Joanna James
Home to some of the continent's most impressive natural wonders, Zambia is a dream destination for lovers of waterfalls and wildernesses. From iconic Victoria Falls to some of its best nature reserves, here's a look at the country's top natural wonders.
No trip to Zambia would be complete without witnessing Victoria Falls, which is one of the world's largest and most visually stunning waterfalls. Propelling down jets of water from a staggering height of 354 feet, Victoria Falls is 5604 feet or over 1700m wide. Creating the single largest sheet of water in the globe, this iconic cascade is rightly considered among the 7 Natural Wonders of the World. Twice as high as Niagara Falls, Victoria Falls is located on the border area between Zimbabwe and Zambia, offering views for those on both sides of the border. Easily accessible to those based at Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara or any similar Livingstone hotel, Victoria Falls is called "Mosi-oa-Tunya" by locals.
Zambezi River holds the honour of being the largest river to empty out into the Indian Ocean. As the 4th longest in all of Africa, the Zambezi feed the Victoria Falls and countless other waterfalls along its long and winding journey from Zambia to Angola and then back to Zambia again before travelling into Namibia and as far as Botswana. This mammoth river is only dammed near the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, which in turn has given birth to Lake Kariba, the largest lake that was ever to have been built by man.
Sprawled across an extensive area of 22,400 square kilometres, Kafue National Park is not only a nature lover's dream come true but the country's biggest national park. The leafy Kafue National Park is a prime safari destination inhabited by massive herds of zebras, wildebeests, Puku and red lechwe. The large number of antelopes occupying the park makes it a popular hunting ground for big cats the likes of cheetahs, leopards and lions while Cape wild dogs and hyenas are also known to occupy the area. Elephants, crocodiles and hippos are other reasons that wildlife enthusiasts flock to Kafue National Park.
Situated in Zambia's south-eastern quarter, South Luangwa National Park is Zambia's main safari park and wildlife hub to date. The park, which is spread out over 9,050 square kilometres, contains several lagoons and boasts nearly 60 mammal varieties and more than 400 bird species. The best way to explore the park is on a walking safari or a jeep tour.
Located on the Zambezi River's northern bank, Lower Zambezi National Park was a private game park before it was converted into a national sanctuary in 1983. As an area that has been protected from prying poachers, the pristine environment is home to lions, elephants, buffaloes, crocodiles, antelopes and hippos. The park offers a range of activities such as game drives, boat safaris, fishing trips and guided walks, allowing visitors to get up close with the wildlife and explore the stunning landscape. Additionally, the park is surrounded by local communities and provides opportunities for cultural exchange, making it a unique and enriching experience for visitors.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
