Monthly Safari Guide

Zambia Safari in
March

Late Emerald Season 17-29°C 140mm rain 1128 tours

March sees Zambia's rains beginning to ease, though the landscape remains gloriously green. Victoria Falls approaches its April-May peak with impressive flow rates. South Luangwa's emerald season continues with improving game viewing as some tracks dry out. The massive Kafue National Park begins to become more accessible. This is still a value month with low-season pricing, rewarding travellers who enjoy the transition from green to dry. Wildlife is abundant if somewhat dispersed across the lush landscape.

Season overview

Late Emerald Season in Zambia

March falls within Zambia's late emerald season, characterised by daytime highs of 29°C and overnight lows of 17°C. Average rainfall is 140mm, making this a rainy period.

The rainy season brings lush green landscapes, baby animals, and exceptional birdwatching. Rain typically falls in afternoon bursts, leaving mornings clear for game drives. The trade-off for occasional rain is significantly fewer tourists and lower prices.

Wildlife & nature

Wildlife Highlights in March

● Rains beginning to taper off
● Elephant herds with young calves
● Migratory birds still present before departure
● Victoria Falls approaching peak flow

Where to go

Best Parks in Zambia for March

★ South Luangwa

Top pick this month

Victoria Falls (Livingstone)

Recommended for March

Kafue

Recommended for March

Planning

Crowds & Pricing in March

Crowd Level

Low

Price Level

Low Season

Average price per person

Budget

$2438

from $50 · 91 tours

Mid-range

$3655

from $100 · 147 tours

Luxury

$6701

from $823 · 31 tours

Ultra-Luxury

$18270

from $8502 · 3 tours

March is one of the most affordable months for a Zambia safari. Lodges and camps offer significant discounts, sometimes 30-50% below peak rates. This is the time to experience premium properties at mid-range prices.

Preparation

What to Pack for March

✓ Rain jacket

✓ Layers for cooling temperatures

✓ Insect repellent

✓ Waterproof footwear

✓ Camera rain protection

Waterproof gear is essential for March in Zambia. Pack a good rain jacket and waterproof bag for electronics. Quick-dry fabrics are more practical than cotton. Despite the rain, sunscreen is still necessary for the strong tropical sun between showers. Neutral safari colours remain the best choice.

Book your adventure

Top Zambia Safari Tours

Savannah Adventures

½-Day Private Rhino Trekking, Bush Walk and Game Drive

5.0★

From $347

Soul of Madagascar Tours

11-Day Antsirabe - Ranomafana - Isalo - Ifaty

11 days standard 5.0★

From $2,079

Wilderness Horizon Safaris

7-Day South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi Epic Safari

7 days standard 5.0★

From $3,740

Zamsato

4-Day Private Retreat at Kauluzi House

4 days luxury 4.9★

From $5,126

Adventure Purists

15-Day Liuwa Plains to South Luangwa National Parks

15 days basic 4.9★

From $4,122

Adventure Purists

15-Day Zambia Walking Safari with Bat Migration

15 days basic 4.9★

From $4,595

View all 1128 Zambia tours →

Frequently asked questions

Zambia Safari in March FAQ

Is March a good time for a safari in Zambia?

March falls in Zambia's late emerald season, with temperatures of 17-29 degrees Celsius and 140mm average rainfall. Crowd levels are low, and pricing is at low season rates. Rains beginning to taper off. Overall, March is an excellent value month for a Zambia safari.

How much does a Zambia safari cost in March?

Zambia safari costs in March vary by comfort level. Budget safaris average $2438/person from $50. Mid-range options average $3655/person. Luxury safaris average $6701/person. Ultra-luxury experiences average $18270/person. Prices are at their lowest in March. Compare 1128 tours on SafariPicked.

What wildlife can I see in Zambia in March?

March wildlife highlights in Zambia include: Rains beginning to taper off. Elephant herds with young calves. Migratory birds still present before departure. Victoria Falls approaching peak flow. The best parks to visit this month are South Luangwa, Victoria Falls (Livingstone), Kafue.

What should I pack for a Zambia safari in March?

Essential packing for a March Zambia safari: Rain jacket, Layers for cooling temperatures, Insect repellent, Waterproof footwear, Camera rain protection. Temperatures range from 17 to 29 degrees Celsius with 140mm rainfall, so waterproof gear is essential.

Which parks are best to visit in Zambia in March?

The top parks in Zambia for March are South Luangwa, Victoria Falls (Livingstone), Kafue. During the late emerald season, these parks offer the best game viewing conditions. South Luangwa is particularly recommended this month. Browse all Zambia park guides and tour options on SafariPicked.