Zambia is very much the ‘real’ Africa. It’s in central southern Africa and has no coastline but offers the magnificent Zambezi River, several spectacular lakes and the awesome Victoria Falls. Zambia is a place for a serious safari, and until recently attracted relatively few visitors who relished its atmosphere of exploration and adventure. The South Luangwa, Kafue and Lower Zambezi Parks all offer excellent game viewing.Sights are not neatly bundled up but travelling through the country’s magnificent scenery is one of the appeals of holidays in Zambia. So are walking safaris – a chance to leave the open-topped vehicles and, with experienced guides, get truly up close and personal with Africa at its rawest and most exciting. Night safaris are also particularly rewarding. The remote North Luangwa is a spectacular setting for very small and exclusive escorted walking safaris. In Zambia it often feels like nothing has changed since the days of Livingstone.
Getting away from the tourist herds
Escorted walking safaris in very small groups
White water rafting safaris along the Zambezi
Soft adventure experiences
Adventure sports in the Victoria Falls area - they carry high risks of injury and the standard of equipment can be poor.
A visa is required by EU passport holders to stay less than ninety days. You can apply for one in advance or buy one at the point of entry in sterling cash. You will need to pay a departure tax. You need to act on the most up-to-date medical advice about inoculations and malaria preventative measures some weeks before you leave home. The majority of visitors who contract malaria have failed to take any preventive measures. The wildlife reserves are best visited between May and September when it’s cool and dry. Victoria Falls is most impressive after the rainy season in April and May, although at other times there is less spray which means you can see more.
Zambia has three distinct seasons. May to August is the dry winter season (26°C/79°F), September to October is hot and sunny (30°C/86°F), November to April is the rainy season (26°C/79°F). Most days are normally clear and sunny.
Flights to Zambia from the UK take around ten hours.
Driving is on the left-hand side. Zambia has a good network of roads but many are in a poor state. A 4WD (four wheel drive) is recommended but hiring a vehicle and driver with local knowledge is relatively inexpensive. On most holidays in Zambia your transport and drivers will be organized for you.