Zambia – Wildlife, rivers, Victoria Falls
Named after the mighty Zambezi River, Zambia is one of Africa’s wildest and most remote safari destinations. Whether it’s walking pristine, uncrowded safari lands, exploring lush rivers, watching prolific bird life, or visiting the unforgettable Victoria Falls, Zambia seems to have something for any traveler.
Where Should I Go?
South Luangwa National Park
Zambia’s premier game viewing park. The Luangwe River and lush Luangwa Valley support large concentrations of diverse game, especially during the dry winter season. This is the place where Norman Carr pioneered walking safaris in the African bush.
Lower Zambezi National Park
After plunging over Victoria Falls and filling Lake Kariba, the Zambezi River becomes a wide and game-rich floodplain with islands, lagoons and sandbanks. Lower Zambezi National Park is located between the rugged Zambezi escarpment and the mighty Zambezi River; with Mana Pools National Park, on the Zimbabwe side of the river, the whole area is a massive wildlife sanctuary of intense beauty.
Kafue National Park
Zambia’s oldest and largest National Park is remote, wild and game-rich. Its wide rivers for fishing, excellent birding and game viewing, lead to open plains, woodlands, and the vast seasonal floodplains of the antelope and predator-rich Busanga Plains.
Victoria Falls & Livingstone
One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Victoria Falls is the most expansive curtain of falling water in the world and an awe-inspiring sight and sound to behold. The town of Livingstone — next to the Falls on the Zambia side — is known as the “adventure capital” of southern Africa.
When Should I Go?
Zambia lies in the heart of the tropics so gets lots of sunshine but the altitude keeps temperatures relatively moderate except in the river valleys where it gets hot and humid.

Zambia has three safari seasons:
- Dry season: from May through August; cool and dry, with temperatures averaging 75F day and 50F night. This is peak safari season.
- Hot Season: September and October; hot and dry, with temperatures averaging 100-110F during the day. This season offers excellent game viewing as animals gather around remaining waterholes and river banks.
- Green season: from November through April; warm and wet, with daytime temperatures averaging around 90F. Some safari camps are inaccessible and closed during this time
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Victoria Falls water flow:
- High water: from February through May; the peak flow is April and May
- Low water: from September through January; the lowest flow is from September to November
- Best game viewing: from May through October
- Best fishing: September and October
Where Should I Stay?
- Mobile Tented Camps
- Classic Safari Camps
- Luxury Safari Camps
- Safari Houses
- Small to large lodges at Victoria Falls
How should I travel?
- Air charter
- Helicopter
