Zambia Safari Holidays

Safari Holidays to Zambia

Zambia is often considered one of Africa’s best-kept secrets — a country where safaris feel raw, immersive, and completely off the beaten track. Known as the birthplace of the walking safari, it’s a dream for those seeking real wilderness, expert guiding, and thrilling encounters far from the crowds.

From the thundering power of Victoria Falls to the remote beauty of South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi, Zambia safari holidays offer a deep connection to Africa’s wild heart.

A Selection of our Zambia Safari Holidays

When is the Best Time to Go on Zambia Safari Holidays?

The best time to go on safari in Zambia is during the dry season from June to October.

Wildlife viewing is at its peak as animals concentrate around rivers and waterholes, and vegetation is sparse.

This period also offers excellent walking conditions, especially in South Luangwa and North Luangwa National Parks.

If you're into birding or want to see Zambia at its most lush and green, the emerald season (November to April) transforms the landscape — but note that some camps close during this wetter period due to accessibility issues.

What Wildlife Can You See on Zambia Safari Holidays?

Zambia is rich in wildlife and offers outstanding biodiversity. Expect to see elephants, buffalos, hippos, lions, and leopards — with particular emphasis on leopard sightings, for which South Luangwa is famous.

Zambia is also one of the best places in Africa to spot wild dogs and rarer species like sable antelope and Cookson’s wildebeest. Birders will be thrilled with over 750 recorded species, including African fish eagles, carmine bee-eaters, and Pel’s fishing owl.

Thanks to a limited number of vehicles and camps, you often won’t be sharing sightings with other tourists — meaning your wildlife experience is more personal and undisturbed.

Top Safari Destinations in Zambia

Zambia’s national parks are wild and remote, each with its own distinct character.

South Luangwa National Park

This is Zambia’s flagship park and the birthplace of the walking safari. Known for its high density of leopards, South Luangwa also offers night drives, exceptional birding, and intimate bush camps with legendary guides.

Lower Zambezi National Park

Set along the mighty Zambezi River, this park is ideal for canoe safaris, boat cruises, and riverside game viewing. Expect elephants wading in the shallows and sundowners against golden skies.

North Luangwa National Park

Wilder and less-visited than its southern sibling, North Luangwa is the place for serious adventurers. Walking safaris dominate here, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into untouched Africa.

Kafue National Park

One of Africa’s largest parks, Kafue offers varied landscapes, from miombo woodland to open plains. The Busanga Plains are especially famous for predator action and balloon safaris over vast wetlands.

Liuwa Plain National Park

Remote and seasonal, Liuwa is known for its second-largest wildebeest migration and dramatic stormy skies. A real treat for safari connoisseurs.

The Types of Zambia Safari Holidays That We Offer

At Awake in the Wild, we build Zambia safaris around your travel style and sense of adventure:

• Walking Safaris – Explore on foot with top-class guides and learn to read the land.
• Canoe & River Safaris – Paddle alongside hippos and watch elephants from the water.
• Classic Game Drives – Spot big cats, herds, and birds in open 4x4s with expert trackers.
• Night Drives – Unique to Zambia, offering the chance to see leopards and nocturnal animals.
• Migration Experiences – Witness one of Africa’s great migrations in Liuwa Plain.
  

Why Book Your Zambia Safari Holiday with Awake in the Wild?

Zambia is not your average safari — and we’re not your average safari company.

At Awake in the Wild, we curate deeply immersive trips for travellers who want real wilderness, real wildlife, and real connection.

We’re proud to support responsible camps and conservation initiatives, and all bookings are ATOL and PTS protected for your peace of mind.

From walking trails in Luangwa to private canoe trips on the Zambezi, we’ll help you experience the Zambia most people never see.

Where to Stay on a Zambia Safari Holiday

Zambia’s lodges and camps are designed for intimate, low-impact safaris.

Expect stylish but rustic bushcamps, often with just a handful of guests and no fences separating you from nature. Many are family-run, and guiding standards are some of the best in Africa.

Whether you’re sleeping under canvas or in an open-air chalet with views of the river, Zambia offers accommodation that brings you close to the wild without sacrificing comfort.

Combine Your Safari With...

Zambia combines brilliantly with other destinations to create the perfect safari circuit:

• Victoria Falls – Stay on the Zambian side and experience the smoke that thunders.
• Botswana’s Okavango Delta – A luxurious wetland contrast to Zambia’s riverine parks.
• Lake Malawi – Ideal for snorkelling, kayaking, and post-safari relaxation.
• South Luangwa & Lower Zambezi – Combine these for the ultimate walking and water safari blend.

Travelling from the UK to Zambia

Getting to Zambia from the UK is straightforward, with regular one-stop flights from London Heathrow and other major UK airports to either Lusaka or Livingstone, depending on your safari route. Most flights connect via Doha, Nairobi, Addis Ababa, or Johannesburg, with total travel times ranging from 14 to 18 hours.

Lusaka is ideal for travellers heading to South Luangwa or Lower Zambezi, while Livingstone provides direct access to Victoria Falls and nearby safari lodges.



We’ll take care of all international and regional flights, airport transfers, and any light aircraft hops into the bush, ensuring a seamless travel experience from the UK to Zambia’s incredible wilderness areas.

Start Planning Your Zambia Safari Holiday

If you’re ready to walk where few others do, drift silently past elephants, and fall asleep to the distant roar of lions, Zambia is calling.

Call us today or complete our enquiry form to begin planning your Zambia safari adventure with Awake in the Wild.

Frequently Asked Questions