F.A.Q.
One quirky question and one practical question. Both asked and answered.
High level: Most people come to Africa for the wildlife, and leave thinking about how wonderful the people are.
One of the biggest surprises about Zimbabwe and Zambia is the sheer diversity and abundance of wildlife and natural beauty.
Both countries boast rich ecosystems, with Zimbabwe featuring massive herds of elephants and big cats, and Zambia showcasing prolific birdlife and pristine riverine landscapes.
Safari-goers also appreciate the warm hospitality of the locals, enhancing their experience alongside the breathtaking scenery and wildlife.
Wildlife and Diversity: Zimbabwe, particularly Hwange National Park and Mana Pools National Park, is known for its large herds of elephants, diverse wildlife including predators like lions and leopards, and scenic landscapes. Mana Pools is famous for its riverine and floodplain ecosystems, offering exceptional canoeing safaris.
Zambia, on the other hand, boasts South Luangwa National Park and Lower Zambezi National Park. South Luangwa is renowned for its walking safaris, abundant leopard sightings, and high density of hippos and crocodiles along the Luangwa River. Lower Zambezi offers a unique combination of river-based activities like canoeing and excellent game viewing along the Zambezi River.
Accessibility and Infrastructure: Zimbabwe has well-established tourism infrastructure, especially around Victoria Falls, making it easier for tourists to access and explore various parks. In contrast, Zambia’s parks often offer more remote and off-the-beaten-path experiences, appealing to travelers seeking a quieter and less commercialized safari experience.
Scenery and Landscape: Both countries offer diverse landscapes, but Zimbabwe’s parks often include more rugged terrain and mixed woodland, whereas Zambia’s parks like Lower Zambezi feature floodplains and riverine forests, providing different backdrops for wildlife viewing.
Guiding and Experience: Both countries have high standards of guiding due to their educational systems and training programs. However, Zimbabwe may offer more structured and traditional game drives, while Zambia emphasizes walking safaris and water-based activities like canoeing, providing a more immersive and intimate wildlife experience.