TOURISM DEVELOPMENT
Z
systems, and around 40% of sub-Saharan Africa’s water rises in Zambia spawning waterfalls galore, among them the famous Victoria Falls. The result ambia is recognized internationally as a is an astonishing landscape and a rich habitat for leading destination for outdoor and safari tourism, boasting dramatic landscapes and abundant some of the world’s most endangered wildlife wildlife. However, there is still plenty of develop- species. We have large areas of intact forest and a ment ahead in order for our country to achieve its number of welcoming local villages that promote cultural tourism experiences to compliment the full potential. nature-based tourism for which we are famous. I was the Chairman of the Luangwa Safaris Associ- However, Zambia is a large country with signifiation (LSA) for more than ten years and was lucky cant distances between some of its well-known enough to be involved in discussions at a national attractions. The limited infrastructure creates some challenges for visitors who wish to take full level for the development of the Zambian tourism industry. Some of the key areas for additional advantage of what our country has to offer. development that have been identified include expansion of infrastructure, and diversification of Zambia has a reputation (I would say an unfair one) for being an expensive destination. However, accommodation offerings. on a like for like basis, our mid- to upper-range products offer great value for the money. If you Over 30% of Zambia’s land is designated as eiwanted to stay at a camp in Botswana, Kenya, Tanther national parks or game management areas zania or even Zimbabwe of equal quality to camps (GMAs). We are blessed with several major river View from the skies above the Lower Zambezi National Park
16
TRAVEL & LEISURE ZAMBIA
