Why Zambia is Africa’s Walking Safari Capital
If walking safaris had a birthplace, it would be Zambia — specifically, South Luangwa National Park. The concept of ditching the 4x4 and experiencing the bush on foot was pioneered here, and it still leads the pack when it comes to thrilling, immersive safari experiences.
But what do we mean by a walking safari? And is it always a gritty hard core Bear Grylls expedition?
The great thing about Zambia is that it gives you options. From a leisurely morning walk instead of a game drive to multi-day, boot-powered meanders from one remote camp to another.
At Cedarberg Africa, we love that you can mix and match. Want just a taste of walking? Easy. Prefer to do a full-on safari on foot, camping in simple fly-camps under the stars? Also doable. And we can tailor something in between if that’s more your style.
“In a vehicle, you see Africa. On foot, you feel it.”
A favourite saying among Zambia’s guiding community. This rings true, as with every step you become aware in the bush.
Why we love Walking safaris in Zambia
- Many options for walking in Zambia: enjoy a morning bush walk instead of a drive, stay at remote bush camps focused mainly on walking or join a specialist walking safari.
- Many remote bush camps are centred on walking, sometimes from one camp to another.
- We have some set departure walking safaris staying in fly camps and walking each day.
- You are accompanied by some of the finest guides in Africa.
Where to Go Walking in Zambia
- Lower Zambezi: Camps like Old Mondoro and Chiawa offer excellent guided walks along riverbanks and through cathedral-like forests.
- North Luangwa and Kafue: Remote and raw, ideal for walking purists and safari veterans.
Walking Safaris at a Bush Camp
We recommend staying at a bush camp in the South Luangwa which specializes in walking safaris, such as Bilimungwe Camp or Nsefu Camp.
Ideally, you split your time between 2-3 of these bush camps to enjoy the different terrain which attracts diverse wildlife. Some of our favourite guided walking safaris in South Luangwa include camp-to-camp routes between from Luwi to Nsolo, or Chindeni to Chamilandu. We recommend adding a couple of nights at a 3rd lodge focused on game drives for a well-rounded safari experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best time for a walking safari in Zambia?
The sweet spot is June to mid-September. Mornings are cool, wildlife viewing is prime, and you can comfortably walk for hours. Come October, you’re better off in a game vehicle with air moving past your face and a cold drink in hand.
Who would like a Zambia walking safari?
It’s ideal for second-time safari visitors, or anyone looking to connect with nature on a deeper level. But in Zambia, you don’t have to choose: almost every camp offers some form of walking safari — so even first-timers can try it out.
Do I need to be super fit to do a walking safari in Zambia?
Not at all! Most walks are leisurely, with frequent stops. We like the concept of ambling with meaning. But of course good general fitness will help you enjoy it more, especially in warmer months.
Check out these Zambia walking safaris:
South Luangwa mobile walking safarii with RPS - with set departure dates
South Luangwa Safari with Bushcamp Company – for tailored walking safaris between bushcamps
Back to Walking Holidays & Safaris in Africa for more destinations.
Want to experience Zambia the slow, thrilling way? Let’s talk walking safaris.
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Madeleine Baldwin
AFRICAN TRAVEL SPECIALIST
