The Zambian government has long recognised the economic importance of its wildernesses and is acutely aware of environmental concerns: almost 9% of the country is given over to national parks and game reserves. Most tourism is concentrated in eight of the 19 parks - Nsumbu, Kafue, Lochinvar, South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi, Kasanka, North Luangwa and Mosi-oa-Tunya the remainder, having fewer facilities. In general, safaris are limited to six to eight persons per vehicle (always accompanied by experienced guides), permitting the animal/bird lover to appreciate, in uninterrupted peace, the African wildlife roaming through an unspoilt natural environment. Herds of buffalo, elephant and antelope are easily spotted and there are plenty of lions and Zebra. There are also rhinos, monkeys, baboons, wild pigs, hippopotami and crocodiles. The region is good for bird enthusiasts; 400 different species of bird have been recorded in Lochinvar alone.

Although Zambia lies in the tropics, the height of the plateau ensures that the climate is seldom unpleasantly hot, except in the valleys. There are three seasons: the cool, dry winter season from May to September; the hot, dry season in October and November; and the rainy season, which is even hotter, from December to April.

Livingstone and the Victoria Falls
South Luangwa National Park
Lower Zambezi National Park
Victoria Falls National Park