People tend to forget about Zambia when organising their safari. They think in terms of their more famous regional neighbours: Botswana, South Africa and Kenya with their iconic destinations of the Okavango Delta, the Kruger and the Masai Mara. Even Victoria Falls is seen purely as a Zimbabwean venue.
In our opinion, however, Zambia as a safari destination is easily one of the top five venues in Africa. Unique wildlife, game reserves and national parks as well as one of the most famous rivers and waterfalls in the world make this a safari destination second to none. Coupled with the fact that some of the areas within the country are still more difficult to access makes it a more pure safari experience which tallies with its marketing moniker of "the real Africa" as well as the home of the walking safari.
We love the Zambian safari experience and all that the country has to offer.
Top Zambian Safari Destinations
1. Victoria Falls
One of the old seven natural wonders of the world, Victoria Falls is without a doubt the most popular safari destination in the whole of Zambia and with good reason. With not only the Falls and the Zambezi River on offer, but there are also countless adventure activities to be had; from River rafting to bungee jumping and helicopter flights to canoeing all the way through to elephant back riding. Victoria Falls is without doubt as popular as Cape Town, the Kruger National Park or the Okavango Delta.
Getting there: Fly into either Victoria Falls or Livingstone airports, as part of a safari or self-drive.
Accommodation Options: Best Livingstone Lodges
2. South Luangwa
Undoubtedly one of the greatest wildlife centres in the world. There are very few national parks in Africa that come close to it in terms of wildlife numbers and sightings, it is truly a photographers paradise. You can find wildlife that is unique to this valley. For example Thornycroft giraffes, Cookson's wildebeest and Crawshay's zebra. For the birders out there, the South Luangwa offers a paradise all of its own with over 400 bird species to be found. The park itself covers 9050 square kilometres and interestingly only became a National Park in 1972.
Getting there: Fly from Lusaka to Mfuwe International Airport, as part of a safari or self-drive.
Accommodation Options: Best Luangwa Lodges
3. Kafue National Park
Kafue is Zambia's largest National Park, roughly the same size as Wales in the United Kingdom. For reasons more to do with marketing and less with experience, the Kafue National Park is not as popular as either the South Luangwa or Lower Zambezi National Parks and which consequently offers the visitor a more exclusive experience. The Busanga Plains found in the north of the park offer fantastic wildlife and birdlife along with luxury lodges, combining to offer a truly memorable safari adventure. The Busanga Plains are famous for their lion, leopard and cheetah sightings along with large herds of buffalo and antelope. We would highly recommend adding the Kafue National Park to any Safari itinerary within Zambia.
Getting there: Fly directly to the lodge as part of a safari.
Accommodation Options: Best Kafue Lodges
4. Zambezi River
Is the fourth-longest river in Africa, has its source in Zambia and flows through eastern Angola, along the eastern border of Namibia and the northern border of Botswana, then along the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe and ends up flowing into the Indian Ocean in Mozambique. The river plays host to the mighty Victoria Falls, Lake Kariba and flows past the Lower Zambezi and Mana Pools National Parks. Activities that she offers include canoeing, whitewater rafting, some of the finest fishing in Africa, as well as superb wildlife and birdlife. All of the above locations are highly recommended by the Uyaphi team, as all are easily accessible when on a scheduled or tailor-made Zambian safari.
Getting there: As part of a safari, fly-in or safari vehicle.
Accommodation Options: Best Lodges on The Zambezi River
5. Lower Zambezi National Park
Other than the South Luangwa Valley, the Lower Zambezi National Park is, without a doubt, one of the top safari destinations that we have the privilege of offering to our clients. If you're looking for a remote safari location that offers exceptional wildlife and superb lodging with really exciting activities, this is the destination for you. The park is as wild as wild can get in Africa today. Most safaris will fly directly into this National Park due to difficult accessibility by road although there are a few self-drive options (not recommended especially in summer). Lower Zambezi National Park is best combined with a safari to the South Luangwa National Park; you will certainly not be disappointed with the amount of wildlife and photographic opportunities that abound.
Getting there: Fly directly to the lodge as part of a safari is the recommended option.
Accommodation Options: Best Lower Zambezi Lodges
6. Kasanka National Park
This National Park hosts a unique wildlife event every year between November and December when millions and millions of straw-coloured fruit bats congregate during part of a migration. During the day the trees are thickly laden with Fruit Bats shoulder to shoulder, at sunset in the region of 10 million bats take to the sky in what can only be described as a living cloud. This particular safari is on our bucket list and we highly recommend it to you. Remember, this safari only runs between November and December of every year.
Getting there: As part of a safari, fly-in or safari vehicle.
Safari Option (tailor-made): The Best Kasanka Bat Safari
For more of the Best Safari Destinations In Zambia, see our Zambia Travel page
Kapamba Bushcamp
Dive into the heart of Zambia's wildlife sanctuary and unlock an adventure of a lifetime at Kapamba Bushcamp. Perfectly poised in the untouched landscapes of South Luangwa National Park, this remarkable retreat invites you to experience the wild in unparalleled luxury and seclusion.
Whether you're trekking through the bush in the footsteps of majestic beasts or unwinding under the starlit African sky, Kapamba offers a symphony of experiences that resonate with the soul of every adventurer.
Sindabezi Island Camp
Sindabezi Island Camp, nestled on the Zambezi River near Victoria Falls, is a secluded haven. Being the sole bush camp in the vicinity, it provides a serene setting for an authentic African adventure. Guests at Sindabezi can relish the vistas of the Zambezi floodplain and the wildlife in the neighbouring National Park.
The journey to Sindabezi is a picturesque boat trip or a guided canoe excursion along the Zambezi, offering glimpses of wildlife along Zimbabwe's riverbanks. The attentive staff ensure that your comfort and requirements are catered to during your entire stay.
Chongwe River House
Discover the epitome of wilderness luxury at Chongwe River House, an enchanting haven nestled in the heart of Zambia's Lower Zambezi Valley and Escarpment. Crafted with an innovative design that harmonises with nature, this premier safari villa promises an exclusive escape into the wild.
Tailored for those who seek an intimate connection with nature without compromising on luxury, River House is your secluded sanctuary for an unforgettable Lower Zambezi National Park safari for a family or small group of friends.
Kulandila Camp
Prepare to be whisked away on an adventure of a lifetime at Kulandila Camp, the epitome of luxury nestled in the heart of the enchanting South Luangwa National Park! With its exquisite tented suites, each offering unparalleled views of Zambia's pristine wilderness, Kulandila is the perfect sanctuary for those seeking an intimate encounter with nature's majesty.
At Kulandila Camp, every moment is a celebration of nature's wonders, wrapped in the comfort of luxury. Join us for an unforgettable journey where adventure meets serenity in the most spectacular of settings!
Kafunta Three Rivers Camp
Kafunta Three Rivers Camp is nestled at the confluence of "three rivers" in the South Luangwa region of Zambia. These rivers, namely the Luangwa, Kapamba, and Lusangazi, create a serene and picturesque setting for this small and distinctive safari camp.
Guests at Three Rivers Camp can expect unparalleled opportunities for wildlife and birdlife sightings, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. Explore the wonders of the African bush in this unique and tranquil oasis.
Nkwali Camp
Nkwali Camp has been thoughtfully designed to ensure that guests are always surrounded by breathtaking views - from the lush bush to the serene river. South Luangwa is renowned for its game viewing, set against a backdrop of stunning ebony woodland and expansive grasslands teeming with wildlife.
Visitors can witness the majestic sight of elephants gracefully crossing the Luangwa River, visible from the cozy bar area, or observe them gathering near the enchanting waterhole adjacent to the charming thatched dining room.
Kafunta River Lodge
A renowned destination for a quintessential Luangwa and Zambian safari experience, Kafunta River Lodge stands elegantly perched, offering breathtaking views of a picturesque floodplain on the outskirts of the South Luangwa National Park.
Situated in the heart of the "Valley of the Leopard," this lodge is expertly crafted for exhilarating game drives, catering to wildlife enthusiasts and avid birdwatchers seeking remarkable sightings and exceptional opportunities for photography amidst the unspoiled natural beauty of the region.
Toka Leya Camp
With just 12 tented suites, Toka Leya at the Zambezi River offers a tranquil safari experience. Surrounded by nature, the camp overlooks the river and its islands, providing a perfect blend of luxury and eco-conscious design.
The tented suites at Toka Leya are spacious and airy, featuring en-suite bathrooms, private decks with outdoor showers, and comfortable beds for a restful sleep. Each suite has its own peaceful view of the Zambezi River, where you can see elephants bathing in the water or hippos basking in the sun.