Zambia
The majestic Zambezi River beckons
Lower Zambezi National Park (LZNP)
Lower Zambezi National Park (LZNP) is just a 30-minute bush flight from Lusaka, nestled along the banks of the Zambezi River. Directly across the river lies Zimbabwe’s Sapi Private Reserve and the iconic Mana Pools National Park.
The park spans over 4,000 square kilometers of riverine and woodland landscapes, divided into northern and southern sectors by the Jeki airstrip. While camps are located on both sides, traversing is generally focused to each specific sector. Both sectors face the Zambezi River and offer diverse wildlife and habitats, making it highly recommended to visit both areas to fully experience the park’s offerings.
The northern sector is particularly rich in nocturnal wildlife, with opportunities to spot genets, civets, aardvarks (in the famous “Aardvark Alley”), white-tailed mongoose, and a variety of predators, including wild dogs, along with numerous herbivores.
In addition to game drives, most camps offer magical sunset cruises along the Zambezi River, providing a tranquil way to witness the stunning landscapes and wildlife.
From August to November, the park becomes a haven for birdwatchers as carmine bee-eaters, with their striking red plumage and aerial acrobatics, migrate to the area. They nest along the riverbanks, and guests can observe them up close from several camps’ river hides or during afternoon canoe rides. With their vibrant colors and mesmerizing flight patterns, this influx of bee-eaters makes the park a true birdwatcher’s paradise.
Travel Seasons
May – Oct
This is the optimal travel season, as is typical for most safari destinations, with the latter months offering prime opportunities to witness the migratory carmine bee-eaters. The weather is generally cooler, with crisp mornings and evenings, and pleasant, warm afternoons—perfect for enjoying wildlife viewing and the scenic beauty of the park.
Nov – Apr
The rainy season spans most of these months, and the volume of rain can sometimes affect camp operations. To make the most of both lower rates and excellent wildlife viewing, it's best to travel at the beginning of the peak season (May) or towards the end (October). This timing offers a balance of good conditions and the chance to experience peak season sightings without the higher costs.
Lodging
Chiawa Safaris operates some of the most luxurious camps in both sectors of the park, with Old Mondoro and Chiawa Camp. For a more affordable yet high-quality option, Anabezi in the northern sector provides great value. Time + Tide operates in the southern sector, offering a luxurious stay with a focus on conservation and adventure. Additionally, there are numerous other accommodation options available, catering to a wide range of budgets and travel schedules.
South Luangwa National Park (SLNP)
South Luangwa National Park (SLNP), which stretches along the Luangwa River, is Zambia’s second-largest national park, after Kafue, and boasts a diverse range of wildlife and ecosystems. The park is also home to striking baobab trees in its central region. Sundowner stops along dry riverbeds or the open plains offer breathtaking views, especially during the golden hours.
Several camps operate boat hides along the Luangwa River, providing exceptional opportunities to observe carmine bee-eaters as they nest during their migratory season. While the area around the Mfuwe Gate tends to be busier with multiple lodges and camps, the southern end of the park is much quieter, with Bushcamps Company being the sole operator in this more remote area. This isolation gives the southern part of SLNP a sense of exclusivity, akin to a private reserve, with few (if any) vehicles from outside operators.
Given the park’s vast size, it’s highly recommended to plan for full-day safaris to explore larger areas, allowing for a deeper and more immersive experience. While it can be tiring, these extended safaris often reward visitors with remarkable animal sightings when the stars align.
Travel Seasons
May – Oct
Similar to Lower Zambezi National Park (LZNP), this is the peak travel season for South Luangwa National Park, coinciding with the cooler months and the arrival of the migratory carmine bee-eaters around August. Due to the wide range of accommodation options available, prices can vary significantly depending on the level of luxury and location within the park.
Nov – Apr
The rains dictate what portions of the park remain open. Several camps, especially the bushcamp company camps close during the peak rainy season as the river waters swell, roads become impassable, and the area gets infested with mosquitoes and tsetse flies. Like LZNP, May and late Sept/early Oct provide ideal viewing conditions.
Lodging
It’s advisable to explore the wide range of accommodation options available in South Luangwa, catering to all budgets and seasons. Puku Ridge, operated by Chiawa Safaris, is generally regarded as the most luxurious camp in the park, while several Time + Tide properties follow closely behind in terms of quality and exclusivity.
For those seeking a more adventurous and adrenaline-filled safari, Robin Pope Safaris is well-known for its mobile walking safaris, offering a thrilling, immersive experience in the wild. Whether you’re looking for luxury or adventure, South Luangwa has something to suit every traveler’s preference.
More Destinations
Zambia is home to several other remarkable national parks and destinations that are worth considering.
- Kafue National Park – One of the largest and oldest parks in Africa, Kafue is renowned for its vast size, rugged landscapes, and remote wilderness. It offers incredible wildlife experiences in a less-traveled, pristine environment.
- North Luangwa National Park – A more remote and less-visited park compared to its southern counterpart, North Luangwa is known for its wilderness appeal, with excellent walking safaris and abundant wildlife, including predators, rhinos and herds of buffalo.
- Victoria Falls (Zambia side) – The Zambia side of the falls offers stunning views and is home to incredible riverfront accommodation, such as Tongabezi and Royal Chundu. The area offers a variety of thrilling activities, including a visit to the Devil’s Pool, Cataract View, and exciting white-water rafting along the Zambezi River.
- Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park
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