It’s ironic that landlocked Zambia is best known for its waterways. Three great rivers – the Kafue, the Luangwa and the mighty Zambezi – course through Zambia, with the Zambezi ending in the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls on the border with Zimbabwe.

This is a place full of stunning views, whether it’s sunsets reflecting over rivers, roaring waterfalls or leopards lounging in the shade of a tree.

Safaris in Zambia are a world away from the crowds of Kenya and Tanzania. There is a diversity of wildlife to match anywhere in Africa, but without the crowds. Visitors can see lions in all of Zambia’s major parks, while hippos gather in groups of 50 or more along riverfronts, honking and feeding. If leopards are more your thing, head to South Luangwa for a night drive safari to experience the nocturnal world of this big cat.

Zambia’s relative lack of visitors means that its infrastructure is less developed than other African countries. Its large size and poor road network can make travelling between destinations a challenge, but visitors are guaranteed a warm welcome when they get there.