Travel tips for Zambia
Discover Zambia with Travellers Africa
Zambia remains one of Africa’s most untouched safari destinations. With over 30% of its land preserved for wildlife, the country offers a rare chance to see Africa “before mass tourism”—wild, peaceful, and deeply authentic.
From the thunder of Victoria Falls to quiet canoe safaris along the Zambezi River, from remote bush lodges to walking safaris through ancient wilderness — Zambia delivers variety, beauty and adventure like few other places.
Why Zambia Belongs on Your Safari Bucket List
Raw, unspoiled wilderness — vast plains, thick bush, wide rivers, and scattered, intimate camps.
Diverse safari experiences — walking safaris, river safaris, night drives, canoe trips, hot-air balloons, photographic hides and more.
Wildlife-rich national parks — from big cats and elephants to migratory birds, black lechwe, wildebeest and more.
Cultural warmth — friendly communities, traditional villages and local crafts add human richness to the wild landscape.
Flexibility & comfort — English is widely spoken; lodges range from basic bush camps to luxury safari lodges; many routes are accessible by light aircraft or 4×4.
Highlights of Zambia Safari
- Home of the walking safari, offering intimate, on-foot wildlife encounters
- Vast, uncrowded national parks with pristine wilderness
- Iconic South Luangwa National Park – renowned for leopards and rich biodiversity
- Lower Zambezi National Park – dramatic riverfront game viewing with elephants, lions, and hippos
- Kafue National Park – one of Africa’s largest parks with diverse ecosystems
Best Time to Visit & What to Expect
Zambia has three main seasons; which you choose depends on what you want from your safari:
Season | Months | Why Travel Now / What to Expect |
Cool & Dry | May – August | Great visibility, fewer mosquitoes, pleasant mornings/evenings; ideal for walking safaris & game drives. |
Hot & Dry / Peak Wildlife Viewing | August – October | Animals gather around limited waterholes — excellent for spotting predators, elephants, plains game. |
Wet / “Emerald” Season | November – April | Lush green landscapes, beautiful migratory birdlife and newborn animals — a quieter, more atmospheric safari, though some lodges/roads may be inaccessible. |
Tip: For a first safari, aim for May–October for best game-viewing and good travel conditions.
Travel Essentials – Visa, Money, Health & Logistics
• Visa & Entry
Visitors to Zambia can get a tourist visa valid for up to 90 days — many nationalities get visa-on-arrival, but applying via the official e-Visa portal (if required) is strongly recommended to avoid delays.
If you transit or come from a yellow-fever endemic country, a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate may be required.
• Currency & Payments
The local currency is the Zambian Kwacha (ZMW). For rural areas and smaller vendors, it’s best to carry local cash.
ATMs are available in major towns — but rural lodges often prefer cash payments. Credit cards work at larger hotels, lodges and some restaurants.
It’s wise to carry small notes (both Kwacha and some USD) for tipping, local craft purchases or small vendors.
• Health & Safety Advice
Malaria is present across Zambia. You should take prophylactic medication (e.g., atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline or mefloquine) and follow mosquito protection measures (repellent, long sleeves, nets).
Recommended vaccines before travel: routine immunizations, plus Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, and (if applicable) Yellow Fever.
Only drink bottled or boiled water outside main towns; avoid food from street vendors, and take care with meat and raw foods.
Medical facilities can be basic outside major cities — bringing a first-aid kit and having travel insurance (medical evacuation included) is highly recommended.
• Travel & Transport
Distances between parks are large — many itineraries combine ground 4×4 transfers with light-aircraft flights to save time.
Within safari areas, 4×4 vehicles, walking safaris, boat/canoe safaris, or small charter flights are common — plan accordingly.
Always keep valuables secure, especially in cities, avoid travelling alone at night, and stay discreet with cash/cards.
What to See & Do — Our Recommended Zambia Safari Experiences
With proper planning, Zambia offers something for every type of traveller:
Wildlife safari: Explore parks like South Luangwa National Park (big cats, walking safaris), Kafue National Park (vast wetlands, diverse wildlife), Lower Zambezi National Park (river safaris), or the dramatic Liuwa Plains National Park for its wildebeest migrations.
Water & river adventures: Canoe or boat safaris along the Zambezi — ideal to view elephants, hippos, crocs, and aquatic birdlife.
Walking safaris: Particularly in South Luangwa, walking safaris offer close-up, sensory-rich bush experiences — especially magical at dawn or dusk.
Sunsets & birding: The wetlands and floodplains host rich birdlife and mellow afternoons — perfect for bird watchers or those looking for calm nature.
Cultural experiences: Visit traditional villages, meet local artisans, and learn about Zambia’s warm and welcoming communities.
Adrenaline & adventure: For thrill-seekers: white-water rafting (in season), bush walks, or even helicopter flights near the waterfalls.
Helpful Tips for Travellers
Pack light-coloured, long-sleeve clothing — great for sun protection during the day and warmth on cool early-morning game drives.
Bring a good hat, sunscreen and a reusable water bottle — hydration and sun protection are vital.
Start antimalarial medication early (as advised by your doctor), and carry a basic first-aid kit.
Mix payment methods — carry some cash (Kwacha or USD) for remote areas; use cards in cities or big lodges.
Travel insurance is essential — for health, emergency evacuation, or unforeseen delays.
Book early for peak season (Aug–Oct) — lodges and safari flights fill fast in this window.
Respect the environment and wildlife — follow guide instructions, keep safe distances, leave no litter, and value local customs.
Sample Itinerary Idea
10-Day Zambia Safari Highlights
1.Arrival in Livingstone — Visit Victoria Falls & enjoy sunset cruise on the Zambezi.
2–3. Transfer to Lower Zambezi National Park — Canoe/boat safaris, birding, night drives.
4–6. Fly or drive to Kafue National Park (Busanga Plains) — Game drives, possibly walking safaris, wide-open wilderness.
7–9. Move on to South Luangwa National Park — Classic walking safaris, big-cat sightings, bush dinners under the stars.
Return to Lusaka or Livingstone for international departure.
This itinerary combines river, bush and walking safaris — giving a well-rounded taste of Zambia’s wild beauty.
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