8-Day Zambia and Zimbabwe: Walking Safaris to Victoria Falls

Arrive at Lusaka's Kenneth Kaunda International Airport and connect to a scheduled light aircraft flight to Mfuwe Airport, the gateway to South Luangwa National Park. The flight takes about 90 minutes and offers aerial views of the Luangwa River snaking through the valley floor. Your lodge vehicle will meet you at the airstrip for the short transfer. Settle in and enjoy your first sundowner overlooking the river, where hippos and elephants are often visible from the camp.

Head out at dawn for your first walking safari, led by a licensed guide and an armed game scout from the Zambia Wildlife Authority. You will track fresh animal prints along sandy river channels, identify birds by their calls, and learn to read the bush at ground level. The walk typically covers 6 to 10 kilometres over three hours. After lunch and a rest during the heat of the day, head out for an evening game drive that continues after dark with a spotlight, giving you the chance to spot leopards, civets, genets, and bushbabies.

A second full day in the valley with a morning game drive through the park's central areas around the Luangwa River. South Luangwa is famous for its leopard sightings, and the area around the main bridge is a reliable hotspot. After lunch, choose between another walking safari or a vehicle-based game drive. The Luangwa River attracts massive concentrations of hippos (some pools hold over 50 animals), and the dry season draws elephants, buffalo, and wild dogs to the remaining water sources.

Enjoy a final short walking safari at sunrise before breakfast and packing up. Transfer to Mfuwe Airport for the flight to Livingstone, which takes about two hours via a short stop. Arrive in Livingstone by early afternoon and transfer to your hotel near Victoria Falls. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, exploring the craft market along the main road or simply relaxing by the pool.

Walk to the Zambian side of Victoria Falls, known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya. The Knife-Edge Bridge offers a dramatic close-up view where you will be drenched by spray during high water months (March to July). Visit the statue of David Livingstone, the first European to see the falls in 1855. In the late afternoon, board a sunset cruise on the upper Zambezi River, drifting past hippos and elephants while sipping drinks as the sun sets over the floodplain.

Cross the border into Zimbabwe via the Victoria Falls Bridge (bring your passport and KAZA UniVisa). The Zimbabwe side offers arguably the best overall views of the falls, with a series of 16 viewpoints along a rainforest path running the full 1.7-kilometre width of the waterfall. After the falls, the brave can bungee jump 111 metres from the middle of the Victoria Falls Bridge, or try the bridge swing and zipline. Return to the Zambia side in the evening.

A free day to choose your own adventure. Top options include white water rafting on the Zambezi (Grade 5 rapids below the falls, widely considered among the best commercial rafting in the world), a helicopter or microlight flight over the falls for the aerial perspective, or a visit to Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park for a short game drive to see white rhinos. For a quieter day, visit Livingstone Museum, the oldest and largest museum in Zambia, or simply relax by the pool.

Transfer to either Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport in Livingstone (Zambia) or Victoria Falls Airport in Zimbabwe, depending on your onward flight. Both airports are within 30 minutes of your accommodation. If you have a late flight, there is time for last-minute curio shopping or a final walk along the Zambezi riverfront.

Do I need separate visas for Zambia and Zimbabwe?

The KAZA UniVisa ($50) covers both countries and allows multiple border crossings between Zambia and Zimbabwe for 30 days. It is available at the airport on arrival or at land borders. Citizens of some countries (including most EU nations) do not need a visa for Zambia at all. Check your specific nationality's requirements before travelling.

Are the walking safaris safe?

Yes. Walking safaris in South Luangwa are led by highly trained, licensed guides accompanied by armed game scouts from the Zambia Wildlife Authority. The guides have years of bush experience and prioritize safety at all times. Groups are kept small, usually no more than eight people. You will receive a thorough briefing before each walk.

How fit do I need to be for this trip?

Walking safaris cover 6 to 10 kilometres over relatively flat terrain, but you will be on your feet for about three hours in warm conditions. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended. The Victoria Falls activities like bungee jumping and rafting require a higher fitness level, but these are all optional.

Which side of Victoria Falls is better?

Both are worth visiting, which is why this itinerary includes both. The Zambia side gives you a close-up, immersive experience where you stand right at the edge of the falls. The Zimbabwe side offers the classic panoramic view across the full 1.7-kilometre width. Most travellers agree that seeing both sides is the best approach.

Is malaria a risk on this trip?

Yes, both South Luangwa and the Livingstone/Victoria Falls area are in malaria zones. Consult your doctor or a travel clinic about antimalarial medication at least four weeks before departure. Use insect repellent and sleep under mosquito nets (provided at all accommodations on this trip).