Zambia is often regarded as one of Africa’s last true wilderness areas, offering unspoilt landscapes, exceptional wildlife encounters, and some of the finest safari experiences on the continent. With low visitor numbers, pristine national parks, and expert guides, Zambia provides a raw and immersive safari adventure that is hard to find elsewhere.
From tracking leopards in South Luangwa to canoeing alongside elephants on the Lower Zambezi, a Zambia safari delivers an unmatched blend of adventure, exclusivity, and breathtaking scenery.
Why choose a Zambia safari?
Fewer crowds, more wildlife
Unlike some of Africa’s more popular safari destinations, Zambia’s national parks remain largely untouched, allowing visitors to experience wildlife in secluded, remote settings. Here, you can witness lion hunts, elephant herds, and vast plains teeming with antelope—without the crowds.
Home of the walking safari
Zambia is the birthplace of the walking safari, a concept pioneered by Norman Carr in South Luangwa National Park. Walking safaris allow you to connect with nature on a deeper level, following animal tracks, identifying plants, and experiencing the bush in a way that’s impossible from a vehicle.
A variety of safari experiences
In addition to game drives, Zambia offers canoe safaris, boat cruises, night drives, and catch-and-release tiger fishing, making it one of Africa’s most diverse safari destinations.
Best places for a Zambia safari
South Luangwa – the valley of the leopard
Often called “the valley of the leopard,” South Luangwa National Park is famous for its high density of big cats, particularly leopards. This is one of the best places in Africa to see these elusive predators, as well as lions, wild dogs, and large elephant herds.
- Top activities: Walking safaris, night drives, game drives
- Best time to visit: June to October (dry season for best game viewing)
Lower Zambezi – safari on the water
Located along the mighty Zambezi River, Lower Zambezi National Park offers a completely different safari experience. Here, you can explore by canoe or boat, drifting past hippos, crocodiles, and elephants as they gather at the water’s edge. The park is also a prime location for catch-and-release tiger fishing.
- Top activities: Canoe safaris, boat safaris, game drives, fishing
- Best time to visit: July to October (for peak wildlife sightings)
Kafue National Park – a hidden gem
As Zambia’s largest national park, Kafue remains one of the least explored, offering a true off-the-beaten-track safari. It is home to rare species like cheetahs, pangolins, and the elusive African wild dog. The Busanga Plains, in particular, offer incredible predator sightings and vast open landscapes.
- Top activities: Game drives, walking safaris, boat safaris
- Best time to visit: July to October (dry season for best game viewing)
Best time for a Zambia safari
The best time to visit Zambia for a safari depends on the experience you want:
- June to October (dry season): Best for wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources.
- November to April (green season): A great time for birdwatching, lush scenery, and fewer crowds, but some areas may be inaccessible due to rain.
Luxury safari lodges in Zambia
For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, Zambia is home to some of Africa’s finest safari lodges, offering private villas, fine dining, and expert-guided game viewing.
Luxury lodges to consider:
- Chinzombo Camp (South Luangwa) – Elegant tented suites along the Luangwa River.
- Sausage Tree Camp (Lower Zambezi) – Exclusive riverside suites with private pools.
- Shumba Camp (Kafue National Park) – High-end safari camp in the heart of Busanga Plains.
Plan your Zambia safari
A Zambia safari offers an authentic, immersive, and exclusive wildlife experience. Whether you’re tracking big cats in South Luangwa, canoeing through the Lower Zambezi, or exploring the remote wilderness of Kafue, Zambia is a destination that promises unforgettable encounters with nature.