Zambia is a friendly and peaceful destination, that offers superb wildlife and cultural encounters. A Zambian safari ideally showcases this magnificent country, which is landlocked in south-central Africa, and boasts a population of approximately 12 million. It is one of the least traveled and most rewarding wilderness destinations in Africa.
Zambia is situated mainly on a vast plateau 3000m above sea level, and boasts the Zambezi, Kafue and Luangwa rivers – as well as one of the largest waterfalls in the world, the Victoria Falls, which it shares with neighboring Zimbabwe. Most of the country has a mild, pleasant climate, while the river valleys are hotter and more humid; the extreme north becomes tropical on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, one of Zambia’s ten large lakes.
When it comes to wildlife, a Zambian safari offers impressive diversity as well as large concentrations and numbers, and some of the wildest and most remote game areas on the continent. A number of superb lodges and safari options are available and using either air charters or a combination of air and road it is possible to build an itinerary in the most rewarding areas at a relaxed and leisurely pace.
It was in Zambia that the concept of walking safaris originated as the best way of enjoying the rich flora and fauna of the country’s 19 national parks. Birdlife is particularly prolific and “specials” draw birders from all over the world. Add to this numerous adrenalin activities on the Zambezi River, such as river rafting, bungee jumping, abseiling and canoeing, and a Zambian safari qualifies as an all-round excellent vacation.
Where To Stay
These are some of our favorite lodges and places to stay around Zambia
At Chindeni, combine that thrill with style and comfort in one of the four spacious tents, with their wooden floors, four-poster beds and impressive views over the lagoon from the private verandas. The main area is a glorious expanse of decking arranged on several levels around the surrounding ebony trees, boasting, of course, the same spectacular view of the lagoon and its four-legged inhabitants.
Whether you are in the mood for intrepid exploration or more sedentary wildlife viewing, Chindeni will deliver. Set out on superb walking safaris, game drives, night drives and scenic sundowner trips in the surrounding area, or simply settle yourself in a deckchair at camp, and watch the abundance of game that is drawn to the lagoon.
Activities: Morning & Afternoon Game Drives, Walking Safari, Night Drives, Birding
Budget: $$ (Mid-Range)
Set against the breathtaking mountain backdrop of the Zambezi Valley Escarpment, the Royal Zambezi story starts with the two-hundred-hectare domain, located within the Chiawa Game Management Area, with three and a half kilometres of unspoiled river frontage on the northern bank of the Zambezi River. The lodge is situated directly across the river from Mana Pools National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on the Zimbabwe side and just minutes from the Lower Zambezi National Park.
With lions roaring in the distance and hippos snorting in the river, the luxurious thatched suites, elegant design and gourmet cuisine of Royal Zambezi Lodge furnish a perfect base from which to explore this wild and beautiful area. There are no fences around the lodge, and regular guests include elephant, hippo, buffalo, lion, leopard and a myriad of bird species coming to visit. Gap, the elephant, is just one of the residents, like Dave the crocodile and Jonathina the Giant Kingfisher.
Activities: Morning & Afternoon Game Drives, Walking Safari, Canoeing, Fishing, Community Engagement, Birding
Budget: $$ (Mid-Range)
Early morning views are the rippling waters of the Luangwa River, the gentle rise of the Chindeni Hills and a vast African sky – and you haven’t even left the four poster bed in your handsome stilted tree-house. There are only three rooms at Chami, each with a raised verandah to loll on in the heat of the day and magnificent views of the tranquil river. At the thatched bar and dining area, enjoy a sundowner as you watch the wildlife do the same at the river and the monkeys swing above your head.
Walking safaris and game drives around Chamilandu explore the impressive range of habitats in the area. With no fewer than seven oxbow lagoons behind camp, there are always thirsty animals around seeking refreshment. The hide looks out over one of these lagoons and is the perfect place to take lunch, tea or to while away an afternoon to the soundtrack of bathing elephant.
Activities: Morning & Afternoon Game Drives, Walking Safari, Wildlife Hide, Night Drives, Birding
Budget: $$ (Mid-Range)
Experiences
These are some of the experiences on offer in Zambia
Awards and Accolades
