Discover Zambia: 21 Must-Do Experiences
Nestled in the heart of Southern Africa, Zambia is a country of diverse landscapes, rich wildlife, and vibrant cultures. From the thundering Victoria Falls to the tranquil waters of Lake Kariba, Zambia offers a wealth of experiences for adventurous travellers. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, wildlife lover, or culture seeker, here are 21 must-do activities to add to your Zambian itinerary:
1. Hear the Thunder
Witness the Majesty of Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, is a sight to be seen. Experience the thunderous roar and misty spray of the “Smoke that Thunders” up close on a guided tour or from various viewpoints in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park.
Looking for a place to stay? Have a look at our suggested Victoria Falls extension.
Photo credit: Waterberry Zambezi Lodge
2. Spot a Leopard in South Luangwa
The Very Top Safari Destination
South Luangwa is renowned for its high concentration of wildlife, including elephants, hippos, lions, wild dogs, and more than 450 bird species. It is also referred to as the Valley of the Leopard due to its high population of leopards and excellent sightings. Embark on game drives, walking safaris, and night drives to witness the park’s diverse ecosystem.
Our Kafunta properties are all in South Luangwa, and we’ve got the perfect package to allow you to explore the park to the fullest.
Visit our South Luangwa page for in-depth information.
Photo credit: Paige Swanepoel/Kafunta Safaris
3. Explore Kafue
Zambia’s Largest National Park
Kafue’s immense wilderness provides a serene, off-the-beaten-path safari experience. Explore its expansive plains, woodlands, and rivers, where lions, wild dogs, diverse antelopes, and a variety of bird species thrive. With a stroke of luck, you might even catch a glimpse of a cheetah, as Kafue is the only Zambian park where their presence is recorded.
This adventurous package combines both South Luangwa and Kafue National Parks for a truly comprehensive safari experience.
Photo credit: Izzy Defourny/Kafunta Safaris
4. Canoe Among Hippos In Lower Zambezi
River Safari Adventure
Experience water-based safaris in Lower Zambezi National Park by paddling through the numerous channels on a canoe safari along the Zambezi River. This distinctive vantage point brings you close to hippos, elephants, and other wildlife that congregate along the riverbanks. The park boasts unique scenery and a range of exciting activities.
Explore our tailored packages featuring Lower Zambezi and find the perfect adventure.
Photo credit: Classic Safaris
5. Tick your Birding List
A Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Zambia is a haven for bird enthusiasts, home to over 700 recorded bird species. It offers exceptional birdwatching opportunities year-round, with peak sightings often during the wet season from November to April when migratory species are most active. Key birding spots include Kasanka National Park, renowned for its bat migrations; Bangweulu Wetlands, a hotspot for rare species; and South Luangwa National Park, famous for its rich birdlife and dramatic landscapes. Whether you’re seeking rare finds or enjoying the spectacle of seasonal migrations, Zambia delivers an unparalleled birdwatching experience.
6. Walk on the Wild Side
The Birthplace of the Walking Safari
Experience the thrill of a walking safari in one of Zambia’s national parks. Guided by expert rangers, immerse yourself in the bush, observing the intricate details of the ecosystem often missed on a traditional game drive. Track footprints, discover hidden insects, and feel the adrenaline as you approach majestic animals on foot. This immersive experience connects you deeply with nature and showcases the raw beauty of Zambia’s wilderness.
For thrilling bush walks, our remote Three Rivers Camp and Island Bush Camp are the ultimate choices!
Photo credit: Izla Photography/Kafunta Safaris
7. Follow the Wildebeests in Liuwa
Africa’s Secret Migration
Witness the second-largest wildebeest migration in Africa at Liuwa Plains National Park. Each year, thousands of wildebeest move across the plains, followed by zebras, lions, and hyenas. This migration, less known than the Serengeti’s, offers an unspoiled and intimate wildlife viewing experience. The vast, open landscapes of Liuwa Plains provide a dramatic setting for this natural event, making it a must-see for wildlife enthusiasts.
Photo credit: Classic Zambia
8. Dare the Devil
Swim at the Edge of Victoria Falls
For the daring, take a swim in Devil’s Pool, a natural rock pool perched on the edge of Victoria Falls. During the dry season, brave the adrenaline-pumping experience of swimming right at the edge of the waterfall.
This experience can be booked through Tongabezi Lodge.
Photo credit: Zambiatourism.com
9. Ride the Express
Timeless Steam Safari Adventure
Embark on a nostalgic journey aboard the Royal Livingstone Express, a luxurious steam train that offers an unforgettable travel experience. This elegant train ride takes you through the scenic landscapes of Zambia, combining vintage charm with modern comfort. Enjoy a gourmet dinner as you traverse the countryside, with the majestic Victoria Falls as a backdrop. The train’s beautifully restored carriages and impeccable service make this a unique and romantic way to explore Zambia’s natural beauty, perfect for both history enthusiasts and those seeking a touch of old-world glamour.
10. Take a Village Stroll
Traditional Culture and Arts of Zambia
Delve into Zambia’s rich cultural heritage by visiting local villages and engaging with communities to experience traditional lifestyles and customs. At the Lusaka National Museum, explore exhibits on Zambian history, culture, and art, including archaeological finds and traditional artefacts. In Mfuwe (South Luangwa), discover authentic Zambian crafts, such as intricate wood carvings and vibrant textiles, in local markets and workshops and learn more about conservation efforts and community development. Near Victoria Falls, visit the Livingstone Museum, which provides insights into local traditions and ethnic groups, enriching your understanding of Zambia’s diverse cultural landscape.
At Kafunta, we believe in Responsible Tourism, and through your village visits, you can make a meaningful impact on local communities and conservation efforts.
Photo credit: Project Luangwa
11. Try Some Nshima
Sample Zambian Cuisine
Indulge in traditional Zambian dishes such as nshima (a staple maize-based porridge), grilled bream fish, and various meat stews. Explore local restaurants and markets to savor the flavors of Zambia’s culinary heritage.
12. Celebrate Kuomboka
Experience Zambia’s Traditional Ceremonies
If your visit coincides with a cultural festival or ceremony, immerse yourself in Zambia’s rich cultural heritage by attending vibrant rituals such as the Kuomboka and N’cwala ceremonies. The Kuomboka Ceremony celebrates the Lozi people’s transition from floodplains to higher ground during the Zambezi River’s flood, while the N’cwala Ceremony honors the Ngoni people’s first fruits of the harvest with lively dances, music, and cultural performances.
13. Catch a Tiger
Zambia’s Tiger Fish (not the big cat!)
Fishing for tiger fish in Zambia is a thrilling adventure set against the stunning backdrop of the Zambezi River and its tributaries. Known for their fierce fight and sharp teeth, these prized catches offer a challenging experience for anglers. Popular spots include the Lower Zambezi National Park and the area around Lake Kariba, where the clear waters and dramatic scenery make for an unforgettable fishing trip.
Are you a fishing fanatic? Get the full scoop on reeling in these fierce fighters with the blog “Angler’s Dream – Catching a Tiger Fish” by Africa’s Eden.
Photo credit: Chongwe River Camp (Lower Zambezi)
14. Find the Shoebill
A Rare Bird of Another Age
Visit the Bangweulu Wetlands to catch a glimpse of the rare and prehistoric-looking shoebill stork. These remarkable birds, with their large shoe-shaped bills, are a highlight for birdwatchers and nature lovers. The wetlands, a haven for biodiversity, provide a stunning backdrop for observing the shoebill and other unique wildlife. A trip to this remote and tranquil area is a must for anyone seeking a unique and enriching wildlife experience.
Photo credit: Canva
15. Defy the Bungee
Jumping from the Bridge
For adrenaline junkies, bungee jumping off the Victoria Falls Bridge is an experience like no other. Plunge 111 meters towards the Zambezi River, with the thundering Victoria Falls as your backdrop. This heart-pounding leap offers an unmatched thrill and a unique perspective of one of the world’s most famous waterfalls. It’s a daring adventure that combines the beauty and intensity of Zambia’s natural wonders in a single, exhilarating moment.
Photo credit: Zambiatourism.com
16. Visit the Elephants
Game Rangers International’s Elephant Orphanage
Experience the heartwarming mission of Game Rangers International (GRI) at their Elephant Orphanage Project located within Lusaka’s Munda Wanga Environmental Park. This sanctuary cares for orphaned elephants rescued from across Zambia, providing them with the necessary rehabilitation before their reintroduction into the wild. Visitors can learn about the conservation efforts, observe the elephants during feeding times, and gain insight into the challenges and triumphs of wildlife conservation in Zambia. This visit offers a meaningful and educational experience for all ages.
17. Count the Bats
The Most Spectacular Bat Migration
Witness the incredible spectacle of the bat migration in Kasanka National Park, where millions of fruit bats fill the skies in a mesmerizing display. This natural phenomenon, which takes place between October and December, is one of the largest mammal migrations on earth. The sight of millions of bats leaving their roosts at dusk to feed is awe-inspiring and offers a unique wildlife experience that showcases the diversity and wonder of Zambia’s natural world.
Photo credit: Kate Siedel/Kasanka Trust
18. Sleep Under The Stars
A Starbed Just for You
Experience the magic of sleeping under the stars at our Three Rivers Camp in South Luangwa National Park. Our eco-friendly camp offers the unique chance to sleep on a platform beneath the African sky, surrounded by the sounds of the bush. With no light pollution, the night sky becomes a stunning canvas of glittering stars, creating a breathtaking view and a profound connection to nature. It’s an unforgettable way to end a day of wildlife adventures. If this open-air experience isn’t quite your style, you can always retreat to your cosy tent just a few safe steps away.
But we’re sure that these photos will convince you!
Photo credit: Kafunta Safaris
19. Snorkel in Lake Tanganyika
A Tranquil Escape
Escape to the serene shores of Lake Tanganyika, one of Africa’s Great Lakes. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the beach while taking in the breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Discover Africa’s deepest lake, where you can immerse yourself in its clear waters and unwind on secluded, picturesque beaches.
20. Boat at Kariba
Amidst Scenic Beauty
Enjoy fishing, boating, and unwinding on the shores of Lake Kariba, the world’s largest man-made lake by volume. This vast reservoir is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts and wildlife watchers alike. Take a relaxing sunset cruise, spot hippos and crocodiles along the shoreline, or visit nearby villages to immerse yourself in local culture while savoring the lake’s breathtaking vistas.
21. Trek at Nyika
Hiking the Untamed Nyika Plateau
Head to the remote Nyika Plateau in northern Zambia, where rolling hills, lush forests, and expansive grasslands await. This pristine highland area offers exceptional opportunities for hiking and birdwatching. As you traverse the diverse landscapes, you may encounter rare species like eland and roan antelope. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the plateau, and immerse yourself in the tranquility and beauty of one of Zambia’s most secluded and unspoiled regions.
Photo credit: Canva
Conclusion
Embrace Zambia: Your Next Unforgettable Adventure Awaits
As we conclude our exploration of the 21 must-do experiences in Zambia, the country beckons with its stunning natural wonders, vibrant culture, and genuine warmth. From thrilling wildlife adventures and immersive cultural encounters to tranquil relaxation by serene waters, Zambia promises an unforgettable journey for every traveller. Whether you’re drawn to the wild allure of its landscapes, the rich tapestry of its traditions, or the peaceful charm of its lakes and rivers, Zambia invites you to embrace the spirit of exploration and discovery. Embark on a journey through this captivating African gem and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Contact us to help design your Zambian journey.
