Northern Explorer Beneath Ruapehu
Rich in wildlife, natural beauty and amazing riverine camps, Zambia stacks up against its renowned safari neighbors Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Botswana and Namibia. What distinguishes landlocked Zambia is its abundance of water. From the eighteen waterfalls - one being the famed Victoria Falls - to the three major rivers that run through Zambia, to the four vast lakes, the country is blessed with clean, life-giving water.
The spectacular waterways provide adrenaline-thrills or a leisurely playground of activities for all ages. Wildlife do not stray far from a water source, which makes game viewing in Zambia reliable.
Zambian trips usually start or end at Victoria Falls. Other attractions in the area are Instagram favorite Devils Pool and the Victoria Falls Bridge, which is famous for its bungee jumping and rope swings. Zambia has many national parks in which to safari. Our favorites are South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi.
Lower Zambezi National Park
Lower Zambezi National Park is in southern Zambia, along the northeastern bank of the Zambezi River on the Zimbabwean border, easily accessible from Victoria Falls. In the south, the Zambezi River valley is known for abundant wildlife, including buffalo, fish eagles and large herds of elephants. Canoes ply the river, which is home to hippos and crocodiles. In the east, the river passes past the striking red cliffs of Mupata Gorge. North is the steep and rugged Zambezi Escarpment.
South Luangwa National Park
Although South Luangwa National Park is geographically small, in terms of density of big game it’s huge. Referred to as the ‘Valley of the Leopard’, South Luangwa’s incredibly diverse landscapes range from dense forests of mopane and sausage trees, to wide open savanna dotted by the occasional lonely baobab, all embraced by the wide, winding Luangwa River.
Most of the camps and lodges are found along the Luangwa river’s edge, guests can see hippos, crocodiles, elephants and more without even having to leave the comfort of their veranda. Elephants, hippos, giraffes, vervet monkeys, baboons and bush buck often wander the grounds of unfenced lodges, adding to the already unique and truly wild African experience that is Zambia.
Curated Vacation Packages
Has this article given you wanderlust? Take a look at our featured destination packages. Completely customizable, these act as an inspirational starting point in your travel planning journey.
