Best Time to Visit Zambia for Safari

The Dry Season: May to October

The dry season is the best time to visit Zambia for a safari. The weather is dry and pleasant, and the lack of vegetation makes it easy to spot wildlife. This is also the best time for walking safaris, which are a specialty of Zambia. The South Luangwa National Park is particularly famous for its walking safaris, offering an intimate and immersive bush experience. This is the peak season for tourism, so be sure to book your trip well in advance. Our destinations page has more on the South Luangwa and other top safari destinations in Zambia.

The Green Season: November to April

The green season in Zambia is a time of lush landscapes and incredible birdwatching. This is also the time when the Victoria Falls is at its most spectacular, with a huge volume of water cascading over the cliffs. The green season is the low season for tourism, so you can enjoy lower prices and fewer crowds. However, some safari camps may close during this time, and the rains can make some areas inaccessible. Our knowledge center has more on the pros and cons of visiting Zambia during the green season.

The Emerald Season

The green season in Zambia is also known as the "emerald season" because of the vibrant green landscapes. This is a great time for photography, with dramatic skies and beautiful light. The emerald season is also a good time for boating safaris on the Zambezi River. Our safari advisors can help you plan a unique and unforgettable emerald season safari.