The Ultimate Guide To Zambia’s National Parks
If you’re considering a vacation to Zambia, you’re likely doing so to experience the wealth of wildlife and safari experiences which are on offer. And to do so, you’ll be aiming to visit some of the 20 National Parks across Zambia. We’ve put together this guide to tell you all about the different parks and to help you decide which are best suited to you when you come to visit Zambia.
So what exactly are National Parks in Zambia? The meaning of a national park can vary country to country, but here in Zambia, they are legally protected areas to ensure the conservation of wildlife, ecosystems and cultural heritage.
Overseeing our national parks is the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW), formerly Zambia Wildlife Authority (ZAWA). They are responsible for ensuring that the conservation policies are enforced, ensuring our wildlife can thrive and be a great place for guests, such as yourself, to responsibly enjoy the diverse wildlife Zambia has to offer.
Finding it hard to decide which National Parks are right for you? Why don’t you take a look at the different Zambia Safaris we have on offer. Each will take you to various National Parks!
Our Favourite National Parks In Zambia
With 20 National Parks in Zambia, there’s a lot of information to take in to try and narrow down your choices of which park to visit. So we’ve included a list of our top 4 National Parks below, which we believe you should aim to visit at least one of these on your trip to Zambia.
- South Luangwa National Park - The “birthplace of the walking safari”. If you want to experience wildlife on foot, then there’s no better place. An iconic walking safari will not disappoint with the huge variety of wildlife the park has to offer.
- Lower Zambezi National Park - Experience wildlife from a different perspective, with a canoe safari. You’ll take to the water in your canoe which allows for close up encounters many don’t get to witness. Truly an experience of a lifetime!
- Kafue National Park - Not only the oldest and largest national park, but one of the most visited too! And for good reason, as it has some of the most diverse wildlife in Zambia. The only shame is that it’s too big to explore and finding the right safari guide will be essential to ensure you see the best it has to offer.
- North Luangwa National Park - Most well known for its conservation efforts of the African Wild Dog. Like South Luangwa it’s also known for its walking safaris, and you never know, you might get a glimpse at the rare wild dog.
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South Luangwa National Park
The “birthplace of the walking safari”, South Luangwa National Park is one of the most popular wildlife destinations in Zambia. Established as a game reserve in 1938 and becoming a national park in 1972, the park covers over 9,000 square kilometres along the Luangwa River. An ideal habitat for a variety of different wildlife, which has allowed for them to thrive, resulting in the high concentration of game that the national park is known for. This is the reason why South Luangwa is such a hot spot for visitors and we’d highly recommend a walking safari if you do decide to visit!
Find Safaris Featuring South Luangwa National ParkWildlife in South Luangwa National Park
“Big 5”
Elephant – Buffalo – Lion – Leopard
Popular Finds
Thornicroft’s giraffe – Hippo – Crawshay’s Zebra – Nile crocodile – Spotted hyena – African Wild Dog – Puku
Notable Animals
African Wild Dog – Aardvark – Pangolin – Impala
Birds
Carmine bee-eater (breeds seasonally along riverbanks) – Pel’s fishing owl – African skimmer – Lilian’s lovebird – Goliath heron – Southern ground hornbill – African fish eagle
Top Activities in South Luangwa National Park
Game drives – Walking safaris – Birdwatching – Photography safaris – Cultural village visits – Seasonal Carmine bee-eater viewing – Riverbank sundowners – Bush breakfasts and picnics – Star gazing
Getting to South Luangwa National Park
Mfuwe Airport is often referred to as the gateway to the national park, and we’d highly recommend that you fly into this airport when visiting. There are regular flights from Lusaka and also options from Livingstone.
From the airport you can be into the airport and at your safari lodge typically in under an hour, with some being as close as half an hour away.
When to visit South Luangwa National Park
For most National Parks in Zambia, it is best to visit during the dry season which typically runs from June to October, and South Luangwa National Park is no different.
This is due to water sources drying up during the dry season, causing wildlife to congregate at larger sources and in the case of South Luangwa, the Luangwa River. This makes it much easier to predict where the wildlife will be and sightings more likely.
The rainy season can be good for bird watching, with migratory birds coming to the park, however you need to be considerate that some of the park will be less accessible and some lodges will be closed.
One of the seasonal spectacles of South Luangwa is the nesting season of the Carmine Bee-eater. This happens between August and October, with large colonies gathering along the riverbanks. A great experience for both photographers and bird watchers.
Lower Zambezi National Park
If you’re looking for river based safari experiences, then the Lower Zambezi National Park is for you! Being set along the Zambezi River makes this national park the ideal place to view wildlife from the water and we’d highly recommend the unique perspective you can get from a canoe safari.
Find Safaris Featuring Lower Zambezi National ParkWildlife in Lower Zambezi National Park
“Big 5”
Elephant – Buffalo – Lion – Leopard
Popular Finds
Hippos – Crocodiles – Kudu – Spotted Hyena – African Wild Dog – Zebra
Notable Animals
Impala – Bushbuck – Waterbuck
Birds
African Skimmer – Bee-eaters – Fish Eagles – Herons
Top Activities in Lower Zambezi National Park
Canoeing and boat safaris – Day and night game drives – Walking safaris – Fishing (tigerfish) – Birdwatching – Photography
Getting to Lower Zambezi National Park
Lower Zambezi National Park is fairly close to Lusaka and it usually takes 2.5 to 3 hours to reach the Lower Zambezi Valley from Lusaka airport by road.
There are also options to fly into the national park from Lusaka, either to Jeki or Royal airstrip which will take just over an hour.
When to visit Lower Zambezi National Park
June to October is the peak time to visit the Lower Zambezi National Park. This is the dry season in Zambia, which draws wildlife towards the Zambezi river, making it the ideal time to get on the river and get some close wildlife encounters from your boat or canoe.
During the rainy season, November to March, some lodges close and parts of the national park may be inaccessible.
Kafue National Park
Established in 1924 and gaining National Park status in the 1950s, Kafue National Park is both the oldest and largest National Park in Zambia. Spanning 22,400 square kilometers, it’s also one of the largest protected parks in all of Africa!
Kafue is known for its diversity of habitats, from floodplains and wetlands to woodlands and savannahs, making it home to a huge variety of wildlife. This makes it a great place for visitors looking for a diverse range of wildlife, however you do need to be considerate of the huge size of this national park. Because of the size it can feel like the wildlife is less abundant compared to some other national parks, but this also adds to its charm, with each day feeling like a real adventure, not knowing what you might come across.
Find Safaris Featuring Kafue National ParkWildlife in Kafue National Park
“Big 5”
Lions – Leopards – Elephants – Buffalo
Popular Finds
Cheetah – Hippo – African Wild Dog (Painted Wolfs) – Zebra – Impala
Notable Animals
Sable Antelope – Roan Antelope – Puku Antelope – Warthog – Waterbuck – Mongoose
Birds
African Fish Eagle – Martial Eagle – Pel’s Fishing Owl – Carmine Bee-eater – Ross’s Turaco – White-fronted Bee-eater – Secretary Bird – Malachite Kingfisher
Top Activities in Kafue National Park
Game Drives – Walking Safaris – Boat Safaris & Canoeing – Birdwatching – Hot Air Balloon Safaris – Photographic Safaris
Getting to Kafue National Park
Kafue National Park is huge, so how to get there will really depend on where exactly in the park you’re going to! We typically access the north and central area of the park direct from Lusaka which is typically around a 5 hour scenic drive. Alternatively if you’re heading to the south of the national park you might want to start in Livingstone, which is a similar distance away.
Of course, if you’re short on time and have the budget for it, there are options to charter a flight into the national park, which will also have the benefit of allowing you to see the park from an alternative angle.
When to visit Kafue National Park
The best time to visit Kafue is throughout the dry season which typically runs from June to October. This is mainly due to some areas being less accessible during the wet season, especially the Busanga Plains, which is one of the most popular areas of the park to visit. Wildlife can be much easier to find during the dry season, with animals gathering at water sources.
Typically early in the dry season, June to August, are the cooler months in Zambia and therefore ideal for walking and boat safaris.
However, the later into the dry season you visit, the more likely you are to see higher concentration of animals at water sources as they await for the rains to return.
If you’re looking for that something special during your Zambia visit, then a hot air balloon safari might be something to consider. These typically only run in the peak season which is from August to October.
We’d only recommend visiting Kafue National Park during the wet season for birdwatching. Many migratory species arrive during this time which makes for fantastic viewing. However you need to be considerate that some camps will be closed for the quiet period and some areas of the national park will be inaccessible.
North Luangwa National Park
The northernmost national park in the valley of the River Luangwa, North Luangwa National Park is both exclusive and secluded with it being regarded as one of the last surviving wilderness in Africa. The expansive park covers 4,636 square kilometers and has no permanent lodges, with access to visitors only available through two approved operators via a walking safari. This means that it’s one of the only places you can explore Africa just as it was and be merely an unobtrusive witness to its natural beauty and drama.
Find Safaris Featuring North Luangwa National ParkWildlife in North Luangwa National Park
“Big 5”
Elephant – Lion – Leopard – Buffalo – Black Rhino
Popular Finds
Hippopotamus – Thornicroft’s giraffe – Roan Antelope – African Wild Dog
Birds
African Broadbill – Pel’s Fishing Owl – Schalow’s Turaco – Carmine Bee-eater
Top Activities in North Luangwa National Park
Walking safaris with expert guides – Game drives (limited lodges, low visitor numbers) – Birdwatching – Night drives to spot nocturnal species – Conservation-focused experiences (tracking wild dogs and rhinos)
Getting to North Luangwa National Park
With the remoteness of the National Park, you will typically fly into a nearby airstrip from Lusaka. As there are only two operators who operate in the park and because of the remoteness, they will typically work with you to get you into the North Luangwa.
When to visit North Luangwa National Park
Because of the exclusiveness of North Luangwa National Park, with only two operators approved to operate walking safaris with the national park, if North Luangwa is on your must visit list it may be best to check what availability they have and base your trip to Zambia around that.
Typically the best time to visit will be the dry season which runs from June to October. Outside of the dry season there will be limited access to the park.
Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park
Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, spanning approximately 66 km², is one of Zambia’s smallest national parks. Located near Livingstone, it encompasses the renowned Victoria Falls, also known as “The Smoke That Thunders.” Declared a national park in 1972, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty and wildlife experiences.
Find Safaris Featuring Mosi-oa-Tunya National ParkWildlife in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park
“Big 5”
Elephants – Buffalo – White Rhino
Popular Finds
Giraffe – Zebra – Hippo – Wildebeest – Hyena
Notable Animals
Crocodiles – Vervet Monkeys – Chacma Baboons
Birds
Peregrine Falcon – Taita Falcon – Verreaux’s Eagle – Augur Buzzard – Finfoot – Blue-billed Teal – African Black Duck
Top Activities in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park
Game drives along the Zambezi River – Walking safaris – Birdwatching (over 35 raptor species) – Microlight flights over Victoria Falls – Canoeing and river cruises – Cultural visits to local villages
Getting to Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park
Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is easily accessible from Livingstone, approximately 12 km from the town center. Visitors can reach the park by road or arrange for guided tours. The park is adjacent to the Zambezi River and near the iconic Victoria Falls, making it a convenient destination for travelers exploring the region.
When to visit Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park
- Dry Season (May–October): Ideal for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities. The weather is mild and sunny, making it perfect for hiking and scenic drives.
visitvictoriafalls.org - Wet Season (November–April): The landscape becomes lush and green, and migratory birds are abundant. However, some areas may be less accessible due to rains.
Lusaka National Park
Lusaka National park may be Zambia’s newest and smallest national park, however, with it being on the outskirts of Lusaka, it is one of the easiest to access in Zambia. This makes it a convenient escape for those who are staying in the city or have limited time in Zambia.
Despite its size and due to the proximity to the city, Lusaka National Park has become a key component to conservation in Zambia and plays an important role in conservation education.
Find Safaris Featuring Lusaka National ParkWildlife in Lusaka National Park
“Big 5”
White Rhinos
Popular Finds
Giraffe – Zebra – Eland – Kudu – Impala
Notable Animals
Sable Antelope – Bushbuck – Duiker – Hartebeest – Puku – Spotted Deer – Waterbuck
Top Activities in Lusaka National Park
Game drives (self-drive or guided) – Walking safaris (on designated trails) – Birdwatching – Picnic areas and braai (BBQ) facilities – Educational tours and school visits – Visit to the Game Rangers International wildlife rescue facility
Getting to Lusaka National Park
You can reach Lusaka National Park by car in just over half an hour. Unlike other parks, any vehicle will be suitable to get there, which makes it an ideal day trip from the city. No flights or special transport is required!
When to visit Lusaka National Park
This is one of the few national parks in Zambia which is open and fully accessible all year round. So if you’re in Lusaka and there’s no reason not to visit!
Luambe National Park
Luambe National Park, established in 1938, is one of Zambia’s oldest conservation areas, covering approximately 254 km². Nestled in the heart of the Luangwa Valley between North and South Luangwa National Parks, it offers an intimate and authentic wilderness experience. The park is renowned for its serene landscapes, diverse wildlife, and the unique opportunity to explore a less-traveled part of Zambia’s rich natural heritage.
Find Safaris Featuring Luambe National ParkWildlife in Luambe National Park
“Big 5”
Elephant – Lion – Leopard – Buffalo
Popular Finds
Giraffe – Hippo – Zebra – Wildebeest – Hyena – Wild Dog
Top Activities in Luambe National Park
Game drives – Walking safaris – Birdwatching – Sleep-outs and bush dining – Cultural visits to local communities
Getting to Luambe National Park
Access to Luambe National Park requires a 4×4 vehicle due to the lack of developed roads. Travelers typically drive from Mfuwe, which is approximately a 2-hour drive from the park. Alternatively, visitors can fly into Mfuwe Airport and arrange for a transfer to the park.
When to visit Luambe National Park
- Dry Season (June–October): Ideal for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources. The park is open during this period, offering optimal conditions for safaris.
Safari Bookings - Wet Season (November–April): Best for birdwatching and witnessing newborn animals; however, some areas may be inaccessible due to rains, and the park is closed during this time.
Kasanka National Park
Kasanka National Park is a relatively small but ecologically significant park in northern Zambia, covering about 390 km². It’s world-famous for hosting the largest mammal migration on earth—over 10 million straw-colored fruit bats arrive seasonally between October and December. The park’s mosaic of wetlands, forests, and grasslands supports rich biodiversity, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise and a unique safari destination.
Find Safaris Featuring Kasanka National ParkWildlife in Kasanka National Park
“Big 5”
Elephant – Buffalo
Popular Finds
Sitatunga – Blue Monkey – Hippo – Waterbuck
Notable Animals
Fruit Bats – Puku – Zebra
Birds
African Pygmy Goose – Shoebill – Ross’s Turaco – Wattled Crane – Narina Trogon
Top Activities in Kasanka National Park
Bat migration viewing platforms (seasonal) – Canoeing on the Bangweulu swamps – Walking safaris and guided nature walks – Birdwatching tours – Night drives to spot nocturnal wildlife – Cultural village visits
Getting to Kasanka National Park
Kasanka is best reached by flying into Kasama Airport, about 2.5 hours by road from the park. Alternatively, visitors can fly into Ndola and drive (~5–6 hours). The last stretch to the park requires a 4×4 vehicle due to rough roads.
When to visit Kasanka National Park
October to December is the highlight, when millions of fruit bats migrate to the park. This is also when predators and birdlife gather to feast on the bats.
May to August offers cooler weather, lush vegetation, and excellent birdwatching.
The rainy season (Nov-April) brings heavy rains and some access challenges.
Nyika National Park
Nyika National Park is Zambia’s largest montane park, covering about 3,200 km² on the high Nyika Plateau in the northeast. Known for its rolling grasslands, misty hills, and cool climate, it offers a different safari experience from Zambia’s lowland parks. The park is shared with Malawi and boasts unique flora and fauna adapted to its high-altitude environment.
Wildlife in Nyika National Park
“Big 5”
Elephant – Lion – Leopard
Popular Finds
Eland – Roan antelope – Reedbuck – Bushbuck – Zebra
Notable Animals
Warthog – Yellow Baboon – Side-striped Jackal
Birds
Denham’s Bustard – Malachite Sunbird
Top Activities in Nyika National Park
Game drives on the plateau – Walking and hiking trails through grasslands and forests – Birdwatching (one of Zambia’s best birding spots) – Visiting historic colonial-era rest houses – Photography safaris – Camping and nature walks
Getting to Nyika National Park
Fly into Kasenengwa Airport or Mfuwe Airport, then drive to the park (about 4–5 hours). The road to the park is accessible by 4×4 vehicles, especially during the rainy season.
When to visit Nyika National Park
Dry season (May to October) offers the best weather and easier access.
The green season (November to April) is cooler and wetter, with lush vegetation but limited road access.
No major seasonal wildlife migrations, but birdlife peaks during the wet season.
Liuwa Plain National Park
Liuwa Plain National Park, located in western Zambia, is renowned for its vast, treeless grasslands and rich biodiversity. The park is particularly famous for hosting Africa’s second-largest wildebeest migration, attracting wildlife enthusiasts seeking an authentic and unspoiled safari experience.
Wildlife in Liuwa Plain National Park
“Big 5”
Lions – Buffalo
Popular Finds
Wildebeest – Zebra – Spotted hyena – Wild Dog – Cheetah
Birds
Wattled Crane – Saddle-billed Stork – Slaty Egret – Black-winged Pratincole – Whiskered tern
Top Activities in Liuwa Plain National Park
Game drives (guided) – Walking safaris – Birdwatching – Cultural experiences with local communities – Photography safaris
Getting to Liuwa Plain National Park
Accessing Liuwa Plain National Park requires careful planning due to its remote location. The nearest entry point is Kalabo, approximately a 10-hour transfer from Lusaka and an eight-hour transfer from Livingstone. Visitors can also charter flights to the park’s airstrip, but commercial flight services are limited.
When to visit Liuwa Plain National Park
- Dry Season (May to October): Ideal for wildlife viewing, with easier access and concentrated wildlife near water sources.
- Wet Season (November to April): Witness the spectacular wildebeest migration, lush landscapes, and abundant birdlife.
Blue Lagoon National Park
Blue Lagoon National Park, established in 1976, is a tranquil wildlife haven situated in Zambia’s Central Province, approximately 120 km west of Lusaka. Spanning an area of about 500 km², the park is part of the expansive Kafue Flats ecosystem. It offers a serene and less commercialized safari experience, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts seeking solitude and authentic wildlife encounters.
Wildlife in Blue Lagoon National Park
“Big 5”
Buffalo
Popular Finds
Kafue lechwe – Zebra – Sitatunga
Birds
Wattled Crane – Saddle-billed Stork – Slaty Egret – Black-winged Pratincole – Whiskered Tern
Top Activities in Blue Lagoon National Park
Game drives along the floodplains – Walking safaris – Birdwatching (especially during the wet season) – Photography safaris – Cultural visits to local villages
Getting to Blue Lagoon National Park
Blue Lagoon National Park is accessible by road from Lusaka, approximately a 2.5 to 3-hour drive. The park is located near the town of Mumbwa, which serves as a convenient base for visitors. The terrain can be challenging, especially during the rainy season, so a 4×4 vehicle is recommended.
When to visit Blue Lagoon National Park
- Dry Season (May–October): Ideal for wildlife viewing, as animals congregate around water sources, and the landscape is more accessible.
- Wet Season (November–April): The park transforms into a lush paradise, attracting numerous migratory birds. This period is excellent for birdwatching, but some areas may be less accessible due to rains.
Lochinvar National Park
Established in 1972, Lochinvar National Park spans 428 km² on the southern edge of Zambia’s Kafue Flats. The park encompasses diverse habitats, including expansive floodplains, the Chunga Lagoon, and drier woodlands. Notable features include Gwisho Hot Springs and ancient archaeological sites.
Wildlife in Lochinvar National Park
“Big 5”
Buffalo
Popular Finds
Hippo – Zebra – Hyena
Top Activities in Lochinvar National Park
Game drives – birdwatching – guided nature walks – photography – cultural visits to ancient sites
Getting to Lochinvar National Park
Located approximately 3 hours southwest of Lusaka, accessible by self-drive or guided tours. Visitors typically fly into Kenneth Kaunda International Airport and proceed to the park.
When to visit Lochinvar National Park
- Dry Season (May–October): Ideal for wildlife viewing; cooler temperatures and accessible terrain.
Take your Backpack - Wet Season (November–April): Optimal for birdwatching; migratory birds are present, and the landscape is lush.
Nsumbu National Park
Nsumbu National Park, established in 1985, is a pristine wilderness located on the western shore of Lake Tanganyika in Zambia’s Northern Province. Spanning approximately 2,000 km², it encompasses diverse ecosystems, including miombo woodlands, wetlands, and over 100 km of lake shoreline, making it a haven for both terrestrial and aquatic wildlife.
Wildlife in Nsumbu National Park
“Big 5”
Elephant – Buffalo – Lion – Leopard
Popular Finds
Hippo – Zebra – Wildebeest – Hyena – Wild Dog
Notable Animals
Blue Duiker – Sitatunga – Serval – Side-striped Jackal – Roan Antelope – Sable Antelope
Top Activities in Nsumbu National Park
Game drives – Boat safaris on Lake Tanganyika – Fishing (especially during the wet season) – Birdwatching – Guided nature walks – Cultural visits to local communities
Getting to Nsumbu National Park
Nsumbu National Park is accessible by road from Mbala or Kaputa, both of which are connected to Lusaka via the Great North Road. The journey involves traversing rugged terrains, so a 4×4 vehicle is recommended. Alternatively, visitors can fly into Kasama Airport and arrange for a transfer to the park.
When to visit Nsumbu National Park
Dry Season (May–October): Ideal for wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources, and vegetation is less dense.
Wet Season (November–April): Best for birdwatching and fishing; however, some areas may be inaccessible due to rains.
Sioma Ngwezi National Park
Sioma Ngwezi National Park, covering approximately 5,276 km², is Zambia’s third-largest park, situated in the southwestern corner of the country. The park is characterized by Kalahari woodlands and seasonal wetlands, providing a haven for wildlife and a vital corridor for migratory species. Despite its remoteness and limited infrastructure, Sioma Ngwezi offers an authentic wilderness experience for adventurous travelers.
Wildlife in Sioma Ngwezi National Park
“Big 5”
Elephant – Lion – Leopard
Popular Finds
Giraffe – Roan Antelope – Sable Antelope – Eland – Tsessebe – Zebra – Impala – Puku
Top Activities in Sioma Ngwezi National Park
Game drives – Walking safaris – Fishing in the Zambezi River – Cultural visits to local communities
Getting to Sioma Ngwezi National Park
Accessing Sioma Ngwezi National Park requires a 4×4 vehicle due to the lack of developed roads. Travelers typically drive from Livingstone or Lusaka, with road transfers available. Alternatively, visitors can fly into Sioma Airport and arrange for a transfer to the park.
When to visit Sioma Ngwezi National Park
- Dry Season (May–October): Ideal for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources. Temperatures range from 10°C at night to 30°C during the day.
Take your Backpack - Wet Season (November–April): Best for birdwatching and fishing; however, some areas may be inaccessible due to rains.
West Lunga National Park
West Lunga National Park is a remote and pristine wilderness located in Zambia’s North-Western Province, covering approximately 1,700 km². Established in the 1940s to protect the population of yellow-backed duiker, the park remains one of Zambia’s least-visited conservation areas, offering a unique and untouched environment for adventurous travelers.
Wildlife in West Lunga National Park
“Big 5”
Elephant – Buffalo
Popular Finds
Yellow-backed Duiker – Roan Antelope – Sable Antelope – Hippo – Crocodile – Baboon
Top Activities in West Lunga National Park
Canoeing and mokoro (dugout canoe) trips on the Kabompo and West Lunga Rivers – Birdwatching, especially in the dense forests and along the rivers – Nature walks and hiking, including trails like the Chikankata Trail – Exploring limestone caves, waterfalls, and hot springs – Photography of the diverse landscapes and wildlife
Getting to West Lunga National Park
Accessing West Lunga National Park requires a 4×4 vehicle due to the lack of developed roads. The park lies about 10 km north of the gravel road (M8 road) from Solwezi to Kabompo. Travelers can approach from the Copperbelt via Kitwe and Chingola to Solwezi, then proceed south until crossing the Mutanda River at Mwelemu. From there, a dirt track leads to the park gate and base at Jivundu in the southwest.
When to visit West Lunga National Park
- Dry Season (May–October): Ideal for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities, as animals are more active and accessible. Temperatures range from 10°C at night to 30°C during the day.
Take your Backpack - Wet Season (November–April): Best for birdwatching, especially migratory species. However, some areas may be inaccessible due to rains.
Lukusuzi National Park
Lukusuzi National Park, established in 1971, is a remote and rugged wilderness located in Zambia’s Eastern Province, covering approximately 3,400 km². Situated on the eastern escarpment of the Luangwa Valley, between the North and South Luangwa National Parks, it offers an authentic and isolated safari experience for adventurous travelers.
Wildlife in Lukusuzi National Park
“Big 5”
Lion – Elephant – Buffalo – Leopard
Popular Finds
African Wild Dog – Spotted Hyena – Impala – Warthog
Top Activities in Lukusuzi National Park
Game drives – Walking safaris – Birdwatching – Photography – Camping under the stars
Getting to Lukusuzi National Park
Accessing Lukusuzi National Park requires a 4×4 vehicle due to the lack of developed roads. The park lies about 10 km north of the gravel road (M8 road) from Solwezi to Kabompo. Travelers can approach from the Copperbelt via Kitwe and Chingola to Solwezi, then proceed south until crossing the Mutanda River at Mwelemu. From there, a dirt track leads to the park gate and base at Jivundu in the southwest.
When to visit Lukusuzi National Park
- Dry Season (June–October): Ideal for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities, as animals are more active and accessible. Temperatures range from 10°C at night to 30°C during the day.
- Wet Season (November–April): Best for birdwatching, especially migratory species. However, some areas may be inaccessible due to rains.
Isangano National Park
Isangano National Park, established in 1972, is a tranquil and underexplored gem located in Zambia’s Northern Province. Spanning approximately 840 km², the park is nestled within the expansive Bangweulu Wetlands, characterized by seasonal floodplains, swampy forests, and miombo woodlands. Despite its ecological significance, Isangano remains one of Zambia’s least-visited parks, offering a serene and authentic wilderness experience for adventurous travelers seeking solitude and natural beauty.
Wildlife in Isangano National Park
“Big 5”
Elephant – Buffalo
Popular Finds
Black Lechwe – Reedbuck – Oribi – Sitatunga – Hippopotamus – Crocodile – Zebra – Bushbuck – Warthog
Top Activities in Isangano National Park
Birdwatching – Canoe Safaris – Game Viewing – Photography & Nature Walks
Getting to Isangano National Park
Accessing Isangano National Park requires a 4×4 vehicle due to the lack of developed roads and seasonal flooding. The park is located in the Luwingu and Kasama districts of the Northern Province. Travelers can approach from the west of Mpika or the Mpulungu road near Chambeshi. Given the remote location and challenging terrain, it’s advisable to arrange transportation with a professional guide or tour operator familiar with the area.
When to visit Isangano National Park
- Dry Season (May–October): Optimal for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities, as animals are more active and accessible. The low water levels during this period allow for canoe trips and game drives.
- Wet Season (November–April): Ideal for birdwatching, especially migratory species. However, some areas may be inaccessible due to rains, and game drives may not be feasible.
Lavushi Manda National Park
Lavushi Manda National Park, established in 1972 and covering approximately 1,500 km², is situated in Zambia’s Muchinga Province. The park is characterized by rolling hills, miombo woodlands, and striking rocky outcrops. It serves as a vital habitat for various wildlife species and offers a serene environment for nature enthusiasts.
Wildlife in Lavushi Manda National Park
“Big 5”
Elephants
Popular Finds
Servals – Kudu – Bushbuck
Top Activities in Lavushi Manda National Park
Hiking & Nature Walks – Birdwatching
Getting to Lavushi Manda National Park
Reaching Lavushi Manda National Park requires a 4×4 vehicle due to the lack of developed roads and seasonal flooding. The park is located in the Luwingu and Kasama districts of the Northern Province. Travelers can approach from the west of Mpika or the Mpulungu road near Chambeshi. Given the remote location and challenging terrain, it’s advisable to arrange transportation with a professional guide or tour operator familiar with the area.
When to visit Lavushi Manda National Park
- Dry Season (May–October): Ideal for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities, as animals are more active and accessible. The low water levels during this period allow for hiking and fishing.
- Wet Season (November–April): Best for birdwatching, especially migratory species. However, some areas may be inaccessible due to rains, and hiking trails may be challenging.
Mweru Wantipa National Park
Mweru Wantipa National Park, covering approximately 3,134 km², is situated in the far northern part of Zambia, near Lake Mweru Wantipa. Once teeming with large herds of elephants, lions, and black rhinos, the park has experienced significant wildlife decline due to poaching and lack of management . Despite these challenges, it remains a unique destination for those seeking solitude and an off-the-beaten-path experience.
Wildlife in Mweru Wantipa National Park
Popular Finds
Antelope – Crocodiles – Hippos
Top Activities in Mweru Wantipa National Park
Birdwatching – Camping
Getting to Mweru Wantipa National Park
The park is accessible via a single road from Nchelenge to Kaputa, passing through the park along the lakeshore. Traveling from Lusaka takes approximately 16–18 hours by road, covering about 1,200 km . Note that the park is inaccessible during the rainy season (December–March) due to muddy roads .
When to visit Mweru Wantipa National Park
- Dry Season (April–November): Optimal for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities.
- Rainy Season (December–March): Best for birdwatching, especially migratory species.
Lusenga Plains National Park
Lusenga Plain National Park is a secluded conservation area in Zambia’s Luapula Province, near Lake Mweru. Spanning approximately 800 km², the park is renowned for its lush Miombo woodlands, expansive plains, and the Kalungwishi River, which feeds into the majestic Lumangwe Falls—Zambia’s second-highest waterfall.
Wildlife in Lusenga Plains National Park
Popular Finds
Zebra – Impala
Top Activities in Lusenga Plains National Park
Game Drives & Nature Walks – Birdwatching – Camping
Getting to Lusenga Plains National Park
Lusenga Plain is accessible by road from Kawambwa, approximately 16 km away. The nearest domestic airport is Kawambwa Airstrip, with connecting flights from Lusaka. Travelers should note that infrastructure within the park is limited, and it is advisable to arrange visits through experienced tour operators.
When to visit Lusenga Plains National Park
- Dry Season (May–October): Optimal for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities.
- Rainy Season (November–April): Best for birdwatching, especially migratory species.
Barotse Floodplains
The Barotse Floodplain is a vast and ecologically significant wetland located in the Western Province of Zambia. Spanning approximately 5,500 km², with seasonal inundation extending up to 10,750 km², it ranks as the second-largest wetland in Zambia after the Lake Bangweulu system.
Wildlife in Barotse Floodplains
Popular Finds
Crocodiles – Hippos – Wildebeest – Zebra
Top Activities in Barotse Floodplains
Boat Safaris – Cultural Experiences – Wildlife Viewing – Birdwatching
Getting to Barotse Floodplains
The best way to get to the Barotse Floodplain is to fly from Lusaka to Mongu, the provincial capital and main gateway, with flights taking about 1 to 1.5 hours. From Mongu, you can take local transport like taxis, boats, or 4×4 vehicles to explore the floodplain. Alternatively, you can drive from Lusaka, which takes around 10 to 12 hours on mostly paved roads. The dry season (May to October) is the easiest time to visit for better road access and wildlife viewing.
When to visit Barotse Floodplains
The dry season, from May to October, is ideal for visiting the Barotse Floodplain. During this period, wildlife is concentrated around remaining water sources, making it easier to observe animals. Additionally, the landscape is more accessible for travel.
