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Zambia
You can expect raw beauty, untamed adventure, and genuine hospitality when you travel to Zambia.
This Southern African gem is home to Victoria Falls, one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders, offering thrilling experiences like white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and helicopter rides. Zambia is also a top destination for walking safaris, especially in South Luangwa National Park where you’ll track wildlife on foot under the guidance of expert rangers.
The country offers a peaceful, laid-back atmosphere, with warm and friendly locals who are eager to share their culture. The urban areas like Lusaka and Livingstone give you a taste of modern Zambia with bustling markets and lively arts scenes, while rural regions immerse you in authentic traditions and untouched nature.
Expect excellent wildlife viewing, fewer crowds compared to other African destinations, and a deep connection to nature that stays with you long after you leave. Whether you’re cruising along the Zambezi River at sunset or listening to the roar of Victoria Falls at dawn, Zambia offers a thrilling, soulful, and unforgettable African journey.
THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN ZAMBIA
South Luangwa National Park
Victoria Falls
Lower Zambezi National Park
Lake Tanganyika
Kasanka National Park
Blue Lagoon National Park
Shiwa Ng’andu Estate
Lusaka City Markets
“The Professional Hobo”
“Never Ending Footsteps”
TYPICAL COSTS WHEN TRAVELLING
Accommodation: Budget travelers can find dorm beds or basic guesthouses for $10–$25 USD per night. Mid-range lodges and hotels cost around $40–$100 USD, offering greater comfort, private bathrooms, and sometimes meals. For luxury safari lodges or riverfront stays, prices can go upwards of $250–$600 USD per night, especially near national parks or Victoria Falls.
Food: Local Zambian meals (like nshima with vegetables or grilled meat) are very affordable, typically costing $2–$5 USD at roadside eateries or local markets. Mid-range restaurant meals average around $10–$20 USD, while upscale dining in hotels or tourist areas can range from $30 USD and above.
Transportation: Minibuses and shared taxis within cities are cheap, usually under $2 USD per trip. For longer intercity travel, coach buses range between $10–$25 USD, depending on distance. Hiring a private car and driver for the day costs around $60–$120 USD, while domestic flights (e.g., Lusaka to Livingstone) can range from $100–$200 USD one way.
Suggested daily budget – For most travelers in Zambia, a daily budget ranges from $40–$60 for backpackers staying in basic lodges and eating local meals. Mid-range travelers can expect to spend $100–$200 per day on comfortable accommodations, national park fees, and guided tours. For luxury safari experiences, especially in South Luangwa or Lower Zambezi, costs can exceed $500+ per day depending on the lodge and services included.
MONEY SAVING TIPS
1
Stay in Local Guesthouses
– Opt for family-run lodges or guesthouses instead of high-end safari resorts. These offer authentic Zambian hospitality at a fraction of the price and often include home-cooked meals.
2
Travel Off-Season
– Visiting during the shoulder or wet seasons (November to April) means lower accommodation rates, fewer tourists, and often better deals on safari packages and guided tours.
3
Use Public Transport or Shared Taxis
– While domestic flights and private transfers are costly, minibuses and shared taxis between towns are affordable and let you experience local life up close.
4
Buy Park Entry Separately
– If you’re heading to national parks, book your accommodation and park entry separately rather than through a full safari package. This can significantly reduce costs while giving you more control over your itinerary.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM ZAMBIA?
Zambia offers an off-the-beaten-path African adventure full of raw natural beauty, untamed wilderness, and warm, welcoming people. You can expect epic safari experiences in remote national parks like South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi, where wildlife roams freely and crowds are few. The country is home to the iconic Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, where adventure seekers can bungee jump, white-water raft, or swim at the edge of the falls. Zambia’s lush landscapes include rivers, forests, wetlands, and some of the best walking safaris on the continent. Expect rich culture too—lively markets, colorful traditions, and rural villages that give you a glimpse of daily life. Though the roads can be rough and distances vast, the payoff is a deeply authentic and unforgettable journey into the heart of Africa.
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July 7, 2022
