Sanctuary Retreats

Sanctuary Lodges & Camps in Zambia

Our luxury safari lodges and camps take you to the heart of three of Zambia's national parks: Mosi-oa-Tunya (Victoria Falls) , the Lower Zambezi and the South Luangwa.

Zambia is the rising star of the African safari circuit. This seldom visited country has recently come into its own following sustained investment in its national park system and transport infrastructure. The rich wildlife and dramatic wilderness areas have always been here but they used to be difficult to reach for all but the most intrepid travellers. Sanctuary Retreats has access to Zambia’s best national parks and can introduce guests to the magic of this central African jewel.

Zambia has lion, leopard, buffalo and elephant in abundance, and some exciting endemic species too. It is also a great draw for birders who marvel at its variety of birdlife; and for fishermen it is something of a place of pilgrimage. The Tigerfish – possibly the most thrilling freshwater game fish in Africa and a relative of the piranha– is a native of Zambia’s rivers. At Sanctuary’s lodges and camps, guests can rest assured that their highly experienced guides will show them Zambia’s wonders in style and comfort.

Time zone

GMT + 2 hours.

Language

The official language is English, but there are over 70 recognised regional languages including Nyanja and Bemba.

Currency

Zambia's currency is the kwacha. Notes come in the following denominations: 20 (rarely used), 50, 100, 500, 1,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000 and 50,000. 

Money matters

There will be little access to ATMs or banks while on safari. We suggest guests travel with some cash in small denominations for tipping. USD, GBP and Euro are accepted - however, change will be given in the local currency. All credit cards, except for Diners and American Express, are accepted in camp.

Tipping

Tipping is not obligatory but general suggestions are as follows:

• US $5-10 per couple per day for a guide

• US $5-10 per couple per day for the camp staff box

Arrival & Departure Formalities

For most passports, a visa is required. Please check with local authorities for details. Two blank passport pages are required when travelling to Southern Africa. Check the number of days given on arrival at the immigration desk as there are steep fines for overstaying the number of days given. Departure tax is dependent upon which airline you are travelling with.

Weather

Zambia has three distinct seasons: the dry season (May to August), when temperatures drop at night, but the landscape is green and lush; the hot season (September to November), the best time to see wildlife as flora is sparse; and the wet season (December to April) which is ideal for bird-watching. October is the hottest month, temperatures can reach over 40°C. Click here for Temperature & Rainfall Charts.

Click here for Temperature & Rainfall Charts.

Health

Malaria is a serious concern in Zambia. Please consult your doctor for up to date travel advice.

electricity

230 volts, 50 Hz.

clothing

Clothing should be cool and comfortable, muted colours are the most suitable while on safari. Jerseys and heavier jackets are required for winter mornings and evenings. Long sleeves and trousers are advised for mornings and evenings year round due to mosquitoes. Sturdy shoes are essential, as are rafting sandals for Victoria Falls excursions. All  Sanctuary camps and lodges offer a fully complementary laundry service.

Additional information

Luggage is restricted to 15kg in a soft-sided bag, per person.

Safaris in Zambia