Lower Zambezi National Park

Quick Facts

  • Country: Zambia
  • Size: 4,092 km² (409,200 hectares)
  • Established: 1983
  • Provinces: Lusaka Province
  • Wildlife: Large herds of elephant and buffalo; excellent tiger fishing.
  • Malaria Zone: High risk; prophylaxis is recommended.
  • GPS Coordinates: ~15°45′S 29°15′E
  • Fence Status: Unfenced; bordered by the Zambezi River and Mana Pools (Zimbabwe) across the water.
  • Habitat: Zambezi riverbank, valley floor, and steep escarpment woodland.
  • Best Time to Visit: July–October for the best water-based wildlife sightings.

Overview

The Lower Zambezi offers a unique "water-and-land" safari experience. Situated directly across from Zimbabwe’s Mana Pools, the park creates a massive transfrontier corridor. It is characterized by its stunning river views and the dramatic backdrop of the Zambezi Escarpment.

Location & Access

  • Main Entry Gates: Chongwe Gate (Western side).
  • Air Travel: * Proflight Zambia: Operates flights into Royal, Jeki, or Kanyemba airstrips directly within the park.
  • Boat Access: Many guests arrive via a scenic boat transfer from Chirundu.
  • Road Access: Very challenging; 4x4 is essential, and it is generally discouraged for first-time visitors compared to fly-in options.

Wildlife Highlights

  • Elephants: Often seen swimming across the river or feeding on the lush islands.
  • Predators: Healthy populations of lion and leopard are frequently seen along the riverbanks.
  • Tiger Fish: One of the premier spots in Africa for catch-and-release tiger fishing.
  • Waterbirds: African skimmers, fish eagles, and various herons are abundant.

Best Time to Visit

Season
Months
Weather
Highlights
Dry / Winter
June–October
Warm days, cool nights
Best for canoeing and seeing elephants crossing the river.
Wet / Summer
Nov–March
Very hot and humid
Many lodges close during this period due to flooding and heavy mud.

Safari Styles (Zambia General)

  • Walking Safaris: The gold standard in Zambia; multi-day treks between fly-camps are available.
  • Canoe Safaris: Especially popular in Lower Zambezi for a silent, eye-level perspective of wildlife.
  • Night Drives: Zambia is one of the few places where night drives are a standard part of the national park experience.

Key Takeaway

Zambia’s parks offer a "real Africa" feel—less crowded than South Africa or East Africa, with a deep focus on guiding excellence and immersive walking experiences.