Zambia is one of Africa’s hidden gems – and that may not be a bad thing! It doesn’t get quite the attention that its better-known neighbors (Botswana and Zimbabwe) receive, but that is certainly not due to a lack of reasons to go there. Zambia has styled itself as ‘the real Africa’ and it’s hard to argue with that description. Zambia feels a bit more off the beaten track, which makes its game reserves and national parks seem even more authentically remote.
Zambia pioneered guided walking safaris, and it’s still one of the best places to explore the bush on foot, rather than by vehicle. The contrast is remarkable: by slowing things down to walking pace, you’re able to really appreciate the details that make the African wilderness so special. You can also propel yourself along the mighty Zambezi River on a canoe safari – another way to get that little bit closer to the wildlife action (but thanks to experienced guides, in complete safety).
Zambia’s summer begins in early November and ends at the end of April. Summer marks the onset of the rainy season.
By contrast, winter begins in May and runs through August. During this period, there is little precipitation and the temperatures are at their peak.
May – October: This is the long dry season and best viewing conditions with short grass. Wildlife congregate around water sources. You may want a beanie, warm jacket, and gloves from June through August! Guests can expect cold mornings and cool evenings until September. In October, the heat can be oppressive in the wilderness areas and the volume of water at Victoria Falls is at its lowest. This is peak travel season for visitors.
November-April: This is typically the rainy or ‘green’ season, when the heat breaks, the landscapes are lush with long grass and skies dramatic with billowing clouds. Wildlife is a bit more dispersed and some lodges and parks close due to accessibility issues. Expect showers in the morning with clearing in the afternoon before clouds roll in again for heavier rains in the evening. Road conditions in the bush can be muddy. This season is best for landscape photographers and bird watchers.
Propel yourself along the mighty Zambezi River on a canoe safari
Take a dip in Devil’s Pool and peer your head over the edge of Victoria Falls
Zambia pioneered guided walking safaris, and it’s still one of the best places to explore the bush on foot, rather than by vehicle
In November/December, witness the largest animal as millions of fruit bats darken the skies over Kasanka National Park
Sundowners on the Zambezi River
Game Drives & Walking Safaris
Sleepouts Under The Stars
Tiger Fishing
Canoe Safaris
Scenic Helicopter Flights
Community Visits
Devil’s Pool Swim
Flights are typically routed through Johannesburg via European gateways like Amsterdam, London, Frankfurt, and Zurich. Flights directly into Lusaka via Dubai, Nairobi, and Addis Ababa are also quite popular.
We advise spending 2-3 days if you are just going to Livingstone and the Victoria Falls area or 9-12 days if you are venturing deeper into Zambia! Victoria Falls is easily combined with any destination in Southern Africa and a safari combines nicely with Botswana, Zimbabwe, or South Africa.
We usually recommend Zambia to safari veterans and those who want an active safari. Travelers new to the safari experience might want to combine Zambia with destinations that offer higher densities and diversity of wildlife.
Visas are required for most visitors, but inoculations may be recommended. We suggest you see a travel medicine specialist for advice.
The infrastructure in Zambia is still developing and this means that getting around to more remote destinations can be challenging. The Livingstone area remains very accessible from multiple points and modes of transport.
English is the official language of Zambia, even though over 70 tribal languages are spoken nationwide.
Zambia requires extra certification for their walking guides and can claim some of the best on the continent as a result.
The cuisine is not a draw in Zambia, but you will certainly eat simple delicious meals on safari.
Olo Safaris is a small, value-driven travel company with extensive insider knowledge of Africa.
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