Why Zambia Should Be on Your Safari Bucket List

 When people talk about African safaris, countries like Kenya, Tanzania, or South Africa often dominate the conversation. But if you’re looking for a destination that feels raw, wild, and authentic—without the heavy crowds—then Zambia deserves a top spot on your safari bucket list.

This landlocked country in Southern Africa is blessed with vast national parks, untamed wilderness, and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World: Victoria Falls. Unlike some of Africa’s more commercial safari spots, Zambia offers a more personal and off-the-beaten-path experience.

Before you pack your bags, it’s important to know that most international travelers are required to apply for Zambia eVisa. The eVisa is the most convenient option for tourists planning safaris, sightseeing, or cultural trips. It’s available online, easy to apply for, and saves you the hassle of visiting an embassy. 

Depending on your trip, you can choose from:

With your eVisa approved, your journey becomes much smoother—leaving you free to focus on game drives, walking safaris, and soaking up the beauty of Zambia’s wild landscapes.

1. Home to Walking Safaris – The Original Safari Experience

Zambia is often credited as the birthplace of the walking safari. In South Luangwa National Park, expert guides take you on foot through the bush, teaching you how to track animals, read footprints, and understand the ecosystem.

There’s something thrilling about being on the ground where lions, elephants, and buffalo roam free. You hear the crunch of leaves, the distant call of a bird, or the snap of a branch—and suddenly the wild feels closer than ever.

If you want to go beyond sitting in a safari jeep and truly connect with nature, a Zambian walking safari is unbeatable.

2. Fewer Crowds, More Wilderness

One of Zambia’s biggest advantages is its sense of exclusivity. While other safari destinations can feel crowded, Zambia’s parks are vast and less commercialized.


You could drive for miles without seeing another vehicle, which means when you do spot a leopard or a pride of lions, the moment feels entirely yours. This quiet, uncrowded safari style is what makes Zambia special.

3. Victoria Falls – The “Smoke That Thunders”

No trip to Zambia would be complete without visiting Victoria Falls, known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning “The Smoke That Thunders.”


It’s not only one of the largest waterfalls in the world but also one of the most dramatic. During peak flow, the roaring waters create a spray so powerful it can be seen from kilometers away.

But Victoria Falls isn’t just for sightseeing—you can also:

  • Swim in the famous Devil’s Pool right at the edge of the falls.

  • Go bungee jumping off the Victoria Falls Bridge.

  • Try white-water rafting in the Zambezi River.

  • Take a scenic helicopter ride for a bird’s-eye view.

It’s a must-see wonder that adds an adventurous edge to any safari trip.

4. Exceptional Wildlife Viewing

Zambia’s national parks are home to an impressive range of wildlife. Some highlights include:

  • Leopards: Especially abundant in South Luangwa, giving it the nickname “Valley of the Leopard.”

  • Elephants and Buffalo: Large herds roam freely across the plains.

  • Big Cats: Lions and cheetahs are regularly spotted.

  • Unique Species: Look out for Thornicroft’s giraffe and Crawshay’s zebra—subspecies found almost exclusively in Zambia.

  • Birdlife: Over 750 species of birds, including the striking Carmine bee-eater.

For safari lovers, Zambia offers both the iconic “Big Five” and plenty of rare, lesser-seen animals.

5. Night Game Drives

While most African countries restrict safaris to daylight hours, Zambia allows night game drives in several parks. With a spotlight, you can watch nocturnal animals like hyenas, civets, porcupines, and leopards hunting after dark.

This gives you an entirely different perspective of the bush, making a safari here even more memorable.

6. Canoe Safaris on the Zambezi River

Another unique experience is a canoe safari along the mighty Zambezi River. Paddling quietly through the water, you can spot hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and an incredible variety of birdlife right from your canoe.

It’s peaceful, yet exhilarating—especially when you glide past a herd of elephants drinking at the riverbank. Few safari destinations offer this kind of adventure.

7. Rich Cultural Encounters

Safaris in Zambia aren’t just about wildlife. The country’s cultural heritage is just as fascinating. Travelers can visit traditional villages, attend ceremonies like the Kuomboka Festival (a famous river migration ceremony of the Lozi people), or learn about local crafts and storytelling traditions.

These experiences add a deeper human connection to your journey.

8. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Tourism

Zambia has worked hard to keep its safari industry sustainable. Many lodges are small, family-owned, and eco-friendly, running on solar power and designed to blend into the environment.

This not only helps protect the wilderness but also ensures that your safari dollars support local communities.

9. Ideal for Both First-Time and Repeat Safari-Goers

Whether you’re on your first safari or your tenth, Zambia has something unique to offer. First-time visitors will be blown away by the abundance of wildlife, while seasoned safari travelers will appreciate the rare experiences like walking and canoe safaris.

Practical Travel Information

Do You Need a Visa to Visit Zambia?

Yes, most international travelers need a Zambia eVisa to enter. The process is simple:

  • Apply eVisa online before your trip.

  • Upload passport details, a photo, and travel documents.

  • Receive approval by email, then present it at the airport or border.

This eVisa makes travel much easier compared to traditional embassy applications.

Best Time to Visit Zambia

  • Dry Season (May–October): Best for wildlife viewing, as animals gather near rivers and waterholes.

  • Wet Season (November–April): Lush landscapes and fewer tourists, but some areas may be harder to access.

Top National Parks to Explore

  • South Luangwa National Park – Famous for leopards and walking safaris.

  • Lower Zambezi National Park – Perfect for canoe safaris and river wildlife.

  • Kafue National Park – One of Africa’s largest, with diverse ecosystems and fewer visitors.

Final Thoughts

Zambia may not always make the top of safari brochures, but that’s exactly what makes it so appealing. It’s wild, untouched, and filled with experiences you won’t find anywhere else—walking safaris, canoe trips, night drives, and the mighty Victoria Falls.

If you’re looking for a safari destination that combines adventure, authenticity, and fewer crowds, Zambia should definitely be on your bucket list. Just remember to apply for Zambia eVisa before your trip, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready for one of the most unforgettable journeys of your life.

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