Zambia is larger than the U.S. state of Texas, and famed for its unique blend of scenic wonder, culture, history and wildlife. First and foremost is Victoria Falls, considered the world’s largest waterfall, known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, or “the smoke that thunders.” The falls were named in 1855 by Scottish explorer, David Livingstone to honor Queen Victoria. But the waters of the Zambezi River’s Mosi-oa-Tunya have been cascading, causing wonder and creating mist-filled clouds and rainbows for countless millennia.

The plains and bush of Zambia are home to the classic safari’s big five (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and African buffalo), as well as endless species of antelope, giraffe, zebra, cheetah, hippopotamus, wild dog, exotic birds and more. And it was in Zambia that the concept of “walking safaris” was developed. The country has a wide range of luxurious safari lodges. Lusaka, Zambia‘s capital, is home to close to three million people. It is a city known for its markets, sophisticated restaurants and cultural attractions. The city of Livingstone is home to 200,000, and conveniently located adjacent to Victoria Falls.