lower zambezi and the southern province
Zambia’s Southern Circuit offers a rich blend of adventure, wildlife, and culture. A family favourite, this circuit begins in Livingstone with the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, one of the seven natural wonders of the world.
Livingstone is a vibrant hub of history, culture, and artisan trade, and serves as the gateway to Zambia’s premier tourist experiences. From here, the Southern Circuit stretches northwards, skirting the southern end of Kafue National Park, before winding through Lusaka and descending into the breathtaking Lower Zambezi Valley.
The Lower Zambezi River supports an extraordinary diversity of wildlife. Both river- and land-based activities—safaris, canoeing, fishing, and game drives—offer truly magical encounters in a striking and largely untouched landscape.
The journey back to Livingstone presents two options: a rugged track that traces part of the Lake Kariba shoreline, the world’s largest man-made lake by volume, or a tarred road that showcases Zambia’s countryside, economy, and wide-open vistas, with a few special stops along the way. Either route completes a true Zambian overland adventure, combining epic landscapes, wildlife, and cultural encounters.
Tips for travelling Zambia’s Southern Province:
Fuel is readily available in most large towns.
If your up for an adventure, then the back road down to the Lower Zambezi is good fun. It is a 4x4 track from Lusaka.
The closest campsite to the Lower Zambezi NP is Mvuu Lodge. This is a 40 minute drive to the park gate. The area outside is also very good for game viewing.
A 4x4 vehicle is essential for the Lower Zambezi NP and surrounding areas.
Recommended Campsites in Southern Zambia:
The Waterfront Campsite, Livingstone
The Moorings Campsite, Monze
Eagles Rest Resort, Siavonga
The Siavonga Baobab, Siavonga
Lotri Bay, Siavonga
Gwabi Riverlodge, Chirundu
Woods Camp, Lower Zambezi
Kiambi Safari Lodge, Lower Zambezi
Mvuu Lodge, Lower Zambezi (this is the closest campsite to the National Park)
Lukasa Campsite, Lusaka
KN Cottage and Camping, Lusaka (GoXplore Base)