15 Best Things To Do In Zambia
If you are wondering whether it is safe to travel to Zambia, then know that it is one of the countries that has not been hit by the Coronavirus epidemic. No cases of COVID-19 are detected in Zambia till this date. The authorities in Zambia are taking all the steps to not let COVID-19 spread in the country and it is recommended to take precautionary measures while visiting Zambia. Also, we suggest that you check flight operations to and from Zambia as they might be affected amidst the virus outbreak.
Note: The Coronavirus statistics mentioned in this article are based on the updated reports available on March 3, 2020. These figures will be updated depending on how the outbreak unfolds.
Tourism in Zambia has been growing exponentially these days. There are many unexplored destinations in this country. This unfailingly enigmatic, exciting and welcoming place is very undermined by the tourists. But contrary to the popular belief, Zambia has a lot more to offer to the revelers than just the Victoria Falls. The alluring national parks like the South Luangwa National Park and Lusaka National Park and the hip places like the Lusaka Markets and Livingstone Museum make Zambia one of the best countries to visit for peace lovers. Confused about what to do in Zambia? This article jots down the ultimate list of things to do in Zambia:
1. Victoria Falls
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Few have experienced the beauty of Victoria Falls and not emerged in awe. Located on the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia, Victoria Falls is commonly known as the largest in the world. It is the most iconic natural landmark of Zambia. The views that you get after visiting the waterfall are described as ‘once in a lifetime’ by many. A trip to Zambia, or rather Africa is incomplete without a visit to these falls. The gushing sound of the falls can be heard from as long as 40 kilometers. Isn’t that fascinating?
2. South Luangwa National Park
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The South Luangwa National Park is a wildlife haven in Zambia. The national park has one of the densest animal populations in Africa. The ‘walking safari’ in the park is one of the best ways to experience the wilderness of Africa. It houses 40 different animal species and 400 different bird species. The South Luangwa National Park is one of the few national parks which offer night safaris. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Zambia.
3. Devil's Pool
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The Devil’s Pool is a rock pool formed at the very edge of the Victoria Falls. The pool offers the most up-close and personal views of the marvelous Victoria Falls. The 100-meter drop just underneath the pool is one of the most fascinating things to see in Zambia. The Devil’s Pool gives you an opportunity to swim at the world’s most fascinating infinity pools while admiring the beauty of the world’s largest waterfall.
4. Lusaka National Park
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The Lusaka National park is the newest national park of Zambia and also the smallest one with an area of just 6715 hectares. The area previously was a forest preserve protected by fencing. Located just 30 kilometers away from Lusaka, the capital city of Zambia, the Lusaka National Park is emerging as a popular tourist spot in the country. You can enjoy activities like camping, safari, and cycling in the park. More than 1000 different species are found inside the park.
5. Zambezi River
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Zambezi River is the fourth-longest river in Africa. The river provides a perfect site for activities like white water rafting, kayaking, jet boating, and river boarding. You can also spot wildlife species like the Hippo, Monitor lizards, and Nile crocodiles across the shore of the river. The river also harbors hundreds of species of fish. The Zambezi River is a source of hydroelectric power in Zambia and has two dams built on it.
6. Mafinga Hills
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The Mafinga Hills are situated on the border of Malawi and Zambia. The plateau consists of the highest point in Zambia. The Mafinga Hills is among the popular Zambia attractions for hiking. There are many tourist companies that provide assistance in hiking through the hills. The hills are dotted with many springs and a river flowing through some parts. The Mafinga Hills are the source of Luangwa River.
7. Shopping in Lusaka markets
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The vibrant markets in Lusaka are the best way to experience the local essence of Zambia. The city has many age-old markets popular for different things. The Comesa Market is the best market to find ‘chitenge’, a colorful cotton fabric. The City Market has everything from motorcycles to fresh vegetables. The Kabwata Cultural Village is the best place to shop for souvenirs and decorative items. The JCS Food Market has Asian food items and produces.
8. West Lunga National Park
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The West Lunga National Park is the only national park in Zambia covered with forest. The park is somewhat untouched and the tourists need to be self-sufficient while visiting this park. If you want to experience the wilderness, then roaming around the West Lunga National Park is one of the best things to do in Zambia. The park is located between the Kabompo River and West Lunga River. The forest is said to be rich in wildlife.
9. Livingstone Museum
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The Livingstone Museum is the largest and oldest museum in Zambia. It is located close to the Victoria Falls. The museum houses exhibits related to prehistory and local history. Exhibits include photographs, instruments, and possession items of David Livingstone, the missionary and explorer in Zambia. The museum offers a deep insight into the national and cultural heritage of Zambia. The museum has an archaeological site located next to it, which has unearthed items that date back to the Stone Age.
10. Kundalila Falls
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The Kundalila Falls are situated over the Kaombe River. You can enjoy stunning views of the Luangwa Valley from the top of the falls. A pool naturally formed at the bottom of the waterfall is surrounded by beautiful wildflowers and is the most popular feature of the waterfall. Bathing is allowed in the pool. The camping site near the waterfall is open and well maintained. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, then Kundalila Falls is your answer.
11. Shiwa Ngandu
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Shiwa Ngandu is an English country-style house located in Muchinga of Zambia. The house is popularly known as ‘Shiwa House’. The house is located amid lush greenery. The surroundings are home to over 30 endangered bird species. You can enjoy activities like horseback riding and historical tours on the hill. The Shiwa Ngandu is one of the most unique places to visit in Zambia.
12. Lake Bangweulu
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The Bangweulu is one of the great wetland systems in the world and consists of the Lake Bangweulu, Bangweulu Swamps, and Bangweulu Flats. Bangweulu literally translates into ‘where water meets the sky’. The beauty of the lake is breathtaking, especially at the time of sunset and sunrise. The lake is popular for fishing and has a fishing village established on its shores. Lake Bangweulu is a perfect spot to visit for all the nature lovers.
13. Lake Kariba
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Lake Kariba is known for being the world’s largest man-made lake. It is located on the border on Zambia and Zimbabwe. The view of the sunset from Lake Kariba is spectacular and should not be missed. You can also enjoy activities like fishing, boating, and several water sports at the lake. The lake has many houseboat homes which are perfect for a weekend getaway in Zambia. There are a plenty of campsites around the lake.
14. Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park
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The Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is popularly known for being an abode to the Victoria Falls. The park is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The wildlife part of the park has tall riverine palm trees and wildlife species like Angolan giraffe, warthog, impala, sable, Burchell’s zebra, and cape buffalo. The southern white rhinos in the park are the most significant point of interest at the park.
15. Chingola
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Chingola is a Copperbelt region in Zambia. It is an abode to Africa’s biggest open-cast mine. This town is a picturesque place to be with lush greenery and flowers. The town is also a great place for golfing enthusiasts. The Nchanga Golf Course is said to be one of the best golf courses in Africa. Other attractions in the area are the Hippo Pool, Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage, and Five Mile Rock.
Which one of these are you looking forward to visiting? Let us know in the comment section below.
