The Extraordinary Wildlife to Encounter in Zambia

While the average safari enthusiast might focus their lens on the more renowned wildlife in Zambia, the true connoisseur of African wildlife safaris knows that this pristine wilderness harbours a staggering array of incredible animals to look out for.

For those who have witnessed the Great Migration in the Serengeti or tracked gorillas in Rwanda‘s mountains, Zambia offers an opportunity to discover truly extraordinary wildlife that few have had the privilege to encounter.

The Pangolin

Perhaps the most exclusive wildlife sighting one could hope for in Zambia is the pangolin, often referred to as “the holy grail” of wildlife viewing in Zambia. These extraordinary creatures, heavily threatened by illegal poaching, are so rarely seen that even seasoned guides might go years between encounters. South Luangwa National Park, particularly during the emerald season from December to March, offers the finest opportunities for pangolin sightings, making that window one of the best times to plan a safari.

Carmine Bee-Eaters

For those who appreciate nature’s more vibrant displays, the carmine bee-eater presents an unparalleled spectacle. These jewel-toned birds, adorned in brilliant crimson plumage, arrive in their thousands along the Luangwa River’s banks between August and November. Unlike typical bird watching, witnessing these creatures requires a privately chartered boat at the right time of day – preferably at dawn when they emerge from their nesting colonies in a spectacular display of colour and movement.

The Shoebill

In the vast wetlands of Bangweulu, you might encounter what could be described as a living fossil – the shoebill stork. Standing at nearly one and a half metres tall, with its distinctive shoe-shaped bill, this remarkable bird appears to have stepped straight out of the Jurassic period. The best way to access their habitat requires considerable effort, typically involving a private helicopter transfer followed by traditional mokoro canoe navigation through the marshes. However, the reward of witnessing these ancient-looking creatures in their natural habitat is truly incomparable.

The Serval

While the big cats of Africa certainly capture people’s imaginations, there are more felines in Africa than lions and cheetahs. For those that want an even more rare sighting, the serval is a captivating, if more diminutive cat to witness. These elegant creatures, with their elongated legs and spotted coats, move through the grasslands with balletic grace. Kafue National Park, particularly in its northern reaches, offers exceptional serval sighting probabilities. The best way to spot Serval is on a night drive. With hawk-eyed guides sweeping their spotlights back and forth, you will enjoy unprecedented access to these normally elusive cats during their prime hunting hours.

The Sitatunga

In the papyrus swamps of the Kafue Flats, the sitatunga – Africa’s only truly aquatic antelope – presents a unique challenge for wildlife enthusiasts. These shy creatures have evolved elongated hooves that allow them to traverse boggy terrain with remarkable elegance. Viewing them requires not only expert guidance but also considerable patience – though, naturally, the resulting sightings are well worth the effort.

Curating Your Wildlife Experience

To maximise your chances of encountering these extraordinary creatures, we recommend giving yourself enough time and planning ahead where in Zambia’s varied landscapes you would like to go. Our bespoke itineraries give you the opportunity to combine multiple locations, each chosen for its unique wildlife viewing opportunities. Private guides, selected for their specialist knowledge of these particular species, ensure that every excursion is both informative and rewarding.

Best Times for Extraordinary Encounters

While Zambia offers year-round wildlife-viewing opportunities, certain seasons present optimal conditions for specific species. The dry season (May to October) generally provides excellent visibility and concentrates wildlife around water sources. However, the green season (November to April) should not be overlooked – this is when many of these special creatures are at their most active, and the dramatic verdant landscapes provide spectacular photographic opportunities.

View our guide to African wildlife safari photography for suggestions on the best equipment to bring to provide optimal quality for capturing Zambia’s wonderful wildlife.

Whether you’re a seasoned African traveller seeking new experiences or embarking on your first luxury safari, Zambia’s extraordinary wildlife offers something truly special. Our team is ready to help you craft your bespoke journey into this remarkable wilderness, ensuring every moment of your African wildlife safaris meets the highest standards of both comfort and discovery.

See you out there.

Thomas

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