fbpx
3.236.209.138
New Set

Here Are 7 Incredible Animals You Can See in Zambia

HOME > JOURNAL > AFRICA > Here Are 7 Incredible Animals You Can See in Zambia

The landlocked country of Zambia is home to the immense Luangwa Valley, the grand Victoria Falls, and the wild Zambezi River, plus over a dozen National Parks and many significant wildlife conservation initiatives. It is no surprise that Zambia is where adventurous travellers seek raw African wilderness. There’s no better way to get close to African wildlife than on one of Zambia’s famous safaris. Here are just seven of the many incredible animals to observe in their natural habitats.

About the Author

About the Author

"Having grown up in South Africa, visiting the region’s wild places was a staple of my upbringing. This left a lasting passion for Africa’s wildlife and natural beauty that translated itself into a fulfilling career in travel, arranging safari trips to Africa’s remote and exotic places."

SENIOR AFRICA SPECIALIST

Matt

Enquire Here

1. AFRICAN ELEPHANTS

The largest species of elephant, African elephants roam the river-heavy National Parks of Zambia including South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi, and Kafue. Perhaps the most endearing giant mammal, elephants live in close matriarchal families similar to humans. The members of the family are so close you’ll rarely see them more than a few steps away from each other.

2. LIONS

The king of the jungle spends its time hunting or lounging in the grassland areas of Zambia. The southern region of South Luangwa and Kafue National Park both have large prides within small territories, so your chances of spotting one of these majestic felines are fairly good. If you’re lucky, you may even catch a pride of lions climbing trees in Kafue, where they are known to be extra playful.

3. WHITE RHINOS

The largest species of rhinoceros, white rhinos were once rare in southern Africa due to poaching. However, in 2010 the Zambia Wildlife Authority relocated four white rhinos from South Africa to Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. Today, a herd of over 10 lives near Victoria Falls, heavily guarded to avoid further poaching.

4. HIPPOS

Hippopotamuses are semiaquatic mammals that spend their days cooling off in rivers. You can spot them munching on grass along the rivers in South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi, and Kafue. It is best to keep your distance since these huge creatures can be territorial in water. If you hear their warning snorts, move away to avoid a powerful charge from their heavy bodies.

5. LEOPARDS

Leopards are shy solo hunters. They typically hunt in the woodlands of South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi National Parks. The best time to catch a glimpse of these elusive cats is after dark on a night safari. It is important to stay alert since they will try to sneak away from your lights as quickly as possible.

6. ZEBRAS

Zebras live in herds of 20 to 100 in the grasslands of most National Parks within Zambia, though they have the heaviest population in South Luangwa. As prey, zebras find safety in large numbers. When standing in large groups, their black and white stripes create an optical illusion to intimidate and confuse potential predators.

7. GIRAFFES

The tallest animals in the world, giraffes graze on trees in South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi National Parks. The subspecies of giraffe, the Thornycroft’s giraffe, has unique markings and are unique to Zambia. Giraffes live in herds of about 20 and use their long, muscular necks to gently eat leaves over four metres above the ground and fight off threats when needed.

You can find out more here about the best time to visit. If you are interested in organising a safari to search for the astonishing animals of Zambia, contact True Travel to speak with an expert today.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Call +44 (0)203 137 1247

Call +1 (0) 800 635 8124

The TRUE rating

INDULGENT:

These accommodations are the best of the best, showcasing top hospitality, exceptional design and world-class food, in the most exclusive locations around the world.

EXCEPTIONAL:

A very high standard of five-star properties, with top-notch service and a wide range of amenities and experiences ensuring an unforgettable stay.

EXCELLENT:

These four to five-star accommodations offer the high level of service that our team look always look for, with a range of facilities on offer.

CLASSIC:

Four-star properties which offer enough amenities for a comfortable stay. We may offer these for a more price-competitive option, or in more remote areas which don't offer the most luxe hotels.

EXPERIENTIAL:

These properties won't necessarily offer all of the typical luxurious facilities, but will always provide memorable experiences, from camping out in the bush to climbing up to a treehouse.