6. Zambia
Kenya has long been the go-to standard for safari vacations, but Zambia is an emerging option for those who want to get close to nature without all the other hordes of visitors—or forking over thousands to a tour operator. In Zambia, you can explore the game reserves independently, without hiring a guide. South Luangwa National Park is a supreme example of the African savanna, where you can spot impalas, water buffalo, and elephants, and see a variety of terrain, from dense woodlands to open marshes. Zambia is also home to one of the biggest waterfalls in the world; Victoria Falls, which rushes over a huge rift between the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe, has super-cheap campsites nearby. A few miles upstream is the new Toka Leya camp in the Mosi-oa-Tunya National park, which offers great opportunities to spot more leopards, giraffe, and hippos. Or take in the wildlife along the Zambezi River; its powerful waters carved Victoria Falls and the Batoka Gorge. You can find all range of activities on the river, including fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. Or those on the adrenaline-pumping end of the spectrum can try bungee jumping, whitewater rafting, and cliff jumping.
Zambia Travel Guide