Zambia’s status as a safari destination is growing, particularly among travellers looking to safari off the beaten track, but operators still lack familiarity with the country.

Not as renowned as South Africa or Kenya as a safari location, Zambia does, however, have a growing profile in the sector.

Mareike Pietzsch, Marketing Content Developer for Jenman Safaris, says Zambia is popular with second-time safari travellers who’ve experienced some of the better known African spots and want to explore further off the beaten track. She points out that tourists may not see the Big 5 in one drive, as is a possibility in South Africa’s Sabi Sand, for example, but the range of animals is good.  Sightings include game not seen further south. 

Liuwa Plains, says Pietzsch, is a gem among Zambia’s wildlife facilities, but it requires a fly-in or long drive to reach it. Kafue National Park and Lower Zambezi National Park are more accessible and therefore draw greater crowds. South Luangwa also enjoys a good reputation.

Pietzsch says in Zambia’s favour is a good proficiency in English, and no need for yellow fever vaccinations. 

Lack of trade familiarity with the destination could also be an obstacle in the destination’s international acceptance. Says Suzanne Bayly-Coupe, MD of Classic Portfolio: “The demand from trade partners is still low as many promote the more traditional destinations. However, those who know how to sell Zambia are selling well as there are fewer competitors. It remains one of the safest countries in the world and the destination is seen as real and unique.”

In Zambia, Wilderness Safaris operates the remote Busanga Bush Camp on the Busanga Plains in Kafue, known for excellent lion viewing. Simon Stobbs, US Sales Manager, says interest in the location, with just four tents, is increasing as prospective travellers search for true wilderness encounters. “Wilderness concessions with a cap on passenger numbers are important for both exclusivity and to ensure that sensitive environments are protected, as more guests are becoming conscious of the type of products they travel to,” he comments.

SW Africa Destination Management’s Henk Graaff has seen a growth in the popularity of walking safaris in Zambia but finds the destination expensive. The Zambia Tourism Agency has acknowledged that accommodation packages are pricey and has urged tour operators to introduce more affordability into the destination. Operators, however, blame the government’s tax regime for high rates.

New and trending

• African Bush Camps is revamping its recently acquired Thorntree River Lodge on the banks of the Zambezi in Livingstone.
• Proflight will launch direct flights between Mfuwe and the Lower Zambezi between June 15 and October 31 next year, enabling clients to combine the South Luangwa and Zambezi valleys.
• Proflight is also bringing back the morning Lusaka-Lower Zambezi service and evening return, providing direct connections to Emirates flights in 2017.  From April 1-12, there will be no services between these two points, due to lack of business and the fact that some lodges only open for the season in time for the Easter weekend.
• The Kaza visa which allows travellers entry to both Zimbabwe and Zambia, has been suspended due to non-availability of forms on the Zambian side of the border.