A group out on a walking safari with their guide come across elephants | Go2Africa

Top 10 Zambia Safari Tours & Trips

A Zambia safari has long been a favourite destination for safari connoisseurs. Its wonderfully secluded parks and reserves see far fewer crowds than more popular destinations, giving you greater freedom to explore. Experience safaris like no other, from walking safaris through the wildlife-rich South Luangwa to canoeing on the Zambezi River and classic game drives through the Lower Zambezi. You'll also have the added experience of being close to the ever-popular Victoria Falls, where you'll be able to explore the waterfall and its surroundings through a number of adventurous activities, including white-water rafting, scenic helicopter flights and bungee jumping.

Experience this underrated safari gem at your own pace and by your own design. To give you a few itinerary ideas, here are our 10 top Zambia tours and trips:

1. Great-Value Livingstone, Falls & Luangwa Valley

Duration: 7 Days | Countries: 1 | Locations: 2


Chundukwa River Lodge's riverside deck overlooks the Zambezi.
Unwind in your riverside chalet at Chundukwa, immersed in the sights and sounds of the Zambezi. | Chundukwa River Lodge

Spend seven days exploring two of Zambia's most iconic destinations – the mighty Victoria Falls and the untamed wilderness of South Luangwa National Park. Begin your journey on the banks of the Zambezi River at Chundukwa River Lodge, a charming owner-run retreat that blends seclusion with easy access to Africa's largest waterfall. Cruise at sunset, explore colourful markets, or set out on horseback rides through the Zambezi River Valley's forests.

Your adventure continues in South Luangwa, the birthplace of walking safaris. Stay at the luxurious Mfuwe Lodge, where elephants wander in to feast on wild mango trees. Experience thrilling game drives and guided walking safaris in a valley teeming with wildlife, from giraffe and elephant to lion and leopard. Evenings are for sundowners, bush views, and the comfort of your lodge veranda.

Highlights:

  • Intimate, owner-run lodge on the Zambezi River
  • Sunset boat cruises & private guided trips to Victoria Falls
  • Horse-riding safaris in the Zambezi River Valley
  • South Luangwa – Zambia's premier big game destination
  • Walking safaris & game drives in a predator-rich wilderness
  • Luxury lodge with spa, pool & viewing decks over a lagoon

Best for:

Adventurous couples, safari lovers & nature enthusiasts.

2. Zambia’s Community & Conservation Safari

Duration: 10 Days | Countries: 2 | Locations: 3

Kaya Mawa main area at Sunset
Swap sunset game drives for lazy, shoreside afternoons on the surreal waters of Lake Malawi. | Kaya Mawa

Begin your Zambian safari sojourn at the beautiful Tongabezi Lodge near Victoria Falls. Discover the majestic Victoria Falls, one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World, and enjoy an array of activities – including the Flight Of Angels over the Falls. A short, scenic flight takes you to South Luangwa National Park, birthplace of the walking safari, for an exceptional wildlife experience. Pristine wilderness, diverse wildlife, and incredible guides make for an unforgettable stay.

Your final stop brings you to Likoma Island on Lake Malawi, otherwise known as the ‘Lake of Stars'. Its rich culture, history, and astounding natural beauty provide an enchanting escape. White, sandy beaches and crystal clear waters invite you to experience an array of water-based activities, while walking tours, quad bikes, and an on-site spa invite you inland.

This tour is also one of our Trips With A Purpose tours, meaning it supports local communities and conservation initiatives.

Highlights:

  • Explore the birthplace of the walking safari, South Luangwa National Park
  • Experience island life
  • Make a Positive Impact by travelling
  • Stay in award-winning accommodations
  • See, and tour, one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World

Best for:

Couples, honeymooners, and adventure travellers.

3. Zambia & Malawi Bush & Beach

Duration: 10 Days | Countries: 2 | Locations: 3

An evening swim overlooking South Luangwa’s plains. | Shawa Luangwa

Combine the wild beauty of Zambia with the tropical tranquillity of Malawi on this 10-day bush and beach adventure. Begin at Tongabezi Lodge on the banks of the Zambezi River, just upstream from the mighty Victoria Falls. Explore the adventure capital of Africa at your own pace, from helicopter flights and bungee jumps to sunset cruises and craft markets.

Follow up with a night on Sindabezi Island, a secluded eco-retreat where open-fronted chalets and barefoot luxury set the tone for romantic riverside living. Continue your journey into South Luangwa National Park, staying at Shawa Luangwa Camp. This eco-friendly lodge offers game drives in electric vehicles, walking safaris, and even boat excursions, bringing you up close to lions, leopards, elephants and more in a variety of contrasting habitats.

End your adventure on Likoma Island at Kaya Mawa, a laid-back paradise on the shores of Lake Malawi. Here, you can snorkel, dive, kayak, or simply relax on the beach with panoramic lake views. Candlelit dinners under the stars and spa treatments complete your journey with blissful relaxation.

Highlights:

  • Luxury eco-lodges in Zambia & Malawi
  • See Victoria Falls & cruise the Zambezi River
  • Enjoy a private island escape on the Zambezi at Sindabezi
  • Safari by foot, boat & silent electric vehicles in South Luangwa
  • Exceptional leopard & big game sightings
  • Lake Malawi offers a delightful selection of water sports, snorkelling & barefoot luxury

Best for:

Honeymooners, adventurous couples, families & seasoned safari travellers.

4. Africa's Masai Mara, Victoria Falls, Kruger & Cape Town

Duration: 13 Days | Countries: 3 | Locations: 5

A group of people on a game vehicle look to the left as their guide points towards a sighting out of frame | Go2Africa
Go in search of the Big 5 on game drives through the Kruger | Singita Ebony

This 13-day tour takes you to Africa's greatest treasures and safari hotspots. Begin your adventure in East Africa, where you'll spend time in the world-famous Mara and maybe even get front-row seats to the annual Wildebeest Migration. Then it's off for some adrenaline-fueled fun in Africa's Adventure Capital, Victoria Falls, where your days are filled with adventure activities like white-water rafting and scenic helicopter flights. Your trip ends in South Africa with a classic safari experience in the Kruger, known for its Big 5 sightings, and a relaxing few days in cosmopolitan Cape Town and its surrounding Winelands.

Highlights:

  • Visit some of Africa's safari hotspots
  • Guaranteed Big 5 sightings in the Kruger National Park
  • Watch the Wildebeest Migration in the Masai Mara (July to October)
  • Hot-air balloon safaris
  • Adventure activities at Victoria Falls
  • Explore Cape Town's vibrant city, beaches & Winelands

Best for:

Safari-lovers & family vacations.

5. The Ultimate Zimbabwe & Livingstone Safari

Duration: 10 Days | Countries: 2 | Locations: 4

A standalone bath and vanity look through the side of a tent out to a veranda and onto the bush beyond at Somalisa Camp | Go2Africa
Bathroom dreams | Somalisa Camp.

Not only does this 10-day journey allow you to explore one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World, Victoria Falls, but it also gives you the chance to venture through some of Zimbabwe's safari treasures. The tour lives up to its name, taking guests on a journey through the African wilderness that they won't soon forget. From night drives through Hwange and sunset cruises on Lake Kariba to helicopter trips over the continent's largest waterfall and armchair safaris in Mana Pools, this is an unmatched trip through Southern Africa's wonders.

This tour forms part of our Trips With A Purpose initiative. In this case, every booking of this itinerary includes a contribution of two stationery packs donated to Maunga Primary School.

Highlights:

  • Excellent big game sightings in Mana Pools & Hwange National Parks
  • Night drives
  • Sunset cruises on the Zambezi River & Lake Kariba
  • Explore Victoria Falls
  • Helicopter rides

Best for:

Small groups & families.

6. Zimbabwe's Mana Pools, Hwange & Livingstone Safari

Duration: 10 Days | Countries: 2 | Locations: 3

Guests pause on a walking safari with a tracker and watch in awe as just meters away, an elephant reaches its trunk high into a tree for a meal.
Enjoying exclusive walking safaris in Nyamatusi Wilderness Concession in the heart of Mana Pools | Nyamatusi Camp

Embark on a 10-day luxury safari across two spectacular Southern African destinations. Begin in Zimbabwe's Mana Pools, where the Zambezi River flows through an untouched wilderness alive with lion, leopard, elephant, and buffalo. Stay at an intimate camp with front-row views of the river and discover this pristine ecosystem by canoe, on foot, or by game drive.

Continue to Hwange National Park, famed for its vast herds of elephant and predators like lion, leopard, and cheetah. Stay at an award-winning tented camp overlooking a busy waterhole and enjoy a mix of walking safaris, night drives, and cultural encounters.

Conclude your journey in Zambia at Thorntree River Lodge, just upstream from Victoria Falls. Track white rhinos on foot, explore the Zambezi by boat or kayak, and enjoy sundowners on a private cruise. Adventure seekers can bungee jump or soar above Victoria Falls on a helicopter flip, while families and couples alike will appreciate the lodge's tranquil riverside setting and personalised service.

Highlights:

  • Luxury camps in Mana Pools, Hwange & Livingstone
  • Canoeing, walking safaris & big game encounters on the Zambezi
  • Hwange National Park – elephants, predators & prolific birdlife
  • Track white rhinos on foot in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park
  • Private boat cruises, fishing & cultural village visits
  • Iconic Victoria Falls activities – bungee jumping, rainforest walks & helicopter flights

Best for:


Families, adventurous couples & multi-generational getaways.

7. Romantic Falls, Zambezi & Chobe

Duration: 5 Days | Countries: 2 | Locations: 2

Sanctuary-Chobe-Chilwero-Lodge-water-sfari-on-the-Chobe-River
Experience the slow beauty of safaris on the Chobe River. | Sanctuary Chobe Chilwero.

Spend five unforgettable days between two of Africa's most iconic destinations – Victoria Falls in Zambia and Botswana's legendary Chobe National Park. Begin with a stay on the banks of the Zambezi River at the elegant Royal Livingstone Hotel, just steps from the world's largest waterfall. Enjoy a guided tour of Victoria Falls, then choose your adventure: from white-water rafting and bungee-jumping to sunset cruises and canoe safaris. For the ultimate view, soar above the Falls on a breathtaking helicopter ride.

Continue your journey into Botswana for a stay at Chobe Chilwero, a romantic riverside lodge overlooking the vast Chobe floodplains. The park's dry season brings immense elephant herds alongside buffalo, lion, and abundant birdlife – a truly spectacular safari experience. Enjoy thrilling game drives in one of Africa's great reserves, or take to the water on sundowner cruises and photographic safaris on the Chobe River.

Highlights:

  • Luxury riverside stays in Zambia & Botswana
  • Guided tour of Victoria Falls with direct lodge access
  • Adventure activities, from rafting to scenic helicopter flights
  • Chobe National Park game drives & sunset river cruises
  • Incredible elephant herds during the dry season
  • Romantic lodges with spas, fine dining & world-class views

Best for:

Couples, honeymooners & safari romantics.

8. Luxury Experiences in Kruger, Livingstone & South Luangwa

Duration: 12 Days | Countries: 2 | Locations: 3

Three guests sit around a fire in a circular boma overlooking a body of water with two pools behind them at Time + Tide Chinzombo
Sunset in the boma with a fire | Time + Tide Chinzombo

Going on safari has never been more glamorous. This 12-day tour of some of Southern Africa's gems sees guests enjoying a classic safari experience from the lap of luxury in the Kruger and South Luangwa, as well as unforgettable experiences in Africa's Adventure Capital, Victoria Falls. Encounter nature at its most raw and untamed without foregoing the comfort and pleasures of a 5-star getaway.

Highlights: 

  • Stay at some of the best luxury accommodation in Africa
  • Guaranteed Big 5 sightings in Kruger National Park
  • Excellent big game viewing in South Luangwa National Park
  • Adventure & water-based activities in Victoria Falls

Best for:

Travellers who enjoy the finer things in life.

9. Hidden Gems Classic Kafue

Duration: 7 Days | Countries: 1 | Locations: 2

Two guests stand to the right of a small serving table while their guide pours the contents of a jug into one of their cups while the sun sets behind them | Go2Africa
Sunset in Kafue National Park | Nanzhila Plains

Spend 10 days exploring Zambia's oldest and largest national park, Kafue. Lauded as one of the last remaining untouched wilderness gems, Kafue offers a truly unique experience – one where seeing another safari vehicle is an anomaly, rather than a surety.

Make the most of both land- and water-based safari excursions – venture out on foot to discover the smallest details of your surroundings and on a game vehicle to cover the most ground. Canoes and boating excursions offer an entirely new perspective and a chance to see the area's aquatic animals. When you're not out and about, enjoy an ‘armchair' safari from the comfort of your camp. With each accommodation immersed in its surroundings, there's no telling what you may see. It's the ultimate untouched Zambia safari.

Highlights:

  • Fantastic land- and water-based safaris and activities
  • ‘Armchair' safari moments at camp
  • Authentic under-canvas safari accommodation throughout
  • Exceptional game viewing opportunities
  • Guided bush walks, game drives, boating, and canoeing

Best for:

Seasoned safari-goers & active travellers.

10. Honeymoon in Victoria Falls, Kruger & Seychelles

Duration: 14 Days | Countries: 3 | Locations: 5

Two loungers and a thatched palapa sit on the beach overlooking the turquoise ocean | Go2Africa
Beachside bliss | Denis Private Island Lodge

Celebrate your nuptials with a once-in-a-lifetime getaway to Africa. Start your 14-day honeymoon at Victoria Falls, enjoying strolls across Victoria Falls Bridge and sunset cruises on the Zambezi River, with the majestic waterfall as your backdrop. Then it's off to Kruger National Park, Southern Africa's most popular Big 5 destination, where you'll enjoy a classic safari experience from the lap of luxury. No honeymoon would be complete without some time by the beach. Your last few days will be spent on the idyllic golden shores of the Seychelles, experiencing barefoot luxury at its finest.

Highlights:

  • Perfect bush-and-beach safari vacation
  • Africa's most romantic destinations
  • Barefoot luxury in the Seychelles
  • Riverboat dining on the Zambezi River
  • Adventure activities in Victoria Falls
  • Guaranteed Big 5 sightings in Kruger National Park

Best for:

Honeymooners.

Ready To Start Planning Your Zambia Safari?

Connect with an expert who's been there. Get in touch with one of our Africa Safari Experts to help tailor-make a Zambia safari tour that's right for you:

Kirsten Delcie
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