Zambia is located in southern-central Africa and it is one of Africa’s hidden gems when it comes to safari holidays. Zambia is home to a huge variety of wildlife which can be found in high concentrations. It is also home to the mighty Victoria Falls, one of Africa’s most iconic sights.
A country that takes its name from Africa’s fourth biggest river; the Zambezi. The Zambezi River originates in Zambia before flowing through Angola and back into Zambia to the border with Zimbabwe where the mighty Smoke that Thunders, Victoria Falls, is found. The Zambezi eventually ends at the entrance to the Indian Ocean. The Zambezi River is a fantastic destination for wildlife spotting. With the wet, or ‘emerald’ season, the Zambezi River transforms the surrounding areas, acting as a lifeline for both humans and animals, with mesmerising changing landscapes it is full of activity. Here elephants can be seen bathing in the water, hippopotamuses and crocodiles can be found and also the Big Five can be spotted in the Zambezi National Park.
Approximately 30% of Zambia is made up of dedicated national parks and game management areas. This means that the wildlife is well looked after and really thrives here. Two of nature’s best wildlife areas are found in Zambia; the Kafue National Park and the Luangwa Valley. The Kafue National Park is Zambia’s largest national park and approximately a three hour journey from Victoria Falls. It has a range of authentic and luxurious safari lodges, like the KaingU Safari Lodge, and is full of life. Animals which can be spotted in the Kafue National Park include lions, leopards, elephants, pangolins and over 500 bird species. With varied landscapes from wetlands to woodlands, as well as the Kafue River, the park is vast and on such a scale that it offers a unique and often undisturbed safari holiday, it is a hidden gem. In the Luangwa Valley there are three national parks and a huge abundance of game including the Thornicroft giraffe as well as the famous tree-climbing lion and also a healthy number of black rhinos.
Victoria Falls is one of the main reasons why tourists choose to visit Zambia and it is one of the most remarkable attractions in the world. The largest waterfall in the world it connects Zambia and Zimbabwe by a bridge that crosses high above the Zambezi River. At Victoria Falls there is plenty to see and do, with helicopter scenic flights, bungee jumping and even white water rafting nearby. Devil’s Pool is a natural swimming pool positioned on a ledge on the edge of the falls where those who are brave enough can get the ultimate view of the falls whilst watching the water cascading past dropping 100 metres below, it is usually open from August to January.
For those who are looking for the ultimate holiday or a once in a lifetime honeymoon, then a visit to the safari areas of Zambia and Victoria Falls pairs perfectly with a safari holiday in Botswana or visiting the Winelands in South Africa.
