Zambia
Zambia
The ‘real Africa’
About Zambia
Zambia is where the safari was reborn as a walking activity.
This is the undisputed home of the walking safari, a destination that offers not just a chance to see Africa, but to feel it, smell it and connect with it on a profound, intimate level.
It’s a land defined by its great untamed rivers – the mighty Zambezi, the languid Kafue and the wild Luangwa – which have carved out some of the most remote and wildlife-rich wilderness areas left on the continent.
Frequently termed the “real Africa”, Zambia is a place of raw beauty and authentic adventure, without the crowds. One day you can be standing in the thunderous mist of Mosi-oa-Tunya, the colossal Victoria Falls, and the next, you can be silently paddling a canoe down the Lower Zambezi as elephants drink along the riverbank.
It’s home to the legendary South Luangwa National Park, also known as the “Valley of the Leopard”, and the vast, watery wilderness of the Busanga Plains. Zambia doesn’t offer a diluted version of safari; it offers a full-strength experience for those who venture beyond the beaten path and into the wild heart of the continent.
Top travel tips for Zambia
Did you know
Zambia is the undisputed birthplace of the commercial walking safari, pioneered by legendary conservationist Norman Carr in the South Luangwa National Park in the 1950s.
Bring US dollars in cash: the Zambian kwacha is the official currency, but the dollar is the currency of tourism. It is essential to bring sufficient cash in newer bills (printed after 2009) for visas, park fees and tips
Utilise the KAZA UniVisa: if your itinerary includes crossing the border to see Victoria Falls from the Zimbabwean side, the Kavango-Zambezi (KAZA) UniVisa is invaluable. It conveniently allows entry into both Zambia and Zimbabwe for 30 days
Plan for internal flights: Zambia is a vast country with great distances between its premier national parks. The most efficient and scenic way to travel between them is by small bush planes. This means you must pack light in soft-sided duffel bags, as luggage restrictions are strictly enforced
Take malaria precautions: all of Zambia’s major safari destinations, including South Luangwa, the Lower Zambezi and Victoria Falls, are in malaria zones. A consultation with your doctor or a travel clinic for appropriate anti-malarial medication is essential
Embrace the authentic bush camp experience: many of Zambia’s best camps are small, intimate and seasonal (rebuilt each year). This means focusing on the incredible guiding and wilderness experience over urban luxuries. Expect comfortable but not opulent accommodation, and prepare for a true digital detox
Zambia’s best days are ahead of us.”
