Handpicked Zambia

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.

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.

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.

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.