The 15 Top Tourist Attractions to Visit in Zambia: 2025 Guide to the Best Destinations

Zambia is one of Africa’s best-kept travel secrets — a landlocked nation rich in natural wonders, cultural heritage, wildlife, and warm-hearted people. While it may not always dominate global tourism headlines, those who explore Zambia often describe it as one of the most authentic and awe-inspiring destinations in Africa.

Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, nature enthusiast, or cultural explorer, this guide reveals the 15 top tourist attractions to visit in Zambia — places that will move your spirit, thrill your senses, and leave you with unforgettable memories.

1. Victoria Falls – Mosi-oa-Tunya (The Smoke That Thunders)

No list of Zambia’s top attractions is complete without Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning “The Smoke That Thunders,” this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the largest sheet of falling water in the world.

Victoria Falls is number one on the list of the top tourist attractions to visit in Zambia. Located in Livingstone, the falls span the Zambezi River on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe.

From the Zambian side, you get up-close access to:

• Knife-Edge Bridge

• Boiling Pot hiking trail

• Rainforest trails with permanent mist showers

• Bungee Jumping off the Victoria Falls Bridge

• White-water Rafting on the mighty Zambezi River

• Helicopter Rides for a bird’s-eye view of the falls

• Devil’s Pool, a natural rock pool on the edge of the falls (for the brave only!)

Best Time to Visit: February to May (high water volume); September to October (for swimming in Devil’s Pool)

Adventure Tip: Try white-water rafting below the falls — it’s among the most intense in the world!

2. South Luangwa National Park – The Wildlife Paradise

Tucked in Zambia’s Eastern Province, South Luangwa National Park is often called the best walking safari destination in Africa. It’s home to a dense population of animals — elephants, leopards, hippos, giraffes, and over 400 bird species.

What makes it truly unique:

• Guided walking safaris through the bush

• Night game drives to spot elusive nocturnal species

• Stunning landscape along the Luangwa River

Unlike the overcrowded parks in other regions, South Luangwa offers a raw and wild safari experience.

Accommodation Options: From luxury lodges (like Chinzombo) to budget-friendly campsites

Best Time to Visit: July to October (dry season for wildlife spotting)

3. Lower Zambezi National Park – A Riverside Gem

Located along the north bank of the mighty Zambezi River, Lower Zambezi National Park is a haven for canoeing, tiger fishing, and riverside game viewing. With its scenic riverine landscapes and untouched wilderness, it provides a serene alternative to the busier safari circuits.

Highlights include:

• Canoe safaris with hippos and crocs nearby

• Elephants crossing the river at sunset

• Fishing expeditions (catch-and-release)

Bonus: The park borders Zimbabwe’s Mana Pools, offering a trans-frontier wildlife experience.

Best Time to Visit: June to October (dry season)

4. Lake Kariba – Africa’s Largest Man-Made Lake

Lake Kariba, shared by Zambia and Zimbabwe, is the largest man-made lake in Africa by volume. On the Zambian side (Siavonga), it’s a popular getaway for locals and tourists alike.

Top activities:

• Sunset cruises and houseboat adventures

• Fresh bream and tiger fishing

• Lakeside relaxation and barbecues

The tranquil waters, rolling hills, and vibrant sunsets make Kariba a great romantic or family retreat.

Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but September to November has the best weather

5. Kafue National Park – Zambia’s Oldest and Largest National Park

Spanning over 22,000 square kilometers, Kafue National Park is Zambia’s largest wildlife reserve. Despite its size, it remains relatively underexplored, offering a true off-the-beaten-path safari.

Wildlife you can see:

• Lions, cheetahs, leopards

• Sable antelope, roan antelope

• Over 500 bird species

• Massive herds of red lechwe in the Busanga Plains

Why visit?

• Less tourist traffic = more intimate experiences

• High predator density in select areas

• Excellent birdwatching for twitchers

Top Safari Spot: Busanga Plains (especially for balloon safaris)

Best Time to Visit: August to October

6. Kasanka National Park – Home of the Bat Migration

Kasanka National Park is small by Zambian standards, but it hosts one of the greatest natural spectacles on Earth — the annual bat migration.

Each October to December, over 10 million straw-colored fruit bats descend on the park, forming thick clouds in the sky. It’s one of the largest mammal migrations on the planet.

Other draws:

• Rare sitatunga antelope sightings

• Canoeing through swamps and papyrus

• Forest bird species, monkeys, and crocodiles

Best Time to Visit: October to December (for the bat migration)

Articles related to Top Tourist Attractions to Visit in Zambia:

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7. Liuwa Plain National Park – Remote and Untamed

Located in Western Province, near the Angolan border, Liuwa Plain is a raw wilderness known for its vast open landscapes and second-largest wildebeest migration in Africa.

Reasons to go:

• Unique blue skies and flat horizons

• Hyena-dominated predator dynamics

• Birdwatching (especially after rains)

• Intimate mobile camping experiences

Fun Fact: The park was protected long before Zambia gained independence and was traditionally managed by the Lozi people and the Litunga (King of Barotseland).

Best Time to Visit: November (for the wildebeest migration)

8. Kalambo Falls – The Hidden Natural Wonder

Tucked away on the border with Tanzania near Mbala, Kalambo Falls is the second-highest uninterrupted waterfall in Africa (221 meters). Despite its grandeur, it remains one of Zambia’s lesser-known treasures.

Reasons to go:

• Off-the-grid waterfall experience

• Archaeological sites dating back 250,000 years

• Birdwatching and hiking trails

This area is ideal for adventurers looking to veer far off the mainstream tourist track.

Best Time to Visit: Late rainy season (April–May)

9. Shiwa Ng’andu – A Colonial-Era Mansion in the Wild

Built by Englishman Sir Stewart Gore-Browne in the early 1900s, Shiwa Ng’andu is a unique estate in Northern Zambia that combines British colonial architecture with rural Zambian landscapes and is one of the Top Tourist Attractions to Visit in Zambia.

Things to explore:

• The historic Shiwa House and estate

• Natural hot springs and waterfalls

• Horseback safaris

• Local community projects and village visits

• Garden walks and historical tours

For history buffs and travelers seeking a different Zambia, this destination is an unforgettable detour.

10. Blue Lagoon National Park – The Hidden Wetland Paradise

Just two hours from Lusaka, Blue Lagoon National Park is a birdwatcher’s dream and a hidden haven for wildlife during the wet season.

Highlights include:

• Floodplain scenery ideal for photography

• Herds of lechwe and other antelope

• Flamingos and wetland birdlife

• Peaceful picnic spots with incredible views

It’s a wonderful weekend escape from Lusaka and ideal for nature lovers wanting fewer crowds.

Best Time to Visit: January to April (wet season for birding)

11. Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage – Sanctuary for Chimpanzees

Located near Chingola in Copperbelt Province, Chimfunshi is one of the largest chimpanzee sanctuaries in the world. It provides a safe haven for over 120 rescued chimps from across Africa.

Visitors can:

• Observe chimp behavior in semi-wild environments

• Learn about animal conservation

• Volunteer or sponsor a chimp

It’s perfect for family travelers or animal lovers looking to contribute to wildlife welfare.

12. Livingstone City – The Tourism Capital of Zambia

Beyond Victoria Falls, Livingstone is a destination in its own right. With a blend of colonial history, bustling markets, craft shops, and vibrant nightlife, it’s the adventure capital of Zambia.

Things to do:

• Visit the Livingstone Museum

• Try bungee jumping or gorge swinging

• Explore Mukuni Village

• Dine on the Royal Livingstone Express (luxury train dining)

It’s a great base to explore the surrounding wonders and experience local culture.

13. Lake Tanganyika – Africa’s Great Rift Lake

In Northern Province, Lake Tanganyika is the second-deepest freshwater lake in the world, known for its clarity, endemic fish species, and laid-back beach towns like Mpulungu and Nsumbu.

Activities include:

• Snorkeling and diving

• Fishing and sunset cruises

• Beach relaxation

Nearby Nsumbu National Park offers safari experiences right on the lake’s edge — a rare combo of bush and beach.

Best Time to Visit: May to October

14. Nsumbu National Park – Off-the-Beaten-Track Wilderness

Located on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, Nsumbu offers a mix of bush and beach safari.

Activities:

• Hiking and game drives

• Lake fishing and boating

• Rustic lodges and bush camps

If you’re looking for seclusion, this park is your go-to.

15. Local Villages and Cultural Tours

Zambia is rich in cultural diversity. Village tours allow travelers to engage with local customs, food, and crafts.

Cultural Elements:

• Traditional Makishi dances

• Basket weaving and local art

• Homestay programs and village visits

An authentic way to connect with Zambia’s heart and soul.

Practical Travel Tips for Visiting Zambia

Top Picks by Interest:

• For Adrenaline Junkies: Victoria Falls, Lower Zambezi

• For Safari Lovers: South Luangwa, Kafue, Liuwa Plain

• For Culture Seekers: Shiwa Ng’andu, Mukuni Village

• For Nature Lovers: Kalambo Falls, Kasanka, Blue Lagoon

• For Families: Chimfunshi, Livingstone, Lake Kariba

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best time to visit Zambia?
The best time is during the dry season, from May to October, especially for wildlife viewing.

2. Is Zambia safe for tourists?
Yes, Zambia is considered one of Africa’s safest countries for tourists. Always follow local guidance and travel advisories.

3. What is the main attraction in Zambia?
Victoria Falls is Zambia’s most iconic and popular attraction.

4. Do I need a visa to enter Zambia?
Most travelers can obtain an e-Visa online before arrival.

5. Can I see the Big Five in Zambia?
Absolutely! Parks like South Luangwa and Kafue offer chances to spot all Big Five animals.

6. Are safaris in Zambia expensive?
Zambia offers a range of safaris—from budget to ultra-luxury. Prices vary by park and accommodation.

Conclusion – Why Zambia Should Be Your Next Destination

There you have it, the Top Tourist Attractions to Visit in Zambia. Zambia isn’t just a destination — it’s a journey through some of the wildest, most pristine, and soul-stirring landscapes in Africa. Zambia is a land of majestic waterfalls, rich culture, thrilling safaris, and untouched natural beauty. From the thunder of Victoria Falls to the silence of the Liuwa Plains, every corner offers a new adventure. For travelers looking to explore authentic Africa, Zambia is the real deal.