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10 Reasons to Experience Zambia’s Secret Season & Shoulder Months + Exclusive Pay 7, Stay 9 Offer

Green Safaris | January 6, 2025

If you’re looking to start 2025 with a bang, Zambia’s Shoulder Season (January to June) and the shoulder months (November and December) offer an exceptional opportunity for adventure. While the Shoulder Season is all about lush landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and refreshing rains, the shoulder season offers a quieter, more relaxed experience before the rains fully take hold. Whether you’re seeking wildlife, photography, relaxation, or culture, Zambia during this time is a hidden gem.

And let’s not forget about the “50 shades of green” you’ll witness in Zambia’s vast, unspoiled landscapes—every hue from the deepest emerald to the brightest lime. It’s nature in its most colourful, vibrant form.

To help you plan, here are the top 10 reasons to visit Zambia during this magical time:

1. A Lush Wonderland Awaits

Wildlife in the Secret Season: ©Luke Massey
Wildlife in the Secret Season : ©Luke Massey

The Secret Season brings Zambia’s landscapes to life most spectacularly. From November, the rains transform the country into a lush, green paradise. Rivers swell, the plains are covered in thick grasses, and the skies are often dramatic—perfect for stunning photography. The light before and after the rains is unparalleled, and the air feels crisp and alive. The shoulder season allows you to see nature’s quiet transformation, with fewer crowds to disturb the serenity.

At Tongabezi Safari Lodge (open all year round), you can wake up to the peaceful sounds of the river and enjoy sunrise boat rides on the Zambezi River. And if you prefer a more secluded retreat, Ila Safari Lodge (open all year round except February) offers a beautiful mix of eco-luxury and nature in the heart of Kafue National Park.

Sanpan Dinner by: Andrew MacDonald

 

2. Victoria Falls in Full Power

Victoria Falls is undoubtedly one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the world, and during the Secret Season, the falls are at their most powerful. As the water flow increases, the mist rises higher, and the sound of the falls is thunderous. The surrounding lush greenery enhances the experience, creating the perfect setting for a visit. From Sindabezi Island (open all year round), you can enjoy private dining with panoramic views of the falls or take a guided tour to experience the falls up close. For the thrill-seekers, consider adding white-water rafting or a microlight flight to your itinerary for a unique perspective.

 

3. Wildlife Encounters Like No Other

Zambia’s Secret Season is a time when the country’s wildlife comes to life. With the rains, the landscape becomes rich with food and water, attracting an incredible range of animals. From the iconic big cats to newborn wildlife and migratory birds, there’s something to see in every direction. This is the time when you can witness the dramatic spectacle of baby animals taking their first steps, adding an extra layer of magic to a safari.  

Kafue National Park | Green Safaris
Lions in Kafue with Green Safaris at Ila Safari Lodge

For an unforgettable experience, consider staying at Shawa Luangwa Camp or Chisa Busanga Camp (both open from May 1 to November). At Shawa, you can embark on guided walking safaris in the Luangwa Valley, while Chisa’s bird-nest-style pods offer an immersive experience in the heart of the Busanga Plains, where you’ll likely encounter a host of wildlife, from lions to leopards and plenty of birds.

 

Chisa’s Iconic Nest Accommodations.
Chisa Busanga Camp game drive see African wild dogs in Busanga Plains
Guests of Chisa Busanga Camp on game drive enjoy a wild dog sighting in the Busanga Plains | Photo by Gerben van der Waals

4. Quiet Trails and Serene Camps

One of the best aspects of visiting Zambia during the shoulder season is the tranquillity. The crowds are thinner, and the pace is slower, allowing you to truly disconnect. If you’re seeking solitude and a serene experience, look no further than the camps located along the Zambezi River. At Potato Bush Camp and Sausage Tree Camp (both open from April 1 to November), you can paddle along the river or enjoy sundowners amid breathtaking landscapes. These camps offer intimate, nature-filled experiences that you won’t find during peak season.

Two people in canoe on the Zambezi River looking at a herd of elephants on the river bank
Canoeing on the Zambezi River is a special Zambian safari experience at Sausage Tree and Potato Bush camps in the

5. The Zambezi River at Its Best

The Zambezi River is the lifeblood of Zambia, and during the Secret Season, it is truly at its finest. The swelling waters bring new opportunities for adventure, whether you’re cruising at sunset, fishing, or canoeing. At Tongabezi (open all year round), you can unwind with romantic river cruises that offer stunning views of the river and its wildlife. For a more active adventure, Sausage Tree Camp offers adrenaline-pumping activities such as white-water rafting, canoeing, and fishing expeditions.

6. Birdwatching Bliss

Zambia is a birdwatcher’s paradise, and the Secret Season brings some of the most extraordinary bird sightings. The lush environment is home to hundreds of species, from the striking carmine bee-eaters to the elusive shoebill stork. Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or just an enthusiast, the opportunity to spot rare species is unparalleled. At Ila Safari Lodge and Shawa Luangwa Camp, expert guides can help you spot these remarkable creatures, making your trip a dream come true for bird lovers.

7. Relaxation Meets Sustainability

Zambia’s Secret Season isn’t just about adventure—it’s also about sustainability and relaxation. The lodges here focus on eco-conscious luxury, ensuring that your stay is both comfortable and environmentally responsible. At Kaya Mawa (open April 1 through January 5), located on Likoma Island, you can enjoy spa treatments overlooking Lake Malawi or immerse yourself in the local community through cultural activities. Tongabezi also invites guests to participate in craft workshops at the Twa Banane Creative Centre, allowing you to connect with the local culture in a meaningful way.

Likoma Island, Lake Malawi Kaya Mawa spa on rock knoll off Likoma Island in Lake Malawi

8. It’s the Budget-Friendly Adventure Season

While the Secret Season offers top-notch experiences, it also comes with a bonus—lower rates than peak season. This is your chance to enjoy luxury accommodations and high-end safari experiences at a fraction of the price. Whether you’re staying at Ila Safari Lodge or Potato Bush Camp, you’ll benefit from discounted rates and have the opportunity to extend your stay, experiencing even more of Zambia’s natural wonders.

Ila Safari Lodge’s Infinity Boma

 

9. Cozy Rainy Day Retreats

Don’t let a little rain dampen your spirits. Rainy days in Zambia are a cosy invitation to relax and take in the surroundings. Whether you’re sipping on a cup of local tea at Sindabezi Island or indulging in a spa treatment at Ila Safari Lodge, the rainy season offers its unique charm. Each lodge ensures that you feel right at home, whether you’re reading by the fire or enjoying a candlelit dinner with a view of the rain-soaked landscape.

10. Adventure Is Ready When You Are

The best part of visiting Zambia during the Secret Season and shoulder months? The Pay 7, Stay 9 offer. This incredible deal lets you explore Zambia’s diverse lodges with ease—move from the riverside elegance of Tongabezi to the innovative bird-nest designs at Chisa and Shawa. With internal flights and transfers included, you can enjoy a seamless and stress-free adventure, diving into Zambia’s lush green landscapes.

Zambia is waiting for you, and the Secret Season and shoulder months are the perfect time to experience its wonders. Don’t miss out—book your adventure now!

 

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