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1 Week in Zambia: The Ultimate 2025 Itinerary (With Insider Tips)

Plan your perfect week in Zambia with our 2025 itinerary covering Victoria Falls, South Luangwa, Livingstone, and Lower Zambezi. Includes safari tips, local insights, and money-saving advice from a seasoned traveler.

Introduction: Why Zambia Deserves Your Attention in 2025

The first time I stepped off the plane at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka, I was hit by that distinctive African heat and the immediate warmth of Zambian smiles. Despite having visited 14 African countries, something about Zambia felt different. Three visits later, I’m still discovering new wonders in this often-overlooked gem of southern Africa.

In 2025, Zambia is having a moment – with improved infrastructure, new lodges opening in key national parks, and still far fewer tourists than neighboring countries. This makes it the perfect time to experience what locals call “the real Africa” without the crowds that plague other safari destinations.

With only one week to explore, you’ll need to be strategic. I’ve made plenty of mistakes on my journeys here (including an ill-advised attempt to cram in too many parks), so I’ve crafted this itinerary to maximize your time while maintaining a pace that allows you to truly experience Zambia beyond just checking boxes.

From the thundering Victoria Falls to the wildlife-rich South Luangwa National Park, this 7-day adventure balances iconic sights, authentic cultural experiences, and breathtaking safaris – all while sharing the insider tips I wish I’d known before my first visit.

Planning Your 7-Day Zambia Adventure

Before diving into the day-by-day itinerary, let’s talk logistics. Zambia is vast, with limited transportation infrastructure, so planning is essential.

Best Time to Visit Zambia

Zambia has distinct seasons that dramatically affect your experience:

  • Dry Season (May to October): The prime time for wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources. June-August offers pleasant temperatures (18-25°C) while September-October gets quite hot (up to 40°C) but offers the most concentrated wildlife viewing.
  • Green Season (November to April): The rainy season brings lush landscapes and newborn animals, but some roads become impassable and certain camps close. However, prices drop by 30-40%, and Victoria Falls flows at its mightiest from February to May.

For a one-week trip, I recommend visiting during the dry season for reliable wildlife sightings and easier travel between destinations. My itinerary assumes a May-October visit, but I’ll note adjustments for green season travelers.

Getting to Zambia in 2025

Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN) in Lusaka is the main international gateway, with increasing connections from major hubs like Johannesburg, Nairobi, Dubai, and Addis Ababa. Starting in 2025, there are new seasonal direct flights from London, making access easier than ever.

For this itinerary, I recommend flying into Livingstone Airport (LVI) – closest to Victoria Falls – and departing from Lusaka (LUN), creating an efficient route without backtracking.

Transportation Within Zambia

Given Zambia’s size and the limited time, this itinerary incorporates:

  • Small aircraft transfers: Expensive but time-saving and offering spectacular aerial views
  • Private road transfers: For shorter distances
  • Self-driving is possible but not recommended for first-time visitors with only a week (I’ve done it, but it significantly cuts into your experience time)

Money-Saving Tip #1: If you’re on a tighter budget, consider group transfers between major destinations. Companies like Wildlife Camp run scheduled shuttles between Lusaka and South Luangwa at about 60% the cost of private transfers.

Day 1-2: Livingstone & Victoria Falls

Day 1: Arrival & First Glimpse of the Falls

Arriving at Livingstone Airport, you’ll be met by your transfer driver for the 25-minute drive to your accommodation. I recommend staying on the Zambian side of Victoria Falls rather than crossing to Zimbabwe, as it allows easier access to both the falls and other Livingstone attractions.

After check-in and lunch, head straight to Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park (which contains the Zambian side of Victoria Falls). The park entrance fee is 180 Zambian Kwacha (about $7) for foreigners in 2025. Spend the afternoon exploring the network of paths along the falls.

Unlike my first visit when I rushed through in under an hour, I recommend allowing at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate different viewpoints and take photos. The Knife-Edge Bridge offers particularly dramatic views, though prepare to get soaked during high water season (February-June)!

Local Phrase #1: “Mosi-oa-Tunya” means “The Smoke That Thunders” in the local Kololo language – a far more evocative name than Victoria Falls, which was named by European explorer David Livingstone for his queen.

For dinner, head to Café Buzz in Livingstone town for authentic Zambian food. Try the nshima (maize porridge) with side dishes like ifisashi (greens in peanut sauce) for around 65-85 kwacha ($3-4).

Day 2: Adventures Around Victoria Falls

Wake up early for a sunrise boat cruise on the Zambezi River (around $45 per person). This provides a different perspective of the area and excellent opportunities to spot hippos, crocodiles, and riverside elephants without the midday heat.

After breakfast, choose ONE of these popular activities (trying to cram in more was my first-timer mistake):

  1. White Water Rafting: The Zambezi offers world-class rapids (class IV-V) below the falls. Half-day trips cost around $150.
  2. Helicopter Flight: The “Flight of Angels” gives you spectacular aerial views of the falls (15 minutes for $185 or 30 minutes for $315).
  3. Devil’s Pool: Swim at the very edge of the falls (only available during low water season, typically August-December, $110 including breakfast or lunch).

Money-Saving Tip #2: Book activities directly with local operators in Livingstone rather than through your hotel or international websites. You’ll save 15-25% on most activities. I recommend Safari Par Excellence or Livingstone’s Adventure for reliable local bookings.

In the late afternoon, visit the Mukuni Village (around $30 including transport) to learn about local Toka-Leya culture and traditional ways of life. Unlike my awkward first visit when I stumbled through the protocol, I recommend arranging through a reputable company that has established relationships with the village to ensure the experience is respectful and beneficial to the community.

End your day with dinner at The Waterfront, where you can watch the sunset over the Zambezi while enjoying local specialties like Zambezi bream fish (around 250-350 kwacha or $12-17).

Accommodation Options in Livingstone:

Budget Level Recommended Property Approximate Cost/Night Why I Recommend It
Luxury Royal Livingstone Hotel $450-650 Walking distance to the falls with zebras and giraffes on the property
Mid-range AVANI Victoria Falls Resort $180-240 Colorful Zambian-inspired design and also within walking distance to falls
Budget Jollyboys Backpackers $25-75 Social atmosphere, helpful staff for booking activities, pool

Days 3-5: South Luangwa National Park

Day 3: Transfer to South Luangwa

This morning, you’ll take a commercial flight from Livingstone to Mfuwe (the gateway to South Luangwa) with a connection in Lusaka. The total journey takes about 3-4 hours. These flights don’t operate daily, so your itinerary might need adjustment based on flight schedules.

Upon arrival at Mfuwe Airport, a representative from your lodge will meet you for the transfer to your accommodation. The drive to most lodges takes 30 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on location, but it’s essentially a game drive as you’ll pass through parts of the park or its buffer zone.

South Luangwa National Park is often called one of Africa’s best-kept secrets and is the birthplace of the walking safari. The concentration of wildlife along the Luangwa River is among the most intense in Africa, particularly as the dry season progresses.

After settling into your lodge and enjoying lunch, you’ll head out for your first afternoon/evening game drive around 3:30-4:00 PM. South Luangwa is known for excellent leopard sightings, along with large elephant herds, endemic Thornicroft’s giraffe, and over 400 bird species.

My Mistake #2: On my first visit, I chose a lodge outside the park to save money, not realizing the daily park entrance fees ($25 per day in 2025) would add up, plus we lost valuable wildlife viewing time on transfers. Staying inside the park or right at the boundary provides better value and experience.

Day 4: Full Day Safari Experience

Today is dedicated to fully experiencing South Luangwa’s remarkable wildlife. Most lodges offer this daily schedule:

  • 5:30 AM: Wake-up call with coffee/tea
  • 6:00 AM: Morning game drive (when animals are most active)
  • 10:30 AM: Return for brunch
  • 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM: Siesta time (rest during the hottest part of the day)
  • 3:30 PM: Afternoon tea
  • 4:00 PM: Afternoon/night game drive
  • 8:00 PM: Return for dinner

Instead of a morning drive, I highly recommend booking a walking safari (usually at no extra cost at most lodges). South Luangwa pioneered this activity, and experiencing the bush on foot with an armed scout offers a completely different perspective on the ecosystem. You’ll learn about tracks, plants, insects, and smaller aspects of the environment often missed from a vehicle.

Local Phrase #2: “Mphona” (pronounced m-po-na) means “hello” in Nyanja, one of Zambia’s major languages. Using this greeting with your guides and camp staff always brings warm smiles and appreciation.

During your afternoon drive, your guide will find a scenic spot to stop for sundowners (drinks at sunset). The combination of the orange African sun setting over the Luangwa River while hippos grunt in the background is an unforgettable sensory experience. The smell of wild sage crushed under your vehicle mixed with the distinctive musky scent of nearby elephants creates what many call the “smell of Africa.”

Day 5: Morning Safari & Cultural Visit

Enjoy your final morning game drive in South Luangwa, focusing on any animals you haven’t yet spotted. The park is home to 60+ mammal species, including some rarely seen in other safari destinations like Cookson’s wildebeest and Crawshay’s zebra.

After brunch, arrange a visit to the Mulberry Mongoose Workshop near Mfuwe, where local artisans create beautiful jewelry from snare wire removed from the park – turning tools of destruction into objects of beauty while providing employment. Pieces range from $15-100 and make meaningful souvenirs that support conservation.

Also worth visiting is Project Luangwe, a community initiative supporting local schools and entrepreneurs. You’ll gain insight into how tourism directly benefits local communities when done responsibly.

Money-Saving Tip #3: Most South Luangwa lodges offer a free night when booking multiple nights (typically stay 4, pay 3), even in high season. If you can extend your Zambia trip by just one day, you’ll get essentially free accommodation for that extra night.

Accommodation Options in South Luangwa:

Budget Level Recommended Property Approximate Cost/Night Why I Recommend It
Luxury Time + Tide Chinzombo $850-1,200 Stunning modernist design, private plunge pools, outstanding guides
Mid-range Flatdogs Camp $350-450 Great value, excellent food, variety of accommodation types
Budget Wildlife Camp $80-180 Riverside location, self-catering options, friendly atmosphere

Days 6-7: Lower Zambezi & Departure

Day 6: Transfer to Lower Zambezi

This morning, you’ll take a small aircraft flight directly from Mfuwe to Royal Airstrip in Lower Zambezi National Park. The scenic flight takes about 1.5 hours and offers spectacular views of the Luangwa and Zambezi valleys.

Lower Zambezi National Park offers a different safari experience from South Luangwa. The beautiful Zambezi River creates the border with Zimbabwe (where Mana Pools National Park sits on the opposite bank), and the mountains of the escarpment form a dramatic backdrop.

What makes Lower Zambezi special is the variety of activities available. Beyond traditional game drives, you can explore via:

  • Canoe safaris: Quietly glide past bathing elephants and hippos
  • Boat cruises: Perfect for photography and fishing
  • Walking safaris: With armed scouts in the early mornings
  • Fishing: The Zambezi is famous for tiger fishing (catch and release)

After arriving and settling into your lodge, enjoy lunch overlooking the river. The proximity of wildlife is astonishing – elephants often wander through the unfenced camps, and hippos graze on the lawns at night (which is why escorts to your room after dark are mandatory!).

In the afternoon, I recommend a boat cruise. This allows you to see the park from a different perspective while also enjoying close encounters with water-loving wildlife. Watch crocodiles slip silently into the water and listen for the distinctive snort of hippos warning you not to approach too closely.

Local Phrase #3: “Zikomo” (zee-koh-mo) means “thank you” in Nyanja. Use it liberally with your guides, lodge staff, and anyone who helps during your journey.

Day 7: Morning Activity & Return to Lusaka

For your final morning in Zambia, choose between a game drive, canoe trip, or walking safari based on your interests and what you haven’t yet experienced.

If you opt for canoeing (my personal favorite), you’ll paddle gently downstream with the current, requiring minimal effort. The guides do most of the work while you focus on wildlife viewing and photography. Passing elephants at eye level from a canoe creates an intimacy with these giants that cannot be matched in a vehicle.

My Mistake #3: On my first Lower Zambezi visit, I was too nervous to try canoeing, worried about hippos and crocodiles. When I finally tried it on my third Zambia trip, I realized how safe it is with experienced guides who understand animal behavior – and it became my favorite safari activity!

After lunch, you’ll take an afternoon flight from Royal Airstrip directly to Lusaka International Airport for your evening departure flight. Most international flights leave Lusaka between 6PM-midnight, perfectly timed with afternoon arrivals from the national parks.

If you have a few hours in Lusaka before your flight, consider visiting the Kabwata Cultural Village for last-minute souvenir shopping, where artisans sell their crafts directly with fixed prices (no haggling needed).

Accommodation Options in Lower Zambezi:

Budget Level Recommended Property Approximate Cost/Night Why I Recommend It
Luxury Chiawa Camp $950-1,300 Zambia’s first safari camp, riverside location, exceptional service
Mid-range Anabezi Luxury Tented Camp $650-850 Beautiful tented suites, excellent wildlife viewing location
Budget Kasaka River Lodge $390-550 Great value, comfortable tents, just outside the park boundary

Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Zambian Adventure

Zambia has transformed me as a traveler. The raw beauty of its landscapes, the abundance of wildlife, and the genuine warmth of its people create an experience that’s increasingly rare in our over-touristed world. With this one-week itinerary, you’ll have experienced the highlights while still maintaining a pace that allows for real connection.

Here’s your 5-step action plan for making this Zambian adventure a reality in 2025:

  1. Book flights 6-9 months in advance to secure the best rates, especially if traveling during peak season (July-October).
  2. Reserve lodges at least 6 months ahead, particularly for the premium properties which often sell out a year in advance.
  3. Arrange domestic flights and transfers through a local operator like Zambezi.com or Proflight (for scheduled services) at least 3 months before travel.
  4. Get your e-visa online through the official Zambian immigration website 1-2 months before departure.
  5. Pack strategically: neutral-colored clothing (avoid blue/black which attracts tsetse flies), a good camera, binoculars, and US dollars in small denominations for tips and some purchases.

Sustainability Tip: Many lodges now offer discount incentives if you offset your carbon footprint from flights. Ask when booking if they partner with carbon offset programs like Carbon Footprint for discounted stays. I saved 10% at Flatdogs Camp through their green initiative program.

The beauty of Zambia lies in its authenticity. As tourism grows (visitor numbers increased 18% in 2023-2024), now is the time to experience this extraordinary country before the secret gets out completely. Whether you’re watching hippos from a canoe, feeling the spray of Victoria Falls on your face, or simply sharing stories around a campfire under the impossibly starry African sky, Zambia delivers the Africa of your imagination.

Frequently Asked Questions About Zambia Travel

Is Zambia safe for tourists?

Yes, Zambia is generally very safe for tourists and has a reputation as one of Africa’s most stable and friendly countries. Violent crime against tourists is rare. The main safety concerns are related to road conditions, wildlife encounters (always listen to your guides), and general travel precautions like watching your belongings in cities and crowded areas. The Zambian people are known for their hospitality and genuine kindness toward visitors.

Do I need vaccinations for Zambia?

Yellow fever vaccination is required only if you’re arriving from a country with yellow fever risk. Other recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and routine vaccines (measles, polio, etc.). Malaria prevention is essential as Zambia is a high-risk country – consult your travel doctor about appropriate antimalarial medication at least one month before travel.

What is the currency in Zambia?

The Zambian Kwacha (ZMW) is the local currency. In 2025, US dollars are still widely accepted at lodges, but you’ll need kwacha for markets, smaller establishments, and tips. ATMs are available in Lusaka, Livingstone, and some larger towns, but be aware that they sometimes run out of cash. I recommend bringing US dollars in small denominations and exchanging some at the airport upon arrival.

How expensive is Zambia compared to other safari destinations?

Zambia tends to be 15-20% less expensive than comparable safari experiences in Botswana or Tanzania, but is not a budget destination. The remote locations of national parks and limited infrastructure make transportation costly. However, there are options at various price points, from luxury lodges ($800-1,500 per person per night) to mid-range ($300-600) and budget accommodations ($80-250). Self-driving and camping can reduce costs significantly for more adventurous travelers.

What should I pack for Zambia?

Pack light, neutral-colored clothing (khaki, olive, tan); a warm jacket for cool mornings/evenings (essential May-August); good binoculars; a camera with zoom lens; sun protection; insect repellent containing DEET; a small first aid kit; and a headlamp/flashlight. Lodges provide many essentials and typically offer same-day laundry service, so you can manage with less clothing than you might expect.

Can I drink the water in Zambia?

Stick to bottled water, which is provided at all lodges and hotels. Ice at reputable establishments is generally safe as it’s made from purified water. All safari lodges provide complimentary bottled or filtered water.

What adaptors do I need for Zambia?

Zambia uses the British-style three-pin socket (type G). The standard voltage is 230V. Most safari lodges have charging facilities for cameras and phones, but charging options may be limited to certain hours at camps running on generators.

How’s the internet connectivity in Zambia?

WiFi is available at most accommodations in Livingstone and Lusaka, but can be slow and intermittent. In national parks, connectivity varies widely – some luxury lodges offer reliable WiFi in common areas, while others have very limited or no connectivity. Mobile data works near larger towns and some parts of the parks. Consider this digital detox an opportunity to fully immerse in the experience rather than a limitation!

References and Further Reading