Zambia

Zambia is bordered by eight countries in southern-central Africa and covers roughly 750,000 square kilometres of elevated plateau terrain. Lusaka is the capital and largest city. English is the official language, used alongside dozens of Bantu languages including Nyanja and Bemba. The currency is the Zambian kwacha. The country's cultural identity is shaped by over 70 ethnic groups and a broadly welcoming social character.

Victoria Falls — locally known as Mosi-oa-Tunya, "the smoke that thunders" — is one of the world's largest waterfalls and draws visitors year-round to the town of Livingstone. The Luangwa Valley holds some of Africa's most concentrated wildlife, with South Luangwa National Park particularly noted for walking safaris and large leopard populations. The flooded Liuwa Plain supports one of Africa's lesser-known wildebeest migrations.

Many nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival or use the KAZA UniVisa, which also covers Zimbabwe — confirm current requirements before travel. The dry season, May through October, is best for wildlife viewing. The kwacha is widely used; carry some cash outside Lusaka. Internal distances are large; domestic flights connect major parks.