Lower Zambezi National Park – Zambia

All About Lower Zambezi National Park – Zambia

Discover Lower Zambezi National Park – Zambia

Neighboring the famous Mana Pool National park of Zimbabwe, Lower Zambezi is a wide vast wilderness, that’s underdeveloped, but lucky with quite a great opportunity to spot wildlife since they share a wider wilderness combined. The diversity of animals is not as wide as the other big parks, but the opportunities to get close to the game wandering in and out of the Zambezi channels are spectacular.

Even though the Lower Zambezi National Park covers an area of 4092 square kilometers, most of the game is concentrated along the valley floor. There is an escarpment along the northern end which acts as a physical barrier to most of the Park’s animal species. Enormous herds of elephant, some up to 100 strong, are often seen at the river’s edge. ‘Island hopping’ buffalo and waterbuck are common. The Park also hosts good populations of lion and leopard, and listen too for the ubiquitous cry of the fish eagle.

What You Are Likely To See While In Lower Zambezi National Park Zambia

There are a wide variety of wildlife and bird species you will be able to spot while on a holiday safari in Kafue National park, Zambia.

  1. African wild dogs,
    Also known as the painted wolves, are some of the major attractions in Lower Zambezi. Although they are declared endangered, the Wild dogs are in a small population around Africa. They are great hunters with a lot of aggressiveness, and they hunt in packs.
  2. Majestic Lions,
    Lower Zambezi is home to an impressive population of Lions. The wilderness has exposed them to be the real Kings of the Jungle. They are great hunters as well, hunting solo. Female lions tend to stay away from male lions mostly with their cubs, or in groups of female lions.
  3. Lean Leopards
    Leopards generally are known to be very elusive and dangerous. Generally, they are amazing hunters, love to hunt solo and keep their meals on trees.
  4. Elephants
    The gentle giants of Africa, are one amazing wildlife species that are great to site and interact. They face extinction, and that’s a threat to their existence. The government of Zambia plays a great role in their protections. You will spot them in huge herds while grazing or at a water hole.
  5. Buffalo
    Buffalos are part of the big five wildlife species. They live in heard and old bulls are always isolated to live alone. Isolated bulls are prone to get hunted by the big cats, and also tend to very dangerous and aggressive when they sense danger.
  6. HIPPO
    The hippopotamus is one animal you won’t miss. As you enter into the park there are you will be able to spot quite a number of hippos lounging in the river below. Its quite a scenic experience to see them sunbath in the morning and breathing underwater.
  7. ZEBRA
    Zebra can be seen running in small herds of about a dozen. The difference between Zambia’s zebras and those in the south and east of Africa is in the stripes. Here they are evenly spaced as opposed to broad light stripes with a faint shadow stripe in-between.
  8. ANTELOPE
    The Park has 14 different antelope species, most of which are easily seen on game and night drives. Watch out for the elusive bushbuck, preferring to inhabit densely covered areas. The most numerous antelope is the impala, these gregarious animals can be seen in herds all over the Park. Not to be confused with the puku, of similar size but a much fluffier buck with a rich orange coat and also prolific.
  9. KUDU
    Perhaps the most beautiful is the Kudu, with its majestic spiral horns and delicate face. Although fairly common, they’re not always easy to find due to their retiring habits and preference for dense bush. Reedbuck, roan, sable, hartebeest, grysbok, klipspringer and oribi are all here but not prolific in the central tourist area of the Park.
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Lower Zambezi National Park – Zambia Park Entry Fee

Lower Zambezi National Park Entry Fees

Category Fee (USD)
International Visitors $30 per person per day
Regional Visitors (SADC) $20 per person per day
Zambian Citizens $5 per person per day
Vehicle Entry (Non-Residents) $15 per vehicle
Vehicle Entry (Residents) $5 per vehicle

Fees are subject to change, and additional charges may apply for activities or guided tours.

Best Time to Visit Lower Zambezi National Park – Zambia

The best time to visit Lower Zambezi National Park is during the dry season from June to October. During this time, wildlife concentrates along the Zambezi River, offering excellent game-viewing opportunities. The river’s picturesque scenery and dry weather make activities like canoeing, boat safaris, and fishing particularly enjoyable.

Low Season

November to March

This is the rainy season, also known as the “green season.” The park becomes lush and vibrant, making it perfect for birdwatching and photography. However, many lodges close during this time due to flooding, and wildlife viewing is more challenging as animals disperse. Visitor numbers are low, and rates are more affordable.

High Season

April to June

As the rains subside, the landscape remains green and stunning, and wildlife becomes more visible. Activities are fully operational, and the park is quieter than during peak season. It’s an excellent time for a mix of scenery and wildlife at reasonable rates.

Peak Season

July to October

This is the dry season, and wildlife gathers around the river and waterholes, making it the best time for game viewing. The weather is warm and pleasant, and activities like walking safaris and river excursions are highly rewarding. This is also the busiest time, with higher accommodation rates and lodges often fully booked.

How to get to Lower Zambezi National Park – Zambia

By Air

Domestic Flights

Fly from Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka to the Jeki Airstrip or Royal Airstrip near the park. Flights are operated by charter airlines and take about 30–45 minutes. Some lodges offer private transfers from the airstrips.

International Connections

From international destinations, arrive in Lusaka, then connect with a domestic flight to the park.

By Road

From Lusaka

The drive from Lusaka takes approximately 4–5 hours (160 km). The route involves a well-maintained tarred road to Chirundu, followed by a dirt road to the park entrance.

From Zimbabwe (Mana Pools)

Cross the Zambezi River via canoe, boat, or ferry (arranged by tour operators) to enter the park from Mana Pools.

By Boat

Access the park via boat transfers along the Zambezi River from Chirundu or lodges on the riverbanks. This scenic option combines travel with a wildlife-rich experience.

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