Elevate Destinations

Experts in socially responsible luxury travel. We design travel experiences that support conservation and local communities without skimping on comfort.

Zambia: Three elephants, including a small calf, walk through tall golden grass with green trees in the background on a sunny day.

Zambia

Land of walking safaris

Ready to go off grid?

Walking eco tours were pioneered in Zambia in the 1960s by safari legends Norman Carr and Robin Pope. Not only is it the best place to do a walking safari, but Zambia also offers travelers an alternative and adventurous travel experience reminiscent of Africa of old.

The mighty Zambezi River carves an impressive crevice between Zambia and Zimbabwe. Victoria Falls has awestruck guests for years, and the country's safari regions strike a unique balance between water and land-based activities.

Zambia is a luxury destination in its own right. It offers a selection of exclusive and socially-responsible boutique lodges in its three key regions: Livingstone, South Luangwa National Park, and Lower Zambezi National Park. The sustainable activities in our Zambia itineraries allow you to experience the best of this country with minimal impact on its natural habitat.

Enjoy family-friendly guided walking safaris in the Luangwa and Lower Zambezi National Parks, white water rafting down the Zambezi River, or get up close and personal with hippos and elephants on a canoe safari.

Best times to visit Zambia

For dry season: May - October
For wildlife: May - October
For birdwatching and newborn animal sightings: November - April

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Your Questions Answered

What to know about Zambia

When is the best time to visit Zambia?

The best time to visit Zambia is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. This is when wildlife viewing is at its best. If you're a birdwatching enthusiast or looking to see newborn animals, consider planning your trip between November and April instead.

What wildlife can be seen on a safari in Zambia?

A safari in Zambia provides exceptional opportunities for wildlife viewing. During game drives, you can expect to see a variety of iconic African animals, including lions, leopards, elephants, zebras, giraffes, antelopes, and, with some luck, wild dogs. The national parks, particularly South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi, are famous for their abundant populations of big cats, elephants, hippos, and buffalo. Canoe safaris and walking safaris offer unique chances to encounter hippos and elephants up close.

What are the best things to do in Zambia?

Zambia is renowned for its walking and canoe safaris, which give visitors a unique way to experience the African bush. Other things to do in Zambia include white-water rafting, private river cruises, fishing trips, rainforest hikes, and rhino tracking, as well as cultural visits to nearby villages. For adrenaline junkies, Zambia doesn’t disappoint, with activities such as bungee jumping and helicopter flights over the stunning Victoria Falls.

What does a typical Zambia itinerary look like?

A typical Zambia itinerary usually includes a stay near Victoria Falls to enjoy excursions to the falls, river cruises, and cultural activities. Travelers will then often visit national parks for game drives, walking safaris, and river activities. It is common to add neighboring countries to the trip, such as Zimbabwe, Malawi, and Botswana. Accommodations during a Zambia itinerary are typically in boutique lodges or camps that blend luxury with sustainability. Evenings are spent sharing stories around the campfire, enjoying sundowners, and dining on African-inspired cuisine.

Are Zambia’s national parks worth visiting?

Zambia’s national parks are definitely worth visiting, especially for safari enthusiasts. Successful conservation efforts have led to thriving wildlife populations and some of the most impressive wilderness areas in Africa. The country’s national parks are renowned for their abundant wildlife, including the "Big Five" (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo), and they offer unique experiences with fewer crowds compared to more popular destinations.

Why should I choose Elevate Destinations as my Zambia travel guide?

The expert travel advisors at Elevate Destinations design sustainable and socially responsible travel experiences in Zambia for families, groups, and couples. Our itineraries are designed to minimize environmental impact while maximizing your connection to Zambia’s natural beauty and culture. With a focus on eco-conscious travel and community engagement, Elevate Destinations ensures that your journey is both luxurious and meaningful.

Where are the best places to visit in Zambia?

The best places to visit in Zambia include Livingstone, home to a range of adventure activities and the gateway to the impressive Victoria Falls, and South Luangwa National Park and Lower Zambezi National Park for wildlife enthusiasts.