According to forum posts, several bus companies operate between Lusaka and other major cities like Livingstone and Kitwe. For instance, UBZ buses are recommended for their cleanliness, punctuality, and amenities such as Wi-Fi. Travelers have called out that tickets should ideally be purchased a day before travel from the city center bus stations.

Some travelers said that for longer distances like Lusaka to South Luangwa, private transfers or flights are preferable due to the lengthy bus journey. Private vehicle hire with a driver can cost upwards of $500 per day. Alternatively, internal flights are suggested for quicker travel between major destinations like Mfuwe and Livingstone, although they are more expensive.

For those considering train travel, forum posts advise against it due to reliability issues. Meanwhile, the availability of shuttle services from Lusaka to nearby towns or attractions seems limited, with some users reporting difficulties in confirming services and prices online.

Some travelers mentioned that reaching South Luangwa by public transport involves taking a bus from Lusaka to Chipata, followed by a local minibus to Mfuwe. This journey can be extensive, with the bus to Chipata taking approximately 12 hours from Lusaka.

For those preferring not to use public transport, private transfers to South Luangwa were discussed, though they can be pricey. The cost of hiring a vehicle with a driver can exceed $500 per day, making it a less economical choice unless traveling in a larger group.

Alternatively, flying is a quicker option. Flights from Lusaka to Mfuwe offer a more direct and time-efficient way to reach South Luangwa, though this option would be more expensive compared to buses.

Travelers have called out that night travel by road is discouraged due to safety concerns, and it's advised to plan accordingly to avoid such schedules.

According to forum posts, the Lower Zambezi is popular for its water-based activities. Travelers have called out canoeing and boat safaris as thrilling experiences that offer encounters with hippos and crocodiles. The river's wide expanse allows for unique perspectives on wildlife and the scenic beauty of the area.

Some travelers mentioned that the Lower Zambezi is excellent for viewing wild dogs, especially near Jeki in the eastern part of the park. The area is also noted for its high density of elephants and buffalo. Additionally, the park's setting provides a scenic backdrop that enhances game viewing experiences.

For many users, land-based safaris are also a key attraction in the Lower Zambezi. Night drives in particular are highlighted as exceptionally productive, offering sightings of leopards and lions. The park's diverse landscapes make both game drives and guided walks popular among visitors seeking a more immersive exploration.

According to forum posts, travelers recommend planning your Zambia safari during the dry season, from June to October, for the best wildlife viewing experiences. Early booking, particularly for 2021, is advised due to the small size of most safari camps in Zambia and the high demand during the peak season.

Some users have suggested starting with South Luangwa National Park as a prime destination for its diversity in wildlife and scenery. The Lower Zambezi is also recommended for those interested in combining game drives with river activities like fishing and canoeing.

Travelers have called out the importance of selecting a good local tour operator to handle bookings, including internal flights, which are crucial due to the vast distances between parks. Proflight is frequently used for internal flights, but private charters may be more convenient for larger groups or those looking for a more tailored experience.

For many users, employing the services of a local Zambian tour operator is beneficial. Companies like Expert Africa, Voyagers, and People and Places have been highly recommended for their local knowledge and ability to arrange seamless travel plans, including lodge bookings and transport arrangements.

According to forum posts, Luangwa camps in Zambia offer a diverse and rich wildlife viewing experience. Travelers have reported seeing lions, leopards, elephants, and rare sights like Cooksons wildebeest in North Luangwa. Particularly, the South Luangwa camps such as Nsefu and Mwamba are noted for their excellent guiding and the opportunity to observe big cats and other wildlife in their natural habitats.

Travelers have shared that accommodations in these camps are comfortable with amenities like evening breeze air-conditioning and picturesque settings by rivers where animals frequently visit. Some camps, like Lion Camp, have been praised for their upmarket facilities and private dining options, enhancing the safari experience.

For adventure seekers, some camps offer unique experiences such as sleep-outs under the stars on platforms, which are less intimidating than the fully exposed sleep-outs on a mat. This experience allows guests to hear and sometimes see animals at night, adding an exhilarating element to their stay.

According to forum posts, travelers can enjoy a variety of activities in the Victoria Falls area. Some popular activities include helicopter rides over the falls, historical bridge tours, and sunset cruises. Additionally, visiting Livingstone Island and taking a guided tour to see the falls from both the Zambian and Zimbabwean sides is highly recommended.

Travelers have mentioned staying at places like the Avani Resort, which offers easy access to the falls and parks. Dining options such as afternoon tea at the Victoria Falls Hotel and meals at local restaurants like the Lookout Cafe and Three Monkeys are popular among visitors.

For many users, organizing activities once in the area is straightforward, with many opting to book through local hotels or tour operators. When crossing into Zimbabwe to view the falls, bringing birth certificates for children is advised to prove parentage.

According to forum posts, Zambia offers visas on arrival (VOA) for certain nationalities, including British and Polish passport holders. Visitors must have a medical certificate showing a negative COVID-19 PCR test result from within 14 days prior to arrival. Visas on arrival were reported to be readily available as of late 2021, with no significant issues at entry points such as Lusaka Airport.

Some travelers noted that Zambia had waived visa fees for several countries, including the US, UK, and Australia, as of 2021. Typically, a visa on arrival allows for a stay of up to 90 days. For those entering from neighboring countries like Zimbabwe, a single-entry tourist visa on arrival was mentioned, with no advance application required. However, the necessity of having a return ticket or proof of sufficient funds might be checked.

For those requiring an e-visa due to their nationality, it was mentioned that a return ticket is a mandatory document for the application process. This is in line with Zambian immigration requirements that non-citizens and non-residents must possess valid return tickets if arriving by air, or have adequate funds for their stay if arriving by land or water.