10-Day Zambia’s Best of Wilderness Safari
Embark on an unforgettable 10-Day Zambia’s Best of Wilderness Safari, where breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and thrilling safari experiences await. This adventure takes you deep into Zambia’s most spectacular national parks, from the iconic South Luangwa to the untamed beauty of the Lower Zambezi and the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls. Experience close encounters with Africa’s legendary wildlife on game drives, walking safaris, and boat excursions along the Zambezi River. With expert guides, comfortable lodges, and immersive nature experiences, this safari is the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility in the heart of Africa’s wilderness.
Safari highlights
- Victoria Falls Exploration
- South Luangwa National Park
- Walking Safaris
- Lower Zambezi National Park
- Sunset Boat Cruises
- Night Game Drives
- Cultural Encounters
- Birdwatching Paradise
- Unspoiled Wilderness
10-Day Zambia’s Best of Wilderness Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Livingstone – Victoria Falls Experience
Upon arrival at Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport in Livingstone, you will be met by your guide and transferred to your lodge. After check-in and some rest, embark on an afternoon visit to the majestic Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Experience the thunderous roar and misty spray as you explore different viewpoints along the rainforest trails. If time allows, you can enjoy optional activities like a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River, where you’ll spot hippos, crocodiles, and elephants along the riverbanks.
Accommodation options:
- Okavango Lodge (Moderate)
Maramba River Lodge (Midrange)
The David Livingstone Safari Lodge & Spa (Luxury)
Meals. Bed & Breakfast
Destination: Victoria Falls
Day 2: Adventure and Leisure in Livingstone
Today offers a variety of activities to suit your preferences. Adrenaline seekers can opt for bungee jumping, white-water rafting, or a scenic helicopter flight over Victoria Falls. Alternatively, you can visit a local village for an insightful cultural experience or take a relaxing game drive in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, home to Zambia’s white rhinos. In the evening, enjoy a quiet dinner at your lodge while reflecting on the day’s experiences.
Accommodation options:
- Okavango Lodge (Moderate)
Maramba River Lodge (Midrange)
The David Livingstone Safari Lodge & Spa (Luxury)
Meals. Bed & Breakfast
Destination: Victoria Falls
Day 3: Transfer to South Luangwa National Park – Afternoon Safari
After breakfast, take a domestic flight to Mfuwe Airport, the gateway to South Luangwa National Park, known for its exceptional wildlife and walking safaris. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your lodge, nestled along the Luangwa River. In the late afternoon, set out on your first game drive, where you may spot elephants, giraffes, zebras, and a variety of antelope species. As the sun sets, continue your safari into the night, searching for leopards, hyenas, and other nocturnal animals.
Accommodation options:
- Msandile River Lodge (Moderate)
- Flatdogs Camp (Midrange)
- Mfuwe Lodge (Luxury)
Meals: Full Board
Destination: South Luangwa National Park
Day 4: Full-Day Safari in South Luangwa
Spend the day exploring South Luangwa’s diverse landscapes. Begin with an early morning walking safari, a unique experience allowing you to track wildlife on foot with the guidance of an expert ranger. After returning for brunch, enjoy some leisure time at your lodge before heading out for an afternoon game drive. Keep an eye out for prides of lions, buffalo herds, and the endemic Thornicroft’s giraffe. The day concludes with a sundowner in the bush, followed by another thrilling night drive.
Accommodation options:
- Msandile River Lodge (Moderate)
- Flatdogs Camp (Midrange)
- Mfuwe Lodge (Luxury)
Meals: Full Board
Destination: South Luangwa National Park
Day 5: Cultural Experience and Afternoon Game Drive
This morning, take a break from safari activities and visit a nearby local community to gain insight into Zambian culture. Meet the villagers, learn about traditional crafts, and visit a local school supported by conservation efforts. After lunch at the lodge, embark on another exciting game drive to explore new areas of the park. With luck, you may witness predator-prey interactions or a dramatic river crossing by elephants.
Accommodation options:
- Msandile River Lodge (Moderate)
- Flatdogs Camp (Midrange)
- Mfuwe Lodge (Luxury)
Meals: Full Board
Destination: South Luangwa National Park
Day 6: Transfer to Lower Zambezi National Park – Sunset Cruise
After breakfast, transfer to Mfuwe Airport for your flight to Lower Zambezi National Park, one of Africa’s most scenic safari destinations. Upon arrival, your guide will transfer you to your lodge along the Zambezi River. After settling in, enjoy a sunset boat cruise, gliding past pods of hippos and basking crocodiles. The golden hour offers excellent opportunities for wildlife photography as elephants gather by the river’s edge.
Accommodation options:
- Kiambi Safari Lodge (Moderate)
- Chongwe River Camp (Midrange)
- Chiawa Camp (Luxury)
Meals: Full Board
Destination: Lower Zambezi National Park
Day 7: Canoe Safari and Game Drive in Lower Zambezi
Experience the thrill of a canoe safari, one of the most intimate ways to observe wildlife in the Lower Zambezi. Paddle along the channels, watching elephants drink from the water’s edge and listening to the calls of African fish eagles. After lunch, embark on an afternoon game drive, where lions, leopards, and wild dogs may make an appearance. The variety of landscapes, from woodlands to open plains, ensures a rich and diverse safari experience.
Accommodation options:
- Kiambi Safari Lodge (Moderate)
- Chongwe River Camp (Midrange)
- Chiawa Camp (Luxury)
Meals: Full Board
Destination: Lower Zambezi National Park
Day 8: Fishing, Walking Safari, and Bush Dinner
Start the day with a catch-and-release fishing excursion, targeting the famous tigerfish of the Zambezi. Later, go on a guided walking safari, where you’ll learn about the smaller details of the bush, from tracking animal prints to understanding the ecology of the region. After a restful afternoon, enjoy a special bush dinner under the stars, surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness.
Accommodation options:
- Kiambi Safari Lodge (Moderate)
- Chongwe River Camp (Midrange)
- Chiawa Camp (Luxury)
Meals: Full Board
Destination: Lower Zambezi National Park
Day 9: Morning Safari and Leisure Time
On your final full day in Lower Zambezi, choose between a morning game drive or a relaxing boat safari along the river. Spot elephants swimming across the channels, monitor lizards basking in the sun, and a variety of bird species. Spend the afternoon at leisure, enjoying the amenities of your lodge or taking in the breathtaking views of the river.
Accommodation options:
- Kiambi Safari Lodge (Moderate)
- Chongwe River Camp (Midrange)
- Chiawa Camp (Luxury)
Meals: Full Board
Destination: Lower Zambezi National Park
Day 10: Departure
After a leisurely breakfast, take a scenic drive or an optional flight back to Lusaka for your onward journey home. Reflect on the incredible experiences of Zambia’s wilderness, from the roaring Victoria Falls to the untamed beauty of its national parks.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
End of 10-Day Zambia’s Best of Wilderness Safari
Inclusions.
Accommodation 9 nights in comfort & luxurious Lodges/camp
All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) as specified in the itinerary
Airport transfers on arrival and departure
All park entry fees for South Luangwa National Park, Lower Zambezi National Park, and Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park (Victoria Falls)
Game drives in South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi with experienced safari guides
Walking safaris in South Luangwa National Park
Boat safaris and canoeing in the Lower Zambezi National Park
Sunset cruise on the Zambezi River in Livingstone
Victoria Falls guided tour
Domestic flights and transfers between national parks
All government taxes
Bottled drinking water during safaris
Professional English-speaking guides throughout the trip
Exclusions.
International flights to and from Zambia
Visa fees for Zambia
Personal travel insurance (highly recommended)
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks (unless specified in the itinerary)
Additional activities not mentioned in the itinerary (e.g., helicopter flights over Victoria Falls, cultural village visits)
Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and lodge staff
Laundry services (unless included at specific lodges)
Souvenirs and personal purchases
Any personal expenses such as phone calls and spa treatments
Medical expenses beyond emergency evacuation