Zambia boasts an incredibly rich wildlife, exceptional biodiversity, and vast expanses of untouched wilderness. In Zambia, you’ll experience some of the world’s finest national parks. This is where walking safaris were born, where the mighty Victoria Falls roars, and where the wild Zambezi River carves its way through dramatic landscapes. South Luangwa, world-renowned for its extraordinary wildlife, is just one of the many treasures. On top of that, Zambia’s birdlife is among the most diverse in the world. Add to this the fact that Zambia is one of the friendliest and safest countries on the planet, and it’s hard to fathom why it isn’t more frequently visited. Simply put, Zambia is nothing short of extraordinary!

Livingstone (Victoria Falls)

Livingstone is located on the Zambian side of Victoria Falls, one of the world’s most powerful waterfalls. The spectacular falls are approximately 1.6 kilometers wide, with the highest point reaching 108 meters. Victoria Falls was discovered in 1855 by the Scottish missionary David Livingstone, who had heard of “Mosi-oa-Tunya” – “the smoke that thunders” – from local tribes. Livingstone made history as the first European to witness this overwhelming natural phenomenon and named the falls after Queen Victoria of Britain. The border between Zimbabwe and Zambia runs roughly through the middle of the falls, meaning the western part is in Zimbabwe and the eastern part in Zambia. Victoria Falls was added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1989 and today remains one of Africa’s most visited attractions.

Royal Chundu

The magnificent Royal Chundu is set along the legendary Zambezi River, just upstream from the iconic Victoria Falls. Comprising two exceptional lodges, The River Lodge—which sits right on the riverbank—and the secluded Island Lodge on the tranquil Katambora Island, Royal Chundu offers an unparalleled escape into nature.

Both lodges feature beautifully designed and spacious suites in a stunning blend of colonial and safari styles. The River Lodge suites boast an open-plan layout that leads out to a private deck, offering breathtaking views of the Zambezi River and the nearby Matetsi Game Reserve. Island Lodge, a true sanctuary, is made up of four luxurious villas, each with its own private “Boma” for outdoor dining, a welcoming restaurant, and an exquisite infinity pool. Surrounded by magnificent baobab and towering Jackalberry trees, the lodge exudes an aura of tranquility and natural beauty.

The lodge also prides itself on its award-winning spa and renowned cuisine, offering guests a truly indulgent experience. Royal Chundu is the only member of the prestigious Relais & Châteaux in Zambia, further cementing its status as a one-of-a-kind destination.

Children of all ages are welcome at Royal Chundu River Lodge, while Island Lodge welcomes children only when the entire lodge is booked exclusively.

Tongabezi Lodge

Tongabezi Lodge is a sparkling gem set along the Zambezi River, just a few kilometers north of the legendary and mighty Victoria Falls. Renowned for its exceptional service, Tongabezi offers a unique experience where each villa comes with its own butler, who also serves as your personal concierge throughout your stay. The spacious villas are individually designed, yet all share one common feature: expansive terraces with breathtaking views over the Zambezi River. The interiors blend tasteful elegance with luxury, creating an atmosphere of refined comfort. Tongabezi Lodge is a romantic haven that should be on every honeymooner’s travel itinerary.

Children aged seven and older are welcome at Tongabezi Lodge.

Thorntree River Lodge

Elegant Thorntree River Lodge is located just 20 minutes from the mighty Victoria Falls along the Zambezi River, within the Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park. The lodge comprises eight spacious, tastefully decorated, air-conditioned tented suites and four family suites, all with private plunge pools. Delicious meals are served in a spacious dining area, which also features a well-stocked wine cellar. The lodge is also equipped with alternatives to the classic safari activities, offering an extensive library, a well-equipped gym, and an award-winning spa. All of this is set against the magnificent backdrop of the Zambezi River.

Children of all ages are welcome at Thorntree River Lodge.

Liuwa Plains

Liuwa Plains National Park is a 3,369 km² national park located in Zambia’s Western Province. “Liuwa” means “plain” in the local Liuwa language. These plains originally served as hunting grounds for Lubosi Lewanika, the king (or paramount chief) of the Lozi people. The area was designated as a protected zone by Lubosi Lewanika in the early 1880s and later became a national park in 1972 when the Zambian government assumed management.

The park’s grassy savannah is home to a large number of predators, including cheetahs, spotted hyenas and lions. It also supports vast populations of other mammals, such as 30,000 to 40,000 blue wildebeest, whose annual migration is the second largest in Africa. Additionally, over 300 bird species have been observed in the park.

King Lewanika Lodge

King Lewanika Lodge may well be Zambia’s most exclusive hideaway. Far beyond mobile phone coverage and a 2.5-hour jeep ride from the nearest airport, the journey takes you straight through the breathtaking Liuwa Plain National Park to King Lewanika Lodge— the park’s only permanent lodge. Named after the Lozi king Lewanika, the lodge exudes the spirit of classic tented safari, seamlessly blended with a stylish, modern design that features clean lines, natural hues, and African-inspired décor.

The lodge consists of six elegant, spacious tented suites, each offering complete privacy. The suites are arranged to maximize the views from every angle, with panoramic vistas of the waterhole and vast plains, even from the bathrooms. Each tent is equipped with expansive wooden decks, with a sunken lounge terrace directly overlooking the plains. The interior, with its leather, cotton, and canvas touches, evokes the charm of a 1930s safari, but the comfort is of the highest modern standards, with the entire lodge powered by solar energy.

The communal areas include a dining room, stylish lounge, well-stocked bar, and a pool, all connected in an open-plan layout, offering breathtaking views from an elevated deck. In addition to high-quality day and night safaris in open vehicles, professional guides also offer walking and canoe safaris (season permitting). Liuwa Plain is home to the world’s second-largest wildebeest migration, and the lodge offers unique wildlife experiences, including hyena clans of up to 50 individuals.

Children aged five and older are welcome at King Lewanika Lodge.

South Luangwa

Widely regarded by experts as one of the world’s finest wilderness reserves, South Luangwa National Park in Zambia is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. With one of the highest concentrations of animals along the Luangwa River, the park is famously the most leopard-dense region in the world. Spanning 9,059 square kilometers, the park transforms with the seasons—from dry and barren in winter to lush and vibrant in summer.

South Luangwa is the birthplace of the walking safari, an experience that sets it apart from other parks. It is home to over 60 species of mammals and more than 400 species of birds, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Unfortunately, rhinos are absent from the park, having been eradicated due to poaching.

Chinzombo

The luxurious Chinzombo Lodge is perfectly situated along the Luangwa River, in one of Zambia’s most wildlife-rich areas. Designed by acclaimed architects Silvio Rech and Lesley Carstens, known for their award-winning lodges worldwide, Chinzombo exudes understated elegance.

The lodge features six majestic private villas, each offering breathtaking views of the river and savannah. The design is meticulous, blending modern safari style with natural materials in an open-plan layout. Each villa includes a spacious living area, an air-conditioned bedroom, and a luxurious bathroom. Surrounding the villa is a large deck with a private pool, ideal for relaxation between game drives. For families, a larger villa with two bedrooms provides additional comfort and space.

With its exceptional setting, sophisticated design, and world-class service, Chinzombo is a place you’ll never want to leave.

Children of all ages are welcome.

Mchenja

Nestled under a canopy of ebony trees along the Luangwa River, Mchenja Lodge is a serene retreat in the heart of South Luangwa National Park. Named after the local word for “ebony,” the lodge blends harmoniously with its natural surroundings.

The lodge features five stylish suites, including one family suite with two bedrooms and two bathrooms. Designed with natural materials and earthy tones, each suite boasts a large, comfortable bed with a mosquito-net canopy and panoramic windows that frame stunning views of the river. Bathrooms are open-air, allowing you to soak in the bathtub while enjoying uninterrupted views of the wilderness.

In addition to twice-daily game drives, Mchenja offers exceptional walking safaris, providing an intimate way to explore the park’s rich ecosystem. For a truly unforgettable experience, guests can opt to sleep outdoors on a dry riverbed under the stars, surrounded by the sounds of the wild.

Children of all ages are welcome.

Lower Zambezi

Nestled on the northern banks of the iconic Zambezi River in southeastern Zambia, Lower Zambezi National Park is a sanctuary of untamed beauty. Spanning 4,092 square kilometers, the park was once the private reserve of Zambia’s president until it was declared a national park in 1983. Its history of limited access has preserved its pristine wilderness, making it one of Africa’s last unspoiled gems.

Lower Zambezi offers an intimate safari experience with day and night game drives, thrilling walking safaris, and mokoro (canoe) tours along the Zambezi River—a must for those seeking a unique perspective on this stunning ecosystem. Anglers will find paradise here, with the chance to catch the legendary tigerfish in the river’s abundant waters. The lodges below provide a variety of high-quality walking safari options to suit all preferences.

Sausage Tree Camp

Located along the legendary Zambezi River, Sausage Tree Camp is renowned as one of Zambia’s premier safari lodges. The camp features seven stylish and comfortable tented suites, each equipped with a private pool and the attentive service of a personal butler. Situated on the riverbank, the suites offer uninterrupted views of the Zambezi’s grandeur. For larger groups or families, Kigelia House provides two bedrooms, a spacious living area, and an expansive deck with a pool.

This unfenced camp brings you incredibly close to nature, with elephants frequently visiting for a drink from the pools. Beyond traditional morning and evening jeep safaris, Sausage Tree Camp offers walking safaris, canoeing, and tigerfishing. Guests can unwind by the inviting main pool area, drink in hand, while soaking in the mesmerizing views of the mighty Zambezi.

Children aged 8 and older are welcome.

Old Mondoro

With just four exclusive suites, Old Mondoro is the smallest and most intimate safari camp in Lower Zambezi National Park. Each beautifully appointed tented suite features a large bed draped with mosquito nets and outfitted with luxurious Egyptian cotton linens. Bathrooms are equipped with hot running water, an outdoor shower, and a freestanding bathtub with breathtaking views of the Zambezi River.

Private verandas, complete with inviting chairs and sofas, offer the perfect spot for a refreshing drink while watching wildlife roam freely. Old Mondoro’s acclaimed chefs create exquisite Afro-European fusion dishes that delight even the most discerning palates. Meals are served in various memorable settings, from the heart of the bush to a floating dining experience on the river.

For those seeking an authentic and secluded safari experience, Old Mondoro is unparalleled—a true connection to the wild heart of Africa.

Children aged 12 and older are welcome (exceptions can be made).

Chiawa Camp

Charming Chiawa Camp is ideally situated beneath a canopy of mahogany trees along the Zambezi River’s banks. Constructed mainly from natural materials, the camp blends seamlessly into its idyllic surroundings. The nine elegantly designed tented suites all face the river, providing guests with spectacular views of the water and its wildlife.

The camp’s magnificent lounge boasts one of the most stunning vistas of the Zambezi and serves as the perfect backdrop for enjoying the culinary creations of Chiawa’s talented chefs. With a maximum capacity of just 16 guests (or 18 for private groups), Chiawa ensures an exclusive and personalized safari experience.

Chiawa’s historical significance adds to its allure—it was once a resting spot for the legendary explorer Dr. Livingstone. Safari activities include game drives, walking safaris, canoeing, and the opportunity to fish for tigerfish in the Zambezi.

Children aged 8 and older are welcome.

Curated Add-On I

Elevate your safari adventure in Zambia by adding a few serene days on one of these exclusive paradise destinations: the luxurious Thanda Island, the exotic allure of Zanzibar (Tanzania), or the enchanting Benguerra Island and stunning Machangulo (Mozambique). Here, you’ll discover—quite literally—a slice of paradise with powdery white sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters and incredible snorkelling. Contact Safari Collection, and we’ll guide you to your dream escape.

Curated Add-On II

Enhance your exclusive safari journey with a truly unparalleled train experience. Begin or end your adventure aboard a moving masterpiece of timeless elegance and unmatched luxury. The world-famous Rovos Rail and the iconic Blue Train offer journeys spanning 2 to 15 days, seamlessly blending with our spectacular safari destinations. Let yourself be captivated by the grandeur of this enchanting, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Reach out to us for all the details!

Curated Add-On III

Cape Town and its surroundings are a world-renowned haven for gourmet experiences. Combine your safari journey to this iconic city with a luxury tour filled with indulgence. Let us guide you to the ultimate wine and culinary adventure, where every moment is a feast for the senses. Contact Safari Collection to learn more and start planning your unforgettable getaway.