When you think of an African safari, the famous Big Five usually come to mind. But Zambia, with its vast wild landscapes and well-preserved national parks, is also home to rare and sometimes near-endemic species that are almost impossible to find elsewhere.
Here are 7 fascinating animals to look out for on a trip to Zambia — and where to spot them!
1. Sable Antelope
📍 Where to see it: Kafue National Park or South Luangwa
With its dark, velvety coat and long curved horns, the sable antelope is a striking sight. It’s quite rare in most parts of southern Africa, but Zambia remains one of the best countries to see this majestic antelope in the wild.
2. Puku
📍 Where to see it: South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi
Little known and often overlooked, the puku is a honey-colored antelope that prefers marshy areas. It’s almost endemic to Zambia, making it a special sighting for wildlife lovers.
3. Saddle-Billed Stork
📍 Where to see it: Lower Zambezi National Park
With its bold red, black, and yellow bill, this giant stork is absolutely spectacular. It can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and is often seen alone or in pairs near rivers and wetlands.
4. African Wild Dog
📍 Where to see it: Kafue and South Luangwa (if you’re lucky!)
Highly endangered and elusive, the African wild dog is one of the most efficient predators on the continent. They live in tightly knit packs, and seeing them in the wild is always a rare and unforgettable moment.
5. Cheetah
📍 Where to see it: Liuwa Plain National Park
Cheetahs are hard to find in most Zambian parks — except for Liuwa Plain, where they roam freely across open grasslands. This remote, off-the-beaten-path park offers a unique and uncrowded safari experience.
6. Greater Kudu
📍 Where to see it: Lower Zambezi and South Luangwa
Easily recognized by its spiral horns and graceful stature, the greater kudu is one of Africa’s most beautiful antelopes. Its natural camouflage makes it hard to spot, but it’s present in many Zambian parks if you know where to look.
7. Nile Crocodile (Super-Sized)
📍 Where to see it: Along the Zambezi River
Zambia’s crocodiles, especially around the Lower Zambezi, are among the largest in Africa — some reaching over 5 meters in length! These ancient reptiles are awe-inspiring… as long as you keep your distance 😉
Why Zambia is a Hidden Gem for Wildlife Lovers
Thanks to sustainable park management and a safari scene still free from mass tourism, Zambia offers a wilder, more authentic safari experience. It’s also one of the few places where endangered and rare species can still thrive in protected habitats.
Looking for a Different Kind of Safari?
If you’re dreaming of a trip where you can encounter wildlife most tourists will never see, Zambia is the place to go. Whether you’re into wildlife photography, biodiversity, or just raw adventure, these rare species make every game drive unforgettable.
Which of these rare animals would you love to see first?
🔗 Also read:
→ Top 3 National Parks You Shouldn’t Miss
Zambian Traditions and Peoples: A Vibrant Culture to Discover
