National Park, this trip covers all of the highlights of Zambia. The range of places you visit and experiences you enjoy make this the perfect introduction to this most captivating of safari destinations.
Top Zambia trip ideas
When to go to Zambia
Find out the best time to visit Zambia with our month by month guide.
- Best
- Good
- Mixed
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
January
January is a good time to visit Victoria Falls, but the rest of the country is very humid and wet leading to many camps shutting during January.
February
February remains wet, so its a good month to visit the thundering Victoria Falls, however only a few camps stay open for boating and walking. The rains have created lush vegetation, during this time of year it is alive with the sound of migratory birds in their breeding plumage, an excellent time for birders to visit Zambia.
March
If you want to witness Vic Falls at its fullest, March is the month to visit, with huge volumes of spray often obscuring the view. The birding is still magnificent in March, and camps offer fantastic value for money as there are no crowds.
April
In April the weather starts to dry, however rain remains a prominent feature of April. In the Lower Zambezi National Park, lush vegetation is at its thickest making animals more difficult to spot. April is seen to be the best time of year to witness the rarely seen Wild Dog in South Luangwa National Park.
May
May is a mixed month, the onset of the dry season means rains are unlikely, however access to certain camps is tricky due to sodden grounds. Game viewing in South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi begin to improve as the vegetation things and waterholes begin to dry up, forcing wildlife together.
June
June is a great time to visit Zambia, the ground starts to dry out and camps are offering excellent deals and there are few visitors to share safari vehicles so you may have some areas to yourself.
July
July is high season, temperatures rise and all the camps are officially open. If you want to see game then South Luangwa is the best option, whereas the Lower Zambezi is perfect for river cruises and fishing.
Victoria falls is at its best, without being overly wet and clouded with spray.
August
August's hot and dry weather kicks off what Zambia is famous for, walking safaris. It is the prime time to combine game viewing with Victoria Falls.
September
Temperatures sore in September reaching high 20's making the long days particularly pleasant. This month sees Carmine Bee Eaters arrive, flocks of hundreds nest in river banks providing a thrilling spectacle of colour and sound.
October
October sees temperatures sore again, game viewing is best done in the early mornings to avoid the hot midday sun.
November
November brings the start of the rainy season, but the good news is the sporadic showers are not too disruptive and visitors get to see dramatic skies and stormy skies brewing. Temperatures are high and it can be humid, but the mixed weather brings great value stays. Plus many young animals are being born, making it a fantastic time to see the parks come to life.
December
The rainy season is in full force in December, grasslands begin to lengthen, foliage thickens and game viewing becomes a little trickier. The rivers rise and dependant on water levels travellers can visit 'devils pool' at Vic Falls, providing high excitement and a head for heights needed if you want to get close to the drop off.
Types of Zambia holidays
Where to go in Zambia
Top places to visit in Zambia
Best places to stay in Zambia
FAQs About Your Zambia Holiday
Planning a holiday to Zambia? Our experts share advice on everything from what to pack, when to go, to tips for families, covering the questions we get asked the most.
What is Zambia best known for?
Zambia is best known for its spectacular wildlife, remote and uncrowded national parks, and the mighty Victoria Falls. It’s one of the best safari destinations in Africa for walking safaris, boat safaris, and authentic bush experiences. With fewer crowds than neighbouring countries, Zambia offers a wilder, more off-the-beaten-track feel, while still boasting excellent guides, lodges, and opportunities to see Africa’s iconic animals up close.
When is the best time to visit Zambia?
The dry season, from June to October, is the best time for wildlife viewing. Animals gather around rivers and waterholes, making sightings easier. November to March brings lush green scenery and excellent birdwatching, although some lodges close due to rains. April and May are shoulder months with fewer crowds and good value. For Victoria Falls, peak water flow is February to May, while lower levels in October reveal the rock formations.
How do I get to Zambia?
Most international flights arrive into Lusaka or Livingstone. From there, small domestic flights connect you to safari destinations such as South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi, or Kafue. Flights are often included in tailor-made packages, making transfers seamless. Road transfers are also possible, though distances can be long. Many travellers combine Zambia with neighbouring countries, such as Botswana, Zimbabwe, or Malawi, thanks to well-established cross-border routes.
Is Zambia safe for travellers?
Yes, Zambia is considered one of Africa’s safest countries for visitors. Its people are warm and welcoming, and tourism is a major part of the economy. Safari areas and tourist hubs like Livingstone are secure and well-managed. Standard travel precautions apply, as with anywhere, but with a reliable operator and guided activities, you can expect a smooth and safe trip.
What activities can I do in Zambia besides safaris?
Beyond game drives, Zambia offers walking safaris, canoeing on the Zambezi, and cultural visits to rural communities. In Livingstone, adventure activities range from white-water rafting and bungee jumping to more relaxed pursuits like river cruises and local market tours. Hiking, birdwatching, and stargazing are also excellent options, while Victoria Falls offers scenic flights, photography, and guided tours for every pace of traveller.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
Zambia’s parks are home to elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, giraffes, and hippos in large numbers. The country is also famous for wild dogs and sightings of leopard, especially in South Luangwa. Over 700 bird species make it a paradise for birdwatchers, particularly during the green season. The Lower Zambezi is renowned for its river-based wildlife, while Kafue offers diversity, from big cats to antelope rarely seen elsewhere.
What makes Zambia different from other safari destinations?
Zambia is where the walking safari was pioneered, and it remains one of the best places in Africa to explore the bush on foot. Parks are less crowded, giving you a more intimate wilderness experience. The guiding standards are among the highest in Africa, with exceptional emphasis on tracking and ecology. Add to this the incredible backdrop of Victoria Falls, and Zambia offers something truly distinctive.
Can I combine Zambia with other destinations?
Yes, Zambia combines beautifully with neighbouring Botswana and Zimbabwe, often through the Victoria Falls hub. It also pairs well with Malawi for a safari and lake holiday, or with South Africa for city and wine country extensions. Flight networks make it straightforward, and many itineraries are designed with multi-country travel in mind.
Is Zambia a good place to see leopards?
Yes. Zambia is one of the best countries in Africa for leopard sightings, particularly in South Luangwa National Park. The concentration of these elusive cats is unusually high, and they’re often seen on both day and night drives. If leopards are on your wish list, Zambia gives you some of the best chances to see them in the wild.
What should I pack for a safari in Zambia?
Lightweight neutral-coloured clothing, a fleece or jacket for cool mornings, comfortable walking shoes, and a wide-brimmed hat are essentials. A good camera, binoculars, and insect repellent will enhance your experience. Most lodges offer laundry services, so packing light is possible. Don’t forget a swimsuit, as many camps have pools, and a small torch is handy for evenings.
Traveller Tales and Insider Insights
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