The landlocked nation of Zambia is situated in southern Africa. It shares borders with Malawi to the east, Angola to the west, Tanzania to the northeast, Botswana and Zimbabwe to the south, Mozambique to the southeast, Namibia’s Caprivi Strip to the southwest, and the Democratic Republic of Congo to the northwest.

Although there are mountains in the northeast that reach heights of 1,800 meters, Zambia’s terrain is primarily a high plateau that ranges in elevation from 910 to 1,370 meters. Depending on height, the majority of the country’s regions, such as the south and center, have tropically modified climates; minor areas in the southwest have semi-arid climates. The capital of Zambia is Lusaka, where English is the official language.

One of the world’s greatest safari-giving nations is Zambia. It is home to a wide variety of wildlife, numerous national parks, vast bodies of water, culture (with friendly people), breathtaking daily sunsets, seventeen waterfalls, and the magnificent Victoria Falls near the Zambia-Zimbabwe border. The following is a list of other sights and activities that Zambia Safari offers.Victoria Falls Safari in Zambia

Zambia’s Victoria Falls Safari

“Mosi-oa-Tunya,” which translates to “the smoke that thunders,” is the native name for Victoria Falls, which are located in southern Africa near the boundary between Zambia and Zimbabwe. At 108 meters high and 1,708 meters wide, the Victoria Falls, which are located on the Zambezi River, are thought to be the biggest falls in the world.

All of the falls have distinctive and breathtaking views that provide an amazing experience, even though they are shared by two countries—the lower falls are in Zimbabwe while the top falls are in Zambia. The nearby town where the Victoria Falls are located is called Livingstone in honor of missionary explorer David Livingstone, who is credited with revealing the falls.

Victoria Falls can be visited from July to September. In November and December, the falls are scarce because they dry up so much that they resemble canyons. From January to May, the Zambezi River fills with rain, making it difficult to see the breathtaking falls because the mist created by the water pressure acts as a wall that makes it difficult to see through.

Located near the falls, there is a natural pool known as the “Devil’s pool.” Although it appears frightening, it is not to be missed. One of the amazing and unforgettable experiences one has while here is swimming, which is made very easy for visitors by the water level dropping during the month of November.

Other activities available at the Victoria Falls include zip line, bungee jumping, river rafting, sun set cruises, flying excursions above the falls, and bridge tours, to name a few.

Luangwa National Park in the South

The Luangwa River valley is home to South Luangwa National Park, which was first created as a game reserve in 1938 before becoming a national park in 1972. One of the world’s best national parks, it spans around 9,059 square kilometers and is teeming with species. It is home to more than 400 bird species and 60 animal species, most of which are found around the Luangwa River.

These include giraffes, leopards, hippos, and elephants. Because of its diverse vegetation, which includes bushes, wild flowers, lush green bushes, and trees like ebony and baobab trees, the park is also blessed with breathtaking views. Walking safaris and day and night wildlife drives are two amazing and unforgettable activities that may be enjoyed in the park.

The park is accessible by air, with daily domestic scheduled flights to South Luangwa, and by road, which is about a ten-hour trip from Lusaka through the Eastern region. High-end tourists can stay at Mfuwe Lodge or Chichele Lodge because the majority of lodges are open all year round, eliminating any concerns about where to stay. In addition, there are mid-range/moderate lodges and bush camps in and around the park.Zambian elephant safari

The National Park of Lower Zambezi

Established in 1983, the National Park spans 4092 square kilometers. It is situated close to Lusaka in Zambia’s central province. Despite not being as well-known as South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi is home to a variety of wildlife, particularly on the valley floor, including fish eagles, crocodiles, hippos, elephants, and buffalo.

The Zambezi channels, undulating hills, fig and ebony trees, dense forests, and enormous acacias are just a few of the breathtaking features of the area. Savor pursuits like as hunting, fishing, game viewing, boat cruising, and bush camp outings. The settlements of Chiawa and Chirindu provide a variety of lodging options.

The National Park of Kafue

Zambia’s oldest and largest park is Kafue National Park, one of the biggest in the world. It is situated in Zambia’s central province and spans 22,400 square kilometers. A fantastic destination to spend a weekend on safari, it’s about a three-hour drive from Lusaka. Although there have been reports of poaching in this park, it doesn’t detract from the abundance of wildlife it has to offer, including antelopes, hartebeests, and sables. Take pleasure in pursuits such as fishing, game viewing, and bird watching. Any resort close to the park, like Mukambi resort, is a good place to stay.

Kariba Lake

The world’s largest artificial reservoir by volume and lake is Lake Kariba, which is situated in the southern region near the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. The Kariba dam was built since the lake was primarily created to supply hydroelectric power to the two nations. Since there was a concern mostly from the growing amount of water, many indigenous, birds, and animals moved during the dam’s construction, which began in 1955 and finished in 1977. It covers an area of 2,150 square miles and is around 40 km wide by 223 km long.

With plenty of options for boating, fishing, sunbathing, watching breathtaking sunsets, and water sports, Lake Kariba is one of the greatest spots to relax and have fun. Savor breathtaking views from the lake’s islets, including Mazze Island, Sekula Island, Snake Island, Bed Island, and many more. As summer heat builds, the weather is mostly sunny with warm nights. Campsites, moderate cottages, and any upscale cottage on the banks are options for visitors.Buffalo Safaris in Zambia

Tanganyika Lake

The oldest, deepest, and second-longest freshwater lake in the world by volume is Lake Tanganyika, which is shared by Tanzania, Zambia, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Zambia only shares around 7% of the lake’s 32,900 square kilometer surface, which is 677 kilometers long and roughly 50 kilometers wide.

Take part in water sports including swimming, water boarding, boating, kite surfing, kayaking, scuba diving, and water skiing. You can also enjoy activities like Lake Game watching, where you can see a lot of fish while snorkeling. Choose to stay at Ndole Bay Lodge or another lodging establishment of your choosing.

Museum of Livingstone

In 1934, the Livingstone Museum was established. Situated in Livingstone town, close to the Victoria Falls, it is Zambia’s oldest and biggest museum. Originally called the David Livingstone Memorial Museum, it changed its name to Rhodes-Livingstone Museum before becoming the Livingstone Museum in 1966, which is its current name. For history buffs, it’s a great spot to visit; among the items are David Livingstone’s musical instruments, photographs, and other belongings. These primarily pertain to Zambia’s prehistoric and regional histories.

The National Park of Kasanka

One of Zambia’s smaller national parks, Kansaka National Park is located in the Serenje District of the Central Province and spans 450 square kilometers. This park is famous for the greatest migration of enormous fruit bats (Eidolon helium), which occurs every October and involves about 10 million bats. Although these bats are harmless, it can be an exhilarating and frightening experience at times.

In addition to more than 330 bird species, including the water crane, pygmy goose, Pel’s fishing owl, osprey, Ross’s loerie, and shoebills, the park is home to about 114 mammal species, including hippos, sitatungas, reedbucks, elephants, waterbucks, rare blue monkeys, buffaloes, and zebras. Many animals find their home in the forests, wetlands, meadows, lagoons, lakes, and rivers that make up the majority of Kasanka National Park. While here, you can engage in activities like bird viewing, wildlife drives, walking safaris, and boating.

The Ngonye Falls

Also known as Sioma falls, Ngonye falls are situated in Sioma village. These breathtaking falls, which resemble a horseshoe, are located on the Zambezi River. Reaching these falls from Lusaka is challenging because it takes two to three days. They are a wonderful location where one may enjoy breathtaking views. It is recommended that visitors stay overnight at a lodge such as Maziba Bay Lodge, which is around five kilometers from Sioma settlement, after traveling there by road from Lusaka. Camps are also accessible, and guests may still see the falls from here.

You may visit Ngonye Falls at any time of year, but if you want to see wildlife, it’s best to go between July and November when the water level is low and there are lots of animals around the riverbanks. People who enjoy daring sports like rafting are advised to think about February through May, when the water levels rise due to rainfall. On your journey to Zambia, make sure not to miss the Nyonge Falls.

The National Museum of Lusaka

Located in the city of Lusaka, Zambia, the Lusaka National Museum opened its doors in 1996. During a city tour of Lusaka, it is a must-see location due to its attractiveness. It is primarily where the nation’s history and culture are preserved. A lot of things are kept at the museum’s galleries, storage areas, and other floors. It is a sizable space for study and teaching for both foreigners and locals.

Visits to compounds:

Go on a guided walk through the compounds. The majority of urban Zambians reside in compounds, commonly referred to as neighborhoods. You may experience Zambian culture by taking a stroll through one of the two main complexes, Kalingalinga or Bauleni. You will also meet new people and form friendships. Don’t forget to sample the shake-shake chibuku, a locally prepared maize dish.

Dutch Market on Saturday
Every month on the final Saturday, a variety of Zambian and international artists and craftspeople showcase their creations at the Dutch Reformed Church market. You will get the opportunity to meet many individuals, gain knowledge about their skill, and sample a variety of ethnic foods if you visit this market. Another market that opens on Sundays is at the Arcades Center in Lusaka; it’s not as big as the Dutch Market, but it’s still a lot of fun, and you’ll learn how to haggle because most vendors will lower their prices if you do.

Barotseland, or the Western Province
In addition to being the most remote park in Zambia, Liuwa Plains National Park is situated in this remote province on the Angolan border. Visitors can witness the second largest wildebeest migration here in November, which is a fantastic experience; a 4WD vehicle is advised when visiting.

The Kuomboka traditional dance, which is performed annually by the Lozi tribe, draws large crowds of people in April as well. The timing of the ceremony usually varies according to the end of the rainy season. Due to political unrest in the province a while ago, tourists are also cautioned against discussing Barotseland with locals. Enjoy your stay in the Western Province, except from that!

The ideal time to travel to Zambia

In contrast to the more accustomed winter and summer seasons, the nation generally experiences a sub-tropical climate with a dry and rainy season. The country’s dry season, which runs from May to October, is regarded as the ideal time to travel because game viewing is at its peak. While September and October saw extremely hot temperatures, the days are pleasant and warm.

On the other hand, the green or wet season lasts from December to April. During this period, the foliage is dense and lush, making it difficult to see wildlife. Furthermore, a number of safari lodges have closed due to flooding brought on by the intense rains, rendering certain isolated regions of the nation unreachable.

It is advised that visitors who wish to see the stunning Victoria Falls from Zambia’s perspective go in March, April, or May, when the rainy season has just ended, the river is completely flooded, and the cascade presents a stunningly expansive curtain of water.

Please be cautioned, though, that if you visit Victoria Falls in October or November, you will not be able to enjoy the waterfall’s splendor because the Zambian side of the falls is dry and not getting any water. Instead, you are encouraged to travel to Zimbabwe for an exhilarating experience. However, when the water level is low, one can enjoy sports like white water rafting, swimming in the Devil’s Pool, and many more.

Accommodations in Zambia and Where to Stay

The several game parks (such as the Lower Zambezi National Park, Kafue National Park, and South Luangwa National Park) and the area surrounding the famous Victoria Falls are home to a variety of safari lodges and tented camps. These range from simple budget lodging to incredibly cozy luxury lodging.