Why Visit Zambia?

Zambia is one of Africa’s best-kept secrets, offering an unforgettable blend of wildlife, natural wonders, and warm hospitality. This Southern African country is home to breathtaking national parks, the mighty Zambezi River, and the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the world.

Whether you're a fan of walking safaris, intrigued by untamed wilderness, or drawn to rich culture and history, Zambia has it all. This guide to the top 10 must-visit destinations in Zambia for first-time visitors will help you explore the heart of Africa and experience its most iconic tourist attractions.

Magnificent Victoria Falls – The Smoke That Thunders

No first trip to Zambia is complete without visiting Victoria Falls. Locally known as Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning "The Smoke That Thunders," this awe-inspiring site is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the world. Discovered by David Livingstone, the first European to see the falls, it remains the main attraction in the southern plains of Zambia.

During peak flow (February to May), the mile-wide Victoria Falls plunges into the steep-sided Batoka Gorge, creating mist visible from miles away. Adventure lovers can go bungee jumping, take a dip in the Devil's Pool (a natural rock pool), or ride the elegant Royal Livingstone Express. The surrounding Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park offers opportunities to observe wild animals, including black rhino.

South Luangwa National Park

Located in eastern Zambia, South Luangwa National Park is a must-visit for those who want to experience Zambia's diverse wildlife. The park is home to the Luangwa River, teeming with hippos and crocodiles, and supports a high density of wildlife including African wild dogs, spotted hyenas, and leopards.

Known as the birthplace of the walking safari, South Luangwa allows visitors to connect deeply with nature. Expect thrilling game viewing experiences, including night game drives to spot nocturnal animals in action. For first-time visitors seeking close encounters in the wild, South Luangwa offers an unforgettable taste of Africa.

Lower Zambezi National Park

Flanking the mighty Zambezi River, Lower Zambezi National Park is a haven of biodiverse wetlands and forested escarpments. One of Zambia’s most scenic parks, it offers unique safari experiences such as canoe safaris in a wooden dugout canoe.

The park is teeming with wildlife, from herds of elephants and buffalo to aquatic birds and predators like wild dogs. Luxury lodges along the river provide exceptional comfort with stunning views. Whether it’s game viewing from a boat or tracking lions on foot, Lower Zambezi offers the kind of wilderness knowing that leaves a lasting impression.

Kafue National Park

As one of Africa’s largest national parks, Kafue is a must-visit destination for those seeking adventure away from the crowds. Its size and remoteness make it perfect for extended safaris and immersive wildlife encounters.

Explore areas like the Busanga and Nanzhila Floodplains, known for their rich wildlife including cheetahs, lions, and wild dogs. Lake Itezhi-Tezhi, located within the park, is great for birdwatching and relaxing by the water. Kafue’s landscape resembles the English countryside, yet holds a wild charm that’s purely Zambian.

Livingstone Town

Located near Victoria Falls, Livingstone is Zambia’s tourism capital and a cultural treasure trove. Visit the Livingstone Museum, the oldest in the country, to learn about David Livingstone and Zambia's history.

Explore Maramba Market, take a heritage walk, or go on a village tour to connect with the surrounding area. Livingstone also serves as a launchpad for day trips into Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park and relaxing cruises on the Zambezi River.

Lake Kariba and Siavonga

Lake Kariba, the world’s largest man-made lake by volume, stretches along the Zambia-Zimbabwe border. The town of Siavonga is the gateway to this inland sea, ideal for fishing, boating, and lakeside relaxation.

Sunset cruises on the lake are magical, and many lodges offer panoramic views and access to local culture. It’s a peaceful retreat after weeks exploring Zambia’s wilder regions.

Liuwa Plain National Park

In the far west, Liuwa Plain National Park offers an off-grid experience for true adventurers. The park hosts Africa’s second-largest wildebeest migration, involving tens of thousands of animals moving across the plains.

Liuwa is also home to spotted hyenas, cheetahs, and an incredible variety of bird species. This untamed wilderness remains one of Zambia’s most pristine and least-visited places to visit, offering raw beauty and peaceful solitude.

Kasanka National Park

This small but significant park in northern Zambia is best known for the world's largest fruit bat migration, when millions of fruit bats fill the skies during their daytime roost from October to December.

Beyond bats, Kasanka features wetlands, forests, and rivers perfect for walking, canoeing, and birdwatching. It’s a testament to community conservation and ecotourism in Zambia.

Nsumbu National Park & Lake Tanganyika

Remote and rugged, Nsumbu National Park lies on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, one of the world’s deepest and oldest lakes. Its beaches, bays, and rocky cliffs make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking nature and tranquility.

Visitors can fish, swim, or trek through the park’s wild terrain while enjoying views that rival the Masai Mara. Nsumbu is ideal for travelers who crave off-the-beaten-path adventures.

Northern Zambia Waterfalls Trail

The Northern Waterfalls Trail is a scenic road trip featuring incredible cascades like Lumangwe, Ntumbachushi, and Kundalila Falls. These falls are framed by lush forest and surrounded by rural villages, perfect for cultural interaction.

The area was once promoted by Stewart Gore-Browne, a pioneer of early Zambian tourism. Today, it offers a raw, scenic escape for those wishing to see Zambia's lesser-known natural wonders.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Zambia depends on what you want to experience. For safari lovers and wildlife viewing, the dry season from May to October is ideal, when animals gather around water sources and the weather is pleasant. This is also the best time to visit for walking safaris in South Luangwa National Park or canoe trips on the Zambezi River. The wet season from November to April brings lush landscapes and birdlife, making it perfect for photographers and those looking to explore Zambia's biodiverse wetlands and witness events like the fruit bat migration in Kasanka National Park.

Plan Your Zambia Adventure with Kingsfari

From the magnificent Victoria Falls to biodiverse wetlands, walking safaris, and canoe adventures, Zambia is packed with unforgettable places to visit. Each destination offers its own mix of wildlife, heritage, and unspoiled beauty.

If you're preparing for your first trip, let this list of top 10 must-visit destinations in Zambia guide your itinerary. Contact us to visit Zambia to experience what makes this Southern African country one of the continent's rising stars in sustainable tourism.

Begin planning your Zambian adventure today!

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