The most iconic Safari in Zambia that include two of the main National Parks and the World Famous Victoria Falls, enjoying different and exhilarating experiences in each destination:
- The Mighty Victoria Falls (Tour of the Falls, Rhino Experience)
- Lower Zambezi Valley (River Safaris, Game Drives)
- South Luangwa National Park (Day and Night Game Drives)
This is a Lodging safari, and you will be lodging in all destination in carefully picked Premium accommodations with a distinguished service. The itinerary below reports a few suggestions of the Lodges we usually prefer to use in Livingstone. Lower Zambezi Valley and South Luangwa National Park, but options may vary based on availability.
The Victoria Falls (also known as Mosi-oa-Tunya, 'The Smoke That Thunders' in local Lozi language) is one of the world’s largest waterfalls with a width of 1,708 m and is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the world, protected by UNESCO. The falls are formed where the full width of the river plummets in a single vertical drop into a transverse chasm 1,708 meters wide, carved along a fracture zone in the basalt plateau. The depth of the chasm, called the First Gorge, varies from 80 metres on the Zimbabwean side to 108 metres in the centre (Zambian side). The only outlet from the First Gorge is a 110-metre-wide gap about two-thirds of the way across the width of the falls from the western end (called 'The Boiling Pot'). The whole volume of the river pours into the Victoria Falls gorges from this narrow cleft, forming astonishing views and breathtaking sceneries. The region around it (the 'Mosi-Oa-Tunya' National Park) is inhabited by several species of plants and wild animals.
The Victoria Falls presents a spectacular sight of awe-inspiring beauty and grandeur on the Zambezi River, forming a natural border between Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Victoria Falls is now also known as the greatest curtain of falling water in the world when its width and height are combined.
Columns of spray can be seen from kilometers away as, at the height of the rainy season, more than five hundred million cubic metres (over 17 billion cubic feet) of water per minute plummet over the edge, over a width of nearly two kilometres or over a mile, into a gorge over a hundred metres or 300 feet below.
Livingstone, also known as "The Tourism Capital of Southern Africa", is a historic city located near Victoria Falls and the Zambezi River in Southern Province. Named after explorer David Livingstone, it serves as a major hub for tourism, offering adventure activities, museums, and proximity to the border with Zimbabwe. Founded in 1905, it was the capital of Northern Rhodesia from 1911 until 1935. It is known for its colonial-era architecture and rich history.
There are dozens of activities available around the Victoria Falls to keep even the most demanding visitors busy for days! Some focus on the Zambezi River and the Victoria Falls themselves, others on Wildlife, Adrenaline experiences, Contact with nature, Culture and Fine living. Among them, we can list:
Tour of the Falls : a Guided Tours of the Falls, with a local expert guide that guides you through the Heritage site letting you discover the best sights and the most secluded corners.
Rhino Game Drives – Take a Game drive through the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park to see a multitude of wildlife. This national park is the only one in Zambia featuring White Rhinos, and the activity includes a short walking safari trekking down these magnificent animals.
Whitewater Rafting – exhilarating adrenaline adventure through the Batoka Gorge.
Canoeing – on the upper Zambezi.
Horseback Trails – in the Mosi-o-Tunya National Park.
Sunset Cruises – A romantic way to end your day on the Zambezi river.
Bungi Jumping, Abseiling and Gorge Swinging – off the 111 meter high Victoria Falls Bridge.
Microlighting and Helicopter flights over the Falls.
And many more.
Lower Zambezi Valley is a breathtaking oasis of natural beauty and wildlife abundance nestled along the banks of the Zambezi River. This valley hosts both the Lower Zambezi National Park (on the Zambian shores of the Zambezi river) and Mana Pools National Park (on the Zimbabwean shores) in addition to countless Game Management Areas, creating a vast cross-border protected area where animals are free to roam without boundaries. This area deserves to be visited both by river and by land in order to fully understand the wild beauty of this place. Lower Zambezi National Park is the most recent park in Zambia and one of the wildest and most picturesque in the whole Africa.
The Park offers different activities such as Game Drives, Game Cruises Canoeing and Fishing, allowing visitors to enjoy the river's wild and serene environment. With its rich flora and fauna, Lower Zambezi National Park is a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Lower Zambezi National Park is a biodiversity hotspot, boasting an incredible array of flora and fauna:
Lush Forests and Bush: The vegetation in the area is predominated by Acacia Albida trees (also known as Winterthorn) with the classic shady umbrella canopy. Also Miombo, Mopane and a variety of Palm trees are very frequent.
Pristine Riverine Habitat: The Zambezi River is full of life, both above and below the surface. Most large mammals in the national park congregate on the floodplain, including the Cape buffalo, a large elephant population, lion, leopard, many antelope species, crocodile, and hippopotamus. Sightings of the Wild dog are also frequent.
Birding Sanctuary: The Lower Zambezi National Park is a premier birding destination, home to over 378–400 species, driven by its diverse habitats of river channels, floodplains, and acacia woodlands. Key species include the African Skimmer, Southern Carmine Bee-eater, and the African Fish Eagle.
Full-Day Game Drive in the Park: Immerse yourself in a Full-day adventure inside the Park, with a pic-nic lunch set on the shores of the Zambezi river to enjoy the view of Hippos or Elephants bathing.
Sunset Cruises: A sunset cruise on the Zambezi is an unforgettable experience that you will remember for the rest of your life. See the Elephants swimming across the river, and sip a Sundowner while listening to the noisy Hippos.
Canoe Safari: Paddle your way down the river, canoeing amid countless birds, hippo ponds, crocodiles and elephants, living the adventure of a lifetime on the footsteps of the great explorers of the 1800s
Tiger Fishing: The Tiger fish (Hydrocynus vittatus) is a fierce predator known for its razor-sharp, interlocking teeth and aggressive fighting spirit. Often described as Africa’s equivalent to the South American piranha, these fish are celebrated for their explosive strikes and dramatic, acrobatic leaps when hooked. Strictly catch-and-release only!
Community visits: The communities living along the Zambezi River have learned to live alongside its massive wilidlife for generations. Visiting their villages and learning about their lifestyle is often a very emotional experience..
Welcome to South Luangwa National Park, the premier wildlife destination in Zambia! This park is renowned for its incredible diversity of animals, including elephants, lions, and leopards. Experience thrilling game drives at dawn or dusk, when wildlife is most active. Enjoy guided walking safaris that bring you up close to nature, allowing you to learn about the ecosystem from expert guides. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the stunning Luangwa River, where you can relax and watch hippos and crocodiles in their natural habitat. South Luangwa is truly a must-visit for any nature lover!
Experts have dubbed South Luangwa to be one of the greatest wildlife sanctuaries in the world and not without reason. The concentration of animals around the Luangwa River, and its oxbow lagoons, is among the most intense in Africa.
The Luangwa River is the most intact major river system in Africa and is the life-blood of this 9 050km2 / 5 623mi² park. It protects a wide variety of wildlife, birds and vegetation. The now famous ‘walking safari’ originated in South Luangwa and is still one of the finest ways to experience Africa’s pristine wilderness first-hand. The changing seasons add to its richness, ranging from dry, bare bush in the winter (April to October) to a lush, green wonderland in the summer months (November to March). There are 60 different animal species and over 400 different bird species in South Luangwa National Park.
With about 400 of Zambia’s 732 species of birds appearing in the park, including 39 birds of prey and 47 migrant species over summer, there is plenty for the birdwatcher to spot, whatever the season.
An interest in the vegetation of Zambia will enhance your experience of the bush. Some magnificent trees and plants grow in the Luangwa Valley and it certainly adds to the richness of your experience to be able to recognize the different tree species and to discover exotic wildflowers.
Highest concentration of Leopards in Africa: Known as "The Valley of the Leopards", South Luangwa National Park holds the highest concentration of Feline predators and Hippos in Africa, making it one of the most sought-after destinations for wildlife photographers and documentarists.
Lush Forests and Vast Valleys: Among the more common trees in the valley are the mopane, leadwood, winterthorn, ivory palm, marula and the magnificent tamarind tree. There are some incredible baobab specimens and a few large ebony forests to admire. Within these woodland savannahs are larger patches of grassland.
Pristine Riverine Habitat: Patches of flooded grassland habitats (floodplains) are found close to the river, on which hippopotamus graze at night. Their dung released into the river fertilizes its waters and sustains the fish population which in turn sustains the crocodiles.
Birding Sanctuary: With about 400 of Zambia’s 732 species of birds appearing in the park, including 39 birds of prey and 47 migrant species over summer, there is plenty for the birdwatcher to spot, whatever the season.
The National Park is divided into three main sections, each one spectacular on its own and full of wildlife. Each section has unique characteristics:
Mfuwe / Kakumbi : The most visited section of the National Park; it's served by a domestic airport with daily connections to Lusaka and by the main tarmac road coming from Chipata. Being the easiest to reach, it's also the most popular among visitors: here you can find basic supplies, a fuel station and a multitude of lodges catering for all visitors' needs and budgets
Malama / Southern: Located about 45km south of Mfuwe and served by the Lusangazi Gate, the Malama area is still unspoiled, wild, remote, rural and with very few tourists. Sightings in this area may be a bit fewer compared to Mfuwe, but the wild nature of the Lower Lupande makes each wildlife encounter precious and unique..
Nsefu / Northern: Located in the Upper Lupande area, Nsefu is one of Africa’s most untouched wilderness regions, a remote and pristine corner of the Luangwa Valley.
Nsefu is known for being a true wilderness oasis in Africa, hosting very few and exclusive lodges.
South Luangwa National Park is the place where the famous Walking Safaris were first introducted and they still remain one of the highlights of every visit. Among the different activities visitors can do, the true higlights are:
Game Drives : Guided by professional Safari guides and Nature experts, Game Drives take place in open-vehicle and typically last 3 to 4 hours. They are best scheduled during cooler early mornings or late afternoons/evenings when animals are most active. Led by expert guides, these trips cover large distances to maximize sightings of iconic species like the Big Five. Many include coffee breaks or "sundowners", while night drives offer chances to see nocturnal animals in action.
Walking Safaris: Game walks, also known as walking safaris or bush walks, are guided excursions on foot through wildlife areas. Unlike game drives, they offer an immersive experience to observe smaller flora and fauna, track animals, and learn about ecosystems up close. These walks are typically led by professional, armed guides for safety. Age restrictions apply.
Other activities are available in the area to keep guests entertained for days, such as community tours, village tours, birding safaris and bush-spa.
Upon landing at Victoria Falls International Airport (Zimbabwe), you will be warmly welcomed by our drivers and transferred to the Victoria Falls Heritage Site. Here, you will immediately enjoy a guided tour of the Victoria Falls from the Zimbabwean side before crossing the Victoria Bridge to Zambia.
Experience the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls from the Zimbabwean side, where the mighty Zambezi River plunges into a spectacular gorge. Begin your journey with a guided tour that takes you along breathtaking viewpoints, providing stunning panoramas of the falls, often accompanied by a rainbow in the mist. Feel the refreshing spray on your face as you walk on the designated paths, and listen to the thunderous roar of the water. Capture unforgettable photos and immerse yourself in the rich local culture at nearby craft markets. This adventure promises both natural beauty and a glimpse into the vibrant life surrounding one of the world's natural wonders!
Short transfer across the Victoria Bridge to Zambia, where you will be assisted in the border-crossing procedure. Once in Zambia, you will be transferred to your selected campsite. where you will remain for next three nights.
Experience the serene beauty of Maramba River Lodge in Zambia, nestled along the banks of the Maramba River. This enchanting lodge offers a unique blend of comfort and nature, featuring cozy accommodations with stunning river views and an informal atmosphere. Guests can relax by the pool or savor delicious local cuisine at the on-site restaurant. The lodge's tranquil atmosphere is perfect for unwinding and immersing yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of Zambia. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Maramba River Lodge promises an unforgettable experience.
The Luxury Safari Tents are a perfect combination of Luxury and Comfort, providing guests with an excellent and informal stay.
Meals are not included. You can have your meals at your accommodation's restaurant or in one of the many restaurants in town.
After marveling at the breathtaking views from the Zimbabwean side, your guided tour of Victoria Falls from the Zambian side offers a fresh perspective of this magnificent wonder. Experience the thrill of walking along the paths that provide stunning viewpoints, capturing the falls' power and beauty up close. Listen to your knowledgeable guide share fascinating stories and insights about the falls' history and ecology. Feel the mist on your face as you stand at the edge, and don’t miss the chance to spot rainbow formations in the spray. This unforgettable experience will deepen your appreciation of one of nature's most spectacular displays.
Afternoon Rhino Experience in the Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park, aiming to find the last remaining white Rhinos in Zambia. The activity starts with a classic Game Drive in the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, with many opportunities to spot the abundant wildlife population of the park, to proceed with a short walking safari following the tracks of the White Rhinos to try and get as close as possible to these magnificent animals.
Breakfast included at the Lodge. You can lunch and dinner at your accommodation's restaurant or in one of the many restaurants in town.
There are dozens of activities available around the Victoria Falls to keep even the most demanding visitors busy for days! Some focus on the Zambezi River and the Victoria Falls themselves, others on Wildlife, Adrenaline experiences, Contact with nature, Culture and Fine living. Among them, we can list:
Tour of the Falls : a Guided Tours of the Falls, with a local expert guide that guides you through the Heritage site letting you discover the best sights and the most secluded corners.
Rhino Game Drives – Take a Game drive through the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park to see a multitude of wildlife. This national park is the only one in Zambia featuring White Rhinos, and the activity includes a short walking safari trekking down these magnificent animals.
Whitewater Rafting – exhilarating adrenaline adventure through the Batoka Gorge.
Canoeing – on the upper Zambezi.
Horseback Trails – in the Mosi-o-Tunya National Park.
Sunset Cruises – A romantic way to end your day on the Zambezi river.
Bungi Jumping, Abseiling and Gorge Swinging – off the 111 meter high Victoria Falls Bridge.
Microlighting and Helicopter flights over the Falls.
And many more.
Morning domestic flight to Lusaka.
Departure by minibus or Mobile Safari Vehicle for a scenic 120km (2 hours) road transfer to the stunning Lower Zambezi Valley, traveling on tarmac and gravel roads. Quick stop to Nsofu Lodge for a spectacular meal at the confluence of the Kafue and Zambezi Rivers.
Experience the magic of a sunset transfer cruise on the Zambezi River. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors, reflecting off the tranquil waters. Glide along the river, surrounded by stunning landscapes and the sounds of wildlife. Keep an eye out for elephants drinking at the water's edge and hippos surfacing for air. Enjoy a refreshing drink as you relax and take in the breathtaking views. This unforgettable journey offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility, making it a highlight of your trip. The boat will deliver you directly at Elephant Crossing Safari Bushcamp.
A Contemporary Interpretation of the Early Explorers’ Expeditions.
The first explorers ever to travel along the pristine wilderness of the Mighty Zambezi River found themselves immersed in a world of awe and excitement that changed their lives forever.
They taught us that luxury is not an end in itself, but rather a tool to enjoy the exclusivity of the experience and the overwhelming feeling of being surrounded by kilometres of unexplored bush teeming with wildlife.
Take your time to enjoy the slow pace of a campfire under a million stars, sipping a drink while enjoying the sounds of the untamed wilderness, with the certainty that every aspect of your adventure is carefully taken care of by experienced professionals who understand that the Art of Safari relies in seamlessly blending the right amount of luxury, with the rusticity of the African bush.
Untamed, Unfenced, Real Wilderness
Settled on the sandy shores of the Zambezi River, surrounded by the Lower Zambezi National Park, the Zambezia Wildlife Sanctuary, and the Mana Pools National Park on the opposite shore of the river, lies Elephant Crossing Safari Bushcamp, right in the very heart of the Chiawa Game Management Area.
The Bushcamp’s grounds are limited by the sandy beaches of the Zambezi River and by two natural lagoons that carry water for most of the year, attracting a multitude of elephants, hippos, zebras, antelopes and many other wild species that populate its premises all year round.
Elephants in particular tend to gather in these two lagoons before crossing the Zambezi river to reach Mana Pools National Park, directly opposite to our Bushcamp. The spectacle of dozens of elephants crossing the river in a straight line right in front of your tent is one that you will never forget for the rest of your life.
A Step Back in Time, An Atmosphere of Rustic Luxury
The camp has three different sections, each with a unique atmosphere and secluded from the rest, so not to interfere with each other and to grant maximum exclusivity and privacy to every guest.
The Main Camp comprise of just 5 Luxury, river-facing, en-suite double tents, decorated in the style of the early explorations of the mid-1800s. The tents and the common areas do not have electricity, rather they use paraffin lamps for all illumination purposes and fire-powered bush water-heaters to warm up your showers and faucets, while running water is extracted directly from the Zambezi river and stored in a high water tank that serves each tent through gravity. Each tent also has a private verandah overlooking the Zambezi. On the shore, directly in front of each tent, you will find some rustic gazebos with a sunchair to observe the ever-present resident hippos, elephants and the magnificent birdlife that populates the river. The simple common area includes a small bar, a private dining table and a small lounge with locally crafted armchairs and couches.
Finally, after passing the last eastern tent, a larger gazebo hides one of the most exclusive experiences in the valley: a pure copper bathtub facing right on the Elephant crossing points, where guests can take an unforgettable bubble bath, sipping champagne and observing the stunning spectacle of nature unfolding right in front of their eyes.
Breakfast at the Lodge. Lunch at Nsofu Lodge. Dinner at the Bushcamp.
Guests are woken before sunrise with hot water for tea and coffee.
Around 05.30 a light breakfast is served at the Main Boma, where all guests gather before starting off at the first rays of light.
At around 06.00 a.m. guests will board a boat for a Sunrise Boat Safari Transfer that will bring guests right at the Main Gate of the Lower Zambezi National Park.
After checking in at the Main Gate, guests will start enjoying their Full Day Game Drive in the Lower Zambezi National Park until approximately 10.00 a.m. where they will stop for a spectacular mid-morning break with Muffins, Cake, Tea & Coffee and whatever our chef has prepared for them. The Game Drive will then continue until 12.30 when the guide will choose a spectacular location for a pic-nic lunch on the shores of the Zambezi River.
After Lunch and a bit of relax enjoying the quietness of the natural environment, the Game Drive will continue until 16.00 when you will meet your boat again, ready for a return Sunset Cruise with a sundowner on the water.
Breakfast at the Bushcamp, Pic-nic Lunch in the National Park, Dinner at the Bushcamp
Departure right after breakfast for a 1-hour 30 minutes stretch of gravel road to Chirundu, where you will stop for a Tour of the Fossil forest Heritage Site, before proceeding to Lusaka Airport.
En-route, visit the Chirundu Fossil Forest, where you will have the chance to explore a fossil site with petrified trees dating back over 160,000,000 years. Discover fascinating insights into the history and geography of this remarkable area.
Thornicroft Lodge, nestled in the heart of Zambia's South Luangwa National Park, offers a unique safari experience. This intimate lodge combines comfort with the wild, featuring cozy chalets with stunning views of the bush. Guests can enjoy delicious, locally sourced meals and relax by the fire pit under the African night sky. The lodge is an ideal base for exciting game drives and walking safaris, allowing you to witness the incredible wildlife up close. With its warm hospitality and tranquil setting, Thornicroft Lodge provides a memorable escape into nature.
Breakfast and Dinner prepared at your Lodge. Lunch in Lusaka not included.
Embark on an unforgettable game drive in South Luangwa National Park, a premier safari destination known for its incredible wildlife and stunning landscapes. As you traverse the park's diverse terrain, keep your eyes peeled for the majestic elephants, graceful giraffes, and elusive leopards that roam freely. Experienced guides will share their knowledge about the flora and fauna, enhancing your experience as you capture the beauty of nature. The thrill of spotting wildlife in their natural habitat is unmatched, making this adventure a highlight of your trip. Don’t forget your camera to capture the breathtaking moments!
Sunrise Game Drive in the National Park
Experience the magic of a game drive at sunrise, when the world awakens with vibrant colors and the sounds of nature come alive. This serene time of day offers the best chance to see wildlife as animals are more active and visible. The soft morning light creates perfect photography opportunities, capturing the beauty of the landscape and its inhabitants. Join us for an unforgettable adventure that combines breathtaking views with the thrill of spotting majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Experience the thrill of a night drive in South Luangwa! This unique adventure allows you to spot nocturnal wildlife in their natural habitat. Guided by expert rangers, you'll start off in the afternoon and conduct a 2 hours Game Drive in the park waiting for sunset. After a quick Sundowner drink, you'll traverse the park under the starlit sky, listening to the sounds of the African night. Keep your eyes peeled for elusive creatures like leopards and hyenas, and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the landscape illuminated by torchlight. It's an unforgettable opportunity to see the wild come alive after dark!
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner at the lodge prepared by your chef.
Breakfast at the Campsite prepared by your bush-chef
African View Tours and Safaris is a specialized Safari Operator based in Zambia since 2010, with more than 16 years of traceable and recognized success in running different tours and safaris in this region.
Our wide range of Safaris in Zambia include:
Classic Safaris
Wilderness Expeditions / Africa’s Last Edens
Cultural Expeditions
Motorcycle Safaris
Young Safari Cadets Training Camps (targeted at School Students aged 11-17)
African View Tours and Safaris also owns and runs two fantastic retreats in Zambia's most exclusive and remote wilderness areas:
Elephant Crossing Safari Bushcamp (In Lower Zambezi National Park)
Lions Rest (in South Luangwa National Park)
