Zambia is synonymous with walking safaris, huge wildlife populations, temperate, humid weather, and a secluded atmosphere, making you feel like you are one of Africa’s earliest tourists.
There is little doubt, especially amongst safari circles, that Zambia is one of Africa’s top destinations to see untamed, truly wild beauty, and you certainly wouldn’t be the first or the last traveller to fall head over heels in love with this fascinating nation.
Zambia is just the place for those who yearn to take a walk on the wild side, and in this guide, we’re going to help you plan the best Zambia tour, by highlighting all of the best things that you can see, do and experience while in Zambia!
Adventure Activities
Zambia is one of the best destinations in Africa to lace up your boots, put on a little bit of sunblock, and get out there. As a wonderful safari destination, when you are travelling in Zambia, you will want to jump out of bed as early as possible, to make the most of those daylight hours.
There will be lots of walking, lots of fresh African air, lots of photos snapped, and more jaw-dropping moments than you could imagine. When you partake in some of these must-do adventure activities in Zambia, you’ll have a hard time finding a moment to be bored.
Go See the Victoria Falls
Zimbabwe is the iconic Victoria Falls destination, but to enjoy a completely different perspective, you can also see the falls from Zambia.
The Victoria Falls form a natural boundary between Zambia and Zimbabwe, and when in Zambia you can view them from Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. If you do include Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park in your trip, you can also add a safari to your Victoria Falls visit. The park is famous for its elephants and it is the only place in Zambia where you can see white rhinos.
You can easily spend a day or two at the falls, not just taking a hundred photos but also indulging in some of the adrenaline-filled activities on offer.
You can sign up for a white water rafting trip down the Zambezi, if you have a lot of guts you can go bungee jumping, and if you want a totally unique view of the falls, you can sign up for a helicopter ride, which will take you out over the falls.
You can also book a trip to the Devil’s Pool, where you can take a dip in the Zambezi, right at the point where the Victoria Falls begins its plunge. This is a seasonal activity, so do be sure to plan ahead if this is something you want to experience.
Go on (Many) Safaris
South Luangwa National Park (renowned for leopard sightings and walking safaris), Lower Zambezi National Park (known for its elephant and hippo sightings and for offering exciting boat safaris), and Kafue National Park (Zambia’s second largest park), are all top destinations to have a safari.
If you haven’t already read it somewhere else, Zambia is considered the pioneer of walking safaris, which are exactly as they are advertised. Walking safaris are done in the company of an experienced guide who will keep guests safe as they go through the wilderness on foot, coming across all sorts of animals along the way.
Walking safaris are an intimate experience and not only will you get to see some of Zambia’s most enchanting animals up close and in their natural habitat, but you will also learn all about the fascinating ecosystems that you are making your way through.
Aside from walking safaris, you can also do the conventional vehicle safari and the less conventional boat safari.
If you want to have a truly incredible experience in Zambia, plan a trip to Kafue National Park. Although it is one of the biggest parks in Africa, it is also one of the least visited, so if you want to avoid the tourist crowds but still enjoy a sight-filled, affordable Zambia safari, this is the place to go.
Have an off-the-Beaten Track Adventure
Some guests visiting Zambia want to have that laidback conventional safari experience while others want something more, something hands-on.
If you are one of those tourists, then you can go on a more off-the-beaten-track holiday. This can include rhino tracking in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, kayaking on the Zambezi River and boat cruises, perfect for taking in those exquisite African sunsets.
Cultural Experiences
Zambia might be most famous for its stunning wildlife and its beautiful natural attractions, but there is so much more to this African country. To give your Zambian tour more depth and meaning, you should include some cultural experiences.
Visit Shiwa Ng’andu estate
This has to be one of Zambia’s most fascinating places and if you have a particular love for architecture, you won’t be disappointed.
The estate is a complete English manor, with a stunning garden and working farm, built by Sir Stewart Gore-Browne in 1925. The manor is filled with items from his travels and has been passed down through the generations of his family, who have over the years restored it and opened it to the public.
Shiwa is around 800km from Lusaka and it has become a popular accommodation choice for guests looking for something different and special. Those who stay here can go on game drives, do some birdwatching, and just enjoy the magnificent property. Guided day tours are also available.
Village Visits
Much like other African destinations, Zambia is home to incredible cultures, and one of the best ways to learn more about the Zambian people and their way of life is to go on a cultural village tour.
The Mukuni Village, the Mfuwe Village and the Livingstone Village are all popular places for tourists to visit and when visiting these villages, you will be playing a very important role in supporting the communities financially, while you will also be taking home and hopefully retelling the stories from the villagers, helping their legacy live on.
When booking a Zambia tour, keep in mind that cultural tours might need to be booked in addition to your holiday package.
Visit the Lusaka National Museum
If you want to really get into Zambia’s fabulous history, its fascinating cultures and all the other bits and bobs that make this country what it is, this is the museum to visit.
The Lusaka National Museum is full of interesting relics and information, one of the most unusual being the witchcraft exhibit, which gives visitors a unique look at Zambia’s ancient traditional beliefs, superstitions and magic.
Shop at the Markets
The best place to get those souvenirs is at a local market, of which you will find many, especially in Lusaka. A walk through a local market is an experience all on its own; you’ll get to mingle with locals, appreciate the local artists, and enjoy a vibe that you won’t find anywhere else (plus, there are loads of delicious foods to indulge in!).
Relaxation and Leisure
The best kind of Zambia tour includes plenty of time to put your feet up and just relax. When you are planning your trip, consider adding things like spa treatments, golfing and fine dining to your holiday.