All you need to know for a Zambian safari

Trip ideas

Zambia Safari Adventure 

Zambia is home to some of Africa’s most pristine wilderness areas. Experience the untamed beauty of South Luangwa National Park, renowned for its walking safaris and diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, and a myriad of bird species. The park’s dense woodlands and open plains provide an exceptional backdrop for game drives and photographic opportunities. 

In the Lower Zambezi National Park, the mighty Zambezi River flows majestically, offering unique safari experiences like canoeing alongside hippos and crocodiles, and fishing for the famous tiger fish.

Game drives and boat safaris reveal the park’s rich biodiversity, where you can spot buffalo, antelope, and a variety of predators in their natural habitat. 

Victoria Falls: The Smoke that Thunders 

Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, is a breathtaking spectacle located on the Zambia-Zimbabwe border. Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning “The Smoke that Thunders,” the falls are a magnificent cascade of water plummeting 108 meters into the Batoka Gorge. The immense spray and roaring sound create an unforgettable sensory experience. 

Visitors can explore the falls through various vantage points in the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, take a dip in the Devil’s Pool on the edge of the falls, or enjoy an adrenaline rush with activities like bungee jumping, zip-lining, and white-water rafting.

For a more relaxed experience, take a helicopter flight over the falls for a bird’s-eye view or enjoy a tranquil sunset cruise on the Zambezi River, where you can watch elephants and other wildlife along the riverbanks. 

Together, a safari in Zambia and a visit to Victoria Falls offer an unparalleled adventure, blending thrilling wildlife encounters with one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders on the planet. 

Day 1-3: Livingstone and Victoria Falls 

  • Travel: Fly into Livingstone. Relax and catch on jetlag 
  • Activities
  • Day 2: Tour Victoria Falls, sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. 
  • Day 3: Optional activities such as Devil’s Pool, bungee jumping, helicopter flight over the falls, walk with lions, raft down the Zambezi. 
  • Accommodation: Royal Livingstone 

Day 4-6: Lower Zambezi National Park 

  • Travel: Fly or drive to Lower Zambezi National Park. 
  • Activities
  • Day 4: Arrival, evening game drive. 
  • Day 5: Full day of activities including canoeing on the Zambezi River, fishing, game drives. 
  • Day 6: Full day of activities including canoeing on the Zambezi River, fishing, game drives 
  • Accommodation: Royal Zambezi Lodge 

Day 7-9: South Luangwa National Park 

  • Travel: Fly to South Luangwa National Park. 
  • Activities
  • Day 7: Arrival, evening game drive. 
  • Day 8: Full day of safari activities including walking safaris and game drives. 
  • Day 9: Morning safari, relax at the lodge, evening game drive. 
  • Accommodation: Mfuwe Lodge or Three Rivers Bush camp. 

Day 10: Departure 

  • Travel: Fly back to Lusaka for your international flight home. 
  • Activities: Depending on your flight time, you might explore more of Lusaka. 
  • Accommodation: None (departure). 

Pricing starts at $7900 per person 

Includes flights within Zambia 

Trip can be customized for budget and preferences! Here at Butler Travel, we specialize in saving you time and creating the vacation you want! Schedule a consultation call now!

Considerations 

  1. Travel Insurance: Ensure comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, theft, and cancellations. 
  1. Vaccinations and Health: Yellow fever vaccination (if coming from a yellow fever endemic area), malaria prophylaxis, general travel vaccinations (hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus). 
  1. Visa Requirements: Check visa requirements for your nationality. 
  1. Currency: Zambian Kwacha (ZMW). Carry some cash for rural areas; credit/debit cards are accepted in cities. 
  1. Climate and Weather: Zambia’s dry season (May to October) is best for wildlife viewing. Pack accordingly. 
  1. Local Customs: Respect local customs and traditions. Learn basic greetings in Bemba or Nyanja. 
  1. Safety: Be aware of wildlife safety rules, avoid walking alone at night, keep valuables secure. 
  1. Communication: SIM card with data plan from local providers like MTN Zambia or Airtel Zambia. 

Packing List 

Clothing 

  • Lightweight, breathable clothing (long sleeves and pants for safaris to protect from sun and insects) 
  • Warm clothing for evenings and early mornings (fleece or jacket) 
  • Comfortable walking shoes and sandals 
  • Swimwear 
  • Hat and sunglasses 
  • Rain jacket or poncho (if traveling during rainy season) 

Health and Safety 

  • Prescription medications (with copies of prescriptions) 
  • First aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, painkillers, antihistamines, rehydration salts) 
  • Insect repellent (with DEET) 
  • Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) 
  • Hand sanitizer 
  • Reusable water bottle 

Travel Essentials 

  • Passport (with visa if required) 
  • Travel insurance documents 
  • Printed copies of hotel and activity bookings 
  • Power adapter (Zambia uses Type C, D, and G sockets) 
  • Camera with extra batteries/chargers 
  • Binoculars (for wildlife viewing) 
  • Guidebook or offline maps 

Miscellaneous 

  • Snacks for travel days 
  • Lightweight daypack for excursions 
  • Waterproof bags/cases for electronics 
  • Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant) 
  • Wet wipes or tissues 
  • Small amount of USD for emergencies (newer bills in good condition)