Lower Zambezi National Park

History

The Lower Zambezi National Park is located on the banks of the Zambezi River and was declared a national park in 1983. Prior to its establishment, the park was a private game reserve owned by several families who were committed to preserving the wildlife in the area. Today, the park covers over 4,000 square kilometers and is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lion, leopard, hyena, buffalo, and a vast array of bird species.           

Wildlife

The Lower Zambezi National Park is known for its incredible wildlife sightings. Visitors can expect to see elephants bathing in the river, hippos and crocodiles lazing on the riverbanks, and lions and leopards hunting in the grasslands. The park is also home to a variety of antelope species, including impalas, kudus, and elands. The birdlife in the park is also abundant, with over 400 bird species having been recorded.          

Wildlife Photography

Lower Zambezi National Park is a paradise for wildlife photographers. With its diverse landscapes ranging from lush forests to open grasslands and the mighty Zambezi River, there are endless opportunities to capture stunning images of wildlife in their natural habitat. The park is home to an incredible array of wildlife and more than 400 bird species. The river-based activities, such as boat cruises and canoeing safaris, provide unique perspectives for photographing wildlife, including hippos and crocodiles. The park also offers guided walking safaris, which allow photographers to get up close and personal with the animals, capturing intimate moments that are impossible to capture from a vehicle. With such a rich variety of wildlife and landscapes, Lower Zambezi National Park offers photographers the chance to capture breathtaking images that will last a lifetime.

Accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences.           

There are several accommodation options available in and around the Lower Zambezi National Park, ranging from luxury lodges to budget-friendly campsites. Many of the lodges offer stunning views of the Zambezi River and the surrounding bush, with amenities such as swimming pools, spas, and gourmet restaurants.

1. Luxury Camps - There are several luxury lodges in the Lower Zambezi National Park that offer high-end accommodations and amenities. These lodges typically feature spacious and well-appointed rooms or suites, often with private plunge pools or outdoor showers. Some of the luxury camps and lodges in the park include Chiawa Camp, Sausage Tree Camp, Anabezi Camp and Lolebezi Safari Lodge.
2. Mid-Range Camps - For those looking for a more affordable but still comfortable stay, there are several mid-range lodges in the Lower Zambezi National Park. These lodges typically offer comfortable rooms or tents, with shared facilities such as bathrooms and dining areas. Some popular mid-range lodges in the park include Chongwe River Camp and Baines' River Camp
3. Bush Camps - For a more rustic and immersive safari experience, bush camps are a great option. These camps are typically smaller and more remote, with canvas tents or chalets that offer a closer connection to the surrounding wilderness. Popular bush camps in the Lower Zambezi National Park include Kutali Camp, and Old Mondoro – a highly sought after camp. 

Activities

1. Game drives: Game drives are the most popular activity in the park and are conducted in open safari vehicles. Visitors can spot a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, hippos, crocodiles, buffalo, and antelope.
2. Walking safaris: Walking safaris are a great way to experience the park's flora and fauna up close, and to learn about the smaller creatures that are often overlooked on game drives. Walking safaris are usually conducted in the mornings or evenings when it's cooler.
3. Canoeing safaris: Canoeing safaris are a unique way to explore the park's waterways and to get up close to hippos and crocodiles. Visitors can paddle their own canoes or be guided by a professional canoe guide.
4. Boat cruises: Boat cruises are a great way to relax and take in the park's scenery, and to spot wildlife along the riverbanks. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely sunset cruise or a longer full-day cruise with a picnic lunch.
5. Fishing: The Zambezi River is home to a variety of fish, including tigerfish and bream. Visitors can enjoy catch-and-release fishing with a professional guide, either from the riverbank or from a boat.
6. Bird watching: The park is home to more than 400 species of birds, making it a paradise for bird watchers. Visitors can spot a variety of birds, including eagles, storks, herons, and kingfishers.
7. Cultural visits: Visitors can take a cultural tour to visit local villages and learn about the traditions and way of life of the local people.
8. Photography: The park offers amazing opportunities for wildlife and landscape photography, and many lodges and camps have professional photographers on staff to offer tips and advice.

Visitors should check with their specific lodge or tour operator for more information on the activities on offer, as well as pricing and availability. 

When to go

The best time to go on safari in Lower Zambezi National Park is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. This is because the dry season is when the wildlife tends to congregate around the river and waterholes, making it easier to spot animals like elephants, lions, and buffalo. The vegetation is also less dense during this time, making it easier to see animals in general. However, it's worth noting that the temperatures can rise towards the end of the season, particularly in October, so be sure to pack accordingly. Fishing is at its best in September / October. 

Getting there

Fly-In Options

Fly-in safaris are a popular way to reach the Lower Zambezi National Park for those who prefer to avoid long road trips. Several tour operators offer fly-in packages to the park from Lusaka 's Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN), Mfuwe, and Livingstone, with private air charters available for those who want a more exclusive and flexible experience. Here are some of the details of the different fly-in options:

1. Lusaka to Lower Zambezi National Park: Visitors can fly from Lusaka to Jeki or Royal airstrip in the Lower Zambezi National Park, which takes approximately 30-45 minutes. There are several scheduled flights per day operated by different airlines, including Proflight Zambia, Mahogany Air, and Royal Air Charters.
2. Mfuwe to Lower Zambezi National Park: Visitors coming from South Luangwa National Park can take a short flight from Mfuwe to Jeki or Royal airstrip in the Lower Zambezi National Park, which takes approximately 45-60 minutes. There are several scheduled flights per week operated by Proflight Zambia.
3. Livingstone to Lower Zambezi National Park: Visitors can fly from Livingstone to Lusaka and then take a connecting flight to the Lower Zambezi National Park. Alternatively, private air charters are available for those who want a more direct and exclusive option.

Many lodges and camps in the Lower Zambezi National Park offer airport transfers for guests arriving by air, and some packages may include all-inclusive transfers and activities. Visitors should check with their tour operator or lodge for more information on fly-in options and pricing. 

FAQ

Q: When is the best time to visit the Lower Zambezi National Park? A: The best time to visit the park is during the dry season from June to October, when wildlife is concentrated around the river and watering holes.

Q: What is the best way to get to the park? A: The park is accessible by air or road. Visitors can fly into Lusaka and then take a charter flight to one of the park's airstrips.

Q: What wildlife can I expect to see in the Lower Zambezi National Park?

The Lower Zambezi National Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, hippos, crocodiles, buffalo, antelope, and more than 400 species of birds. Visitors are almost guaranteed to see a variety of wildlife during their stay, but specific sightings can never be guaranteed.

Q: What should I pack for a trip to the Lower Zambezi National Park?

Visitors to the Lower Zambezi National Park should pack light, comfortable clothing suitable for warm weather, as well as sturdy hiking boots or shoes. It is also recommended to bring a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, a water bottle, and a camera with plenty of memory cards and batteries. It's important to check with your specific lodge or camp to see if they have any specific packing recommendations or restrictions. Keep in mind if you do plan on visiting some of the local villages: Shorts for both women and men are fine in the bush, but longer trousers are socially acceptable in these rural villages. 

Insider Tip

A combined safari to Lower Zambezi National Park and South Luangwa National Park in Zambia is a match made in heaven. Both parks offer incredible wildlife experiences, but with different landscapes and animals. Lower Zambezi is known for its river-based activities, such as canoeing safaris and boat cruises, and for its large elephant herds, while South Luangwa is known for its walking safaris and big cat sightings. Combining both parks in one itinerary allows visitors to experience the best of both worlds, from the water-based activities of Lower Zambezi to the walking safaris of South Luangwa. Additionally, the two parks are located relatively close to each other, with flights between them taking less than an hour, making it an easy and convenient combination for visitors. Oh, and by the way, there are no giraffe in Lower Zambezi, keep this in mind if you decide on a single park safari and giraffe is on your bucket list.

Sit back and enjoy the below video on Lower Zambezi and South Luangwa - click on the image below.

At Dusty Boots Travel we can help you plan the perfect safari in Zambia, with tailor-made itineraries that cater to your interests and preferences. We will work with you to create an itinerary that includes all the must-see attractions and hidden gems that Zambia has to offer.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience the magic of Zambia for yourself. Contact Dusty Boots Travel via email, Instagram or Facebook today to start planning your dream safari holiday.

Images by our Travel Partners - Time + Tide Africa and Chiawa Safaris