Consider a Safari in Zambia

Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma  

When fantasizing about a safari, most people picture East Africa’s Great Migration, or South Africa’s famed game reserves, or the riches of Botswana’s Okavango Delta. But one of the most impressive safari destinations only rarely springs to mind: Zambia. Because it’s not as famous, crowd-free Zambia tends to be an excellent value. More important, Zambia offers safaris impossible to experience anywhere else. Here you can enjoy not only game drives, but game walks, night safaris and off-road safaris, activities that are strictly limited in other countries. In addition, Zambia presents ample opportunities for cultural interaction. An ideal itinerary might start with a stay at Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma, a stylish lodge of thatched tree houses overlooking the Zambezi River. Tour Victoria Falls, visit the unforgettable Nakatindi Village, view the only white rhinos in Zambia and take a sundowner river cruise.

Sanctuary Puku Ridge Camp
Take a charter flight to Sanctuary Puku Ridge, an elegant camp on a hillside in South Luangwa National Park. Known for its leopard sightings, it has the highest density of game in any park in Africa.

Sanctuary Zebra Plains

Just a three-hour game drive away, the newly opened (and surprisingly affordable) Sanctuary Zebra Plains focuses solely on walking safaris. Here, a maximum of six guests experience African wildlife like nowhere else. Finish in the Lower Zambezi National Park, which Mr. Harper calls “an area of unforgettable natural beauty… Even if there were no wild animals, the region would be worth visiting for its inspiring scenery alone.” Mr. Harper writes that July, August and September are the best months to visit Zambia. The rainy season typically lasts from November to March.