Zambia overview

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During our daily walks and drives we encountered leopard, hunting lions and had a few close encounters with feisty bull elephants but some of my best memories are of the 'in between' times relaxing in camp. As the sun sets gales of strange snorting laughter erupt as pods of hippos make their way onto the river banks for a night's grazing. Elephants frequently wander into camp -there is something very soothing about their presence.

  • Gregory Fox, Zambia specialist
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The landlocked country of Zambia is part of the high, undulating plateau that forms the backbone of Africa. The country has some spectacular scenery, including one of the seven natural wonders of the world – The Victoria Falls on the Zambezi River. Zambia is sparsely populated by over 70 ethnic groups and with its landscapes famous for walking safaris (as pioneered by the legendary conservationist, Norman Carr) it is easy to see why this land is often referred to as the 'real Africa'.

Zambia is estimated to have almost 45% of the total water-resources of Southern Africa, making it a country rich in both flora and fauna. Zambia offers the traveller a range of beautiful safari locations but two worthy of note are the Luangwa National Parks and the Lower Zambezi. The lush Luangwa Valley in north eastern Zambia marks the end of Africa's Great Rift Valley and it is one of the last unspoilt wilderness areas in Africa. The Lower Zambezi is where Zambia takes its name from and is a prime destination for boating safaris, bush walks and animal tracking. These parks are one of the world's best locations for leopard viewing.

Kafue National Park is the largest National park in Zamia and known for having probably the richest birdlife. The Park is still a raw and diverse slice of African wilderness with excellent game viewing, birdwatching and fishing opportunities. The bustling capital city Lusaka is one of the two entry points into the country (the other is Livingstone) and often an interesting city to overnight in before or after a safari.

Whether it is a family holiday, honeymoon or a luxury getaway you are after Zambia has something to suit everyone. This is Africa, pure and simple for those wanting a sense of adventure and exploration.

The dry season June to October is traditionally the best time to travel but each season has its attractions and highlights depending on your interests. These drier months are ideal if this is your first trip to Africa or your wish list includes seeing lot of the big game.

The emerald season - December to May is a particularly good time for birders and for the elusive wild dogs. This is also an excellent time for photographers, the dramatic skies and the restricted game movements make it easy to photograph large animals. The days can vary enormously from one to the next. Even within a day, skies will often change from sunny to cloudy within minutes and then back again. It seldom rains long enough to really stop you doing anything, except travelling on some bush roads. The South Luangwa is one of the National Parks to remain open during this season.

Speak to us about your specific interests and we will advise you on the best time of year to travel to the region which suits you best. See our safari calendar to gain a taste of what Zambia has to offer during the year.

Wildlife and the national parks are Zambia's biggest attractions and most visitors combine safari time in one or two parks with a visit to Livingstone for the Victoria Falls and perhaps beach time in neighbouring Lake Malawi. There are direct flights between London and Lusaka and regular connections from Johannesburg to Lusaka and Livingstone. The majority of tourists to Zambia access the parks by light aircraft.

For the first time visitor a suggested itinerary would include a visit to two of Zambia's finest National Parks (Lower Zambezi and South Luangwa National Park) and the Victoria Falls. If walking is the focus of your trip, head for the bush camps of the Luangwa National Parks to be led by some of the continent's finest guides. For those with a real passion for the wilderness we suggest a Mobile Camping safari and for seasoned travellers or wildlife / birding enthusiasts we suggest you head for Kafue National Park.

There are plenty of combinations depending on season, budget and your specific interest, so speak to one of our Zambia experts who will personally tailor a trip specific to you.

Flights:
Flights from London to Lusaka take about 10 hours. The main airline flying direct from London Heathrow is British Airways. Lusaka can also be accessed from Johannesburg in South Africa. Most people enter Livingstone from Johannesburg which is accessed from all over the world on various airlines.
Vaccinations:
Malaria prophylactics are essential. Yellow Fever injection is required if arriving from an infected area. Diptheria, Tetanus, Polio, Hepatitis A & B and Typhoid are recommended.
When to travel:
Zambia is a year round destination with each season having its own advantages and highlights. The dry season from July to October is when the camps are fully functioning. See our safari calendar for more information on what to expect from the seasons.
Visas:
Visas are required by most passport holders and can be obtained in advance or on arrival in Zambia. (Irish currently do not require visas). Please seek advice from us on the latest information regarding visa fees for your nationality.

Client Comments

The trip was wonderful - not only met every one of my expectations, but exceeded them by a long way. I saw three leopard arguing with some elephants on my first evening at Kapani, and it was all uphill from there. All the guides were extraordinary - I don’t think I came up with a question they...
Zambia, June 2008

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