Zambia Road Trip Itinerary
Embark on a thrilling journey through Zambia on the Zambia Road Trip! This 14-day trip starts and ends in the city of Lusaka and takes you through Luangwa, Kakumbi, Mpika, Serenje, Mumbwa, Kafue National Park and Livingstone. Along the way, you can expect to experience breathtaking landscapes, explore the unique nature of Zambia, and discover UNESCO Heritage Monuments. The entire route is around 3201km and can be completed in a moderate budget.
The best time to drive through Zambia is during the dry season, from May to October. However, please note that the overall road conditions are poor. Despite this, the Zambia Road Trip still provides a high level of experience and memories. It is suitable for every driver and will be a journey you won't forget!
14
number of days
3,400 km
route length
fair
budget
explorer
good for
on the left
traffic direction
high
accident level
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START
Lusaka
Distance 3,400 km
Driving time 100.1 h
Pace: slow
782.1 kWh
Airports
LUN
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Lusaka is the capital and largest city of Zambia and the perfect starting point for an amazing road trip through the country.
The Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (IATA: LUN) located just outside the city is the closest international airport and offers car rental services for those who wish to explore Zambia by car.
Once in Lusaka, visitors can experience the vibrant culture of the city, from its bustling markets to its diverse cuisine.
The National Museum and the Freedom Statue are two popular attractions that provide an insight into the city's history and culture.
The city also boasts a number of stunning parks and gardens, including the Lusaka National Park, where visitors can spot a variety of different wildlife.
For nature enthusiasts, the Kafue National Park is the perfect destination. Located just a few hours away from Lusaka, the park is home to a variety of animals including lions, elephants, and giraffes.
The park also offers spectacular views of the Kafue River and the Busanga Plains.
Finally, the city of Livingstone is also worth a visit. Located just a few hours away from Lusaka, Livingstone is home to the majestic Victoria Falls, one of the seven natural wonders of the world.
Visitors can also explore the nearby Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, which is home to a variety of wildlife and plants.
Lusaka is the perfect starting point for an unforgettable road trip through Zambia.
From the vibrant culture of the city to the breathtaking views of the Kafue National Park and the majestic Victoria Falls,
Lusaka has something to offer everyone.
So don't forget to include it in your Zambia Road Trip!
1
Lusaka
- Luangwa
Distance 314 km
Driving time 6.0 h
Pace: modest
81.7 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Lusaka, Zambia, to the stunning Luangwa. This 314 km journey will take you fewer than 6 hours and will take you through Lower Zambezi National Park.
The Lower Zambezi National Park is a must-see, offering plenty of wildlife and bird-watching opportunities. You can also take a relaxing canoe ride, go fishing, or take a game drive.
Once you reach Luangwa, you will be amazed by the beauty of the Zambezi Valley. Take a game drive and spot some of the wildlife, or take a walk along the river. You can also visit the nearby Mwaleshi Camp, where you can enjoy guided walks and game drives.
This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, pack your bags and enjoy this amazing journey!
Luangwa - Zambia - Africa - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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2
Luangwa
- Sinda
Distance 304 km
Driving time 5.7 h
Pace: modest
79.1 kWh
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Welcome to the amazing road trip stage from Luangwa to Sinda! This stage is part of a larger tour and will take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Zambia. The total distance of this stage is 304km and the estimated driving time is less than 6 hours.
Start your journey in Luangwa, where you can explore the natural beauty of the Luangwa River and the South Luangwa National Park. Don't forget to visit the Chipembele Wildlife Education Center, where you can learn more about the local wildlife and the conservation efforts taking place in the area.
As you continue your journey, make sure to stop in Mambwe to visit the Mambwe Rock Art Site. Here you can see ancient rock paintings and artifacts that date back thousands of years.
Your next stop is Sinda, where you can visit the Sinda Mission. This mission is a beautiful historical site and the perfect place to learn more about the history of the area.
We hope you enjoy this stage of your tour and that you have a great time exploring the area. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Sinda - Zambia - Africa - Road Trip - Zambia 24
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3
Sinda
- Kakumbi
Distance 246 km
Driving time 4.2 h
Pace: modest
64.1 kWh
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Start your road trip from Sinda, Zambia and explore the stunning beauty of South Luangwa National Park. The 246 km drive will take you less than 5 hours, and along the way you will be able to admire picturesque landscapes. Make sure to keep your eyes open for the wildlife that inhabits this area. Once you reach the park, you can take part in various activities such as game drives and night drives, as well as guided walking safaris. After a few days of exploring, you will reach Kakumbi, the final stop of this stage of your journey. Here you can take some time to relax and enjoy the views of the river and the surrounding countryside. Don't forget to visit the local market, where you can buy traditional handicrafts and other souvenirs. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Kakumbi - Zambia - Africa - Road Trip - Booking.com
Kakumbi - Zambia - Africa - Road Trip
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4
Kakumbi
- Mpika
Distance 448 km
Driving time 16.0 h
Pace: slow
103.1 kWh
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Embark on a thrilling road trip that starts in Kakumbi, Zambia and takes you through North Luangwa National Park and ends in Mpika. This journey of 269km takes less than 10 hours to complete, so you will have plenty of time to explore the most interesting places along the way.
In North Luangwa National Park, you can enjoy a game drive and spot some of the park's wildlife, including elephants, lions, zebras, and many more. You can also take a boat ride on the Luangwa River, where you can observe hippos and crocodiles.
When you reach Mpika, you can visit the Mpika Museum, which houses artifacts from the local people, and the Mpika Craft Market, where you can purchase unique souvenirs.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip!
Mpika - Zambia - Africa - Road Trip - Against Malaria
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5
Mpika
- Serenje
Distance 241 km
Driving time 4.0 h
Pace: fast
72.2 kWh
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Embark on a thrilling road trip with a start in Mpika, Zambia and end in Serenje, Zambia through Kasanka National Park. This 240 km journey is estimated to take less than 4 hours and is part of a larger tour.
Kasanka National Park is a must-see destination on this route. The park is home to the world's largest mammal migration, where over 10 million straw-coloured fruit bats migrate from November to December. The park also offers excellent opportunities for bird-watching, with over 300 species of birds.
The next stop is Serenje, Zambia. Here, travelers can explore the local markets, meet the friendly locals, and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Get ready to experience the beauty of Zambia!
Serenje - Zambia - Africa - Road Trip - World Travel Info
Serenje - Zambia - Africa - Road Trip - Next Amazing Trip – Travellers most inspiration website
Serenje - Zambia - Africa - Road Trip - TripAdvisor
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6
Serenje
- Kabwe
Distance 266 km
Driving time 4.3 h
Pace: fast
79.9 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Serenje to Kabwe! This 266km journey will take you fewer than 4 hours to complete and you will be able to take in some of the most interesting sights in Zambia.
Start your journey in Serenje and make sure to visit the Serenje Mission Church, a beautiful building with stunning architecture. Then, head to the nearby Serenje Museum, where you can learn more about the local culture and history.
Continue your drive to Kabwe and make a stop at the Kabwe Golf Course for some fun and relaxation. Then, drive to the Kabwe Zoo, where you can see a variety of animals, including monkeys, lions, and elephants.
Finally, end your journey in Kabwe and explore the city's vibrant markets and the nearby Nkrumah Monument, a monument to the late president of Zambia.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Kabwe - Zambia - Africa - Road Trip - Zambia Daily Mail
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7
Kabwe
- Mumbwa
Distance 189 km
Driving time 4.7 h
Pace: modest
49.2 kWh
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Kabwe to Mumbwa! This 189 km journey will take you fewer than 4 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore the most interesting places along the way.
Start your trip in Kabwe, Zambia, where you can visit the Kabwe Museum and the Kabwe Town Hall. Next, head to Chisamba, where you can explore the Chisamba Catholic Mission and the Chisamba Market.
Continue your journey to Mumbwa and visit the Mumbwa National Park. This park is home to a variety of wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and elephants. You can also take a guided tour of the park and enjoy the spectacular nature of the area.
Finally, end your journey in Mumbwa and visit the Mumbwa Caves. These caves were used by ancient peoples and are now a popular tourist attraction.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Mumbwa - Zambia - Africa - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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8
Mumbwa
- Kafue N.P.
Distance 347 km
Driving time 34.6 h
Pace: slow
79.7 kWh
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Welcome to the Mumbwa-Kafue National Park road trip stage! This stage takes you through 343 kilometers of breathtaking landscapes, with stops at some of the most interesting places in Zambia. The total driving time is less than 4 hours, so you have plenty of time to explore.
The first stop is Mumbwa, located on the banks of the Kafue River. Here you can visit the Mumbwa Caves, a network of limestone caves filled with ancient rock paintings, as well as the Mumbwa National Monument, a memorial to the local people who fought in the Second World War.
The next stop is the Kafue National Park, Zambia's largest national park. Here you can explore the park's grasslands, woodlands, and rivers, and spot wildlife such as elephants, giraffes, and lions. You can also visit the nearby Busanga Plains, a vast wetland teeming with wildlife.
Finally, the road trip ends at Kafue National Park, where you can take a guided game drive and spot a variety of wildlife, including cheetahs, wildebeest, and hippos. You can also visit the nearby Nkala Waterfall, a stunning waterfall that cascades into a deep pool.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your Mumbwa-Kafue National Park road trip!
Kafue N.P. - Zambia - Africa - Road Trip - Natural World Safaris
Kafue N.P. - Zambia - Africa - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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9
Kafue N.P.
- Itezhi-Tezhi Lake
Distance 165 km
Driving time 3.1 h
Pace: modest
42.8 kWh
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Kafue National Park to Itezhi-Tezhi Lake! This 165 km journey will take you less than three hours to complete, so you can make the most of your time and explore the area.
Start your adventure in Kafue National Park, the largest national park in Zambia. Here you can see a variety of wildlife, including elephants, zebras, antelopes, and hippos. There are also plenty of bird species to observe, such as the African Fish Eagle.
As you drive through the park, make sure to stop at Nkala Viewpoint, which offers stunning views of the park and its wildlife. You can also take a boat trip on the Kafue River, where you can spot some of the park's most elusive animals.
Continue your journey to Itezhi-Tezhi Lake, a large lake that is home to a variety of water birds. Here you can take a boat tour to explore the lake and its surroundings, or you can take a hike along the lake's shore. You can also visit the nearby villages of Itezhi-Tezhi and Kalomo, which offer a glimpse into the traditional culture of the area.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Itezhi-Tezhi Lake - Zambia - Africa - Road Trip - TripAdvisor
Itezhi-Tezhi Lake - Zambia - Africa - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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Itezhi-Tezhi Lake
- Kalomo
Distance 227 km
Driving time 5.8 h
Pace: slow
52.2 kWh
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The road trip from Itezhi-Tezhi Lake to Kalomo is an unforgettable experience! With 211 km of driving and fewer than 9 hours of travel time, you can explore the most interesting places of both locations.
In Itezhi-Tezhi Lake, you can visit the spectacular Itezhi-Tezhi Dam, a man-made lake in the Kafue River, and the surrounding national park. The lake is known for its fishing, bird-watching and other outdoor activities.
On your way to Kalomo, you can stop at the small town of Monze. Here, you can visit the Monze Mission, an old mission station which is now a museum, and the Monze Catholic Church, a beautiful building with a unique architecture.
Once in Kalomo, you can explore the Kalomo Museum, a great place to learn about the history and culture of the region. You can also visit the Kalomo Game Reserve, a protected area with a wide variety of wildlife.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Kalomo - Zambia - Africa - Road Trip - Zambia
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11
Kalomo
- Livingstone
Distance 152 km
Driving time 3.4 h
Pace: modest
39.5 kWh
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Embark on a road-trip from Kalomo to Livingstone, through the stunning Victoria Falls! This 152 km journey will take you fewer than 4 hours to complete, and you will be able to admire picturesque landscapes along the way. Make sure to visit the Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the nearby Livingstone, which is home to the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. Both locations offer plenty of attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites. For more information, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Livingstone - Zambia - Africa - Road Trip - Victoria Falls Guide
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Livingstone
- Choma
Distance 193 km
Driving time 2.8 h
Pace: fast
57.8 kWh
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Welcome to the Livingstone-Choma road trip! This is one of the most exciting stages of your tour, with 193 km of beautiful scenery and attractions. You'll be able to drive it in less than 3 hours, so you'll have plenty of time to explore the wonders of Zambia.
Start your adventure in Livingstone, the adventure capital of Zambia, and visit the iconic Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Admire the view from the bridge, take a boat ride, and explore the Livingstone Museum.
Continue to Choma, the capital of the Southern Province, and visit the Choma Museum and Craft Centre, where you'll be able to learn about the history and culture of the area. Visit the nearby Choma Game Management Area and explore the natural beauty of the area.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Choma - Zambia - Africa - Road Trip - EWIT
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Choma
- Lusaka
Distance 309 km
Driving time 5.6 h
Pace: modest
80.2 kWh
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Welcome, road-trippers! Get ready for an amazing journey from Choma to Lusaka. The 309km distance and driving time of fewer than 5 hours will make this trip a breeze. Along the way, you will get to explore some of the most amazing places in Zambia.
Start your adventure in Choma, the capital of the Southern Province. Here you can visit the Choma Museum and Livingstone Memorial, a monument dedicated to the explorer David Livingstone.
Continue your journey to Mazabuka, where you can take a break at the beautiful Mwemba Falls. Then, make your way to Monze, where you can explore the Monze Mission Museum and visit the ruins of the Monze Catholic Mission.
Next, you will arrive in Kafue, where you can visit the Kafue National Park and explore the beautiful wildlife. From there, you will travel to Kafue Town, the capital of the Kafue District. Here you can visit the Kafue District Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the area.
Finally, you will reach Lusaka, the capital of Zambia. Here you can explore the Lusaka National Museum, the Freedom Statue, and the Zambian National Museum.
This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to explore the amazing attractions of Choma and Lusaka!
Lusaka - Zambia - Africa - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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Lusaka
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Lusaka, the capital city of Zambia, is the final destination of the "Zambia Road Trip". Located in the central part of the country, Lusaka is the largest city in Zambia, with a population of more than two million people.
The city of Lusaka offers a variety of tourist attractions, from its vibrant markets to its cultural centers. The city center is the ideal place to visit, where you can find a wide range of shops, restaurants, and bars. The Intercity Bus Terminal is also located in the city center, which is great for exploring the rest of the country.
For those interested in culture, Lusaka has a few museums, such as the National Museum, which showcases the country's history and culture. The Lusaka National Park is also a great place to visit, offering a variety of wildlife and natural beauty.
Lusaka also offers a variety of nightlife spots, from clubs and bars to restaurants. For those looking for something quieter, there are also a few theatres, galleries, and cinemas.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN), located about 20 kilometers from the city center.
The "Zambia Road Trip" ends in Lusaka, the vibrant capital city of Zambia. With its rich culture, vibrant markets, and exciting nightlife, Lusaka is the perfect destination for any traveler.
Zambia Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Lusaka
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End:
Lusaka
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Distance:
3,400 km
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Stay:
14 days
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Getting there:
Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on a 14-day journey through the heart of Zambia, beginning and concluding in the bustling capital of Lusaka. This Road Trip spans an impressive 3201 kilometers, weaving through Zambia's breathtaking vistas, teeming wildlife, and diverse cultural tapestry. It's an affordable yet extraordinary adventure that appeals to all sorts of travelers, from the intrepid explorer to the laid-back tourist, ensuring a memorable and unique experience behind the wheel.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Luangwa: Home to the renowned South Luangwa National Park, this region is a treasure trove of wildlife, including a high density of leopards and a vibrant population of hippos and crocodiles along the Luangwa River.
- Kakumbi: An enclave of authentic local culture and pristine nature, where you can participate in village tours and traditional ceremonies.
- Mpika: This bustling town is not just a gateway to the North Luangwa and South Luangwa National Parks, but also to the lesser-known but equally enchanting Bangweulu Wetlands and the Shiwa Ng'andu Manor House.
- Serenje: Experience the tranquility of rural Zambia and discover hidden gems such as the Chisomo Safari Camp, which offers a natural retreat by the Luangwa River.
- Mumbwa: Step back in time with nearby prehistoric sites and rock paintings, and take the opportunity to explore the vast wilderness of the Kafue National Park, known for its rich wildlife including the elusive cheetah.
- Kafue National Park: As Zambia's largest national park and the second largest in the world, it's a sanctuary for a multitude of species and is especially notable for its birdlife, with over 500 species recorded.
- Livingstone: Zambia's adventure hub, Livingstone is synonymous with the majestic Victoria Falls – locally known as Mosi-oa-Tunya, `The Smoke That Thunders` – and offers adrenaline-pumping activities such as bungee jumping and white-water rafting.
Best Time to Go:
The prime season for a Road Trip in Zambia is during the cooler, dry months from May to October. This period not only affords the best wildlife viewing opportunities, as animals congregate around dwindling water sources, but it also provides optimal driving conditions.
Potential Risks:
Navigating Zambia's Roads can be challenging due to varying conditions and occasional disrepair. It's crucial for travelers to exercise caution and stay informed about the routes they plan to take.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
- A 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended to handle the diverse terrain and occasionally rugged Road conditions.
- Pack adequate food, water, and supplies, as well as an emergency kit, since services are sparse in remote stretches of the journey.
- Drive cautiously within national parks and wildlife areas, as animal crossings are common and can be a hazard if not anticipated.
- Embracing local customs and obeying regulations will enrich your travel experience and ensure respectful interaction with communities.
A good choice for:
The Zambia Road Trip is more than just a drive through Africa; it's a voyage into the essence of the continent. It combines the excitement of discovery with the awe of Zambia’s natural splendor and the warmth of its cultural heritage. Though the Roads may test your sense of adventure, the rewards of this journey are boundless for those eager to delve into the wild heart of Africa.
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