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11 Days Premium Tier

11 Days Zambia Luxury Safari & Victoria Falls Escape

11 Days Zambia Luxury Safari & Victoria Falls Escape

Experience the very best of Zambia on this extraordinary 11-day luxury safari that seamlessly blends exceptional wildlife encounters with breathtaking natural wonders. Journey from the legendary South Luangwa National Park widely regarded as the birthplace of the walking safari to the pristine waterways of Lower Zambezi National Park before concluding your adventure at the magnificent Victoria Falls. Along the way, enjoy luxury fly-in transfers, elegant safari lodges, expertly guided game drives, canoe safaris, river cruises, and unforgettable encounters with Africa's iconic wildlife in some of the continent's most exclusive wilderness destinations.
Complementing the remarkable safari experiences are Zambia's rich cultural heritage and world-famous adventure attractions. Walk beside the mighty Victoria Falls, soar above the Batoka Gorge on the spectacular Flight of Angels helicopter excursion, visit the historic Mukuni Village, experience the thrill of Devil's Pool (seasonal), and conclude your journey aboard the iconic Royal Livingstone Express with a gourmet dinner overlooking the falls. Designed for discerning travelers seeking comfort, exclusivity, and authentic African experiences, this itinerary delivers the perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, luxury, and unforgettable memories.

map Expedition Route

Expedition Route Map
Route: South Luangwa National Park → Lower Zambezi National Park → Livingstone

Daily Expedition Log

Day 1

Arrival in South Luangwa & Night Safari

Your Zambian adventure begins upon arrival at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka, where you board a scenic light aircraft flight over the breathtaking Muchinga Escarpment into the heart of South Luangwa National Park. The aerial journey offers spectacular views of Zambia's untouched wilderness before landing at Mfuwe Airstrip, where your private safari guide welcomes you for a leisurely game-drive transfer through traditional villages and into one of Africa's finest wildlife reserves.
Arrive at your luxury safari lodge and settle into your beautifully appointed suite overlooking the Luangwa River. Enjoy afternoon tea while watching wildlife gather along the riverbanks before heading out on your first afternoon game drive. As the golden light settles across the landscape, pause for traditional safari sundowners before continuing into an exciting night safari. Guided by an expert tracker, search for elusive leopards, lions, civets, genets, and other nocturnal wildlife as the African bush awakens beneath a blanket of stars.

restaurant

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

hotel

Lodging

Puku Ridge

directions_car

Transport

Domestic Flight

Day 2

Walking Safari in the Birthplace of the Walking Safari

Wake to the soothing sounds of birdsong and enjoy freshly brewed coffee before setting off on an unforgettable guided walking safari. Accompanied by an experienced naturalist and armed wildlife scout, discover the fascinating details of the bush while learning to interpret animal tracks, bird calls, medicinal plants, and the delicate balance that sustains this remarkable ecosystem.
Return to camp for a leisurely brunch followed by time to relax beside your private plunge pool or admire the ever-changing scenery along the river. Later in the afternoon, continue your wildlife adventure on an open safari vehicle, exploring the park's diverse habitats in search of elephants, large lion prides, elusive leopards, and the endemic Thornicroft's giraffe before another memorable evening beneath the African sky.

restaurant

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

hotel

Lodging

Puku Ridge

directions_car

Transport

By Foot

Day 3

Oxbow Lagoons & Wildlife Photography

Today is dedicated to exploring South Luangwa's beautiful oxbow lagoons, where wildlife gathers in remarkable numbers throughout the dry season. Morning and afternoon game drives are carefully planned to maximise wildlife viewing while allowing plenty of time to appreciate the park's breathtaking scenery and exceptional photographic opportunities.
Watch vast buffalo herds crossing the plains, elephants cooling themselves at the water's edge, hippos wallowing in quiet lagoons, and crocodiles basking along the riverbanks as your guide expertly positions the vehicle for unforgettable sightings. As evening approaches, enjoy sundowners in a secluded location before returning to camp for an elegant candlelit dinner beneath the African stars.

restaurant

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

hotel

Lodging

Puku Ridge

directions_car

Transport

4x4 Safari Jeep

Day 4

Scenic Flight to the Lower Zambezi

After breakfast, board a scheduled light aircraft flight to the spectacular Lower Zambezi National Park. As you descend, the landscape transforms into a magnificent network of islands, floodplains, and the mighty Zambezi River framed by the dramatic escarpment, creating one of Africa's most picturesque safari destinations.
Upon arrival, settle into your luxurious riverside lodge before enjoying a leisurely gourmet lunch overlooking the water. Later, embark on a peaceful sunset boat safari, drifting quietly through the river channels while elephants swim between islands, hippos surface nearby, crocodiles bask along the banks, and colourful birdlife fills the surrounding forests. The tranquil setting offers the perfect introduction to the beauty of the Lower Zambezi.

restaurant

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

hotel

Lodging

Sausage Tree Camp

directions_car

Transport

Domestic Flight

Day 5

Canoeing Safari & Zambezi Adventures

Experience the Lower Zambezi from a truly unique perspective as you glide silently through narrow channels on a guided canoe safari. This gentle adventure allows you to observe elephants drinking along the shoreline, pods of hippos resting in the deeper waters, crocodiles basking in the morning sun, and vibrant birdlife thriving throughout the riverine forests.
After lunch and time to unwind at camp, choose between an exciting catch-and-release Tigerfish fishing experience or another expertly guided game drive through the park's beautiful winterthorn forests, where elephants, buffalo, antelope, and predators roam freely across the floodplains.

restaurant

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

hotel

Lodging

Sausage Tree Camp

directions_car

Transport

Cruising

Day 6

Exploring the Zambezi Escarpment

Today takes you deeper into the rugged wilderness where the towering Zambezi Escarpment overlooks expansive floodplains rich with wildlife. Enjoy a full-day safari through diverse landscapes of mopane woodland, open grasslands, and ancient river channels while your experienced guide searches for lions, African wild dogs, elephants, leopards, and countless other species.
Pause beneath the shade of a magnificent baobab tree for a gourmet picnic lunch before continuing your exploration through this pristine wilderness. Return to camp in the evening for a final riverside dinner as the sun sets over the Zambezi, bringing another unforgettable safari day to a close.

restaurant

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

hotel

Lodging

Sausage Tree Camp

directions_car

Transport

4x4 Safari Jeep

Day 7

Journey to Victoria Falls

After breakfast, fly to Livingstone and transfer to your elegant riverside lodge overlooking the mighty Zambezi River. Spend the afternoon settling into your luxurious surroundings, where zebras and giraffes often wander freely through the expansive grounds, creating a truly unique safari atmosphere.
As evening approaches, board a luxury sunset cruise on the Upper Zambezi River. Sip premium beverages and enjoy gourmet canapés while watching the African sunset paint the sky in brilliant shades of gold and crimson, with the distant spray of Victoria Falls rising gracefully on the horizon.

restaurant

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

hotel

Lodging

Royal Livingstone Hotel

directions_car

Transport

Domestic Flight

Day 8

Discover the Majestic Victoria Falls

Today is devoted to exploring the breathtaking Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Accompanied by your private guide, stroll through the lush rainforest and along spectacular viewing points where the mighty Zambezi plunges dramatically into the Batoka Gorge, creating the famous "Smoke That Thunders."
After your guided exploration, return to the comfort of your lodge for a relaxed afternoon. Later, indulge in the hotel's renowned traditional High Tea overlooking the river, offering a refined and peaceful setting to reflect on one of Africa's greatest natural spectacles.

restaurant

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

hotel

Lodging

Royal Livingstone Hotel

directions_car

Transport

4x4 Safari Jeep

Day 9

Devil's Pool & Flight of Angels

Begin the day with one of Zambia's most iconic adventures—a guided excursion to Livingstone Island and the legendary Devil's Pool (seasonal), where you can safely swim at the edge of Victoria Falls under the careful supervision of experienced guides.
Later, experience the unforgettable Flight of Angels helicopter excursion. Soaring high above Victoria Falls, the Zambezi River, and the dramatic Batoka Gorge, this breathtaking flight offers spectacular panoramic views and an entirely new appreciation of one of the world's greatest natural wonders.

restaurant

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

hotel

Lodging

Royal Livingstone Hotel

directions_car

Transport

Domestic Flight

Day 10

Cultural Heritage & The Royal Livingstone Express

This morning offers a wonderful opportunity to experience authentic Zambian culture with a visit to Mukuni Village. Meet members of the local community, learn about traditional customs, and gain fascinating insight into one of Zambia's oldest royal villages.
As evening falls, enjoy a fitting finale aboard the elegant Royal Livingstone Express. Travel along the historic railway line while savouring a gourmet five-course dinner, before pausing on the iconic Victoria Falls Bridge at sunset for one of the most memorable dining experiences in Southern Africa.

restaurant

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

hotel

Lodging

Royal Livingstone Hotel

directions_car

Transport

4x4 Safari Jeep

Day 11

Farewell Zambia

Wake to the peaceful sounds of the Zambezi River and enjoy a leisurely breakfast overlooking the water as the morning light reflects across the landscape. Take a final opportunity to soak in the beauty of your surroundings before your private transfer to Livingstone International Airport.
As your luxury Zambian adventure comes to an end, depart with unforgettable memories of extraordinary wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, world-class hospitality, and the timeless beauty of Victoria Falls Experiences that will stay with you long after your journey home.

restaurant

Meals

Breakfast

directions_car

Transport

4x4 Safari Jeep

Proposed Accommodation

10 Nights Accommodation

Puku Ridge
South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

Puku Ridge

3 Nights Accommodation

Sausage Tree Camp
Lower Zambezi National Park, Zambia

Sausage Tree Camp

3 Nights Accommodation

Royal Livingstone Hotel
Livingstone, Zambia

Royal Livingstone Hotel

4 Nights Accommodation

Inclusions & Essentials

check_circle What's Included

  • done Scheduled domestic light aircraft flights between Lusaka, South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi, and Livingstone
  • done Private airport and lodge transfers throughout the itinerary
  • done 3 nights' luxury accommodation in South Luangwa National Park
  • done 3 nights' luxury accommodation in Lower Zambezi National Park
  • done 4 nights' luxury accommodation in Livingstone
  • done Daily breakfast, plus lunches and dinners as specified
  • done Selected premium local beverages during your stay at safari camps
  • done Morning and afternoon game drives
  • done Guided walking safari in South Luangwa National Park
  • done Night game drive with professional guides and trackers
  • done Guided canoe safari on the Zambezi River
  • done Boat safari on the Lower Zambezi
  • done Guided tour of Victoria Falls
  • done Luxury sunset cruise on the Upper Zambezi River
  • done Flight of Angels helicopter experience
  • done Livingstone Island and Devil's Pool excursion (seasonal)
  • done Visit to Mukuni Village
  • done Royal Livingstone Express gourmet dinner experience
  • done Professional English-speaking safari guides
  • done National Park entrance fees and conservation levies
  • done Bottled drinking water during safari activities
  • done Government taxes and levis where applicable

cancel Not Included

  • close International flights
  • close Zambia visa fees (where applicable)
  • close Comprehensive travel and medical insurance
  • close Optional activities not specified in the itinerary
  • close Personal shopping expenses
  • close Gratuities for guides, drivers, and lodge staff
  • close Meals and beverages not specified in the itinerary
  • close Any increase in park fees, government taxes, conservation levies, or airline fuel surcharges after booking Items of a personal nature
  • close Anything not specifically mentioned under Package Inclusions

FAQs / Essential Information

Everything you need to know before you go.

What is the best luxury Zambia safari itinerary for first-time visitors?
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The absolute best itinerary for first-time visitors is a classic 10-to-12-day fly-in circuit pairing South Luangwa National Park, Lower Zambezi National Park, and Victoria Falls (Livingstone). This precise layout delivers the ultimate introductory mix of Africa's finest big game tracking on land, premium water-based canoeing safaris, and a grand finale at a Natural Wonder of the World.

When is the best time of year to book a luxury Zambia safari?
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The peak window for an optimal luxury safari in Zambia is the dry season from June to October. During these months, the bush thins out and wildlife congregates densely around remaining water sources like the Luangwa and Zambezi rivers, making predator sightings highly predictable. October offers the absolute best big game viewing, though temperatures are at their highest.

What should I expect on a luxury walking safari in South Luangwa?
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Celebrated as the birthplace of the walking safari, South Luangwa offers unparalleled, raw foot-safaris led by an elite naturalist guide and an armed National Parks scout. You will step out at dawn to safely trail wildlife, read fresh track impressions, and view large mammals like elephants from ground level. Luxury options like Time + Tide Chinzombo blend these thrilling walks with private plunge pool relaxation between treks.

What are the top ultra-luxury safari lodges in South Luangwa National Park?
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The two undisputed gold standards for ultra-luxury lodging in South Luangwa are Time + Tide Chinzombo, known for its award-winning architectural design and sweeping river villas, and Puku Ridge by Chiawa Safaris, an elite tented camp built on a high ridge featuring panoramic views of an active wildlife floodplain.

Can you do a water safari in Zambia's Lower Zambezi National Park?
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Yes, water safaris are the defining highlight of the Lower Zambezi. Travelers can glide silently down narrow channels in Canadian-style safari canoes to pass drinking elephants and nesting bird colonies up close, or enjoy premium motorized boat safaris and catch-and-release fly fishing for the legendary, fierce Tigerfish.

Where should I stay for a luxury experience in the Lower Zambezi?
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For elite, five-star luxury on the water, the top properties are Lolebezi by African Bush Camps, a modern architectural masterpiece featuring private plunge pools and air-conditioned suites, and Sausage Tree Camp, a pioneer of premium bush elegance offering massive canvas villas with dedicated private butler service.

Is it better to see Victoria Falls from the Zambia side or Zimbabwe side?
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While both offer distinct vantage points, the Zambian side (Livingstone) provides an incredibly intimate, close-up panoramic perspective where visitors can walk the thrilling Knife-Edge Bridge right through the waterfall's mist. Furthermore, the Zambian side grants exclusive seasonal access to swim in the world-famous Devil's Pool and host historic steam train dinners on the Victoria Falls Bridge.

What are the best 5-star luxury hotels near Victoria Falls in Zambia?
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The premier five-star properties in Livingstone are the Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Hotel by Anantara, a historic colonial-style resort boasting private, direct walking access to the falls trails, and The River Club, an exclusive boutique Edwardian-style lodge providing elite privacy and plunge pool villas overlooking the rushing Zambezi rapids.

How do you travel between national parks on a premium Zambia itinerary?
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To eliminate grueling days on rough dirt roads, premium itineraries are operated strictly as fly-in safaris. Travelers utilize scheduled light aircraft charter flights (such as Proflight Zambia) to seamlessly hop from Lusaka into bush airstrips like Mfuwe (South Luangwa) and Jeki (Lower Zambezi), keeping transit times under an hour.

Is a luxury safari in Zambia safe for international travelers?
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Zambia is consistently rated as one of the safest, most peaceful, and politically stable countries in all of Africa. Premium lodges feature top-tier security, highly vetted specialist guides, and stringent safety protocols on both land and water activities, ensuring absolute peace of mind for luxury international vacationers.

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