Zambia offers superb wildlife viewing, remote game areas and memorable cultural encounters, as well as the thundering majesty of the Victoria Falls, one of the world’s Seven Natural Wonders.
“We had the trip of a lifetime due in large part to your excellent planning.”
Denison & Wendy Hatch
Wilmington, DE, USA
Zambia is the undiscovered treasure trove of Africa, with extraordinary natural beauty and some of the most pristine wilderness areas on the African continent. It was here that the concept of walking safaris originated as the perfect way to enjoy the rich flora and fauna of Zambia’s 19 national parks. Zambia offers impressive diversity as well as large concentrations and numbers of game. Birdlife is particularly prolific with 740 bird species found in Zambia.
The best time for game viewing in Zambia is the cooler dry season from autumn to spring (May – October). Temperatures during the wet summer months can be uncomfortably hot.
Highlights of Zambia
Victoria Falls
One of the world’s greatest natural spectacles, the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls is known as the “Adrenaline Capital of Africa”, home to a variety of adventure activities, from bungee jumping to elephant-back safaris and white-water rafting.
South Luangwa National Park
One of Africa’s premier wilderness areas, famed for its seclusion and natural beauty, the South Luangwa National Park has lush riverine vegetation, plentiful game and fantastic bird watching.
Lower Zambezi National Park
In the Lower Zambezi National Park, bush walks, game drives and boat cruises are all ways to enjoy the abundance and diversity of game.
Recommended accommodation in Zambia
Sussi & Chuma
Sussi & Chuma (named in honour of explorer David Livingstone’s Zambian bearers) is nestled in an enchanting riverbank setting, affording its guests breathtaking views of the mighty Zambezi River. Sussi Lodge comprises 12 luxury tree houses built into a living canopy of giant ebony trees – each with en suite bathroom, air conditioning, personal bar, ceiling fans, a mosquito net canopy and a private verandah. The 2 Chuma Houses are the perfect haven for a family or group of four, each including a plunge pool and private chef.
Guest areas include a spectacular raised bar and a lounge deck, an open air dining area, boutique store and swimming pool. Sussi & Chuma offers a variety of exhilarating activities such as game drives in the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, sunset river cruises, fishing and guided excursions to the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls. Revitalising spa treatments are also available.
Puku Ridge Camp
Puku Ridge Camp is situated in the remote wilderness of the untouched South Luangwa National Park. Named for the Puku antelope that inhabits the floodplain which the camp overlooks, the camp’s hillside location provides stunning vistas. The camp is small and intimate and has been constructed to blend in with the local surroundings. Each of the 6 luxury oversized safari tents has a comfortable bed draped in mosquito netting, en suite facilities with outdoor showers and a private wooden game viewing deck.
Well-lit pathways connect the tents to the bar and dining areas and sitting room where guests can unwind and reflect on their day’s wildlife sightings. Activities include twice-daily game drives (including night drives) in open 4×4 safari vehicles and bush walks, which are led by a professional guide and an armed National Park scout. Animals which may be spotted include elephant, lion, Cape buffalo and endemic species like Thornicroft’s giraffe.
Zambezi Kulefu
Zambezi Kulefu (meaning “the faraway place”) is nestled on the banks of a permanent channel of the Zambezi River. The location provides guests with unrivalled game viewing opportunities as wildlife filters through the land corridor between the steep escarpment and the river. Seven spacious en suite tents enjoy a breathtaking view of the river and feature comfortable beds, beautiful teak furniture and mosquito netting.
The guest area, housed in a magnificent marquee, includes a comfortable sitting area, dining room and informal bar. A sparkling swimming pool, fire pit and riverside lounge add to the enjoyment of a stay here. Activities include twice-daily game drives in open 4×4 safari vehicles (including spotlit night drives), exciting boat and canoe excursions, bird watching, walking safaris and fishing. Animals include lion, leopard, elephant, aardvark, wild dog and honey badger.
