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In October, the largest mammal migration in the world begins to take flight. Millions of straw-coloured bats arrive in Kasanka National Park as the first rains fall. A migration safari in Zambia gives you the opportunity to see this incredible natural phenomenon firsthand.
Traditional wildlife safaris are still possible at this time of the year, with Kafue National Park offering the opportunity to see a diverse range of species, from elephant and buffalo herds to lions and wild dogs.
Along the Zambezi River lies Lower Zambezi National Park, another ideal park to visit in the dry season for a Zambia wildlife safari.
Weather in October
October marks the dramatic finale of Zambia’s dry season. While the first refreshing rains may begin to tease the parched earth, the landscape remains dominated by a profound, golden heat. With an average rainfall of just 0.7 inches, the days are characterised by brilliant sunshine and cloudless skies.
As the warmest month on the Zambian calendar, temperatures frequently climb to 32℃/90℉. To ensure a comfortable and rewarding experience, safari schedules shift to the rhythm of the wild; game drives are set for the cool clarity of the early morning and the golden glow of the late afternoon.
This timing avoids the midday sun and aligns perfectly with the hours when wildlife is most active, congregating in impressive numbers around the few remaining water sources.
Average Weather in October
| Temperature | Celsius | Fahrenheit | Rainfall |
| Min | 16℃ | 61℉ | 0.5 inches |
| Max | 32℃ | 90℉ | 2.7 inches |
National Parks to Visit in Zambia During October
Kasanka National Park
As the rains begin, millions of bats make their way to Kasanka National Park. Despite the massive number of bats, the migration occurs in a small area – just two hectares of Kasanka’s swamp forest. The long-distance migration takes place from late October every year until early December.
Kafue National Park
From lions prowling at dusk to rare antelope grazing in golden light, the wonders of Kafue unfold at every turn. The Busanga Plains, a jewel in the crown of Kafue National Park, are a vast mosaic of floodplains and grasslands teeming with life.
Lower Zambezi National Park
Wildlife is abundant in Lower Zambezi Park and October is one of the best months to see it. As the dry season has had time to make its mark on the land, animals congregate around one of the last remaining places where they can quench their thirst: the Zambezi.
This is a fantastic destination for canoeing safaris – glide down the river to see an amazing array of wildlife along the shore.
Activities to Do in Zambia in October
- Game drives
- Walking safaris
- Whitewater rafting
- Water safaris
- Bat migration safaris
