Best things to do in Zambia
Zambia offers the eastern side of Victoria Falls at Livingstone, plus some of Africa's most respected walking-safari country along the Luangwa and Zambezi rivers.
Zambia at a glance
- What are the best things to do in Zambia?
- Seeing Victoria Falls from the Livingstone side, Zambezi river cruises, and walking safaris in South Luangwa National Park are the standout experiences.
- Which side of Victoria Falls is better?
- Neither — they complement each other. The Zimbabwean side has the classic panoramic views; the Zambian side gets you closer to the water. If time allows, see both.
- Can I visit both sides of the falls on one trip?
- Yes. The bridge crossing between Livingstone and Victoria Falls town is short, and eligible nationalities can use the KAZA UniVisa covering both countries.
Destinations in Zambia
The highlights
1. Victoria Falls from Livingstone
The Zambian side brings you close to the water — Knife-Edge Bridge, the Eastern Cataract, and seasonal experiences like the Boiling Pot trail. In the drier months, the Zambian side is also where low-water activities on the falls' edge operate.
2. Zambezi river life
Sunset cruises, fishing for tigerfish and canoe trips all run from the Livingstone area, sharing the same river as the Zimbabwean side.
3. Walking safaris in South Luangwa
South Luangwa National Park is widely regarded as the birthplace of the walking safari — guided days on foot in big-game country, for travellers who extend beyond the falls.
Planning your trip
Livingstone or Victoria Falls town?
They face each other across the bridge and share the same falls. Many travellers visit both sides on one trip — the views are genuinely different — and crossings are routine with the right visa. Check current visa requirements for your nationality before you travel, including the KAZA UniVisa that covers both countries on eligible passports.
How long to spend in Zambia
Two days covers Livingstone and the Zambian side of the falls. Safari extensions to South Luangwa or Lower Zambezi add at least three nights and a domestic flight.
Frequently asked questions about Zambia
What are the best things to do in Zambia?
Seeing Victoria Falls from the Livingstone side, Zambezi river cruises, and walking safaris in South Luangwa National Park are the standout experiences.
Which side of Victoria Falls is better?
Neither — they complement each other. The Zimbabwean side has the classic panoramic views; the Zambian side gets you closer to the water. If time allows, see both.
Can I visit both sides of the falls on one trip?
Yes. The bridge crossing between Livingstone and Victoria Falls town is short, and eligible nationalities can use the KAZA UniVisa covering both countries.
Ready to plan? Browse things to do by destination or get trip ideas from our travel journal.