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The Lower Zambezi National Park lies on the northern bank of the great Zambezi River, a sanctuary of natural untamed wilderness. Scenic beauties and rich wildlife come together to offer you the most beautiful concept of nature in its unspoiled essence. Individuals who appreciate the scenery, expanse of plains, climbing escarpments, and blooming ecosystems would find the park to be a paradise for safari experiences. Some unforgettable experiences, ranging from thrilling encounters with various wildlife to romantic sunsets lining the banks of the Lower Zambezi, will leave a mark on one’s nature adventure.
Quick Details About Lower Zambezi National Park
Entry Fee: K41.70, $30 for foreigners
Established: 1983
Location: Zambia, along the Zambezi River, opposite Mana Pools National Park in Zimbabwe
Size: Approximately 4,092 square kilometers (1,580 square miles)
Wildlife: Home to elephants, lions, leopards, hippos, and various bird species
Activities: Game drives, walking safaris, canoeing, and fishing
Best Time To Visit: May to October (dry season) for optimal wildlife viewing
Accommodation: Offers diverse options ranging from campsites to luxury lodges
Location
Photo: Joachim Huber / Wikimedia Commons
Lower Zambezi National Park is situated in southeastern Zambia, along the Zambezi River. The total area the park covers is 4,092 square km. The northern side of the park is bordered by the steep Zambezi Escarpment and the southern by the river, which creates some unique and biologically diverse landscape habitats. The lush riverine floodplains and thick forests of this area provide a sanctuary for different kinds of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, lions, and hippos.
How To Reach
Photo: stone wu / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: Fly to Lusaka International Airport, and then take either a charter flight into Jeki or Royal Airstrip, which is next to the park.
By Road: It would take approximately 4-6 hours by car on a route from Lusaka through Chirundu or Kafue. A 4×4 vehicle is strongly recommended given the rugged terrain.
By Water: Access the park by boat, for a scenic entrance along the Zambezi River.
Things To Do In Lower Zambezi National Park
Discover activities in Lower Zambezi National Park, from wildlife safaris to canoeing, offering unforgettable adventures.
1. Game Drives
Photo: Olga Ernst / Wikimedia Commons
Join one another in thrilling game drives to see the likes of elephants, lions, and antelopes in their habitat. Wild animals are spotted early in the morning and late in the afternoon. Learned guides teach and tell stories about the park’s ecosystems and conservation initiatives.
2. Canoe Safaris
Photo: Ajeet Panesar / Unsplash
Canoes are the best options for river safaris, and they give you a chance to glide through the palm-fringed waters of Lower Zambezi National Park. Feasting on its waterways, one thing you won’t miss is the hippos, crocodiles, and different bird species nearby, strengthened by the enchanting atmosphere of the Zambezi River. This is the best option for closeness with nature.
Places To Visit Near Lower Zambezi National Park In Zambia
You can explore the areas around Lower Zambezi National Park to learn about natural and cultural treasures. These places are unmissable adventures that you must experience.
1. Lusaka
Photo: Matthew Grollnek / Wikimedia Commons
The capital city of Lusaka is a place of activities and culture fused with history and commerce. Just a few hours away from the Lower Zambezi, the capital city houses attractions like the National Museum, several native bazaars, and the Kabwata Cultural Village, where tourists may park themselves for some authentic Zambian handicrafts. Lusaka also boasts great regional restaurants offering both local and international cuisines. And for those into nature and the wild, the Munda Wanga Botanical Gardens are a breath of fresh air. Being a gateway to the wilderness, Lusaka blends urban explorations with glorious adventures nearby.
Best Time To Visit: May to October
2. Mana Pools National Park
Photo: Babakathy / Wikimedia Commons
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mana Pools is situated across the Zambezi River into a wildlife paradise. The park is well-known for its walking safaris, canoe expeditions, and the possibility of coming into closer contact with elephants, lions, and hippos. The lovely floodplains and scenic terrain create a tranquil and thrilling experience. Mana Pools adds a different level to a visit to Lower Zambezi National Park, one with intercrossing borders: reached by boat, this park is a wildlife sanctuary of pristine elegance, making it ideal for any nature lover.
Opening time: 6 AM – 6 PM
3. Chirundu Fossil Forest
Photo: Irina Iriser / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Easily accessed near the border at Chirundu is Fossil Park, which must be rated as one of the geological wonders. Tourists can walk amongst the fossilized stumps of a type of tree estimated to be well over 100 million years old, which indicates what Zambia used to be. Full of insights into other geological wonders in this area of history, these guided tours are great. The Chirundu Fossil Forest is suited for geology lovers or cultural and scientific experiences worth the trip.
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
4. Kafue National Park
Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons
One of the largest national parks in Africa, it provides an excellent safari experience. Home to many different ecosystems, it has wide-open plains, thick woodlands, and wetlands. It contains wildlife from cheetahs and leopards to elephants and antelope that can be found nowhere else. And for those panoramic vistas and rich wildlife, the Busanga Plains are top-rated. Guided game drives, hot air ballooning, and river safaris combine to make Kafue a can-not-miss destination near Lower Zambezi National Park, serving as an incredible chance to catch Zambia’s wildlife in extraordinarily calm and beautiful surroundings.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Where To Stay
Photo: Paul Kane / Wikimedia Commons
Staying at good accommodation close to Lower Zambezi National Park adds zest to the safari while enjoying comfort in the wilderness. These include camps, lodges, and luxury resorts catering to your needs. These excellently adapt to any tourist and ensure a pleasant experience while visiting the park. Chongwe River Camp, Mvuu Lodge, Gwabi River Lodge, Perfect for budget travelers, offering cosy rooms and a campsite.
Where To Eat
Photo: Suman Shrestha / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The dining experiences near Lower Zambezi National Park offer a splendid blend of local and international cuisines. Several lodges and camps in the area serve freshly cooked meals prepared from the local ingredients. These include bush dinners under brilliant stars and riverside dining, where you would savour typical Zambian dishes such as nshima, grilled fish, and meats, besides international cuisine. Royal Zambezi Lodge, Anabezi, or Chiawa Luxury Camp offers wonderful dining facilities. If you feel like a casual meal, local taverns in Chirundu and other places may suffice.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Paul Kane / Wikimedia Commons
Average Cost Of The Trip
A trip to Lower Zambezi National Park can cost around ₹1,50,000–₹3,00,000 per person for a 3–5 day safari, including accommodation, park fees, meals, and guided tours. In Zimbabwean dollars (ZWL), this is roughly ZWL 1,800,000–ZWL 3,600,000, depending on the exchange rate. Luxury lodges cost more, while budget campsites and self-drive options can lower expenses. Flights from India add another ₹50,000–₹1,00,000.
Tips For Travellers
- Cargoes of insect repellent and some antimalarial pills cannot be missed.
- This is the park that helps maintain order, safety, and good habits in environmental preservation.
- Pack natural, lightweight clothing with comfortable footwear.
- Be mindful of whether ATMs will be available near the park, and carry cash.
Lower Zambezi National Park is a natural gem of wildlife experience. From serene Zambezi River banks to the busy plains that all sorts of animal species tread, a variety of experiences await every tourist. Game drive, along with a chance to canoe in calm waters or other attractions, makes this park a memorable trip for you. Book your next trip with TripXL to have an amazing experience that you can cherish for a lifetime. Lower Zambezi is not about a safari; it is an expedition into the core wilderness of Zambia.
Cover Photo: Paul Kane / Wikimedia Commons
