The best places to visit in Zambia

Zambia is a hidden gem in Africa, offering stunning natural beauty, rich wildlife, and thrilling adventure experiences. From the majestic Victoria Falls to the vast South Luangwa National Park, Zambia is a dream destination for nature lovers and safari enthusiasts. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to visit in Zambia for an unforgettable journey.

Zambia – A Land of Waterfalls, Wildlife, and Wilderness

Zambia hits you with a raw, untamed energy—rivers roar over cliffs, elephants roam endless plains, and the horizon stretches wide enough to lose yourself in. This is a land where nature doesn’t mess around; Victoria Falls thunders on its southern edge, while the Zambezi River carves paths through wilderness that feels untouched by time. Safari parks like South Luangwa and Kafue teem with life—lions, leopards, and herds of antelope under skies that blaze with stars. Beyond the wild, the people warm your soul—smiles in Mukuni Village, stories swapped over nshima in Livingstone. Less crowded than its neighbours, Zambia’s a secret worth spilling; fly into Lusaka or Livingstone, rent a 4×4, and dive into a country that’s equal parts adrenaline and peace. It’s rugged, real, and ready to steal your heart.

Victoria Falls: A Natural Wonder Like No Other

Victoria Falls, known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya (The Smoke That Thunders), is one of the world’s largest waterfalls, straddling the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. Stand on the Knife-Edge Bridge for a misty view of the 108-meter drop, or take a helicopter ride for a panoramic perspective. Adventurous couples can try bungee jumping from the Victoria Falls Bridge. In 2025, new guided walking tours along the falls include cultural insights from local Lozi guides. Visit during the dry season (May to October) for clearer views. Pack a raincoat for the spray, and bring sturdy shoes for slippery paths.

South Luangwa National Park: A Wildlife Paradise

South Luangwa National Park, in eastern Zambia, is a wildlife paradise famous for its walking safaris. Spot leopards, lions, and elephants along the Luangwa River, or join a night drive to see nocturnal creatures like genets. The park’s remote camps offer an authentic bush experience. In 2025, new eco-camps are opening with solar-powered facilities for sustainable stays. The dry season (May to October) is best for game viewing. Pack neutral-colored clothing to blend into the bush, and bring insect repellent for the riverbanks.

Lake Kariba: Serenity and Adventure

Lake Kariba, a massive man-made lake in southern Zambia, stretches over 220 km and offers serene houseboat stays. Fish for tigerfish, spot hippos lounging in the water, or watch elephants drinking along the shore. Sunset cruises here are magical, with the sky reflecting on the lake’s glassy surface. In 2025, new luxury houseboats are launching, featuring on-deck jacuzzis for relaxation. Visit in the cooler months (May to September) to avoid the heat. Pack sunscreen for boat trips, and bring a light jacket for evening breezes.

Kafue National Park: Zambia’s Largest Wildlife Reserve

Kafue National Park, one of Africa’s largest parks, spans 22,400 km² in western Zambia and boasts diverse ecosystems. Explore the Busanga Plains for lion prides, or take a boat safari on the Kafue River to see crocodiles and waterbirds. The park’s remoteness ensures an untouched wilderness experience. In 2025, new hot air balloon safaris are being introduced over the plains at sunrise. Visit in the dry season (May to October) for better wildlife sightings. Pack binoculars for distant views, and bring a hat for sun protection.

Livingstone: Gateway to Adventure

Livingstone, a vibrant town near Victoria Falls, is Zambia’s adventure capital. Explore the Falls from the Zambian side, or visit the Livingstone Museum to learn about the region’s history, including David Livingstone’s expeditions. For thrill-seekers, white-water rafting on the Zambezi River is a must. In 2025, new cultural festivals in June will showcase Bemba and Lozi traditions with live music and dance. The town’s markets offer handmade crafts perfect for souvenirs. Pack comfortable shoes for walking, and bring a waterproof bag for rafting.

Kalambo Falls: A Hidden Gem

Kalambo Falls, on the border of Zambia and Tanzania, is one of Africa’s tallest single-drop waterfalls at 221 meters. The surrounding cliffs offer stunning views, and the area is rich in archaeological history, with Stone Age tools discovered nearby. Hike to the base for a refreshing mist, or camp at the top for a peaceful retreat. In 2025, new guided archaeological tours are being offered, exploring ancient sites around the falls. Visit in the dry season (May to October) for safer trails. Pack hiking boots for the descent, and bring a camera for the views.

Mukuni Village: A Cultural Experience

Mukuni Village, near Livingstone, is a traditional Lelewa community where you can experience Zambian culture up close. Meet the chief, watch artisans craft wooden carvings, and learn about local customs, like the Leya’s reverence for Victoria Falls. The village market sells handmade jewellery and baskets. In 2025, new cultural workshops will let visitors join in traditional cooking classes, making dishes like nshima. Visit during the day for guided tours. Pack a small gift like pens for the community, and bring cash for market purchases.

Lower Zambezi National Park

Lower Zambezi National Park, along the Zambezi River, offers a serene wilderness experience with canoe safaris as its highlight. Paddle past hippos and elephants, or fish for tigerfish in the river’s calm waters. The park’s luxury lodges provide riverfront views and guided game drives to spot leopards. In 2025, new riverside yoga retreats are being introduced, blending relaxation with nature. Visit in the dry season (May to October) for better wildlife sightings. Pack a swimsuit for lodge pools, and bring binoculars for birdwatching.

Kasanka National Park

Kasanka National Park, in central Zambia, is a hidden gem known for its annual bat migration, one of the largest mammal migrations in the world. From October to December, millions of straw-colored fruit bats gather in the park’s swamp forests. Explore the park’s tree hides for a bird’s-eye view, or spot rare sitatunga antelopes in the wetlands. In 2025, new night tours are being offered to witness the bat migration under the stars. Visit during the migration for a unique spectacle. Pack a flashlight for night tours, and bring insect repellent for the swamps.

Lusaka

Lusaka, Zambia’s capital, blends urban energy with cultural charm. Visit the Lusaka National Museum to explore Zambian history, or shop for crafts at the Kabwata Cultural Village. The Munda Wanga Environmental Park offers a relaxing escape with botanical gardens and wildlife rehab centres. In 2025, Lusaka’s annual cultural festival in August will feature traditional Bemba dance and food stalls. The city’s markets, like Soweto Market, are perfect for local snacks. Pack a light jacket for cooler evenings, and bring cash for market shopping.

Best Time to Visit Zambia

Zambia’s dry season (May to October) is ideal for wildlife safaris in South Luangwa and Kafue National Parks, with animals gathering at waterholes. The wet season (November to April) brings lush scenery and fewer crowds, perfect for Lower Zambezi’s canoe safaris. In 2025, Livingstone’s June cultural festival adds a vibrant touch, while Kasanka’s bat migration peaks from October to December. For Victoria Falls, visit in May for the best balance of water flow and visibility. Plan your trip with the “Ultimate Travel Guide to Africa”.

Cultural Experiences to Try in Zambia

Zambia’s diverse cultures offer rich experiences. In Mukuni Village, join a cooking class to make nshima, a maize staple, or witness Bemba dances at Lusaka’s cultural festival. Visit a Lozi community near Victoria Falls to learn about their river traditions, or shop for Tonga baskets in Livingstone’s markets. In 2025, new cultural tours in Kalambo Falls include storytelling sessions with local elders. Explore more African cultures in “The Best Places to Visit in Madagascar” and “The 10 Best Places to Visit in Namibia”. Dress modestly when visiting villages, and bring a notebook to jot down stories.