Zambia & Zimbabwe Travel Guide

– A Complete Tourism, Safari, Visa & Travel Planning Guide for Indian Travellers

Zambia and Zimbabwe, located in Southern Africa, form one of the continent’s most thrilling and diverse travel circuits. Together, these countries offer some of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders, including the majestic Victoria Falls, massive wildlife-rich national parks, unspoiled river ecosystems, dramatic gorges, ancient cultural sites, and warm African hospitality. Though often overshadowed by more commercial destinations, Zambia and Zimbabwe are regarded by seasoned travellers as one of Africa’s most authentic and rewarding regions—ideal for wildlife safaris, river adventures, historical exploration, and luxury eco-lodge experiences.

Overview: Why Explore Zambia & Zimbabwe?

Zambia and Zimbabwe are neighbouring nations connected by the mighty Zambezi River, which forms the natural border between them. Their shared crown jewel is Victoria Falls—one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World—known locally as “Mosi-oa-Tunya,” meaning “The Smoke That Thunders.” Both countries offer superb safari experiences in world-renowned parks such as South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi, Hwange, Mana Pools, and Matobo Hills.

• Capital of Zambia: Lusaka
• Capital of Zimbabwe: Harare
• Main International Airports: Lusaka, Livingstone (Zambia), Victoria Falls Airport, Harare Airport
• Official Languages: Zambia – English; Zimbabwe – English, Shona, Ndebele
• Currencies: Zambia – Zambian Kwacha (ZMW); Zimbabwe – US Dollar is widely used
• Time Zone: Both countries are 3.5 hours behind IST

Major Tourist Attractions in Zambia & Zimbabwe

Both countries offer a mix of nature, wildlife, cultural heritage, river safaris, and geological wonders. Below are the most significant highlights travellers must include.

1. Victoria Falls – Shared Wonder of Zambia & Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls is the primary attraction of Southern Africa and one of the most powerful waterfalls in the world. Its roaring waters, misty spray columns, and dramatic gorges attract millions of visitors each year.

• Knife-Edge Bridge (Zambia): A walkway offering intense mist and close-up views of the falls.
• Devil’s Pool (Zambia): An adrenaline-filled natural pool on the edge of the falls.
• Victoria Falls Rainforest (Zimbabwe): Lush vegetation nourished by constant mist.
• Zambezi River Cruises: Sunset cruises with breathtaking scenery.

Distance between Livingstone (Zambia) and Victoria Falls Town (Zimbabwe): 10–12 km

2. South Luangwa National Park (Zambia)

Known as one of the greatest wildlife destinations in Africa, South Luangwa is famous for walking safaris, leopard sightings, and rich biodiversity.

• Large Leopard Population
• Nightingale Safaris: Excellent nocturnal wildlife viewing.
• Luangwa River Ecosystem: Hippos, crocodiles, and elephants.

Distance from Lusaka to South Luangwa: 600 km (10–12 hours by road or 1-hour flight to Mfuwe)

3. Lower Zambezi National Park (Zambia)

A riverfront paradise offering canoe safaris, boat cruises, tiger fishing, and wildlife sightings along the Zambezi River.

• Canoe Safaris
• Elephant Herds on Riverbanks
• Luxury River Lodges

Distance from Lusaka: 120 km (3–4 hours)

4. Hwange National Park (Zimbabwe)

Hwange is Zimbabwe’s largest national park and home to more than 40,000 elephants—the largest concentration in Africa.

• Superb Elephant Sightings
• Lions, Wild Dogs, Cheetahs
• Open Savannah Landscapes

Distance from Victoria Falls to Hwange: 100 km (2 hours)

5. Mana Pools National Park (Zimbabwe)

A UNESCO World Heritage Site located along the Zambezi River, Mana Pools is renowned for walking safaris, canoeing, and close wildlife encounters.

• Hippos & Elephants near Riverbanks
• Walking Safari Experiences
• Remote Wilderness Camps

Distance from Harare to Mana Pools: 390 km (6–7 hours)

6. Matobo Hills National Park (Zimbabwe)

Famous for balancing granite rocks, historic cave paintings, and rhino tracking experiences.

• Rock Art from Stone Age Tribes
• Unique Granite Domes
• White Rhino Tracking

Distance from Bulawayo: 35 km (40 minutes)

7. Lake Kariba (Zambia & Zimbabwe)

One of the world’s largest man-made lakes, known for its calm waters, fishing expeditions, and luxurious houseboat experiences.

• Houseboat Cruises
• Sunset Views
• Birdlife & Wildlife along the Shores

Distance from Kariba to Harare: 350 km (5–6 hours)

How to Reach Zambia & Zimbabwe from India (Kolkata or Delhi)

Travelling from Kolkata

There are no direct flights from Kolkata to Zambia or Zimbabwe. Connections are available through Middle Eastern and African hubs.

• Kolkata → Doha → Lusaka
• Kolkata → Dubai → Lusaka
• Kolkata → Addis Ababa → Lusaka
• Kolkata → Nairobi → Lusaka or Harare
• Kolkata → Johannesburg → Victoria Falls

Total Travel Time: 14–22 hours depending on layovers.

Travelling from New Delhi

Delhi offers more flight options with shorter travel times.

• Delhi → Addis Ababa → Lusaka
• Delhi → Addis Ababa → Harare
• Delhi → Doha → Lusaka
• Delhi → Dubai → Lusaka
• Delhi → Johannesburg → Victoria Falls

Total Travel Time: 12–18 hours depending on route.

Visa Guide for Indian Travellers – Zambia & Zimbabwe

Both Zambia and Zimbabwe offer tourist visas, eVisas, and shared visa options that simplify cross-border travel. Below is a clean breakdown for Indian visitors.

Zambia Tourist Visa

• eVisa: Most convenient; apply online.
• Visa on Arrival: Available for Indian citizens.
• Tourist Visa Validity: 30 days

Zimbabwe Tourist Visa

• Visa on Arrival: Available for Indian travellers.
• eVisa Option: Also available for convenience.
• Single or Double Entry: Depending on travel plan

KAZA UniVisa – Best Option

The **KAZA UniVisa** is the most traveller-friendly visa for visitors exploring both Zambia and Zimbabwe. It allows:

• Unlimited travel between Zambia & Zimbabwe
• Day trips to Botswana (Kasane Region)
• Validity: 30 days

Documents Required for Both Countries

• Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
• Passport-size photographs
• Return flight tickets
• Hotel booking proof
• Travel itinerary
• Bank statements
• Yellow fever certificate if transiting via high-risk countries

Embassy Offices in India

High Commission of the Republic of Zambia – New Delhi
(Full address may be inserted by user)

Embassy of the Republic of Zimbabwe – New Delhi
(Full address may be inserted by user)

Accommodation Options in Zambia & Zimbabwe

Both countries offer a range of accommodation—from riverside lodges and safari camps to mid-range hotels and luxury resorts. Below are the main stay areas without any hotel contact details.

Livingstone (Zambia Side)

• Riverside lodges along the Zambezi River
• Victoria Falls–view properties

Victoria Falls Town (Zimbabwe Side)

• Falls-view hotels
• Safari lodges located near Zambezi National Park

South Luangwa (Zambia)

• Luxury safari lodges
• Riverside camps

Hwange National Park (Zimbabwe)

• Inside-park game lodges
• Private wildlife camps

Lake Kariba

• Houseboat accommodations
• Lakefront safari lodges

Harare & Lusaka (City Areas)

• Business hotels
• Boutique city accommodations

Major Distances in Zambia & Zimbabwe

• Livingstone → Victoria Falls Town: 10–12 km
• Victoria Falls → Hwange: 100 km (2 hours)
• Livingstone → Lusaka: 480 km (6 hours)
• Lusaka → South Luangwa: 600 km (10–12 hours)
• Harare → Mana Pools: 390 km (6–7 hours)
• Harare → Lake Kariba: 350 km (5–6 hours)
• Bulawayo → Matobo Hills: 35 km (40 minutes)

Best Time to Visit Zambia & Zimbabwe

The region can be visited year-round, but the ideal time depends on what type of travel experience you prefer.

• May to October: Dry season, best wildlife viewing in all major national parks.
• June to August: Pleasant temperatures and peak safari conditions.
• November to April: Rainy season; lush landscapes but limited wildlife visibility.
• February to May: Victoria Falls at its fullest and most dramatic.

Suggested Itineraries (6–10 Days)

6-Day Itinerary

• Day 1 – Arrival in Livingstone
• Day 2 – Victoria Falls (Zambia Side)
• Day 3 – Zimbabwe Falls Tour
• Day 4 – Zambezi River Cruise & Adventure Activities
• Day 5 – Day Trip to Hwange National Park
• Day 6 – Departure

10-Day Itinerary

• Day 1 – Lusaka
• Day 2 – South Luangwa National Park
• Day 3 – South Luangwa Safari
• Day 4 – Fly to Livingstone
• Day 5 – Victoria Falls (Zambia)
• Day 6 – Cross to Zimbabwe
• Day 7 – Hwange National Park
• Day 8 – Lake Kariba
• Day 9 – Harare city tour
• Day 10 – Departure

Safety Tips for Travellers

• Carry passport & document copies.
• Use licensed safari operators only.
• Never walk near riverbanks alone—wildlife is unpredictable.
• Avoid travelling late at night on remote highways.
• Respect local customs in rural villages.
• Always follow your safari guide’s instructions.

Conclusion

Zambia and Zimbabwe are among Africa’s most rewarding travel destinations. From the thundering waters of Victoria Falls to the wildlife-rich plains of Hwange and South Luangwa, from the tranquil houseboat journeys on Lake Kariba to thrilling walking safaris along the Zambezi River, the region offers experiences that are rich, immersive, and unforgettable. With excellent connectivity from Kolkata and Delhi, streamlined visa options like the KAZA UniVisa, and a variety of accommodation choices, this circuit is ideal for travellers seeking authentic African wilderness and adventure. A journey through Zambia and Zimbabwe is not merely a holiday—it is an exploration of nature’s grandeur, cultural depth, and timeless African spirit.