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Zambia is an amazing African country full of incredible natural attractions, exotic wildlife, adrenaline-pumping adventures, and rich culture. From thundering Victoria Falls to flourishing national parks teeming with wildlife, Zambia has so many fantastic places to explore. This article will highlight the top tourist attractions and the best places to visit in Zambia.
Zambia offers an authentic safari experience and mind-blowing landscapes at a fraction of the cost of visits to other African countries. Nature lovers, adventure seekers, culture vultures and wildlife enthusiasts will all find plenty to see and do. Here are the best places to add to your Zambia travel itinerary:
Victoria Falls
One of the world's largest waterfalls and truly one of the natural wonders of the world, Victoria Falls is undoubtedly one of the top attractions in Zambia. Located on the mighty Zambezi River, the falls plunge over 300 feet down into the Batoka Gorge. The local name for the falls is "Mosi-oa-Tunya" which means "the smoke that thunders."
Some of the top things to do at Victoria Falls include viewing the cascades from lookout points on both the Zambia and Zimbabwe sides, walking across the Knife-Edge Bridge, getting soaked on tours of the rainforest, whitewater rafting, bungee jumping, helicopter rides and visiting Livingstone Island. The power and beauty of Victoria Falls make it a can't-miss place to visit in Zambia.
Also read - Month-by-Month Guide for Travelling to Zambia
South Luangwa National Park
For safari goers and adventure seekers, South Luangwa National Park is one of the best places in Zambia. The park protects a spectacular ecosystem centered around the Luangwa River. South Luangwa is renowned for its large concentrations of wildlife including elephants, hippos, antelope, lions, leopards and over 400 species of birds.
You can take open-vehicle safaris, walking safaris, nighttime safaris and multi-day trips into the bush to view wildlife up-close. South Luangwa is definitely a top place to experience Zambia's exotic wildlife.
Lower Zambezi National Park
Another fantastic national park for safaris and wildlife is Lower Zambezi National Park near the Zambezi River. The diverse habitats of floodplains, woodlands, hills and valleys allow for incredible diversity of wildlife. Look for elephants, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles and predators like lions and leopards.
The park offers world-class tiger fishing, canoeing safaris, walking safaris, boat cruises and excellent bird watching opportunities. Lower Zambezi is more remote and less crowded than some other safari destinations in Zambia.
Kafue National Park
As one of the biggest national parks in Africa, Kafue National Park provides a true wilderness experience in Zambia. In the largely undeveloped northern half of the massive park, you can spot lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, hippos, zebras and over 400 species of birds.
Go on safari by vehicle or boat on the Kafue River to see the diverse wildlife. Kafue is especially known for its large herds of red lechwe antelope around the Busanga Plains. The park preserves a huge tract of pristine miombo forest, one of Zambia's iconic landscapes.
Also read - Discover the 10 Best Things to Do in Zimbabwe
Lusaka
While not usually thought of as a tourist destination, Lusaka is Zambia's rapidly growing capital city and has some excellent attractions to see. The city's neighborhoods contain a fascinating blend of bustling African markets and cosmopolitan new developments.
Top sights include the National Museum of Zambia, Cathedral of the Holy Cross, the massive Kabwata Cultural Village, and local markets. The city serves as a gateway to Zambia's many natural areas and cultural activities. Spend some time exploring Lusaka's diversity.
Liuwa Plain National Park
Off the beaten track in western Zambia, Liuwa Plain National Park allows visitors to experience true wilderness and isolation unlike many other crowded African safari destinations. Liuwa's remote grasslands and woodlands are home to impressive numbers of wildebeest, zebra, antelope, hyenas and over 300 bird species.
Between November and December, Liuwa offers a front-row seat for Africa's second largest wildebeest migration as thousands move through the park. With wide open vistas and few crowds, Liuwa provides a unique Zambian safari experience.
Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park
Located just outside Livingstone, Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park protects the area directly around Victoria Falls. In addition to spectacular waterfall views, the park provides opportunities to see white rhinos along with giraffes, zebras, elephants and antelope.
Walk along scenic trails through rainforest and across grasslands for the chance to spot wildlife. Mosi-oa-Tunya offers easy access to see both the falls and associated wildlife in a compact area.
Zambezi River
The Zambezi River is the lifeline of Zambia and offers exhilarating adventures. One of the best ways to experience the river is while whitewater rafting below Victoria Falls on thrilling Grade 5 rapids. More relaxed sunset cruises let you view wildlife and lose yourself in the wilderness.
Multi-day canoe safaris along the Lower Zambezi are also a great way to intimately experience the river system and associated wildlife. The Zambezi helps unite all of Zambia's wonders.
In Summary:
Victoria Falls
South Luangwa National Park
Lower Zambezi National Park
Kafue National Park
Lusaka
Liuwa Plain National Park
Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park
Zambezi River
From thundering waterfalls to flourishing parks protecting exotic wildlife, Zambia's natural attractions make it a world-class destination. Don't miss the chance to take in Victoria Falls and explore Zambia's wilderness on an unforgettable safari. Zambia shines as one of Africa's top places to visit for nature lovers, adventurers and culture seekers.