Family Safaris in Zambia

Zambia is emerging as one of Africa’s best kept secrets for family safaris, featuring incredible predator populations, unspoiled national parks and great value family-friendly camps. From the heart of the legendary South Luangwa National Park to the pristine waters of the Lower Zambezi, Zambia offers a safari experience that balances raw wilderness with accessible, family-oriented adventure. Here’s a look at why Zambia is an ideal choice for families looking for a safari adventure that caters to all ages.

Unique Wildlife Encounters

One of the main draws of Zambia is its diverse wildlife, which can be observed in some of Africa’s largest untouched wildernesses. South Luangwa National Park, nicknamed the ‘Valley of the Leopard,’ is renowned as one of the best places to spot the elusive cats hunting large herds of impala from the treetops. Game drives along the Luangwa River have even been known to spot up to 8 different individuals in a matter of days. The park is also home to extraordinarily dense concentrations of lion, buffalo and elephant as well as the critically endangered black rhino in the North Luangwa, making it an ideal destination for a Big Five family safari. 

In the Lower Zambezi National Park, families can explore herds of elephants, hippos, and crocodiles along the Zambezi River by boat or canoe, offering unique water-based safari experiences. Meanwhile, Kafue National Park is known for its ‘flying lions,’ where Zambia’s Papyrus Lion Pride leaps over the region’s many river channels, offering an insight into the unique adaptations of Zambia wildlife. With a mix of exhilarating and accessible wildlife encounters, Zambia stands out as the perfect destination for family safaris.

Variety of Family-Friendly Activities

Zambia stands out as one of the best family safari destinations due to its extensive range of activities that cater to all ages. Many safari camps offer dedicated children’s programs that combine learning with hands-on activities. For example, African Bush Camps’ Ngwana Club offers specially designed nature walks, authentic cooking classes and campfire storytelling sessions led by local guides who are passionate about their culture and natural environment.

The Zambezi River meanwhile offers a wide range of water-based activities perfect for families. Canoeing safaris allow families to paddle alongside gentle hippos and observe elephants drinking along the riverbanks. While the river also allows for catch-and-release fishing, which can be a fun and engaging experience for younger family members. In Livingstone, additional family activities include guided tours of the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, thrilling helicopter rides over the Falls, and cultural visits to local villages, which provide memorable experiences that highlight Zambia’s vibrant heritage.

Great Value Family Safari

Zambia is one of the best-value destinations for African family safaris, with all-inclusive itineraries often significantly cheaper than in other destinations. 

Camps like Flatdogs, Baines River Camp, Chundukwa, and Mukambi Safari Lodge provide simple, unfussy accommodation that still delivers remarkable safari adventures and top notch service. Moreover, beyond the peak dry season, Zambia’s ‘emerald season’ from November to April is one of the best times to visit for even greater value. During this time, families can enjoy the lush, green landscapes, vibrant bird watching opportunities, and fewer crowds, making it an ideal choice for keen birding families looking to take advantage of reduced rates. With this combination of seasonal affordability and a wide selection of family-friendly camps, family safaris in Zambia offer exceptional value. 

Authentic, Intimate Safari Lodges

Zambia has an incredible offering of family-friendly safari camps and lodges, ranging from some of the most luxurious exclusive-use lodges to more rustic tented bush camps. 

Most camps in Zambia have family suites or interconnected tents that allow families to stay together while still enjoying their own private space in the bush. For example, Old Mondoro Camp in the Lower Zambezi has converted its owners’ property into a two-bedroom family suite with its own campfire and picturesque shaded terrace. Moreover, larger groups looking for a more exclusive family safari in Zambia can opt for one of the exclusive-use lodges. One standout choice is Sunset House at Kafunta Lodge which offers an exclusive retreat with three en-suite bedrooms, a private pool, and dedicated chef and butler services. This ensures an all-inclusive experience tailored to your family’s needs, allowing you to enjoy the luxury of privacy while still being immersed in the breathtaking Zambian wilderness. 

Emphasis on Sustainability and Conservation 

Zambia is a perfect destination for environmentally aware families looking to encourage their children to take an interest in protecting nature and conserving the natural environment.  

The Green Safaris portfolio of stylish properties prides itself on setting the standard for sustainable luxury across the globe. Their fleet of pioneering e-Cruisers has introduced the ‘Silent Safari’ to Zambia, allowing families to experience wildlife up close without disturbing the animals. Their ban on single-use plastics and the use of solar power at Shawa Luangwa Camp and Ila Safari Lodge, mean families can enjoy a five-star safari experience while minimising their environmental footprint.

Many safari lodges are also involved in conservation projects and community initiatives, and welcome families to participate. Musekese Camp, for example, was founded by conservationists Phil Jeffery and Tyrone McKeith who regularly invite family safaris to participate in vital conservation initiatives. Families can explore the Musekese Conservation Base to learn about preserving the Kafue ecosystem and supporting local communities through hands-on activities and educational tours. These experiences add depth to the safari experience, allowing families to gain a better understanding of the local culture and conservation efforts, and creating lasting memories for children that extend beyond animal sightings.

An Unspoiled Landscape

Zambia remains one of Africa’s lesser-visited safari destinations, offering an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience for families. Here, you can immerse yourselves in the serenity of vast national parks like South Luangwa and Kafue, where the absence of large crowds allows for thrilling game drives and walking safaris without the disturbance of other game vehicles.

The journey to remote camps, such as those on the secluded Busanga Plains, often involves small charter flights or scenic drives through picturesque rural villages, enhancing the adventure. This allows families to witness Zambia’s diverse landscapes—rolling savannas, lush wetlands, and miombo woodlands rivers—while immersing themselves within friendly local communities. The unspoiled beauty of Zambia therefore offers a true sense of exploration and discovery, ensuring that every family safari is a unique and memorable adventure.

Practical Tips for Families Planning a Zambian Safari

• Best Time to Visit: June to October is the prime time for Zambia safari holidays, with dry, sunny days perfect for game-viewing. Wildlife gathers around waterholes, offering spectacular sightings of elephants, lions, and leopards, while Kafue National Park opens for exceptional experiences as floodwaters recede.
• Age Recommendations: While Zambia’s safari camps are family-friendly, it’s worth checking with specific lodges for age recommendations on activities like walking safaris and canoe trips, as some may have age restrictions.

With its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and wide range of activities, Zambia is an incredible destination for family safaris. The country’s family-friendly lodges, focus on conservation, and unspoilt national parks create a welcoming environment for guests of all ages. Whether exploring the Zambezi River or embarking on a thrilling game drive in South Luangwa, a family safari in Zambia promises an unforgettable adventure that both children and parents will cherish. 

Dreaming of going on a luxury safari in Zambia? See our magnificent selection of itineraries and plush accommodations, strategically situated near the country’s most sought-after wildlife parks and reserves. Contact us now to begin planning your safari adventure.

Some images used in this blog are the property of our partners. Please contact us for more details.

Author: Cameron