Kafue National Park

Zambia’s oldest and largest national park, the ecosystems of Kafue National Park sweep over 22,400 km2/8,648 mi2, offering an unparalleled wilderness experience for safari travellers. Explore wetlands, grasslands, and dense forests to find a variety of wildlife, including rare tree-climbing lions. Its remoteness and diversity make Kafue National Park a prime destination for classic Zambia safaris.

Must-Visit Area in Kafue National Park

During a Zambia safari, this region will give you the opportunity to see a wealth of wildlife, from large predators to waterbirds:

Busanga Plains: Land of Lions

Watch a pride of lions lazing in the grasslands, rolling around, paws up as they digest their food. Or catch these big cats as they hunch down, alert, waiting for antelope to lower their guard before they pounce. The Busanga Plains are renowned for their vast floodplains and abundant wildlife, including large predators and antelope species. As a Ramsar site, it’s considered one of Zambia’s most important wetlands, with a wealth of plains game, predators, and over 500 bird species.

When’s the Best Time to Visit Kafue National Park?

The best time to visit Zambia for safari is from May to October, during the dry season. Enjoy sunny, clear days while you explore the park on game drives and walking safaris. At this time of the year, the vegetation thins out due to the lack of rain, which makes wildlife easier to spot as they congregate around remaining water sources.

Animals Found in Kafue National Park

Wildlife safaris in Zambia feature numerous antelope species, especially kudu, bushbuck, eland, reedbuck, duiker, grysbok, lechwe, and waterbuck. Buffalos and elephants cross the plains and forests in massive herds. Lions are rather unique here; prides can often be seen climbing trees and resting in branches, taking a cue from their leopard cousins, which can also be seen prowling around the park. Hyenas and wild dog packs, too, roam this wilderness, sharing the plains and prey with the big cats.

With over 500 avian species, Zambia birdwatching safaris are thrilling. Large flocks of herons, egrets, and endangered wattle cranes can be seen in the wetlands of the park. Keep your binoculars poised to witness African finfoots, African fish eagles, and Pel’s fishing owls.

How to Get to Kafue National Park

Kafue National Park is about a six- to seven-hour transfer from Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in the capital city of Lusaka. Alternatively, you could opt for a charter flight to one of the airstrips within the park.