When we think of exotic travel, visions of grabbing our passport and flying to faraway places often comes to mind. But nothing compares to the freedom of having your own wheels and the anticipation of a road trip. Unless you enjoy being parked (mind the pun) in the same spot for your entire holiday, then keep reading to discover our 5 reasons that Zambian road trips are the best vacations.
You get to see your own country.
Travellers from all over the world dream about coming to Zambia and witnessing the wonder of our scenery and the beauty of our people. For those of us lucky enough to call Zambia home, it is too easy to get complacent about what is on our doorstep. However, the reality is that many Zambians have never felt the thunder of Victoria Falls or the rush of walking up to a white rhino on foot. It is time to see it for ourselves.
As Zambians, we are proud of our heritage and our diverse cultures. By heading out on a road trip, you will have the opportunity to witness first-hand the places and meet the people that you have only read about in books. From snorkelling in Lake Tanganyika to swimming on the edge of Victoria Falls, Zambia will never let you get bored if you open your heart to new experiences.
Packing is easy-peasy
We’re sure you know plenty of people that pack more for a weekend away than they ever would for a three-week vacation. This also rings true for a road trip, but who really cares when you have a whole boot to fill. If you feel like bringing three pairs of heels for the perfect night out or enough snacks to sink a ship, it’s all fine as long as it fits in the car.
It’s cheaper
Flying can get pricey, even if you are booking your tickets last minute in Zambia. If you are paying for a whole family, then the cost of fuel for a road trip is negligible compared to flying. You’ll also always have your own transport, making it easier to head to different restaurants or get groceries for a self-catering accommodation option.
You can go at your own pace.
One of the best aspects of a road trip is that you don’t have anyone telling you what to do, where to go, or when to get there. When you are hungry, you can stop for a bite to eat in a local restaurant, and when you want to stretch your legs, then there are multiple heritage sites to visit in each Zambian province. If you find a stunning spot, then there is no reason why you can’t stop and enjoy the view since you won’t have a bus driver whizzing you past at breakneck speed.
The liberation of having your own flexible schedule is why renting cars, and fully equipped 4×4 vehicles in Zambia have become so popular for families. If you find a spot that you love, then you can choose to stay a few nights longer. Conversely, you can be in one town for breakfast, another for lunch and then a third destination for dinner and sundowner drinks.
Bonding time
Much of the lure of a road trip is about spending quality and quantity time with your loved ones. Whether it be a family vacation or piling all of your friends in the car for a last-minute trip to Livingstone, you know that you’ll be creating lifelong memories. The best adventures start with loose plans, a fantastic play list and the people we love.
