Best of Zambia

Locations

• South Luangwa National Park – the Nsefu Sector - the birthplace of walking safaris – is also one of the best places to see leopards. Safari life in the valley centres around the Luangwa River and its rich floodplains, which spill over into the surrounding plains, savannas, and woodlands. During the annual flooding season, the river changes course regularly, creating new oxbow lakes and hairpin bends. The vibrant habitats are home to some of Zambia's highest wildlife densities. Lions, leopards, wild dogs, and hyenas are regularly seen, and Thornicroft’s giraffe, Cookson’s wildebeest and Crawshay’s zebra are unique to the region. South Luangwa hosts one of the highest populations of hippos and crocodiles in Africa.

• Lower Zambezi National Park sweeps from a majestic escarpment in the north down to the fertile alluvial plains of the Zambezi River valley, where most of the wildlife is found. The riverine woodland includes large ebony, fig, and Albida trees, whose seed pods are a major attraction for elephants and browsing animals. Lower Zambezi is home to large herds of elephant and buffalo, lion, leopard, wild dog and hyena. You can get up close to big elephant bulls on foot, enjoy a slow game drive, or take a canoe or boat to see huge pods of hippos and enormous crocodiles. Most visitors arrive by boat or light aircraft – the park’s relative inaccessibility limits tourist numbers.

Lodges

• 3 nights at Kaingo Camp (game drives in the Nsefu Sector, South Luangwa National Park): An intimate, owner-run camp on the Luangwa River, renowned for its photographic hides and exceptional guiding. Elegant, natural interiors and riverfront decks bring you close to the park’s rich wildlife and nocturnal sounds.

• 3 nights at Kutali Camp (Lower Zambezi National Park): A classic bush camp tucked beneath winterthorn trees on a secluded Zambezi River island, offering a refined yet authentic wilderness experience. Enjoy guided walks, canoeing, and rewarding game drives.

• 3 nights at Musekese Camp (Kafue National Park): This conservation-focused camp overlooks the tranquil Kafue floodplains, where elephants, leopards, and wild dogs roam freely. It’s a place of raw beauty and deep connection to the landscape, with a strong emphasis on sustainable, low-impact safaris.

• 3 nights at Chundukwa River Lodge (Livingstone, Victoria Falls): Set on a peaceful stretch of the Zambezi River with sweeping river views, just upstream from Victoria Falls and with easy access to the Falls, this charming lodge combines rustic luxury with warm hospitality.

Timing

The ideal time for this safari is June to October, when Zambia’s dry season delivers clear skies, warm days and excellent wildlife viewing. Vegetation thins and animals gather along the rivers — perfect for walking and canoe safaris in Luangwa, Kafue and Lower Zambezi. The dry season also coincides with reduced Zambezi River water levels at Victoria Falls, ensuring a clear view of the Falls, exciting river rafting and less spray to fog your camera lens.

April to May marks the start of the safari season, with lush landscapes and good light for photography. November brings the first rains, dramatic skies and fewer visitors, offering a quieter, more atmospheric experience. From December to March, most bush camps close as the rains intensify, though Livingstone and Victoria Falls remain accessible and spectacular during peak water flow.