nanzhila plains safari camp, kafue national park, zambia

Zambia

Sandwiched between the tourism hotspots of southern and eastern Africa Zambia has, in the past, been overlooked as a tourism destination. With approximately one-third of the country devoted to conservation and protected areas Zambia has plenty to offer and something for everyone. This diverse land is home to the magnificent Victoria Falls as well as 18 other significant waterfalls, the mighty Zambezi River, Lake Kariba and Lake Tanganika, and numerous National Parks including the Luangwa Valley, Kafue and Lower Zambezi where one encounters prolific animal and bird life in truly magnificent wilderness settings.

Lying on a vast plateau within the tropical belt Zambia has a surprisingly moderate climate that can be divided into three distinct seasons: the winter months of May to August when it is cool and dry, the months of September and October which are hot and dry and then the rainy season of November to April when it can be hot and relatively humid.

Zambia is a Republic having gained independence from Britain in 1964. Its population is currently estimated at 11.5 million comprising about 70, mostly Bantu-speaking ethnic groups. The people are friendly and helpful and Zambia ranks as one of the most safe and peaceful places to visit in Africa.

Lusaka is the seat of government and capital of Zambia, whilst Livingstone, in southern Zambia is the country's tourism hub, and home to the Victoria Falls. Both Lusaka and Livingstone receive international flights serviced by British Airways and South African Airways.

Vist the Zambia Tourist Board here.

Livingstone and the Victoria Falls

Recognised as one of the seven natural wonders of the world and registered as a World Heritage Site, the Victoria Falls or “Mosi-oa-Tunya – the smoke that thunders” is a must see for anyone visiting this part of the world.

David Livingstone was the first white man to see the Falls and named it after his monarch, Queen Victoria. Ever since, tourists have been visiting the site and it now ranks as one of the top tourist destinations in Africa.

The city of Livingstone, which celebrated its centenary in 2005, is the perfect place to begin your Zambian adventure. Not only can you view the Falls, you can also visit the Livingstone Museum, home to a significant collection of historical memorabilia, and the Railway Museum which houses fine examples of Zambia’s railway heritage, take a sun-downer cruise on the Zambezi River, or for the more adventurous at heart take advantage of the many adrenalin sports on offer for which Livingstone is fast becoming known, such as white water rafting, abseiling, bungi-jumping and jet boating.

Livingstone has a number of quality and world class hotels and lodges and is the ideal place from which to begin your African safari.

“scenes so lovely they must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight”
(Dr David Livingstone)