Zambia
Zambia offers one of the most authentic and soul-stirring safari experiences in Africa. This is where nature still leads… raw, remote, and powerful.
From the thunder of Victoria Falls to the silent beauty of the Luangwa floodplains, Zambia delivers an unfiltered connection to the wild. It’s a place where walking safaris were born, where predator and prey still play out their ancient dance far from the crowds. Zambia is for those who seek something real, something that stirs the spirit.
From Adele
On Zambia
It’s early morning in Luangwe National Park and we have stopped on a raised section in the middle of a floodplain to have a cup of tea and admire the open views. I walk a couple of meters from the vehicle when suddenly the sound of excited yelping echos from my left. Before I know it there is a painted wolf (wild dog) running towards and past me and then there is an entire pack and we are in the middle of their hunt. Their yelping and anticipation is palpable. The alpha female stops in her tracks and growls at us and in another 5 seconds they are down below surrounding a Waterbuck who has now retreated into deep water. This is the closest encounter on foot I have ever experienced with painted wolves.
Our Favourite Destinations in Zambia
Victoria Falls and Lower Zambezi National Park
Stand in the mist of Mosi-oa-Tunya “The Smoke that Thunders” one of the world’s greatest natural wonders. Cascading over a width of more than 1.7 kilometers and plunging 108 meters into the gorge below, Victoria Falls is a visceral experience of nature’s raw power and beauty. Downriver, the Lower Zambezi offers a softer rhythm: canoe past elephants, drift quietly among hippos, and watch the sun melt into the river’s golden surface.
South Luangwa National Park
Known as the birthplace of the walking safari, South Luangwa offers one of the most intimate and immersive wildlife experiences in Africa. Days begin with golden light over open floodplains and end with leopards melting into the dusk. Whether on foot or in a vehicle, encounters here are deeply immersive.
Kafue National Park
One of Africa’s oldest and largest parks, Kafue remains a hidden sanctuary for those who value space, solitude, and slow travel. With its miombo woodlands, seasonal floodplains, and river systems, Kafue is home to a staggering range of species - from tree-climbing lions to elusive cheetahs and the rare roan antelope.
Liuwa Plains
This remote expanse of open grassland in western Zambia is the stuff of safari legend. Liuwa is known for its dramatic skies, second-largest wildebeest migration, and the haunting beauty of thunderstorms rolling across the horizon. Once the domain of a single lioness - Lady Liuwa - it is now a conservation comeback story in motion.
Bangweulu Wetlands
In the local Bemba language, Bangweulu means “where the water meets the sky.” A haven for birders and wildlife lovers alike, this otherworldly landscape of floating reed beds, black lechwe herds, and papyrus channels is also one of the few places on Earth where you can track the prehistoric-looking shoebill stork.
Kasanka National Park
Each year, in the soft light of late October, Kasanka becomes host to the world’s largest mammal migration - 10 million fruit bats filling the skies in a surreal, swirling dance. But this small park has quiet magic year-round: swamp forests, rare sitatunga antelope, and walking safaris that bring you up close with nature’s more secretive characters.
Zambia is for those seeking something truly wild © Wilderness
Elephants at Busanga Bush Camp © Wilderness
Mfuwe Lodge on the water's edge allows for special wildlife encounters © The Bushcamp Company
Zambia is known for it's excellent birding
Water based safari experiences © Wilderness
Kafue National Park © Wilderness
Toka Leya Camp © Wilderness
Mfuwe Lodge, where elephants roam through reception © The Bushcamp Company
Frequently Asked Questions
On Traveling to Zambia
When is the best time to visit Zambia? -
The dry season from June to October is ideal for wildlife viewing, especially in South Luangwa, Kafue and Lower Zambezi. November to March marks the “emerald season” – lush, green, and perfect for birding and bat migration, though some parks become less accessible.
Is Zambia good for first-time safari travellers? +
Zambia is better suited to those looking for a more immersive and less commercial safari experience. With top-tier guiding and opportunities to walk, paddle, and truly connect with nature, it offers depth and authenticity – perfect for adventurous spirits or seasoned safari-goers.
What makes Zambia different from other safari destinations? +
This is the land where walking safaris were born. Zambia places you in the landscape – not just observing, but participating. Its remoteness and low visitor numbers mean your experience feels authentic and personal.
Can you combine Victoria Falls with a safari in Zambia? +
Absolutely. Many journeys begin or end in Livingstone, near Victoria Falls, and combine beautifully with safaris in South Luangwa or Lower Zambezi. For a well-rounded trip, this combo offers both wonder and wilderness.
