Lusaka safaris

Lusaka may not have a reputation as a tourist hotspot - but therein lies its charm. Zambia's capital city offers travelers a front row seat to the hustle-and-bustle of everyday life, minus the touts and scam artists that often plague African mega-cities. Take a private Lusaka tour with a local guide who will ensure you see the highlights, while taking time to chat with market vendors and taxi drivers. Lusaka gets hot, so start early. Let your guide navigate the traffic-clogged streets while you enjoy the views from the comfort of a private air-con car. Snap photos of the opulent residence of the country's first President, then go wild at the city's lion park and elephant orphanage. Lusaka sits 1300 metres above sea level, so evenings are refreshingly cool. Dine outdoors on dried fish stew and nshima, a corn porridge, washed down with a pint of Dr. Livingstone's Lager, then follow your guide to a nightspot to dance to the driving rhythms of Kalindula, Zambia's favorite music.