A photography safari in Zambia

Have you always been a die-hard photography fan and a self-drive enthusiast? Zambia is the perfect nation for combining your two passions. All international tourists land in Zambia at the Lusaka International airport. All road trips begin from here and the most common one is to South Luangwa.

An important warning is that the road conditions in Zambia are not conducive for smooth rides and tend to worsen during the wet season. The only vehicles that can withstand these rugged terrains are the four wheel drive types. Driving in Zambia is on the left hand side and a bit strenuous because of the nature of the territory.

Petrol pumps are to be found in the towns but towns here are usually far apart in Zambia. Keeping an additional stock of petrol for emergencies is a good practice here. Vehicles are available at the two major cities, the capital Lusaka and Ndola only.  Thus all self-drive safaris can begin from these two cities.After having arranged for a vehicle you are now set to start a memorable journey into the interiors of Zambia.

The drive itself is picturesque and photography can begin in right earnest as soon as you reach the highway. The scenery that unfolds before you is stupendous and make for some great photo shoot opportunities.  The South Luangwa is the best place to click leopards and wild dogs; the northern area is ideal for clicking photographs of lions. Carry the best zoom- in cameras as the animals come up real close and there are great photo opportunities for the wildlife enthusiasts.

Once inside the park, there are vast quiet, unexplored areas that are an adventurous traveler’s delight.  The park organizes day safaris that give you an opportunity to see the animals clearly. There are night safaris too that is undertaken in the vehicles that belong to the park administration. Private vehicles are prohibited from being taken on the night safari. This is a well deserved rest for both man and  machine.

Austin Ames has many years' experience in article writing and he has written many more in the past.