“Zambia is the real Africa, unspoiled and uncrowded, a land of great rivers, vast lakes, and thundering waterfalls.”

Paul Theroux

Authentic Zambia

Swathes of fertile land, vast bodies of water, wildlife and wilderness in equal measure and no fewer than seventeen waterfalls peppered across Africa’s safest country: see it all in legendary Zambia. Here, in the beating heart of the continent’s fertile south, adventure and relaxation go hand in hand. You’ll see some of the world’s great sunsets over the wild Zambezi River, encounter animals and birdlife on a scale that’s hard to believe, and feel the spray of one of the wonders of our planet: Victoria Falls.

We can’t think of many better places for an activity-filled trip of a lifetime than Zambia. Let’s show you what we mean.

Perfect for: adventurers, adrenaline-junkies, safari-goers, nature-lovers.

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When to visit Zambia

January

Zambia is in the middle of the 'green season' when the majority of camps and lodges are closed. Temperatures are hot and the humidity is high, while the vegetation is lush and green. The country sees heavy rainfall throughout, which means that Victoria Falls is at its fullest and most powerful. While the dense bush and heavy rainfall make for limited game viewing, this is a good time to visit for birdwatching as migratory birds arrive.

January image - Zambia

February

With similar conditions to January, the green season continues throughout February in Zambia. Temperatures remain high, as does rainfall, and visitors can also expect to see thunderstorms. The few lodges and camps that are open will be quiet, and it is possible to find lower rates however visitors should be aware that wildlife viewing at this time will be difficult.

February image - Zambia

March

Green season continues into late March, with temperatures consistently over 30 degrees Celsius and high levels of rainfall. As with February and January, several camps and lodges remain closed, due to flooding from the rains, and wildlife viewing in locations that remain open is likely to be limited due to the dense vegetation.

March image - Zambia

April

Zambia’s dry season begins, and rainfall levels begin to fall. Temperatures remain hot through the day, and nights begin to cool. Victoria Falls is particularly impressive during April, as the river has been filled after months of rain. Wildlife viewing remains tricky, with dense bush and vegetation, and migratory birds have departed.

April image - Zambia

May

Similar to April, the temperatures in May are still hot, although they do drop in the evenings. Rainfall is low, while vegetation remains thick and luscious after the recent rains, although it will start to thin as the month progresses. Wildlife sightings will become more consistent throughout the month, as the bush thins.

May image - Zambia

June

In June, all camps and lodges will be open following the green season closures. Wildlife sightings continue to become more consistent and walking safaris begin again, as the vegetation begins to thin and the dry season takes hold. During the day time, temperatures will be in the mid-twenties, although they will be cooler in the evening.

June image - Zambia

July

July is the start of peak season for Zambia, with warm dry weather throughout, and great wildlife viewing. Water levels at Victoria Falls is reduced as the dry season takes affect, meaning activities such as white water rafting and visiting the Devil’s Pool will be possible, although the water flow will be less impressive than other times.

July image - Zambia

August

August is one of the best months to visit Zambia, with pleasant temperatures during the day ensuring prime conditions for walking safaris. Evenings can be rather cool, so we would strongly recommend taking warm layers. Wildlife viewing during this time is particularly good, with animals gathering around water sources and thinner vegetation.

August image - Zambia

September

Temperatures begin to rise in September, while rainfall remains low. Game viewing during September remains excellent, vegetation is thin due to the prolonged dry weather so spotting animals is easy and many animals gather around water sources. Victoria Falls will have a low water level, making the falls less impressive.

September image - Zambia

October

Travellers visiting Zambia in October should expect very hot temperatures and dry weather. Wildlife viewing is excellent, ensuring fantastic game viewing if visitors are prepared for the hot weather.

October image - Zambia

November

Throughout November weather is likely to be unpredictable, with hot temperatures and varying levels of rainfall. As the rain increases, Victoria Falls will see slightly higher water levels. Wildlife sightings will gradually become more inconsistent as the bush becomes thicker, however, there can be excellent offers and availability at this time.

November image - Zambia

December

Green season will be in full effect, with hot temperatures, heavy rainfall and numerous thunderstorms. While wildlife viewing is difficult due to the thick vegetation, there will be an array of birdlife to be found as migratory birds arrive. Many camps and lodges will close in December for the green season. High water levels at Victoria Falls mean it is a great time to see the falls in all their glory.

December image - Zambia

National Parks

Visitors to Zambia are spoilt for choice when it comes to national parks. They’re the country’s calling card – and there are 13 of them. Arguably the best is South Luangwa, a magnificent network of lagoons, plains and rivers set across almost 10,000 square kilometres in the east of the country. In fact, it’s arguably one of the finest national parks in all of Africa. The intensity of wildlife is virtually unparalleled, with 60 animal and over 400 bird species across a hypnotic array of terrains.

South Luangwa is where Zambia’s famous walking safaris originated and they remain one of the most spectacular ways to see the park. It’s also a great way to see another of our favourite parks in Zambia: Kafue. Be warned, though, you’ll need time on your hands. At 22,500 square kilometres, this is the country’s biggest park and one of the largest anywhere on Earth. It’s one of the best places to see leopards, as well as all manner of wildlife large and small. Kafue is also mercifully easy to access, with public transport routes available.

Elsewhere in Zambia, our other highlights include the Lower Zambezi National Park, a true journey into the wild, and the newly-opened Lusaka National Park, a tiny area of just 46 square kilometres a stone’s throw from the capital, where you’ll be able to tick off a White Rhino from the bucket list.

Victoria Falls

One of our planet’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders, visitors to the falls will hear them before they see them. In fact, they’ll see the spray before they catch a glimpse of any of the falls themselves, which fan out for over a mile in width.

There are a number of remarkable places to properly view the falls from, including the easily accessible Falls Bridge, Livingstone Island and the famous Lookout Tree. For those who prefer something a little more hair-raising, the aptly named Knife-Edge Bridge offers commanding views of the Eastern Cataract and Main Falls – but be warned, it’s a stomach churner. Facing the Falls is another favourite, accessed by a forest path that spills out into a spectacular set of views of the falls. When they say facing, though, be prepared for a soaking.

Of all the vantage points from which to see this remarkable place, Zambia’s most unique is the Devil’s Pool. Only possible during drier months, this natural pool perches directly on the edge of the falls; bathers can literally swim up to the drop and poke their heads over the 100-metre drop below. A quite spectacular experience, albeit not for the faint of heart.

Lakes

Aquatic experiences are not usually front of mind when visiting a landlocked country, but Zambia is blessed with a handful of lakes that rival the far better-known Zambezi and Victoria Falls when it comes to beauty.

Lake Tanganyika, the world’s longest lake, pokes down in Zambia at its southern tip, and is a treat to visit. Clear blue waters and plummeting depths – it’s the second deepest lake on Earth – combine to produce over 350 species of fish, the majority of which can only be seen here. Fishing for them is a great way to while away the day, as is a dip to cool off in the crystal-clear waters. Boat tours are available or, alternatively, a stroll around the shore is a wonderful way to soak it all in.

In Zambia’s north, Lake Mweru is a fabulous spot for the more intrepid traveller. Until recently a largely unexplored wilderness, the arrival of a tarmac road in the late 80s has spawned a small population of people who live and work on the lake. Travel there to see how they live their lives, experience their hospitality and immerse yourself in a truly African experience.

Elsewhere, Lake Bangweulu remains a true fishing lake and the manmade Lake Kariba is quickly becoming one of the country’s most fashionable spots. They may not be at the top of every visitor’s list, but Zambia’s lakes are hidden gems that show off the country in all its guises.

Adventure

Plunge down the Zambezi on a white-water raft, soar above Victoria Falls on a microlight, abseil through the Batoka Gorge or swing across it, ride off into the wilderness, jump from a precipice with nothing but a bungee cord to break your fall. The list of adventure activities in Zambia is, as far as we can determine, endless, an Eden for adrenaline-junkies in Africa’s playground for adults.

The infrastructure for adventure activities in the country is second to none in Africa, with tour operators and independent companies offering a range of thrills to visitors. A lot of them centre around the falls and surrounding Zambezi, with kayaking and river-boarding a couple of particular highlights.

For those who prefer their experiences a touch on the slower – and only a touch – the horse-trekking available is a unique way to see some of Zambia’s hidden beauty. Horseback safaris come in all shapes and sizes, from day hacks to multi-night camping trips alongside your equine guides.

Whatever it takes to get your pulse racing, we’re fairly certain that this beautiful country has the answer.

Featured Hotel

Chisa Busanga Camp

A truly unique lodge, each of the 'nest' suites has fantastic views across the Busanga Plains in Kafue National Park. Alongside the distinctive suites, Chisa Busanga offers excellent wildlife viewing and welcoming, personal service. 

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