In the heart of Southern Africa lies Zambia, a country brimming with natural beauty and biodiversity. Zambia offers a safari experience unlike any other, so let’s explore some of Zambia’s safari regions. Exploring these safari regions offers unique opportunities to see Africa’s most wildlife up-close and in their natural habitat.
Safari Regions in Zambia
- Luangwa Valley
- Lower Zambezi National Park
- Kafue National Park
- Liuwa Plains National Park
- Victoria Falls and Upper Zambezi
- Kasanka National Park
- Lake Bangweulu Wetlands
Luangwa Valley
The more secluded North Luangwa National Park offers a truly wild safari experience. This park is less frequented by tourists and is mostly accessed through guided walking safaris. Known for its rugged terrain and significant populations of buffalo and wildebeest, the park also offers a sanctuary for the rare black rhino. The sense of isolation and vast tracts of untouched wilderness make North Luangwa a place for those seeking solitude and a deep connection with nature.
Often referred to as the birthplace of the walking safari, South Luangwa National Park is renowned for its abundant wildlife, especially its high concentration of leopards and a rich variety of bird species. The Luangwa River, which meanders through the park, attracts animals like elephants, buffalo and the endemic Thornicroft giraffe. The park’s remote wilderness and expert guides offer an authentic safari experience, allowing visitors to explore nature on foot and witness wildlife in its natural habitat.
Lower Zambezi National Park
Situated along the Zambezi River, the Lower Zambezi National Park is famous for its dramatic landscapes and water-based wildlife viewing. Canoeing safaris are a standout attraction, providing close encounters with hippos, crocodiles and a multitude of waterbirds. Fishing for tigerfish is another popular activity, adding an exciting element to the safari experience.
Kafue National Park
As one of the largest national parks in the world, Kafue National Park is vastly underexplored. The diverse landscapes range from dense forests to vast plains and wetlands and support an incredible biodiversity. The Busanga Plains in the north are especially noted for their lion sightings and the spectacular hot air balloon safaris that offer a bird’s-eye view of the park.
Liuwa Plain National Park
Liuwa Plain National Park, another of Zambia’s safari regions, hosts the second-largest wildebeest migration in Africa. The park’s flat, open plains are also home to a growing cheetah population and one of Africa’s oldest lion prides. Due to its remote location and limited infrastructure, visiting Liuwa Plain offers a true wilderness experience. Visitors can explore the park on game drives, guided walks, or by camping in designated areas. The park is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 300 bird species recorded, including wattled cranes, crowned cranes, and various raptors. It is an important wetland area, attracting migratory birds during the wet season.
Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls, situated on the Zambezi River, is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and a major highlight for any visitor to Zambia. The Upper Zambezi, just above the falls, offers serene river cruises, adrenaline-pumping white-water rafting and excellent opportunities for bird-watching and angling.
Kasanka National Park
The spectacular annual bat migration in Kasanka National Park is one of the largest mammal migrations in the world. Millions of fruit bats gather in the park every November and December, creating an incredible spectacle. The park also supports a variety of other wildlife, including sitatunga, puku and rare birds.
Lake Bangweulu Wetlands
The expansive Lake Bangweulu Wetlands are where water meets the sky, creating a landscape of breathtaking beauty. This important wetland system supports large populations of aquatic birds, including the shoebill stork, one of the most sought-after sightings for birdwatchers. The wetlands also provide habitat for black lechwe and other endemic species, making it a crucial area for biodiversity.
