Safari in Southern Zambia & Victoria Falls

Compare Parks in Southern Zambia & Victoria Falls

Ecosystem - Southern Zambia & Victoria Falls

We love the raw power of the Zambezi here, especially as it plunges over Victoria Falls. The spray creates a constant mist, nurturing a unique rainforest ecosystem right at the edge of drier woodlands. Beyond the falls, the surrounding conservancies offer classic safari plains game alongside incredible birdlife, particularly in the mosaic of wetlands and islands. The sunsets over the wider Zambezi are sensational, painting the sky in fiery hues.

A mix of gently undulating plains, rocky outcrops, and extensive seasonal floodplains fed by the Zambezi River.

Getting There - Southern Zambia & Victoria Falls

We always recommend flying into Livingstone (LVI) for the most convenient access to Victoria Falls and the surrounding Zambian conservancies. While driving from Livingstone is straightforward, consider chartering a small aircraft for a scenic flight directly to remote camps if your budget allows – it truly is a spectacular way to arrive.

Weather & Climate in Southern Zambia & Victoria Falls

The warmest temperatures in Southern Zambia & Victoria Falls occur in October, averaging 26.6°C. The coolest conditions are in July at 17.2°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in August with average rainfall of 0.0mm. Average humidity: 37.7%.

Monthly Temperatures

• January: 21.9°C (rainfall: 273.5mm)
• February: 22.8°C (rainfall: 117.8mm)
• March: 22.5°C (rainfall: 57.9mm)
• April: 21.5°C (rainfall: 24.8mm)
• May: 19.4°C (rainfall: 1.3mm)
• June: 17.4°C (rainfall: 1.0mm)
• July: 17.2°C (rainfall: 0.6mm)
• August: 20.4°C (rainfall: 0.0mm)
• September: 24.3°C (rainfall: 0.2mm)
• October: 26.6°C (rainfall: 7.7mm)
• November: 25.8°C (rainfall: 69.8mm)
• December: 24.1°C (rainfall: 176.9mm)

Best Time to Visit Southern Zambia & Victoria Falls

The best months to visit Southern Zambia & Victoria Falls are August, September, October, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

• January: Good, temperature 21.9°C, rainfall 273.5mm, sunshine 8.7 hrs, humidity 82%
• February: Good, temperature 22.8°C, rainfall 117.8mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 76.1%
• March: Great, temperature 22.5°C, rainfall 57.9mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 72.8%
• April: Great, temperature 21.5°C, rainfall 24.8mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 64.1%
• May: Great, temperature 19.4°C, rainfall 1.3mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 52.3%
• June: Great, temperature 17.4°C, rainfall 1mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 49.9%
• July: Great, temperature 17.2°C, rainfall 0.6mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 45.2%
• August: Great, temperature 20.4°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 37.7%
• September: Great, temperature 24.3°C, rainfall 0.2mm, sunshine 11.6 hrs, humidity 32.8%
• October: Great, temperature 26.6°C, rainfall 7.7mm, sunshine 11.7 hrs, humidity 35.2%
• November: Great, temperature 25.8°C, rainfall 69.8mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 53.1%
• December: Great, temperature 24.1°C, rainfall 176.9mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 67.8%

Recommended Packing List for Southern Zambia & Victoria Falls

Based on average temperature of 22.0°C, typical conditions, humidity 56%.

• Light layers - comfortable for 22°C weather
• Binoculars - essential for every game drive
• Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
• Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
• Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
• Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
• First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
• Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
• Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Wildlife in Southern Zambia & Victoria Falls

Home to 152 recorded species including 49 iconic birds, 42 waterbirds, 34 birds of prey, 7 tropical birds, 5 big herbivores, 5 reptiles.

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Zambia

Travel advisory for Zambia

Southern Zambia & Victoria Falls FAQs

When is the best time to visit Southern Zambia for both Victoria Falls and wildlife viewing?

The dry season, from June to October, is ideal. During this period, wildlife congregates around diminishing water sources in the wetlands and conservancies, offering excellent viewing, while Victoria Falls is still spectacular but less misty, allowing for clearer views and activities like Devil's Pool.

What unique wildlife and birdlife can I expect to see in Southern Zambia's wetlands and conservancies?

Beyond the plains game, Southern Zambia is a birder's paradise, especially for waterbirds, due to its extensive wetlands. Expect to spot species like African Skimmers, Pel's Fishing Owls, various storks, and kingfishers, alongside elephants, buffalo, and antelopes.

What safari activities are available in Southern Zambia beyond just viewing Victoria Falls?

While Victoria Falls offers thrilling activities like gorge swings and helicopter rides, the conservancies provide traditional game drives, walking safaris, and unique mokoro (dugout canoe) excursions through the wetlands. These water-based safaris offer a distinct perspective on the region's birdlife and aquatic ecosystems.

How do safari costs in Southern Zambia compare to other regions, and what are typical accommodation options?

Southern Zambia generally offers a range of safari experiences from mid-range to luxury, often providing good value compared to some other high-end safari destinations. Accommodation typically includes intimate tented camps and lodges situated within or bordering the conservancies, providing immersive experiences.

What specific safety considerations should I be aware of when visiting Southern Zambia's safari areas?

It's crucial to be aware of malaria risk in the wetland areas, so prophylaxis is highly recommended. Always follow your guide's instructions during game activities, especially near water, and stay hydrated in the warm climate.

Recommended Books

• The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
• Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
• Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
• Lonely Planet Botswana & Namibia by Lonely Planet - Covers the Okavango Delta, Chobe, Etosha, Sossusvlei, and the Skeleton Coast. Essential for self-drive safaris through two of southern Africa's wildest destinations.
• Lonely Planet Zambia & Mozambique by Lonely Planet - From Victoria Falls and South Luangwa to Mozambique's pristine coastline. Practical advice for two of Africa's most rewarding off-the-beaten-path destinations.
• National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
• Lonely Planet Southern Africa by Lonely Planet - Covers South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. Practical planning information with detailed park and city guides.
• The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
• Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
• Bradt Guide: Zambia by Chris McIntyre - The definitive Zambia guide - South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi, Kafue, and Victoria Falls in unmatched detail. Essential for self-drive and walking safari planning.
• Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
• The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
• The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
• Roberts Bird Guide by Hugh Chittenden, Greg Davies & Ingrid Weiersbye - Comprehensive southern African bird guide covering 960+ species with detailed range maps and illustrations. The birder's bible for safaris in South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia.
• Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
• African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
• Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
• Sasol Birds of Southern Africa by Ian Sinclair, Phil Hockey & Warwick Tarboton - The southern Africa birding bible. Covers over 950 species with detailed illustrations, distribution maps, and habitat notes. The most trusted bird field guide for South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Mozambique.
• Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
• The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
• The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
• Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
• When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
• Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
• Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
• Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
• Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
• Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
• Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
• Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
• Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.