Zambia’s Bush Camps

Bush camps are uniquely Zambian having been pioneered in the Luangwa Valley. They go hand-in-hand with walking safaris which will often move from camp to camp. Often seasonal due to their remote location there are a range of options available. Here we give our run down on why a stay in one is a must on any visit to Zambia. Bush camps have become as integral to the Zambian safari experience as walking safaris, and the two combine perfectly for a really adventurous trip. They range in style dramatically from a fly camp erected each night for the most dedicated enthusiasts, to seasonal rustic shelters to luxurious chalets that it is hard to believe can be created in such remote locations. Highlights of a stay in them include:

Top 8 unique experiences

Zambia is a great destination for first timers and safari aficionados alike, offering an off-the-beaten-track experience with some of the most rewarding game viewing on the continent combined with some of the most unique activities. Here we give a rundown of our top things to do in Zambia to really make the most of your time here…

Activities in Victoria Falls

Whilst the main attraction of visiting Victoria Falls is of course the thundering falls themselves, it is also a Mecca for those seeking adrenaline-pumping activities and unique experiences which are a highlight to any visit. With the falls straddling the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, certain activities are exclusive to one side. Here we give our lowdown on what to do and where…

Why Safari in Zambia?

As safari specialists we are often asked where the best place to go on safari is. This can be difficult to answer as we all have different perceptions of what the ideal safari destination is. Some favour Kenya as it is, in some ways, the original safari destination; others prefer Tanzania with its famous Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park. Here, our Zambia specialist Bjorn makes the case for why Zambia is his favourite safari destination…

Zambia Honeymoon Ideas

Zambia is a wonderfully romantic honeymoon destination. It is still relatively off-the-beaten track and offers some really spectacular landscapes and wildlife. Famed for the magnificent Victoria Falls, the Zambezi River and the quiet and remote national parks. Zambia lies landlocked at the heart of Africa and is blessed with some of the most remote and unspoilt wildlife locations in Africa.

Safari houses of Zambia

Zambia is widely-regarded as offering one of Africa’s top safari experiences that Africa has to offer and some of the most impressive bush accommodation. An exciting alternative that has been pioneered in Zambia, are a unique set of safari houses, ideal for families or groups of friends looking for a private and tailor-made safari experience. Take a look at our top 5 safari houses in Zambia:

Walking Safaris in Zambia

The home of the walking safari, Zambia and the South Luangwa in particular is the perfect place to get out and explore the bush on foot. Having been pioneered by Norman Carr in the 1950s in the Luangwa Valley, walking safaris allow you to get back to basics and experience the bush in an in-depth and multifaceted way, whilst leaving a much smaller carbon footprint. Here we give our top five reasons for recommending your next safari to Africa is a walking safari in Zambia…

Annie in wild Zambia

Zambia is home to the walking safari and offers one of Africa’s premier wildlife experiences. Here, our Zambia expert Annie experiences the unique Luwi River Trail walking safari – a true wilderness adventure away from the crowds and up close to nature. Accompanied by some of the best guides on the continent, with some of the best wildlife viewing that Africa has on offer, Annie tells us why the Luwi River Trail is one of her favourite safari experiences…

Victoria Falls Water Levels

Visiting Victoria Falls is a highlight of any trip to Southern Africa, but it is all in the timing. Water levels fluctuate throughout the year, which not only affects what you get to see but also what you can do, with certain activities only available at certain levels of flow. Here we give our rundown of water levels throughout the year, what you can expect to see and when best to go based on what you want to do.

Introducing Liuwa Plain

Away from the crowds associated with some more developed safari destinations in East and Southern Africa, Zambia offers one of the most exciting safari experiences in all of Africa. The perfect spot for an off-the-beaten-track safari with outstanding game viewing on offer, Zambia is the perfect destination for safari aficionados looking for something a little different. For those looking for an even more unique experience, look no further than Liuwa Plain in the far west of Zambia – one of the most amazing, yet least explored, of Africa’s national parks. Here's why this little-known park has so much appeal...

The South Luangwa

Most people will choose to go on safari in the South Luangwa during the high season, from May to October when the bush is at its driest. The dry conditions draw wildlife to the scarce water sources making for excellent sightings, with great herds seen. From December to April though, the bush is transformed by the rains into a lush haven and some wonderful wildlife encounters. Here we give our top five reasons for heading to the South Luangwa in the Emerald Season.

When to go to Zambia

Zambia has a moderate to sub-tropical climate with three distinct seasons: from November to March is the Emerald, or the rainy season, April to July is Zambia's winter, when the weather is cool and dry, and August to October is summer, when the weather is hot and dry.

The Dry Season - April to August

This season sees no rain, and the skies are clear. The temperatures drop at night, but the landscape is green and lush.

In terms of game-viewing, the drier months, meaning a higher concentration of game at the permanent water sources, are a superb time to visit. Alternatively, come for some superb bird-watching at the end of the rains.

The Hot Season - September to November

This is the best time to see wildlife as flora is sparse. During the day, it can get very hot in South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi.

September is the best time for a trip to see Victoria Falls. The water levels are low, the spray doesn't block the view and the view points are clear. Game viewing is at its best because there is less vegetation.

The Wet Season - November to April

The wet season from November to April is ideal for bird-watching. It is also the season when calves are born. Due to tall vegetation, wildlife is more difficult to spot.

Rains come mostly in the form of short showers late in the afternoon, but the dirt roads become impassable. This is when most camps close down.