You have already discovered quite a few European countries like Switzerland, Italy, or Sweden. This time, you are eager to explore the African continent starting with Zambia. This Southern African country consists of a vast plateau marked by mountains, hills, and lakes. Admittedly, it is still relatively unknown to tourists, unlike Congo, Zimbabwe, Kenya, or Namibia. However, Zambia also has much more to offer. It can become a top vacation destination. If you want to learn more about this country, this article might be useful to you.
Where is Zambia located?
Before getting to the heart of the matter, it is appropriate to explain exactly where Zambia is located. As mentioned in the introduction, it is a Southern African country with no direct access to the sea. It is situated on the border of Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Malawi, Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Namibia.
With an area of 740,720 km2, it was ranked in the Central African federation alongside Nyasaland and Southern Rhodesia in 1953. Known as Northern Rhodesia, this territory was a former British colony. Then in 1964, it gained independence and adopted the name Zambia.
Although it stands out for the richness of its subsoil, especially in cobalt and copper, the population still lived in extreme poverty at the time. But it did not remain idle. Protests grew in the 1980s, which led to major democratic reforms.
In 1991, the first multiparty elections were held in Zambia. Frederick Chiluba became the president of the Republic until 2001, replacing Kenneth Kaunda. Then the economy and the political situation of the territory improved at the beginning of the 21st century. Many foreign investors focused on the mining sector.
Thanks to its wild nature, impressive waterfalls, breathtaking landscapes, abundant fauna, and flora, Zambia is currently becoming one of the most popular vacation destinations in Southern Africa.
Why choose Zambia as a travel destination?
From 1996 to 2018, the number of visitors arriving in Zambia kept increasing. It was the Coronavirus epidemic that slowed the development of the tourism sector. According to reliable sources, this country welcomed 502,000 travelers in 2020. The government has not stopped seeking better strategies to attract more people. If you want to discover this gem of Southern Africa but have doubts, here are several good reasons to help you make a decision.
The Victoria Falls: a natural wonder of the country
Also called Mosi-oa-Tunya or the smoke that thunders, the famous Victoria Falls are the country’s claim to fame. With more than 1700 meters wide and 180 meters high, they are among the highest and largest waterfalls in the world. It is no surprise that they are part of the seven natural wonders of the planet. Very well known, they are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
More and more tourists are coming to Zambia to discover this gem of the country. It offers them a spectacle of natural beauty. Not only does it present a breathtaking scene, but it is also a perfect place for extreme sports in Africa. Many thrill-seekers engage in countless exhilarating activities. Bungee jumping is the most popular. Others go rafting on the Zambezi River.
It should be noted that the Victoria Falls are located on this legendary Zambezi River, which is one of the wildest major waterways in Africa. They are more precisely situated on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe. Thus, even though this incredible waterfall is accessible from various countries, Zambia remains the best vantage point to admire it.
Apart from rafting and the 111-meter-high bungee jump, a walk of a few hours offers a truly unforgettable experience to admire this famous cataract. Otherwise, you can take a cruise on the Zambezi River. For a good dose of adrenaline, a helicopter flight over the falls is an excellent idea. This activity provides you with an overview of the Victoria Falls.
Devil’s Pool: A sumptuous natural pool
If you are not a fan of extreme sports, a pleasant swim in the Devil’s Pool will suit you perfectly. It is a remarkable natural pool and one of the most beloved sites by tourists.
Also called the devil’s pool in French, this natural basin is one of the most unusual and dangerous pools in the world. It is located at the top of the Victoria Falls on the legendary Livingstone Island. If you wish to swim there, you can find yourself near the dizzying drop at the edge of the waterfalls.
In any case, ordinary people can safely enter the water even though they are just a few centimeters from the precipice. It must be said that the effect is quite thrilling for an extraordinary swim. Despite the danger the pool represents, it attracts many travelers. Don’t forget to take the opportunity to admire the magnificent rainbows of the Victoria Falls.
To access the Devil’s Pool, you must first go to Livingstone Island, where you obtain your entry. For the more daring, they do not hesitate to take a plunge off the cliff, which is about 103 meters high.
It should be noted that the abyss is not the only risk of the devil’s pool. It is also possible for the water flow to suddenly rise during heavy rains. Be aware that there is no dam to prevent this phenomenon. Thus, it is essential to always remain cautious in all situations.
A wide variety of national parks
If the urban area and the hectic pace of daily life are starting to wear you down, you need to get closer to nature. With its paradisiacal landscapes, dense forests, abundant vegetation, and exceptional wildlife, Zambia is a dream destination. It is teeming with numerous nature reserves and national parks that must be visited at all costs.
Among the most popular, the Kafue and Busanga National Park is increasingly attracting more travelers. It is crossed by 3 winding rivers, including the Lunga, the Lufupa, and the Kafue. Although the site may seem quite vast, only a small part of its terrain can be explored.
You can reach it by road from the city of Lusaka. In the center, it offers a more developed network of trails. As for the south, this part consists of dry forests with countless wild animals capable of living in an arid climate. To the north, you find floodplains called the Busanga Plains.
Although they are difficult to access, they offer breathtaking landscapes. When the water recedes, it gives way to vast meadows full of tall grasses. These attract predators and many other herbivorous animals.
Besides the Kafue and Busanga National Park, many travelers set out to discover the South Luangwa National Park. Whether in the north or south, almost all areas are very wild. Tourists often choose to visit the central part to observe animals such as baboons, hippopotamuses, wading birds, or antelopes. It should be noted that the Lower Zambezi National Park also welcomes many tourists even though it is the newest site in Zambia.
Going on safari to get closer to nature
Among the various tourist activities in Zambia, safari continues to attract a significant number of foreign visitors. It is highly entertaining to encounter wild animals in their natural habitat. Moreover, it gives you the opportunity to learn about their way of life. This Southern African country is rich in flora and wildlife. Going on safari helps you escape the monotony of your daily life and reconnect with nature.
The Kafue National Park is the ideal destination for safari in Zambia. It covers 22,400 km2 offering you a comprehensive wildlife observation without any animal noticing you. This park especially delights those who wish to participate in an off-the-beaten-path expedition. Take the opportunity to get close to wildebeests, buffaloes, hyenas, cheetahs, lions, wild dogs, leopards, antelopes, and many other iconic animals of the country.
You can also discover some pleasant natural areas to visit. They welcome tourists for safari as well. The South Luangwa National Park, Liuwa Plain National Park, Lower Zambezi National Park, and the South Luangwa National Park are the best known. Regardless of the destination, it is crucial to strictly follow the guides’ instructions to avoid unforeseen events. Make sure to equip yourself well since you will be exploring a wild site.
An infinity of exciting outdoor activities
Many foreigners choose Zambia for their holidays, thanks to its varied natural landscapes and exceptional biodiversity. During their stays, most do not miss walking to the Victoria Falls to admire their natural beauty and enjoy a close view of the cataracts.
More and more people opt for a walking tour to get closer to nature. Besides the Victoria Falls, they also have the chance to stroll through a tropical forest to encounter wildlife, especially birds of different colors.
A swim in the Devil’s Pool or Devil’s Pool is also a must during the low water season. Despite the risk it represents, it is not only very refreshing but also similarly adrenaline-pumping as you swim near the precipice.
That said, many families prefer to have an organic picnic on Livingstone Island. The latter offers a paradisiacal setting ideal for recharging and taking a breath of fresh air. This outdoor activity not only allows you to escape daily life but also improves mood and boosts self-esteem.
For those thirsty for adventure, going on a safari is among the most fascinating travel ideas in Zambia. It is full of several natural sites that help you explore off the beaten path. Otherwise, you can participate in day excursions or hikes generally in forests or nature reserves.
As for thrill sports enthusiasts, they can do bungee jumping and rafting. The Zambezi River also allows you to engage in many other water sports such as canoeing and kayaking.
What is the best time to visit Zambia?
The ideal season to visit Zambia varies depending on the place you want to go and the activities you plan to do. For example, to see the Victoria Falls, you can go in the months of March, April, and May. The beginning of the year is very rainy, which increases the flow of the Zambezi River. The latter feeds the waterfalls.
For safaris, the months from July to November are to be favored. It is the dry season which is conducive to all forms of expeditions in Africa. It is possible to plan your departure in May and June. Certainly, lodges and camps may reopen, but the ground remains slippery and muddy after the rainy period.
If your goal is to admire birds, it is suggested to go in January, February, and March. It is the rainy season during which herbivorous birds give birth to their young. Some species display their magnificent nuptial plumage. As for other aquatic birds, they like to roam the lagoons and pools, facilitating your observation.
How to get to Zambia?
Almost all tourists arrive in Zambia either at Lusaka, the country’s capital, or at Livingstone Island. It is in Lusaka where the country’s main airport is located. It is served by many airlines, most passengers coming from South Africa or Tanzania.
Many international airlines serve the capital of Zambia, namely South African Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Air Malawi, Air Namibia, Kenya Airways, and many more.
If you are from London, there are some flights organized by South African Airways and British Airways to the major city of Zambia or Lusaka. Likewise, some European airlines such as Air France, KLM, and Lufthansa fly to the same destination, either via Johannesburg or Harare.
Once you arrive at Livingstone or Lusaka, there are several domestic flights generally organized by the company Zambia Aero. This route helps you reach the most remote parts of the country such as the South Luangwa National Park.
It is also possible to take the road to reach these areas. But you need 4-wheel drive vehicles capable of driving on winding or even slippery roads during the rainy season.
To conclude, it is advisable to comply with the administrative formalities to join this gem of Southern Africa without any problems. For U.S. citizens, they are not required to have a visa before their arrival. They have the option to obtain it upon arrival in the country.
