zambia // africa

INTO THE wild

In this landlocked African country , it ’ s all about the water . Ginny Cumming explores glorious Zambia .

When you think about Zambia … wait , hang on , have you ever thought about Zambia ? It ’ s one of those places that seems to slip under the radar , minding its own business and just getting on with things . But to ignore this butterfly-shaped patch of paradise in southern Africa would be a big mistake for anyone looking for a safe , stable and truly stunning safari destination . Expect to see huge numbers of big-game favourites like elephants , hippos and buffalo , plus loads of crocs and antelope , giraffe , incredible birdlife and so much more . There ’ s also a healthy population of magnificent predators including lions , leopards and Africa ’ s famed wild dogs . Spotting these magnificent creatures is what a safari holiday is all about . Going on early morning and late afternoon game drives is like being on a treasure hunt , where the prize is sighting Mother Nature ’ s finest , up close and in the wild . But a safari in Zambia is not just about game drives . In this landlocked country , it ’ s all about the water . World-famous rivers offer sanctuary and sustenance for animals , and unforgettable experiences for humans . They ’ re also the setting for extraordinary accommodation , often located right on the water ’ s edge so you can watch animals without even having to step foot off the deck of your luxury lodge or rustic bush camp . Of Zambia ’ s 20 national parks , two of the most spectacular and safari-worthy are South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi . Wildlife viewing here is some of the best on the entire continent . South Luangwa National Park is named after the Luangwa River , which is the lifeblood of the region . Some 400 different bird species and more than 60 species of

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