Zambia offers authentic African safari experiences centered around magnificent Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. "The Smoke That Thunders" (Mosi-oa-Tunya in local language) is the world's largest sheet of falling water, 1,708 meters wide and 108 meters high, creating massive spray visible 30km away. Experience the falls from both Zambian and Zimbabwean sides, take thrilling Devil's Pool swim on the edge (seasonal), or scenic helicopter flights over the gorge. Combine falls with South Luangwa National Park, birthplace of the walking safari and one of Africa's finest wildlife destinations with high leopard density, large elephant herds, and abundant lions. Night game drives reveal nocturnal species including civets, genets, and porcupines. Canoe the Zambezi River spotting hippos and elephants drinking at shores. Zambia pioneered walking safaris offering intimate wildlife encounters on foot with expert guides. Experience genuine wilderness, excellent guiding, and fewer crowds than East Africa. Perfect for adventure seekers wanting authentic safari combined with spectacular natural wonder.
Day 1:
Arrive Livingstone, transfer to hotel near Victoria Falls. Afternoon visit Zambian side of falls, walk along the gorge edge trails with multiple viewpoints. Spray creates permanent rainbows - bring rain jacket! Sunset at Boiling Pot lookout|
Day 2:
Morning optional activities: Devil's Pool swim on falls edge (September-December only, $100), bungee jump from Victoria Falls Bridge (111m, $160), whitewater rafting Zambezi rapids grade 5 (full day). Afternoon visit Livingstone Museum and local craft markets|
Day 3:
Early morning helicopter "Flight of Angels" over Victoria Falls (13-minute flight, spectacular aerial views, $150). Cross to Zimbabwe side for different perspectives. Afternoon river cruise on Zambezi with hippos, crocodiles, elephants, sundowner drinks|
Day 4:
Fly to South Luangwa National Park (1.5 hours). Afternoon game drive in open safari vehicle - excellent leopard sightings, Thornicroft's giraffe (endemic subspecies), elephants, puku antelopes|
Day 5:
Early morning walking safari (3 hours) with armed guide and scout - track animals on foot, learn bush skills, close encounters with wildlife. Afternoon game drive focusing on Luangwa River areas with high hippo and crocodile concentrations|
Day 6:
Full day game drive with picnic lunch in bush. Search for lion prides, wild dogs (if lucky), and over 400 bird species. South Luangwa has highest hippo density in Africa. Evening night drive spotting leopards hunting, civets, honey badgers|
Day 7:
Morning walking safari different area. Afternoon final game drive. Evening bush dinner under stars with traditional Zambian music|
Day 8:
Fly back to Livingstone. Day room for freshening up. Optional final falls visit or Mukuni Village cultural tour. Evening departure|