Top Classic Safari Attractions in Zambia
This nation is a touristy destination with many attractions like Mountains and hills, scenery, and waterbodies, though the most common is the wildlife.
Some of the major attractions are;
Wild Animals
On your Zambia trip adventure, you will many animal species including the big five –Lions, Buffalo, White Rhino, Elephants, and Leopards. They are available in the country’s premier national parks of South Luangwa National Park, Kafue, Lower Zambezi National Park, and Mosi oa Tunya.
The endangered Wild dogs are also present, swamp-loving antelopes are there, and Hyenas, Thornicroft’s giraffe, and Cookson’s wildebeest are also available.
Birds of Zambia
There are over 780 bird species within the main national parks (South Luangwa National Park, and Kafue) and give the best birding. In this country is the Liuwa Plain National Park home to the migrant Black-winged Pratincoles.
Central African species are also available in the country like the Ross’s Turaco and Bohm’s Bee-eater. The Shoebill is also present here.
Some of the notable birds to spot include; the African Fish Eagle, Lilian’s Lovebird, Schalow’s Turaco, Southern Carmine Bee-eater, Southern Ground Hornbill, etc.
The Victoria Falls
The Victoria Falls are a natural beauty and grandeur on the Zambezi and they form the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe and are among the world’s natural wonders. These falls are known as the greatest curtain of water falling in the world.
Visitors can explore Victoria Falls to witness more than five hundred million cubic meters of water per minute plummet over the edge, over a width of nearly two kilometers, into a gorge over one hundred meters below with columns of spray.
Zambezi River
Zambezi River the fourth longest river in Africa. However, it is the largest flowing into the Indian Ocean. It has many bird species and animals on the shores with several fish species including Cichlids, Catfish, Tigerfish, Yellowfish, etc.
The Zambezi River forms the widely known Victoria Falls which is among the wonders of the world.
Where to Go for Zambia Safaris | Top Safari Destinations in Zambia
Zambia safaris take you to unique destinations of this country and these include;
South Luangwa National Park
South Luangwa National Park is taken to be one of the greatest wildlife sanctuaries on Earth and is almost similar to the Masai Mara of Kenya and Chobe National Park as it has untamed wilderness.
There are several animals around the Luangwa River and it has oxbow lagoons which are among the most intense in Africa.
South Luangwa National Park is famous for the walking safari as it originated here and it is one of the best ways to experience Africa’s pristine wilderness.
This park has 60 animal species and over 400 different bird species in the South Luangwa National Park. This makes it an ideal destination for a Zambia vacation.
Lower Zambezi National Park
This park is developing rapidly and its beauty lies in its unchanged wilderness state. It lies opposite the famous Mana Pools National Park in Zimbabwe meaning that the whole area on both sides of the Zambezi River is a wonderful animal sanctuary.
Most animals are concentrated along the valley floor and these include Elephants, Buffaloes, Waterbucks, Lions, Leopards, and many bird species. Travelers can enjoy seasonal fishing, boating, and canoeing, especially kayaking on Lake Malawi.
Kafue National Park
Kafue National Park is the oldest and largest national park in Zambia and it is in the western part of the nation. It has untouched bush life with a variety of habitats and a diversity of wildlife.
This park – Kafue National Park is home to Elephants, large predators, 21 species of antelope, and 515 bird species.
Liuwa Plains National Park
Liuwa Plains National Park is a remote park in the far west and it has pristine wilderness which is good for bush lovers and good for family vacations. You can enjoy game drives in this park to see the Blue Wildebeest, and Lions, and its birdlife is outstanding.
It is made of green and gold grasslands and these form spectacular views and fantastic photographic opportunities in summer.
Classic Safari Activities/Things to Do In Zambia
Travelers coming to Zambia can enjoy many activities on their Zambia vacation. Some of the best things to do include;
Game Drives
Game drives are the best way of experiencing the wilderness of this country and for seeing the big game. Mornings and afternoons are spectacular for big game viewing during game drives in a well-padded open vehicle.
You go with a tracker and a game guide who make sure that you don’t miss anything on your Zambia vacation. Game drives are best in South Luangwa National Park.
Birding
This nation is among those with the highest bird concentration on the continent. A birding trip will take you to the Zambezi area on a canoeing trip adventure. You can watch birds on the Zambezi cruise just above Victoria Falls. Another way is embarking on a walking trip adventure around Lake Malawi.
Canoeing
This is another amazing activity to enjoy on your Zambia safari trip. It is experienced on the upper and lower Zambezi River and Lake Malawi. You get to witness the beautiful scenery that lines the river before it plunges over Victoria Falls.
You get to see animals and birds that are on the Zambezi River shores.
Cultural Encounters
A Zambia vacation is not complete without cultural encounters and they take you to different tribe communities during family vacations. When you come to Zambia, seek out Kawaza Village, which is beside South Luangwa National Park for a very genuine glimpse into traditional Kunda life. You will as well experience Zambia’s cultural heritage.
Mobile Walking Safaris
Walking safaris are ideal for nature lovers on a Zambia safari trip as you get to experience bush walks in the protected areas as you feel the wilderness of Africa. You can see many animals and birds on this walking safari and it is best in South Luangwa National Park and along the Zambezi River.
You get to see Elephants, Giraffes, Monkeys, Baboons, Buffalo, etc.
Among all the activities, there are as well outstanding adventure activities and these include;
White Water Rafting
This is among the best adventure activities to enjoy on a Zambia vacation. White water rafting is best experienced on the Batoka Gorge near Victoria Falls.
Bungee Jumping
It is also good when it comes to adventure activities and it is the ultimate adrenaline rush. You leap into space free as a bird and you stop at the swirling water below.
Other adventure things to do include;
- Abseiling at the very edge of the falls
- Flights over Victoria Falls
- Devil’s Pool at Victoria Falls
- Gordge swinging
- Horse trails
- Kayaking
- Riverboarding
Where to Stay During Zambia Safari Trips
Accommodation in this nation is categorized into classes of luxury, midrange, and budget lodges. They include tented camps, resorts, and lodges.
Luxury Accommodation in Zambia
Luxury lodges are ideal for those on a luxury safari and they include;
- Tongabezi
- Luangwa River Lodge
- Tena Tena
- Sausage Tree Camp
- Royal Zambezi Lodge
Midrange Accommodation
These lodges are taken to be 3-4 star hotels
- Pinnon Safari Lodge
- Croc Valley Camp
- Bilimungwe Bush Camp
- Chamilandu Bush Camp
- Kafunta River Lodge
Budget Accommodation
These lodges are ideal for those on a budget
- Nkonzi Camp
- Flatdogs Camp
- Waterberry Lodge
- Chundukwa Lodge
What to Wear for a Zambia Safari
Below is what to wear during your Zambia tour.
- Long-sleeved shirts and trousers (mostly neutral colors)
- Comfortable shoes
- A cap or hat
- Sunglasses
- Sweaters
- Poncho or rain jacket
What to Pack for a Zambia Tour
Below is what to pack for a classic safari in Zambia.
- A camera with extra batteries
- Binoculars
- A day backpack
- Insect Repellents
- Sunscreen
- Personal first aid kit
- Personal medical prescription
How is the Wildlife Viewing in Zambia?
Wildlife viewing in this country is unique and it is done in superb areas like in South Luangwa National Park. The wildlife that you see on these holidays is spectacular and untamed.
A trip to Kafue National Park will have you see the Leopard, tree-climbing Lions, Red Ichwes, etc. Within the Lower Zambezi Park, you can see Elephants, Buffalo herds, Crocs, and Hippos, and you can see these by paddling down the Zambezi in a canoe.
South Luangwa National Park is also a great place for many species including the Big Five apart from the Rhino especially during game drives and bush walks.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Zambia?
The best time of the year to explore Zambia is on holidays is when it easy to see wildlife apart from Victoria Falls. The best time to see wild animals is in the dry season as during this time of the year animals spend time at water sources making it easy for big game viewing.
The wet season is also the shade of green in this nation as there are luscious bushes good for bush walks. South Luangwa National Park is amazing during this season though tracks may be slippery and in bad shape.
What Is the Best Month to Visit Zambia? | Which Month Is Best for Zambia Safari?
The best months are from May to October as this is the dry season as they are good for big game viewing and taking photographs.
November to April is the wet season. June through to September or October is the best time to see Victoria Falls.
How Safe Is Zambia for Tourists?
This country is safe for tourists as national parks and other wildlife areas are crime free. The Zambian people are also friendly and welcoming though in big urban areas like Lusaka city there is a little crime as you are not supposed to wear or carry valuables with you.
Also, avoid moving on empty streets alone at night. All you have to do is to listen and follow your guide’s instructions.
How Much Does It Cost to Go on A Safari in Zambia? | How Much Is a Zambia Safari Tour?
The cost of the classic safari tour in Zambia depends on several factors like transportation, accommodation, activities to engage in like visiting Victoria Falls, drinks, etc.
Zambia camping safaris have prices that start at around $150 and can go up to $200 per day per person. A midrange tour can start from $300 and can go to $1000 and a luxury safari can be beyond.
How Much Is A Walking Safari In Zambia?
The cost of a walking trip depends on other activities that you will be engaging in. Expect this excursion to start from $150 per day per person.
Is Zambia Good for Safari?
Yes, Zambia is good for holidays in Africa. Classic safari goers can explore Victoria Falls and witness the bat migration. You get to see unique wild animals like the Big Five (Elephant, Lion, Buffalo, Rhino, and Leopard) during this adventure
There are walking safaris in South Luangwa National Park and enjoy boat cruises on the Zambezi River with views of Victoria Falls, game drives, white water rafting, bungee jumping, and birding.
How Many Days Is Enough for Zambia?
3 to 5 days are enough to visit the major tourist destinations of this country while on your trip adventure. However, they can be extended depending on your schedule.
What Can I Expect from A Trip in Zambia?
Zambia holidays are mostly about wildlife and are supplemented by a tour to Victoria Falls. On your trip adventure, expect to see animals in the three major national parks of the country – South Luangwa National Park, and Kafue as these all have great wildlife numbers.
Expect the highlight of a Zambia holiday which is engaging in a walking tour in South Luangwa National Park with the best guides who give you a special experience. Also, the people are welcoming, and you get to enjoy a cultural excursion.
Is It Better To Explore Zambia Or Zimbabwe?
Both countries offer rewarding ultimate safaris as they both share the Victoria Falls. On the side of Zambia, there is the amazing South Luangwa National Park.
The Zimbabwean side has Hwange Park and Mana Pools all giving tourists amazing wildlife. All these are near the famed Chobe National Park of Botswana having the Chobe River.
Tourists can explore either of the destinations for the best African safaris as all are rewarding.
Zambia Vs Botswana Safari
Both destinations are outstanding tour destinations and have amazing wildlife and national parks. Botswana is best for self-drive safaris in Southern Africa and also Botswana offers the best luxurious safaris mostly around the Okavango Delta.
Also, it has Chobe National Park, one of the most amazing national parks and it is bisected by the Chobe River. On the other hand, Zambia’s two most unique attractions are Victoria Falls and the largest man-made Lake –Lake Kariba.
It also has South Luangwa National Park which is among the best parks on the continent. Both offer African adventure activities from white water rafting, bungee jumping, canoeing on the Okavango Delta and Lake Malawi, fishing, and houseboats.
Is Zambia or South Africa Better for Safari?
South Africa is far better than Zambia when it comes to Safaris in Southern Africa though all countries are unique. South Africa has the amazing Kruger National Park which is amazing with big game viewing with other national parks.
This country –South Africa also has Cape Town with white sand beaches where you can experience an African adventure. However, a Zambia tour is also not left out when it comes to Victoria Falls and walks in the South Luangwa National Park.
All these countries will give you the best safaris but S.Africa is over the heights especially when you go to Kruger National Park and Cape Town.
What Is Zambia Best Known For? | What Is Zambia Famous For?
Zambia is well known for having Victoria Falls and walking safaris in South Luangwa National Park.
Why Do People Go to Zambia?
People go to Zambia for wildlife safaris and to explore the amazing Victoria Falls and enjoy the Devil’s Pool. They can also enjoy walking safaris in South Luangwa National Park, birding, and other adventure activities.
Which Is the Best Safari Park in Zambia?
South Luangwa National Park is the best park in Zambia, and it is well known as the walking destination with highly skilled guides with big game. There is also Victoria Falls Park having Victoria Falls the world’s amazing waterfall.
What Is The Best Thing About Zambia?
Zambia is home to one of the world’s seven natural wonders and wildlife. It has the biggest waterfall in the world –Victoria Falls. It also has the largest man-made lake which is Lake Kariba.
The Big Five animals flourish in the savannah parks of this country like in the South Luangwa National Park and it has the Zambezi River.
What Is The Most Beautiful City In Zambia?
Lusaka is the most beautiful city in Zambia, and it is quite far from Victoria Falls.
Is It Better To Visit Victoria Falls From Zambia Or Zimbabwe?
The Zimbabwean side offers the most outstanding views of Victoria Falls, especially in the dry season. You can as well explore Livingstone Island, but this is only possible on the Zambian side.
Can I Combine a Zambia Safari and A Tour to Victoria Falls?
Yes, you can combine a Victoria Falls tour with a Zambian trip adventure.
What Is the Best Time of The Year to Visit Victoria Falls?
The best time to explore Victoria Falls is between February and May following the summer rains as this is when they are most powerful.
Is Tipping Customary in Zambia?
Tipping is not customary as you can decide when to tip. Usually in restaurants, you can tip 10% of the meals.
Can I Use My Cell Phone While in Zambia?
Yes, you can use a cell phone but understand that most holidays are frequently out of the range of cell towers and internet access may be hard to get.
In conclusion, Zambia safaris offer amazing opportunities to explore the true African wilderness of this country. You get to see Victoria Falls the biggest waterfall on Earth. You can combine these safaris with trips to Botswana to tour the outstanding Chobe National Park and cruise on the Chobe River.
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