A Guide to Visting Zambia
Welcome to Zambia, a jewel in the heart of Africa known for its pristine wilderness and exceptional safari experiences. This guide is designed for those aged 30 to 60 who seek a blend of adventure and tranquillity in the wild. Whether you're planning your first African safari or are a seasoned explorer, our insights will help you discover the best of walking safaris in Zambia.
What is the Currency in Zambia?
The official currency in Zambia is the Zambian Kwacha (ZMW). Its advisable to carry some local currency for small purchases, though major hotels and safari operators often accept US dollars. ATMs are available in larger towns, but its less common in remote areas.
Which language do they speak in Zambia?
English is the official language of Zambia, widely spoken and used in business and education. However, Zambia is home to over 70 local languages, with Bemba, Nyanja and Tonga being among the most common.
What plug types do you need for Zambia?
Zambia uses the British-style three-pin rectangular plug (type G). The standard voltage is 230V, and the frequency is 50Hz. Travelers should bring adaptors for their electronic devices.
Best way to get to Zambia:
The main international gateways to Zambia are Lusaka, Livingstone and Ndola. Direct flights are available from major cities in Europe, the Middle East, Asia and other African countries.
What is the best time to visit Zambia?
The best time for a safari in Zambia is during the dry season, from May to October. Wildlife viewing is optimal as animals congregate around water sources. The Victoria Falls are most impressive from February to May, right after the regions rainy season.
Why Zambia is a Premier Safari Destination
Zambia has firmly established itself as one of the premier safari destinations in Africa, offering a blend of factors that make it an exceptional choice for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Diverse Wildlife: Zambia is home to an impressive array of wildlife. The country boasts the 'Big Five' - lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros - as well as a myriad of other species, including hippos, crocodiles, giraffes, and numerous antelope species. Birdwatchers also find Zambia a paradise, with over 750 bird species recorded.
Pristine Wilderness: Unlike some more frequented safari destinations, Zambia offers vast untouched wilderness areas. This unspoiled nature means that safaris in Zambia often feel more exclusive and private, away from large tourist crowds. It's an immersive experience into the heart of wild Africa.
The Walking Safari: Zambia is credited as the birthplace of the walking safari - a thrilling way to experience the African bush. These guided walks bring you closer to the ecosystem, allowing for a deep connection with the environment and observing the smaller flora and fauna often missed on vehicle-based tours.
Seasonal Dynamics: The country's unique seasonal patterns create different safari experiences throughout the year. The dry season offers excellent game viewing opportunities as animals gather around water sources. Conversely, the wet season transforms the landscape into a lush, green environment, ideal for bird watching and enjoying the vibrant new life in the bush.
Varied Safari Activities: Beyond traditional game drives and walking safaris, Zambia offers a range of activities. Canoeing safaris in the Lower Zambezi National Park, night drives in South Luangwa, and river cruises on the Zambezi River are just a few examples. These activities provide unique perspectives of the wilderness and its inhabitants.
Conservation Efforts: Zambia is also known for its commitment to wildlife conservation and sustainable tourism. Many lodges and safari operators actively participate in conservation and community upliftment programs, ensuring that tourism benefits both the wildlife and the local people.
Cultural Experiences: Alongside its natural wonders, Zambia offers rich cultural experiences. Visitors have opportunities to interact with local communities and learn about traditional Zambian ways of life, adding a meaningful dimension to the safari experience.
The Unique Appeal of Walking Safaris
Walking safaris in Zambia offer a distinct and immersive experience. Unlike vehicle-based tours, walking safaris allow you to engage with the African bush in its purest form. It's an opportunity to see, hear, and feel the wilderness up close, guided by expert rangers who share insights into the flora, fauna, and intricate ecosystems.
Destinations Not to Miss
South Luangwa National Park: South Luangwa National Park, often hailed as one of the greatest wildlife sanctuaries in the world, stands as a testament to Zambia's rich biodiversity. This park, located in eastern Zambia, is the centerpiece of the Luangwa River valley and is renowned for its rugged, unspoiled beauty and varied habitats - from dense forests of mopane trees and the lush riverine vegetation along the Luangwa River to the open savannah grasslands. It's particularly famed for its populations of leopards and hippos, along with a remarkable variety of other wildlife, including elephants, lions, and a multitude of bird species. South Luangwa offers some of the most exceptional game viewing opportunities in Africa, particularly during the dry season when animals are drawn to the remaining water sources. The park is also credited as the birthplace of the walking safari, providing an unparalleled opportunity to experience the African wilderness up close, guided by experienced and knowledgeable rangers. South Luangwa's combination of abundant wildlife, diverse landscapes, and the unique experience of walking safaris make it an unmissable destination for any safari enthusiast.
Top 5 Lodges in South Luangwa National Park
Mfuwe Lodge: This lodge is renowned for its exceptional location and comfort. With a stunning backdrop and frequent visits by local wildlife, Mfuwe offers an unforgettable experience.
Chinzombo Safari Lodge: Luxurious and eco-friendly, Chinzombo blends modern design with nature. It's perfect for those seeking an upscale safari experience without compromising on the authenticity of the wild.
Kapamba Bushcamp: Nestled by the Kapamba River, this camp offers an intimate setting. Its open-fronted chalets allow for unobstructed views of the river and its wildlife.
Bilimungwe Bushcamp: Ideal for those seeking a rustic yet comfortable experience, Bilimungwe is known for its excellent walking safari routes and the warm hospitality of its staff.
Zungulila Bushcamp: Perfect for the adventurous spirit, Zungulila offers a classic safari experience with its traditional tented accommodation and excellent game viewing opportunities.
Lower Zambezi National Park: Lower Zambezi National Park, nestled along the mighty Zambezi River opposite Zimbabwe's famous Mana Pools Reserve, is a mesmerizing blend of water and wilderness. This relatively undeveloped park is known for its breathtaking scenery, with the Zambezi River's expanse providing a unique backdrop for game viewing and an array of water-based activities. The park's landscape is dominated by the river, flanked by a scenic escarpment lined with lush vegetation, offering habitat to elephants, buffalo, lions, and an impressive variety of birdlife. The serene environment of the Lower Zambezi is perfect for canoe safaris, a tranquil yet thrilling way to encounter wildlife as they come to the river's edge to drink. Fishing enthusiasts also find this park a paradise, especially for catching the renowned tigerfish. The combination of dramatic landscapes, diverse wildlife, and the chance to engage in unique activities like boat cruises and fishing, along with traditional game drives and walking safaris, makes Lower Zambezi National Park a distinctive and memorable destination within Zambia's safari circuit. Its unspoiled and tranquil atmosphere offers a more intimate and personal wildlife experience, appealing to those seeking both adventure and relaxation in the heart of Africa's natural beauty.
Top 5 Lodges in Lower Zambezi National Park
Anabezi Luxury Tented Camp: Offering luxury amidst wilderness, Anabezi is located at the edge of the Zambezi River. It's known for its excellent game viewing and fishing opportunities.
Sausage Tree Camp: This exclusive camp offers bespoke safari experiences. With its elegant tents and personalized service, it caters to those seeking a serene retreat in nature.
Chiawa Camp: Combining luxury with adventure, Chiawa Camp is ideal for those who want to experience both land and water-based safari activities in style.
Old Mondoro Bush Camp: Known for its relaxed and natural setting, Old Mondoro provides a quintessential bush camp experience with exceptional opportunities to encounter wildlife.
Royal Zambezi Lodge: This lodge offers a perfect blend of luxury and wilderness adventure. Its spa treatments and outdoor activities make it a favorite among travelers seeking relaxation and adventure.
Kafue National Park: Kafue National Park, one of the largest national parks in Africa, is a magnificent expanse of diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife. Situated in the western part of Zambia, it covers an area larger than some countries, offering a sense of scale and wilderness that is rare and captivating. The park's landscape is remarkably varied, ranging from the dense riverine forests along the Kafue River to the vast, open plains of the Busanga Swamps, renowned for their seasonal flooding that attracts a plethora of wildlife. This diversity creates habitats for an extensive range of animals, including large populations of lions, leopards, elephants, hippos, and over 500 species of birds. Kafue is particularly noted for its elusive species like cheetahs and wild dogs. Its sheer size and varied terrain mean that parts of Kafue remain largely unexplored, offering a truly off-the-beaten-path safari experience. The park's remote nature ensures a more private and exclusive wildlife viewing experience, away from the crowds, making it a haven for those seeking solitude and a deep connection with nature. Kafue National Park represents the untamed heart of Zambia, a testament to the country's commitment to preserving its natural heritage and offering an authentic and profound safari adventure.
Top 5 Lodges in Kafue National Park
Busanga Bush Camp: Located in the heart of the Busanga Plains, this camp is known for its stunning views and concentrations of game, especially lions.
Shumba Camp: Perched on a tree island, Shumba offers panoramic views and is renowned for its high concentrations of wildlife, including herds of antelope and prides of lions.
Mukambi Safari Lodge: Known as 'The Gateway to The Kafue National Park', Mukambi offers comfortable accommodations and a variety of safari activities.
Kapinga Camp: Designed to blend into its environment, Kapinga provides an intimate and secluded setting, ideal for experiencing the untouched wilderness of Kafue.
Lufupa Tented Camp: Situated on the confluence of the Lufupa and Kafue Rivers, this camp offers a rustic yet comfortable experience, with excellent fishing and birdwatching opportunities.
Aside from safari, what is there to do in Zambia?
Zambia offers a wealth of experiences beyond its world-class safaris, catering to a wide range of interests from natural wonders to cultural and adventure activities. Here are some key highlights:
Victoria Falls: One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Victoria Falls (known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, "The Smoke That Thunders") is a must-visit. Located on the Zambezi River at the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, these falls are a spectacular sight. Visitors can enjoy activities like helicopter rides for aerial views, bungee jumping, and boat cruises on the Zambezi River.
Adventure Sports in Livingstone: Livingstone, near Victoria Falls, is known as Africa's adventure capital. Adrenaline junkies can indulge in white-water rafting, kayaking, and zip-lining. The Devil's Pool, a natural pool at the edge of the falls, offers a unique (and seasonal) swimming experience.
Cultural Experiences: Zambia's rich cultural heritage can be explored through various cultural tours and village visits. These experiences offer insights into traditional Zambian lifestyles, crafts, and ceremonies. The annual Kuomboka Ceremony of the Lozi people in Western Zambia is a colorful and significant cultural event.
Lake Kariba: As one of the world's largest man-made lakes, Lake Kariba is a serene destination for fishing, houseboat vacations, and wildlife viewing. The lake's tranquil waters and beautiful sunsets provide a perfect setting for relaxation.
Canoeing and Fishing Trips: The Zambezi River and its tributaries are ideal for canoeing safaris and fishing. These activities offer a peaceful yet exciting way to explore the riverine ecosystems and encounter wildlife along the banks.
The Copperbelt Museums: For those interested in history and industrial heritage, the Copperbelt region offers insightful museum tours that delve into Zambia's mining history.
Walking Trails in the Zambian Highlands: The highlands of Zambia, with their cooler climate and lush landscapes, offer excellent opportunities for hiking and birdwatching.
Lusaka's Markets and Museums: Zambia's capital, Lusaka, presents a vibrant mix of contemporary culture and heritage. Visitors can explore local markets, art galleries, and museums like the Lusaka National Museum to understand Zambia's history and cultural diversity.
Bangweulu Wetlands: A haven for birdwatchers, the Bangweulu Wetlands are home to an incredible array of birdlife, including the rare and endemic shoebill stork.
Kasanka National Park: Famous for hosting the world's largest mammal migration of fruit bats, Kasanka offers a unique spectacle between October and December each year.