Zambia offers some of Africa's most pristine wilderness experiences, from the thundering Victoria Falls to the wildlife-rich South Luangwa National Park. Known for pioneering the walking safari, Zambia combines exceptional game viewing with authentic cultural encounters and warm hospitality.
Accommodation overview
Hotels by budget
Find accommodation that fits your travel budget.
Budget-friendly (under $50/night)
Jollyboys Backpackers
Legendary backpacker hostel in Livingstone known for its social atmosphere and helpful staff. Offers dorms and private rooms, with a lively bar and tour booking service.
Fawlty Towers
Popular budget accommodation in Livingstone with friendly vibe and good value. Offers dorms and private rooms, plus a swimming pool and bar. Great for meeting fellow travelers.
Wildlife Camp
Budget-friendly camp inside Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park offering basic accommodation with wildlife on your doorstep. Great location for nature lovers on a budget.
Pioneer Camp
No-frills bush camp in South Luangwa offering authentic safari experience at budget prices. Basic but clean accommodation with friendly staff and good game viewing access.
Chamba Valley Exotic Hotel
Basic hotel in Lusaka offering clean rooms at very affordable prices. Simple facilities but good value for budget travelers needing city accommodation.
Lusaka Backpackers
Affordable accommodation option in Zambia.
Ngandu Plains Lodge Campsite
Affordable accommodation option in Zambia.
Mid-range ($50-150/night)
Comfortable hotels
Mid-range hotels offer good value with private rooms, reliable amenities, and often include breakfast. Popular with business travelers and tourists alike.
Luxury ($150+/night)
Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara
This iconic colonial-style hotel sits on the banks of the Zambezi River with direct access to Victoria Falls. Guests enjoy elegant rooms, fine dining, and wandering wildlife including zebras and giraffes on the property.
Thorntree River Lodge
Luxury tented camp in South Luangwa offering premium safari experiences. Each spacious tent features private plunge pools overlooking the Luangwa River, perfect for watching elephants and wildlife.
Tongabezi Lodge
Exclusive boutique lodge on the Zambezi River upstream from Victoria Falls. Each cottage and house is uniquely designed with private decks, outdoor baths, and exceptional personalized service.
Sanctuary Chichele Presidential Lodge
Contemporary luxury lodge in South Luangwa with stunning architecture and panoramic views. Named after Zambia's second president, it offers exceptional game viewing and gourmet cuisine.
Latitude 15 Degrees
Lusaka's premier boutique hotel offering contemporary luxury in the capital. Features stylish rooms, excellent restaurants, and a beautiful pool area perfect for business or leisure travelers.
Sausage Tree Camp
Intimate luxury camp in Lower Zambezi with just seven tents along the Zambezi River. Known for exceptional guiding, gourmet food, and unique canoe safaris.
Busanga Bush Camp
Remote seasonal camp in Kafue's Busanga Plains offering exceptional cheetah and wild dog sightings. The camp's intimate setting and expert guides provide unforgettable safari experiences.
Best neighborhoods to stay
Choose your base based on your interests and travel style.
City Center
The heart of Zambia with easy access to main attractions, restaurants, and transportation.
Best for: First-time visitors, short stays
Old Town
Traditional architecture and local character. Walking distance to historical sites and authentic dining.
Best for: Culture enthusiasts, photographers
Our top picks
Handpicked recommendations for every type of traveler.
Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara
This iconic colonial-style hotel sits on the banks of the Zambezi River with direct access to Victoria Falls. Guests enjoy elegant rooms, fine dining, and wandering wildlife including zebras and giraffes on the property.
Avani Victoria Falls Resort
Well-appointed resort near Victoria Falls offering comfortable rooms, multiple dining options, and easy access to the falls and activities. Great value for families and couples.
Jollyboys Backpackers
Legendary backpacker hostel in Livingstone known for its social atmosphere and helpful staff. Offers dorms and private rooms, with a lively bar and tour booking service.
Thorntree River Lodge
Luxury tented camp in South Luangwa offering premium safari experiences. Each spacious tent features private plunge pools overlooking the Luangwa River, perfect for watching elephants and wildlife.
Maramba River Lodge
Charming lodge set in lush gardens near Victoria Falls. Offers comfortable chalets, a good restaurant, and a peaceful atmosphere just minutes from town and the falls.
Fawlty Towers
Popular budget accommodation in Livingstone with friendly vibe and good value. Offers dorms and private rooms, plus a swimming pool and bar. Great for meeting fellow travelers.
Booking tips
Get the best deals and avoid common mistakes.
Book at least 3 months in advance for luxury safari lodges and Royal Livingstone in peak season (June-October)
Shoulder season (April-May, November) offers 20-30% lower prices with less crowding and lush green landscapes
Jollyboys Backpackers in Livingstone is legendary — book dorms in advance for July-August
Check if lodge rates are 'all-inclusive' — many safari camps include all meals, game drives, and activities in the nightly rate
Lusaka hotels along Independence Avenue are most convenient for city business; Livingstone hotels on Mosi-oa-Tunya Road for Victoria Falls access
Many lodges close during peak rainy season (January-March) — always verify dates before booking remote camps
Alternative accommodations
Beyond traditional hotels, consider these options.
Guesthouses
Family-run guesthouses offer authentic local experiences and often include home-cooked meals. Great for cultural immersion.
Serviced apartments
Ideal for longer stays or families. Kitchen facilities help save money and provide flexibility.
Hostels
Budget-friendly option for solo travelers. Dorms and private rooms available with social common areas.