Zambia National Parks

Liuwa Plain National Park

This remote park in the far west of Zambia is a breathtaking, unspoiled wilderness waiting to be explored. The plains are alive with excitement and exploration. This is a realm of breathtaking storms, perfect for capturing stunning photographs. The park showcases impressive large herds of wildebeest in November. Here, you can encounter Antelope species, Wild Dog, Lion, Hyena, Jackal, Serval, and Wildcat. Here, you can encounter an abundance of vibrant birdlife. Exploring this area on your own may not be the best idea, as it lacks visitor facilities and roads. It is likely more enjoyable with the expertise of a mobile safari operator.

Best time to visit: August through December.

Sioma Ngwezi National Park

This park is nestled in the southwest corner of Zambia and remains entirely untouched. Recently, there have been no visitors at all. It is enveloped by a Game Management Area, allowing wildlife to wander freely between these two regions without any barriers. This place is alive with the presence of herds of Elephant, Wild Dog, Roan and Sable, Cheetah, and Zebra. While poaching has posed challenges, there are exciting developments on the horizon as plans are underway to transition the Park to private management. There are hardly any roads, and not a single permanent facility in sight. Venturing out on your own is not advisable without the expertise of a guide or mobile safari operator.

Best time to visit: April through December

Kafue National Park

Zambia’s oldest and largest park, the second largest in the world, spans an area comparable to Wales. Once a hidden gem, the Park now boasts a remarkable variety of landscapes, with three majestic rivers weaving their way through its terrain. It is alive with wildlife, showcasing a diverse array of antelope species like Hartebeest, Zebra, Buffalo, and Red Lechwe, along with the Sitatunga.

Joining the ranks of fierce hunters are Lions, Leopards, Cheetahs, and a variety of smaller carnivores. Numerous Hippo herds thrive in the vibrant river habitat. This is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. The Kafue and Lunga Rivers offer thrilling fishing opportunities, alongside the expansive Itezhi Tezhi Dam, a 370 square km paradise for anglers.

The ideal time for game viewing is from April to October, with October experiencing the highest temperatures. After the rains, the scenery is nothing short of breathtaking.

Blue Lagoon National Park is a place where excitement awaits at every turn.

Located on the Kafue flats, this Park is a hidden gem, breathtaking in its beauty; the expansive plains transform from arid grasslands during the dry season to a mesmerizing aquatic paradise in the wet season. It has just been unveiled for everyone to explore. Incredible birdlife awaits, featuring a variety of migratory species. The Park features Acacia woodland along its edges.

Here, you can witness magnificent herds of Kafue Lechwe, along with smaller groups of Zebra, Buffalo, Eland, Roan, Hartebeest, Wildebeest, Oribi, and Sitatunga, not to mention a plethora of waterbirds. Massive river pythons are drawn to the Lechwe and various birds. The Park features expansive, level terrains that stand in stark contrast to the more varied topographies of other parks. It is just a stone’s throw away from Lusaka.

The ideal time for a swift escape from Lusaka is during the rainy season, from November to April, when birdwatchers can truly immerse themselves in the experience.

Lochinvar National Park is a place brimming with excitement and exploration.

Situated on the southern edge of the Kafue Flats, which is a floodplain of the Kafue River, Lochinvar is a stunningly beautiful, compact park featuring wetlands and exceptional birdwatching opportunities, boasting 428 species—truly remarkable for such a small area, averaging nearly one type of bird per kilometre. A compact national park, spanning just over 410 square kilometers, Lochinvar is nestled north of Monze, 235 kilometers (146.03 miles) from Lusaka, on the southern edge of the Kafue Flats in the Southern Province. The National Park features three unique zones: the northern floodplain, which is part of the Kafue Flats, the expansive central grasslands, and the lush southern woodlands.

While larger mammals may be scarce in this area, the Blue Wildebeest, Buffalo, Kudu, Oribi, and countless Kafue Lechwe thrive in the waterlogged surroundings. In the southern part of the Park, explorers will discover enchanting woodlands and rejuvenating hot springs at Gwisho, a site steeped in ancient history as one of the oldest archaeological treasures in Central Africa. Strolling through the park is allowed.

When to go: The dry season offers the best opportunities for game viewing, but the Park remains accessible throughout the year, though caution is advised after heavy rains. For birding enthusiasts, the rainy season is ideal.

Mosi-O-Tunya National Park

This park is located along the upper Zambezi and features the breathtaking Victoria Falls. It is quite petite and features a charming circular drive by the river that lasts a couple of hours, where you can spot various animals along the way. This Park is a haven for wildlife, where animals roam freely and at ease, creating perfect opportunities for close-up game viewing and photography. Among the fascinating creatures are various species of antelope, along with zebras and giraffes. Elephants can be encountered as well.

When to go: A sought-after destination throughout the year due to the stunning Victoria Falls and a wealth of thrilling activities. The falls reach their peak magnificence from April to May following the rains, though the mist is thick, making it challenging to appreciate the entire expanse of the falls. To truly enjoy the gorges and stunning rock formations, visiting at the end of the dry season from October to December is ideal.

Lower Zambezi National Park is a place brimming with excitement and exploration.

This is Zambia’s newest park; it remains largely untouched, offering an incredible wilderness experience. The Zambezi channels offer exceptional opportunities for observing wildlife. The Park stretches across the river from the Mana Pools Reserve in Zimbabwe, creating an expansive wildlife sanctuary that invites exploration. Most game can be discovered on the valley floor. This area is home to large herds of elephants, along with buffalo, lions, and leopards. Discover amazing birdlife along the river banks.

When to go: The season runs from April to November, with June to September offering the most excitement, while the angling season peaks in September and October.
South Luangwa National Park is a vibrant haven where abundant wildlife gathers around the picturesque Luangwa River and its enchanting oxbow lagoons. This place is teeming with an exciting array of wildlife and birds waiting to be discovered. This area is ideal for Walking Safaris, which have truly become a highlight here. This park is a vibrant habitat for a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, hippos, zebras, giraffes, and 14 species of antelope, as well as hyenas, leopards, and lions.

When to go: Experience a variety of seasons, all while enjoying the dry climate. From April to October, October stands out as the peak month, brimming with excitement and opportunities for exploration. Vibrant hues transform the scenery during the rainy season.

North Luangwa National Park is a place brimming with excitement and exploration.

This is a secluded and untamed park with minimal roads, offering an authentic wilderness experience; guests are unlikely to encounter other explorers. Access is restricted and available solely to designated operators for walking purposes only. Some rivers meander through the Park to join the Luangwa, one of which is the Mwaleshi, gently flowing its crystal-clear mountain water down the escarpment. As the dry season approaches, it recedes, leaving behind numerous pools that attract wildlife from the surrounding bush. The landscape boasts a rich tapestry of vegetation, ranging from lush riverine forests to expansive woodlands, vibrant grasslands, and dense acacia thickets. The Park is home to large groups of Buffalo, Lion, Elephant, Leopard, Wildebeest, and Hyena.

The ideal time to visit is from June to October, as the wet season makes it quite challenging.
Nyika Plateau National Park is a place brimming with excitement and exploration.
At the eastern edge of Zambia, this park sits right on the Malawian border, serving as an extension of the National Park found on that side. Nyika boasts a stunning montane highland region. The vistas from 2,000 metres above sea level are absolutely breathtaking. It enjoys a delightful warm climate, a refreshing change from the sweltering heat of the valley.

Landscapes are alive with expansive, undulating grasslands, deep valleys, vibrant protea bushes, slopes adorned with wildflowers, and lush green hills. There are also rugged cliffs and lush, vibrant forests. Stunning vistas and strolling through this area is a delight, particularly with the vibrant wildflowers that bloom in October and November.

The Chisanga Falls can be found within the Park, inviting exploration and discovery. It is a paradise for those who seek the thrill of observing birds in their natural habitat. The wildlife in this area features an array of fascinating creatures such as Zebras, Roans, Elands, and Reedbucks, along with Leopards and a variety of nocturnal animals that can be spotted during night drives.

When to go: Any time of the year offers something special, but the dry season is ideal for spotting wildlife, and the stunning wildflowers bloom beautifully after the rains from November to March. Even in summer, the nights can turn quite brisk, with winter stretching from June to August.

Bangweulu Floodplains National Park is a place brimming with excitement and exploration.

The lake captivates with its stunning beauty and thriving lakeside community, nestled alongside the wetlands—a protected area—within a gentle dip of the North Zambian Plateau. Seventeen rivers converge into the basin, while only one, the Luapula, carries the waters away. The upper areas of the Park are adorned with lush woodlands and vibrant grasslands, while the expansive floodplain showcases diverse grasslands that shift with the rhythm of annual flooding.

This is a land of untamed exploration. The woodland and grasslands teem with a rich variety of game and birdlife. Here, you can encounter the Shoebill Stork along with other rather uncommon birds. The Black Lechwe thrives in the expansive floodplains, while the elusive Sitatunga gracefully navigates the lush reed beds. Other animals like elephants and buffalo appear only after the waters have subsided. Every journey through the swamps unfolds on the water.

When to go: During the rainy season from November to March, the birdlife is incredible, though you will encounter plenty of insects as well. The floodplain typically begins to dry out as late April approaches. As June and July approach, the pathways to the swampland and its captivating floating mats of vegetation become more accessible. August brings a chill in the air, where the days are pleasantly mild, yet the nights are wrapped in a crisp coldness.

Kasanka National Park

Kasanka National Park lies to the north of Lusaka, about a 6-hour drive away, right at the edge of the expansive wetlands of Lake Bangweulu. It is one of Zambia’s smallest parks, yet it boasts a captivating array of rivers, lakes, wetlands, lagoons, forests, meadows, and grasslands. There is a diverse array of wildlife, including animals, birds, and fish. While it may not be famous for its abundant wildlife, it captivates with its stunning landscapes and the presence of unique and elusive birds and creatures.

Kasanka National Park stands out as one of the few privately managed national parks in Zambia. Thoughtful measures have been implemented to protect the untamed surroundings, with funds from visitors supporting conservation efforts and community initiatives.

The park boasts an impressive array of mammals and birds, featuring Elephants, Hippos, various Antelope species, Warthogs, Bushpigs, Baboons, Leopards, and the elusive Blue Monkey that can be found in the forests. Additionally, the rare Shoebill Stork has been sighted in the wetlands of Kasanka. With a stunning array of 8 lakes and 4 rivers, the largest of which is the Luwonbwa, this place is a paradise for anglers seeking thrilling experiences.
Best time to visit: Open throughout the year, offering thrilling game sightings during the dry season and excellent birdwatching opportunities from November to March in the wet season.

Sumbu National Park

Nestled at the northernmost edge of Zambia, along the stunning shores of Lake Tanganyika, Sumbu boasts 100km (62 miles) of some of the most untouched and beautiful coastlines of this vast lake. The lake offers fantastic fishing opportunities and thrilling scuba diving experiences. Incredible vistas and sun-kissed shores, towering cliffs, hidden coves, and serene bays surrounded by lush valleys and rugged hills.

The Lufubu River winds through the Park, flanked by towering 300 metre escarpments that create a dramatic valley landscape. In the northwestern boundaries of this Park, you will find expansive Game Management Areas, creating an interconnected web of safeguarded regions. The Park has faced challenges with wildlife numbers in the past, but they are on the path to recovery. While sightings can be unpredictable, the Park is home to a variety of incredible wildlife, including Buffalo, Elephant, Lion, Leopard, Zebra, and Spotted Hyena, among others. Hippos come alive under the cover of darkness. The area is alive with a vibrant array of birdlife, including the striking presence of migrant species like the flamingo. There are some sacred areas cloaked in enigma that hold great significance for the local Tabwa people.

The ideal time to visit is during the pleasantly warm months throughout the year, with the highest temperatures occurring in September and October. Expect cooler evenings and mornings from May to August. Exploring the wonders of wildlife is most exhilarating during the dry season.

Additional Lesser-Known Parks in Zambia

Luambe is a place brimming with excitement and exploration. Nestled between the north and south Luangwa Parks on the eastern bank of the Luangwa River, this stunning area boasts a thriving population of wildlife and birds.

Lavushi Mandla: Once a vibrant wildlife haven, it now faces challenges from poaching, with Tsetse flies prevalent in the area. Completely untouched by development. Situated in the Mpika area Isangano: Lacking infrastructure and burdened by a troubling past of poaching, it can be accessed by veering west off the Mpika / Mpulungu road, at Chambeshi.

Mweru Wantipa: In the distant north around Lake Mweru, it resembles the enchanting Bangweulu swamps. There are scarce animals remaining and absolutely no development. Lukusuzi: Nestled on the eastern escarpment between North and South Luangwa Parks, this area remains untouched, with game numbers yet to be assessed.