Zambia Tourism

AP Surpasses Investment Commitment in Just 5 Years

Zambia Tourism — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 06:48:44 +0000

African Parks has invested USD34-million in Zambia in five years, surpassing their original commitment of USD20m over 20 years. This is according to Minister of Tourism Rodney Sikumba, speaking at a tourism stakeholder conference in Lusaka.

African Parks hailed the Zambian government’s commitment to establishing and strengthening national parks, game management areas (GMAs), forest reserves and protected wetlands – such as Bangweulu – across the across to country with the aim of unlocking their ‘ecological, social and economic value’.

An example of this is African Parks working with the government and Barotse Royal Establishment in Liuwa Plain National Park to establish visitor campsites and highlight attractions such as traditional fishing methods.

PHOTOS Mike Dexter and Daan Smit | African Parks

Biodiversity conservation in Liuwa Plain

Chongwe River Lodges Reopen for 2026 Season

Zambia Tourism — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 13:20:19 +0000

In line with the Zambezi river slowly slackening and the roads in Lower Zambezi National Park drying out, Chongwe River House and Chongwe Camp are both reopening in April 2026. Both Time+Tide properties offer soothing interiors, superb service and lovely views of the Chongwe river, which flows into the Zambezi.

The main living and dining space opens onto the pool at Chongwe River House.

Activities include game drives in the national park, boating on the river and seasonal nature walks, angling and sleepouts. Chongwe Camp offers down-to-earth but extremely comfortable accommodation while Chongwe River House is a 4-bedroom exclusive-use safari villa with unparalleled privacy. Both are famous for breeding herds of elephant passing through while hippos, crocodiles and fish eagles are found along the waterways.

For the daring and/or romantic, the house has open-air bathtubs for soaking under the stars on a clear or moonlit night… Those who want adventure and are fit enough can opt to hike Chirapila, a nearby mountain that is tougher than it looks – the name literally means, ‘Never again!’.

MORE INFORMATION

Is a Craft Distillery in Zambia Producing the World’s Most Sustainable GIN?

Zambia Tourism — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 09:10:49 +0000

As Zambia’s tourism season begins to unfold, bringing with it clear skies, abundant wildlife sightings, and a renewed sense of adventure, there is another story quietly gaining momentum – one that blends conservation, community, and craftsmanship into a single glass.

That story is Alvearium Gin.

A GIN THAT BEGINS IN THE FOREST

Unlike most gins around the world, which are produced from commercially sourced grain spirit, Alvearium Gin starts its journey deep in the forests of rural Zambia.

Here, local beekeepers harvest wild honey using traditional, sustainable methods. These practices don’t just produce high-quality honey—they actively protect Zambia’s forests. Beekeeping creates a powerful incentive to preserve natural woodland, as healthy forests are essential for thriving bee populations.

In a country where deforestation remains a challenge, this model turns conservation into an economic opportunity.

RETHINKING WHAT ‘SUSTAINABLE’ REALLY MEANS

In the global spirits industry, sustainability is often highlighted – but rarely at the core of the product itself.

Many brands focus on initiatives like solar-powered distilleries or responsibly sourced botanicals. While these are positive steps, they typically relate to only a small portion of the final product. The majority of spirits still comes from base alcohol that is mass-produced, often with little transparency around its origin.

Alvearium Gin takes a fundamentally different approach.

Instead of adding sustainability around the edges, it builds sustainability into the very foundation of the spirit.

FROM HONEY TO SPIRIT: A WORLD-FIRST APPROACH

What truly sets Alvearium apart is what happens next…

The wild honey is first fermented into mead (honey wine) – one of the oldest alcoholic beverages known to mankind. From there, it is distilled into a neutral spirit before being carefully redistilled with botanicals to create the final gin.

This process is rare. In fact, very few distilleries globally produce their own base spirit from honey. Most simply buy neutral grain alcohol and infuse it.

By controlling the entire process—from hive to bottle—Alvearium Gin achieves not only a distinctive flavour profile, but also a level of traceability and authenticity that is increasingly valued by conscious travellers.

SUSTAINABILITY BEYOND THE BOTTLE

Sustainability is often used as a marketing term, but in this case, it is deeply embedded in the product itself.

Forest conservation through beekeeping: Protecting ecosystems by making them economically valuable
Rural income generation: Supporting local communities with a sustainable source of income
Low-impact production: Utilising natural fermentation processes and locally sourced raw materials
Reduced reliance on imported inputs: A proudly Zambian product from start to finish

For eco-conscious travellers, this represents something meaningful: a product that doesn’t just minimise harm, but actively contributes to environmental and social good.

A NEW KIND OF SAFARI SUNDOWNER

Imagine this: the sun setting over the Zambezi, the sound of distant hippos, and in your hand, a gin and tonic crafted from the very landscapes that surround you.

This is where Alvearium Gin naturally fits into Zambia’s tourism offering.

More lodges and camps across the country are beginning to embrace locally produced, sustainable products as part of their guest experience. Serving a Zambian-crafted gin – one that tells a story of conservation and innovation – adds depth and authenticity to the traditional safari sundowner.

GLOBAL RECOGNITION, LOCAL ROOTS

Alvearium Gin is not only making waves locally but has also started gaining international recognition, earning prestigious awards that place it among some of the world’s finest craft gins.

Yet, despite this growing acclaim, its roots remain firmly Zambian.

Every bottle represents:

Zambia’s natural resources
Zambia’s communities
Zambia’s innovation

SO, IS IT THE MOST SUSTAINABLE GIN IN THE WORLD?

That’s a bold claim – and one that invites debate.

But when you consider the full picture – forest conservation, community impact, complete control of production, and a truly unique base ingredient – Alvearium Gin certainly makes a compelling case.

In a world where travellers are increasingly seeking authentic, responsible experiences, Zambia may not just be offering unforgettable safaris—but also pioneering a new standard in sustainable craft spirits.

EXPERIENCE IT FOR YOURSELF

As the tourism season kicks off, visitors to Zambia have the opportunity to experience something truly unique—not just in the landscapes and wildlife, but in the flavours that define the destination.

Because sometimes, the story of a place is best told not just through what you see…

but through what you taste.

Learn more about the process behind Alvearium Gin

Zambezi 10% Longer than Previously Thought

Zambia Tourism — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 07:12:06 +0000

Researchers have discovered that the Zambezi river actually begins in Angola, not Zambia as was previously believed. They have also found that the river is about 10% longer than earlier estimates.

Scientists from The Wilderness Project, which was created in 2018 to study African freshwater systems such as the Okavango Delta in Botswana and Zambezi, have found that more than 70% of the water flowing over the Victoria Falls actually originates in Angola.

To investigate the true source of the river, research teams paddled from the commonly accepted starting point near Kalene Hill in Northwestern province. They also explored the Lungwebungu River in Angola to determine which source was farther from the ocean. Their measurements showed that if the Angolan source is used, the Zambezi is 342km / 213mi longer than previously thought.

The Lungwebungu river begins in the highlands of Angola and flows for about 1 032km / 641mi before joining the Zambezi near Lukulu in Western province.

In 2022 and 2023, researchers from The Wilderness Project, together with the National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project and the Wild Bird Trust, paddled the entire length of the Zambezi River.

Based on the new research, the Zambezi is now considered to be 3 421km / 2 126mi long. It remains the fourth-longest river in Africa after the Nile, Congo and Niger rivers.

Cruising the Zambezi with Waterberry Lodge

The Lungwebungu in Angola starts much farther from the ocean than the previously accepted source in Zambia. It begins in an area known as the Angolan Highlands Water Tower, which receives heavy rainfall and feeds several major rivers, providing about 70% of the water that flows into the upper Zambezi.

The Lungwebungu flows through deep sands of the Kalahari, which naturally filter and clean the water. Large wetlands, including those around Cameia National Park, also help purify the water and support the river’s ecosystem.

The Zambezi River Basin covers about 1.37 million square kilometres across eight countries: Angola, Botswana, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

It is the largest river basin in southern Africa and an important biodiversity hotspot. Scientists have recorded more than 200 species of mammals, 700 of birds, 290 of reptiles and amphibians and 190 species of fish there.

PLACES TO STAY NEAR THE ZAMBEZI RIVER

Dulini Anabezi

Jollyboys Backpackers

Waterberry Zambezi Lodge

PHOTOS Waterberry Zambezi Lodge

‘Lodge of the Year’ Award for Lower Zambezi Property

Zambia Tourism — Fri, 06 Mar 2026 08:13:00 +0000

A small, family-owned camp in Lower Zambezi National Park has scooped up another major award: Royal Zambezi is the Luxury Travel Group’s ‘Lodge of the Year’ for 2026/7. This stunning accolade is testament to the team’s dedication to providing top-notch service, outstanding guiding and exemplary hospitality.

Set on the banks of the Zambezi river, its rooms range from a family unit all the way up to an impressive presidential suite. Even the deep copper bathtubs have views of the floodplain! The Royal Spa is one of the few bush spas in the country to offer more complex treatments like facials, reflexology, eyelash tinting and even mud therapy. All guests are treated to a complimentary hand or foot massage.

In addition to game drives with a highly experienced guiding team, activities include hiking, bush walks, seasonal catch-and-release fishing, boating, canoeing and birding. Food is not forgotten with an enticing plant-based menu available.

This latest award is one of many dating all the way back to 2016, a testimony to Royal Zambezi’s continuous commitment to excellence.

Two New High Season Flights to Come On Stream

Zambia Tourism — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:37:55 +0000

Zambia is becoming ever more connected with new cross-border flights from around the rest of Southern Africa. These are:

From 3 March 2026, Proflight Zambia will start a Lusaka–Livingstone-Windhoek route to Namibia that will fly on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays.
On 1 April 2026, eSwatini Air will start a service between eSwatini (formerly Swaziland) and Lusaka.

For a list of airports in Zambia, please click here. For more information about chartered flights to and from Zambia’s major destinations, please click here.

Date Set for 2026 Kuomboka Ceremony

Zambia Tourism — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:16:36 +0000

The colourful and sacred Kuomboka ceremony is held each year in Western Province. Dating back 300 years, the festival marks the moving of the King or ‘Litunga’ of the Lozi people to higher ground after summer rains. As the Barotse Plain is flooded by the Zambezi river, the Kuomboka – meaning ‘to rise from the water to dry land’ – ceremony takes place. It will take place on 28 March 2026.

The highlight is the journey of the Litunga on the royal barge – known as the Nalikwanda – from his household at Lealui across the Barotse floodplain. The barge is accompanied by 80 to 100 rowers wielding oars while his subjects beat regal Maoma drums, sing and dance. The Nalikwanda carries a massive carved elephant with moving ears, the symbol of royalty. It is an honour to be chosen as a paddler or rower, a position marked with a scarlet beret. A second barge, called the Nalwange (or egret), carries the queen. The bird’s wings are also designed to move as she progresses along the Zambezi.

Meanwhile between 200 000 and 250 000 spectators and subjects await the Litunga’s arrival on the bank and his court’s new location at Limulunga. The king returns to Lealui in about August in another festival known as Kufuluhela.

According to Wikipedia, Kuomboka has a rich history:

‘Kuomboka is said to have dated back to the 17th century, when there was a great flood called meyi a lungwangwa.^? People were afraid to escape the flood in their little dugout canoes. So it was that the high god, Nyambe, ordered a man called Nakambela to build the first great canoe, Nalikwanda, which means “for the people,” to escape the flood. Thus the start of what is known today as the Kuomboka ceremony. Held annually, the date of the ceremony was based on the height of the water and the moon’s phase. The Litunga consulted the Royal Graves beforehand, after which the royal Maoma drums were sounded to call the paddlers.

‘The first barge was made of reeds and called Njonjolo, though it soon came to be made by wood (reportedly by the first Litunga Mboo). Barges received praise names from Litunga: Mboo’s was called Sitandamwalye, Inyambo’s Lyamashandi, and Ngalama’s Notila. Yeta II used Notila during Kuombokas, but also built a barge called Nalikwanda. Mulambwa’s was reportedly called Njonjolo, though he is said to have maintained Nalikwanda. Tradition attributes the addition of the elephant to Mulambwa, who is said to have ridden one to become heir to the Litunga, after which it became a royal symbol.’

The royal barge is preceded by two scouts that check water levels, and the presence of animals and – in days gone by – the possibility of enemies. The ceremony mixes Lozi tradition with some colonial history, and takes at least six to eight hours. As the barge moves, the crew keep a fire onboard alight as the smoke is a sign to onlookers that the king is still alive. The three most prestigious drums are huge war drums dating at least 170 years.

The return trip is usually held in August with a journey called the Kufuluhela.

The Kuomboka shows off Lozi culture and tradition. Outsiders can visit provided they are respectful of the people and tradition, adhere to regulations and requests, and do not hinder the ceremony in any way. It is possible to combine the festival with a safari to nearby Liuwa Plain National Park or even Kafue National Park. Here are some accommodation options in Barotse.

PHOTO CREDIT African Parks | Marcus Westberg

New Compact Camp for Nsefu Sector

Zambia Tourism — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 10:17:31 +0000

The sought-after Nsefu Sector of South Luangwa National Park will soon have a comfortable camp for serious safari enthusiasts, wildlife photographers and birders. Once the base camp for the team that filmed the BBC’s incredible documentary Kingdom, about the lives of major predators in the area, the property is being spruced up for guests and will offer just four screed, canvas and thatch tents that enjoy Luangwa river views while being sheltered by mature ebony trees.

In a poignant tribute, the camp is named after Olimba, a successful leopardess who features in Kingdom and died at the old age of 14 in 2025 during an unsuccessful hunt. Her memory will live on at the camp that memorialises her on film in an area rightly known as ‘the Valley of the Leopard’ for its dense leopard population.

Olimba Camp will have a plunge pool, solar power, running water and indoor and outdoor showers. Guests will have access to the seasonal carmine bee-eater hide as well as the Kawere hide. The area is also known for Luangwa giraffe (formerly Thornicroft’s), 470 bird species and sizable numbers of lion, wild dog, elephant and buffalo, ensuring god predator-prey action. Just downstream is a productive lagoon with hippo, crocodile and aquatic birds.

In addition, the menu will be supplemented with fresh produce straight from the Remote Africa vegetable garden (radically cutting food miles) while the Tafika Fund supports the Mkasanga village school.

Access is via light aircraft (15-minute flight from Mfuwe Airport to Lukuzi airstrip) or a 90-minute+ road transfer from Mfuwe (included in the rate). Olimba Camp accepts eight guests or can be taken on an exclusive-use basis for a minimum of six guests in a group. It will be open from 1 May to 10 November annually.

Other Remote Africa Lodges – Olimba’s Sister Camps in South and North Luangwa

Updated Victoria Falls Entry Fees for Zim Side

Zambia Tourism — Mon, 16 Feb 2026 10:06:05 +0000

The Zimbabwean government has increased VAT (value-added tax) and applied it to tourism services. In light of this the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority has announced increases to entry fees for the Victoria Falls rainforest.

Entry for international day visitors is now as follows until further notice:

Rainforest main gate: USD58 per person
VIP gate: USD174pp
Moonlight viewing: USD116pp

Please note that this is to access the Falls on the Zimbabwean side, not the Zambian side.

More information

Click here for accommodation in Zambia around Vic Falls.

Click here for river lodges on the Zambezi and near Livingstone.

Click here for activities and adventures around Vic Falls.

PHOTO Tongabezi Lodge

New Walking Safari Experience for Kafue

Zambia Tourism — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 14:51:24 +0000

An exciting new 6-night safari adventure is kicking off in Kafue National Park. African Parks has teamed up with Lowveld Trails to create Wilderness Walking Trails through the Malala Wilderness Area of the park.

Trekkers will spend two nights in an en suite chalet at Nanzhila Lake Camp, three nights sleeping under the stars at a wild campsite in Malala, and a final night back at Nanzhila. The camp has views of the Musa river, a tributary of the great Kafue, and of Lake Itezhi-Tezhi with morning and afternoon game drives to go in search of any game not seen on the walk. The campsite at Malala has an ablution block with a shower, basin and toilet.

The Malala campsite in Kafue National Park

The area is a rich tapestry of miombo and mopane woodland, dambos and rivers that support plenty of puku, lechwe, roan, buffalo and elephant that in turn attract lion, wild dog, leopard and crocodile. The terrain is mostly flat but walkers must be fit enough to carry their own backpack (about 60-70l and 15kg / 33lb), get up steep riverbanks and move about 10km / 6mi a day on their own steam. The trails can accommodate a minimum of four guests and a maximum of eight.

For optimum walking conditions, set departures will run in dry season only at a cost of USD4 600 per person:

16-22 July
4-10 September
10-17 September
11-18 October

The rate includes all accommodation, transfers within the park, meals, drinks and activities like game drives. It excludes transport to Kafue and selected spirits.

A reduced self-catering rate is available for Zambian residents who want to do the trail. The park also offers a no-frills yamu loko option – please contact visit.kafue@africanparks.org for more details. For more information on Kafue in general, please click on www.visitkafue.org

This is a rare opportunity to see Zambia’s largest park on foot while beginning and ending with a classic game-drive safari during peak season.

To book, email reservations@lowveldtrails.co.za

PHOTOS African Parks | Emma Badger

Two Extra Tents for Unique South Luangwa Camp

Zambia Tourism — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 09:21:06 +0000

Named after legendary guide Jacob Shawa, Shawa Luangwa is a small eco camp in the Nsefu Sector of South Luangwa National Park, where the BBC One documentary Kingdom was filmed over five years.

The camp had opened two new tents to help cope with the demand for being in such an unspoilt part of the park. Simple but practical, the canvas walls roll up for expansive views of the Luangwa river and treeline. Elevated platforms allow wildlife to pass underneath and for beds to catch cooling breezes. Sunken bathtubs are an idyllic place to watch the sunset before heading for a delicious dinner under the stars.

Shawa Luangwa promises a laidback safari in rustic comfort. The camp has several deals and specials for 2026 – please click here for more information.

Spacious New Safari Villa for South Luangwa

Zambia Tourism — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 08:25:22 +0000

From September 2026, visitors to South Luangwa National Park will be able to claim back peace, quiet and time at an expansive villa that promises privacy and superb game viewing.

Chikunto Safaris will be opening Nthawi House, a 2-bedroom exclusive use villa. ‘Nthawi’ means ‘time’ and that’s exactly what you’ll find: time to relax, unwind, decompress and settle into the rhythms of the bush, especially if you make use of the Pay 4, Stay 5 offer that gives you a 20 percent long-stay discount. In addition, parties of four guests or more (up to six) get complimentary use of a private game-drive vehicle so you can explore South Luangwa in your own time. Nthawi guides will head out away from the busier Mfuwe Gate area to maximise the overall sense of exclusivity and keep you away from the high-season crowds.

Nthawi comprises two bedrooms, one with a super-king bed and another with a king bed that can be converted into twins. The interior space clocks in at 220m² / 720ft² while the total decking measures a massive 340m² / 1 115ft². You will have indoor and outdoor lounging and dining spaces, views of the waterhole and use of a counter-current saltwater pool – ideal for working off high tea treats and sundowner snacks! The team will provide in-room massages, the perfect way to spend your siesta time.

In addition to so much private space, you will also be able to get great photos at the dedicated hide (with camera mounts and beanbags) and then process them in the lodge photo studio. Chikunto also has one of the highest sleepouts in the park, giving you a 360-degree view of the surrounding bush.

Another ‘Nest’ Built in Kafue

Zambia Tourism — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 13:06:40 +0000

Exciting news for fans of Chisa Busanga Camp in Kafue National Park: there are now five ‘nests’ stay in and enjoy a bird’s eye view of the Busanga Plains! Green Safaris has added a nest in time for reopening for the mid-year dry season.

Inspired by the iconic weavers’ nests that are found all over Kafue, each is a carefully woven, cosy ‘tent’ that rises four metres or 13 feet off the ground. A large window or opening allows you to savour sunrises, sunsets and exceptional views.

To book and read more, click here.

Big Changes at Beloved South Luangwa Camp

Zambia Tourism — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 07:37:46 +0000

Supper under the stars at Croc’s Nest

Green season’s camp closures are traditionally a time for maintenance and refurbishments to be done. This year is no different at Flatdogs Camp in South Luangwa National Park where the team is busy rebuilding the Crocodile Nest private villa. Overlooking the Luangwa river, the Croc’s Nest was built a decade ago as a two-bedroom house with a popular third bedroom added in 2025.

This season the builders will be working with Protarp to create a new external tent structure to ensure guests are comfortable, cool and dry at all times. The interiors will also be redesigned and upgraded: expect new materials, liners and flooring when the camp reopens.

The Crocodile Nest has three bedrooms with en suite bathrooms, a private pool, a lounge, Wi-Fi and mains electricity. It takes children from six years and – best of all for parents – you can radio in your order off the menu and the staff will deliver your meals ‘room service’ style so you don’t have to miss a minute of swimming or game watching!

The spacious third bedroom at Croc’s Nest

Updated Visa Fees for 2026

Zambia Tourism — Wed, 07 Jan 2026 06:25:12 +0000

The Department of Immigration has released the new visa fees, effective from 1 January 2026 until further notice.

Single-entry visa

Was USD25

Now USD50

Double-entry visa

Was USD40

Now USD80

KAZA UniVisa

USD50 – no change

Multiple entry visa

Was USD75

Now USD80

Day-tripper visa

USD10 – no change

The Zambia-Zimbabwe border post at the Victoria Falls is now open 24 hours. Click here for more information.

Zambia also has a generous visa waiver programme with many nationalities not requiring visas – please read more here.

For general visa and entry information, please click here.

PHOTO The Victoria Falls by Waterberry Zambezi Lodge

3 Cheetahs Cubs Born in Private Reserve

Zambia Tourism — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 08:41:57 +0000

There are estimated to be only about a hundred cheetah left in the wild in Zambia, making the birth of three cubs in Lolelunga Private Reserve near Kafue National Park a source of celebration.

Five cheetahs – three females and two males – were introduced to the reserve in August 2024 in partnership with the Cheetah Metapopulation Initiative. Originating in South Africa, all the cats boast mixed genetic lines across multiple South African reserves.

The female, called Shanaya by the guides, gave birth a litter in August 2025 and three living cubs have been noted since.

Lolelunga is the result of a decade-long project to rewild the 30 000 hectare area that had been logged, deforested and poached out. Working with Kaonde villagers, the owners have restored the riverine ecosystem along the Lunga river to support reintroduced species such as cheetah, lion, buffalo, hippo, sable and sitatunga.

PHOTOS Lolelunga Private Reserve

Green Safaris’ Conservation Work Racks Up Awards

Zambia Tourism — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 13:07:57 +0000

Green Safaris, who have lodges in Victoria Falls, South Luangwa, Kafue and Lower Zambezi, have been rewarded for their regenerative tourism model fostered by founder Vincent Kouwenhoven. His belief is that, with the right approach and partners, ‘Tourism can restore more than it consumes’.

First on the impressive list is inclusion in the prestigious Skift 2025 Travel Climate 10. Skift is a well-regarded travel research and news organisation dedicated to tracking, analysing and reporting industry trends. Green Safaris was one of only 10 global companies to be named for its dedication to solar power usage, silent safaris and support for community-led climate resilience projects.

The company also celebrated receiving a silver award in the ‘Climate Adaptation and Resilience’ category at the Global Responsible Travel Awards in London. Once again, they were recognised for their expansion of clean energy, innovation in silent safaris, reforestation and community climate programmes.

The Tongabezi Trust School is educating the next generation of conservationists.

Community is at the heart of their perhaps most important awards. The Green Safaris Foundation produced Kusamalira: An African Conservation Story that focuses the many players that come together to support wildlife and environment preservation efforts in Zambia. ‘Kusamalira’ means ‘to be caring’ and this award-winning documentary showcases the work of the Zambian Carnivore Programme, Project Luangwa and Tongabezi Trust School among others.

Kusamalira has already been named the winner in the Sustainable Documentary category at the Finisterra Film Festival Brazil and picked up third prize for Best Environment and Sustainability Film at Finisterra Portugal.

Green Safaris operates the following lodges and camps:

Chisa Busanga in Kafue
Ila in Kafue
Potato Bush in Lower Zambezi
Shawa Luangwa in South Luangwa
Sindabezi in Victoria Falls
Sausage Tree in Lower Zambezi
Tongabezi in Victoria Falls

Zambia on Track to Reach 2025 Visitor Targets

Zambia Tourism — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 06:26:46 +0000

The Zambia Tourism Agency (ZTA) has announced that the industry is on track to reach its goal of attracting 2.4 million visitors this year, reporting that by October 2025, two million international arrivals had already been recorded. 2024 saw 2.2 million international arrivals and several advertising campaigns to key markets such as Germany, the UK, North America and South Africa – as well as to newer markets such as India, China and the Gulf states – should increase that number by several hundred thousand this year.

Currently, around 473 000 people are employed in the travel sector with projections suggesting this could rise to 613 000 by 2034 if visitor numbers continue to grow. A key concern of the ZTA is ensuring full compliance with regulatory standards by 2026: currently around 75% of tourism enterprises are compliant. Efforts are continuing to ensure all players are adhering to regulations.

In addition, upgrades are being rolled out to under-serviced tourism areas including Kasaba Bay, Livingstone, Sioma Ngwezi, Luiwa Plain and Lower Zambezi National Park to ensure road, electricity and water infrastructure and other essential services can support visitor numbers.

WHERE TO STAY

PHOTO CREDIT Royal Zambezi Lodge

2026 Deals and Specials for Kafue

Zambia Tourism — Wed, 26 Nov 2025 09:59:27 +0000

Kafue National Park is a must-see for every serious safari lover. Not only is it vast and teeming with game but it has only a handful of lodges, making it sought-after for photographers, birders, adventurers and those who want good, old-fashioned bush time. Some of the top camps and lodges are releasing their discounted rates for 2026 so scroll down to find your perfect accommodation…

Contact the lodges directly to enquire and plan your safari or see a list of international travel agents at the end.

Chisa Busanga Camp – luxury lodge

Stay for 4 nights minimum and get free flights and transfers from Lusaka
Pay for 3 nights and stay for 4 in green season
See Chisa Busanga Camp here

Ila Safari Lodge – luxury lodge

Stay for 4 nights minimum and get free flights and transfers from Lusaka
See Ila Safari Lodge here

Mawimbi Bush Camp – tented camp

Stay 4, pay 3 or second child (14 – 17 years) stays free or save 10% if entire camp is booked for exclusive use (March and November to December 2026)
Stay 7, pay 5 or stay 5, pay 4 or second child (14 – 17 years) stays free or 10% discount for exclusive use (April and May 2026)
Stay 7, pay 5 or stay 5, pay 4 or 1 sleepout night for 4-night stay or honeymooners get 2 sleepout nights for 4-night stay (June to October 2026)
See Mawimbi here

Mukambi Safari Lodge, Fig Tree Bush Camp and Busanga Plains Camp – luxury lodges

Book 2 nights at Mukambi, 2 nights at Fig Tree and 2 nights at Busanga Plains and get 1 night free in the starbed at Fig Tree or Busanga Plains (1 July to 31 October 2026)
Book 2 nights at Fig Tree and 3 nights at Busanga Plains and get 1 night free in the starbed at either camp (1 July to 31 October 2026)
Book 2 nights at Mukambi and 3 nights at Busanga Plains and get 1 free night in the Busanga Plains starbed (1 July to 31 October 2026)
Book 2 nights at Mukambi and 3 nights at Fig Tree and get 1 complimentary night in the Fig Tree starbed (1 May to 30 November 2026)
Reserve before 31 March 2026 and pay within 14 days to access select free road transfers, flights, national park fees and bed levies
See Mukambi Safari Lodge here
See Fig Tree Bush Camp here
See Busanga Plains Camp here

Start planning your 2026 Kafue trip now! If you need help, please contact the following travel agents or get in touch with the lodge directly:

Agents based in Zambia
Agents based in Europe
Agents base in the USA

We are always adding new deals, discounts and specials so be sure to check back regularly!

NOTES Correct at publication. Terms and conditions apply. E&OE.

2026 Deals and Specials for Lower Zambezi

Zambia Tourism — Wed, 19 Nov 2025 14:34:26 +0000

Many of the most popular lodges and camps in Lower Zambezi National Park are making it more affordable for you to visit in 2026 with discounts, deals and specials for groups, families, solos and honeymooners. In addition, the government has waived visa requirements for a large number of countries: 167 nationalities can enter Zambia without need a visa beforehand. Read more here about visa requirements.

Here are worthwhile discounts for you to take advantage of in 2026:

1.Chiawa Camp – luxury lodge

Second child stays free with parents and pays only park fees and conservation levies
Pay for 2 nights and stay for 3 nights in shoulder season
Pay for 4 nights and stay for 6 at any time
Groups of 6 or more people receive 10% discount at any time
See Chiawa Camp here

2.Dulini Anabezi – luxury lodge

Pay for 3 nights and stay for 4
Honeymooners pay 50% for one spouse with a minimum 3-night stay within 12 months of wedding date
Repeat guests receive a 15% discount for 3 nights or more
Pay for 8 nights and stay for 10 with a minimum of 4 nights at Dulini Anabezi and 5 nights at the Dulini Sabi Sand lodges in South Africa

3.Old Mondoro – comfortable bush camp

Pay for 2 nights and stay for 3 nights in shoulder season
Pay for 4 nights and stay for 6 at any time (must include 3 nights at Chiawa Camp)
Groups of 6 or more people receive 10% discount at any time
See Old Mondoro here

4.Potato Bush Camp – luxury lodge

Minimum 4-night stay with free transfers and flights to and from Kenneth Kuanda International Airport in Lusaka
Pay for 3 nights and stay for 4 during green season
See Potato Bush Camp here

5.Royal Zambezi Lodge – luxury lodge

Pay for 2 nights and stay for 3 for March to June 2026 and in November 2026
Pay for 3 nights and stay for 4 year-round
Pay for 4 nights and stay for 5 in high season (with possible free flights from Royal airstrip and honeymoon extras)
No single supplement for up to 4 people travelling in a group
Discounted children’s rates
Pay for 6, stay 8 (presidential suite guests get free return short-haul flight)
Pay for 4, stay 10 (presidential suite guests get free return short-haul flight)
Honeymoon deal includes massage, sparkling wine, 3-course private dinner, candle-lit bubble bath, floating lunch and room upgrade if possible)
See Royal Zambezi Lodge here

6.Sausage Tree Camp – luxury lodge

Minimum 4-night stay with free transfers and flights to and from Kenneth Kuanda International Airport in Lusaka
Pay for 3 nights and stay for 4 during green season
See Sausage Tree Camp here

Start planning your 2026 Lower Zambezi trip now! If you need help, please contact the following travel agents or get in touch with the lodge directly:

Agents based in Zambia
Agents based in Europe
Agents base in the USA

We are always adding new deals, discounts and specials so be sure to check back regularly!

NOTES Correct at publication. Terms and conditions apply. E&OE.