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Kafue National Park is a vast natural wonderland stretching over 22,400 square km in western Zambia. It was established in 1924 and is said to be the oldest and largest park in Zambia. This national park is known for its wildlife, diverse ecosystems, and pristine wilderness. It ranges from arbitrary savannah, dense woodlands, and winding peaceful waterways to wetlands. The park usually draws you because, being in unspoiled wilderness, they can carry out exciting game drives, excellent birdwatching, and enjoy peace.
Quick Details About Kafue National Park
Elevation: 1100 to 1350m above the sea level
Opening Time: 6 AM – 6 PM
Best Time To Visit: May to October
Where To Stay: Luxury lodges, bush camps, campsites
Where To Eat: Lodge, restaurants, and safari offer you dining options
Location
Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons
Kafue National Park is located across the Central, North-Western, and Southern provinces of Zambia. It is vast, lying to the east of and extending into the Kafue River down to deep into the heart of Zambia’s wilderness. The location of the park allows easy accessibility from Lusaka and Livingstone, which are around 200 km from these cities. The variable topographies of flood plains and wooded savannahs, an incredible variety of flora and fauna thrive in the park and render it a hotspot of biodiversity.
How To Reach
Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons
By Road: Drive from Lusaka or Livingstone via Lusaka-Mongu Road. Depending on which entry gate you go through, it would take you 4 – 6 hours.
By Air: Charter flights to airstrips within the park like Chunga and Lufupa.
By Bus: Public buses or private shuttles can help you reach the park’s vicinity by dropping you to the lodge.
Things To Do In Kafue National Park
1. Game Drives
Photo: Olga Ernst / Wikimedia Commons
Kafue National Park game drives are an amazing opportunity to explore the different ecosystems where wildlife, like lions, leopards, elephants, and antelope. Under the guidance of skilled guides, safaris are conducted at dawn and dusk to provide memories never to forget while taking in Kafue’s magical scenery and stunning biodiversity.
2. Boat Safaris
Photo: Hans Hillewaert / Wikimedia Commons
Boat safaris in Kafue National Park give a unique view of its waterways, filled with wildlife. You can spot the amazing Kafue River view and see hippos, crocodiles, and many bird species. Such calm excursions are perfect for photography and nature enthusiasts and allow for breathtaking views of the aquatic ecosystems and colourful flora of the park.
Places To Visit Near Kafue National Park
1. Busanga Plains
Photo: Foto Mous / Shutterstock
This unexplored floodplain filled with wildlife is found in the northern sector of Kafue National Park. Famous for awesome predator sightings such as lions and cheetahs, it is also home to large herd populations of buffalo, lechwe, and puku. The great variety of birds, such as the wattled crane and pelicans, make this destination worthwhile for bird enthusiasts. This area is only reachable during the dry season; hence, it is a perfect untouched safari experience. Luxurious tented bush camps enhance the allure of the pristine landscapes in Zambia.
Opening Time: This place is open for tourists from June to November
Entry Fee: $20 – $30
2. Itezhi-Tezhi Dam
Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
The Itezhi-Tezhi Dam is situated in the south of Kafue. This dam is one of the largest in Zambia near the Kafue River. This artificial lake provides water to most of Kafue and is a haven for living creatures, thriving bird life, and river animals. This area is ideal for activities like fishing, canoeing, and picnics. You also have a chance to experience wildlife like elephants and hippos grazing on its shores. It is a peaceful retreat and a great location for photography and relaxation.
Opening Time: Visit this destination from May to October
Entry Fee: None
3. Blue Lagoon National Park
Photo: Colin Smith / Wikimedia Commons
Blue Lagoon National Park is located northeast of Kafue. It is a smaller wetland reserve that becomes a birdwatcher’s paradise during the wet season. A peaceful escape from the hectic safaris, it is full of migratory waterfowl such as the flamingo and pelican. Wetlands welcome lechwe and buffalo. It has an elegant landscape and is delightful when you want to visit and see beyond Kafue.
Opening Time: It depends on the timing of sunset and sunrise
Entry Fee: $10 for foreigners
4. Victoria Falls
Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
This UNESCO World Heritage Site called Victoria Falls is 400 km from Kafue NP and is backdropped by the magnificent natural wonders of Africa. Locally called the Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning The Smoke That Thunders, the falls provide breathtaking scenic views, challenging bungee jumping and white-water rafting, and cosy walks in forest tracks. Combining a trip to Victoria Falls with a safari gives a good combination of proximity to Livingstone and a Zambia itinerary.
Opening Time: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: $20 to $30 for foreigners
5. Lochinvar National Park
Photo: Anayawa Nyambe / Wikimedia Commons
Southeast of Kafue, Lochinvar National Park is famous for its birdlife and stunning scenery. Spanning wooden sections of Chunga Lagoon among surrounding wetlands, it attracts herons, storks, and African fish eagles; the Kafue lechwe-a species endemic to Zambia-grazes on the plains around the lagoon. The park also has archaeological sites, and the rare semi-remote sight leads to guided tours.
Opening Time: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: For Foreigners, $15 per person
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Jae zambia / Wikimedia Commons
Average Cost Of The Trip
The average cost of a trip to Kafue National Park can vary significantly based on the type of experience you choose. Budget travelers may spend around ZMW 3,500 to ZMW 5,000 ($200 to $300), while mid-range options might range from ZMW 5,000 to ZMW 10,000 ($300 to $600) per person for lodging, meals, and park permits. Luxury safaris can exceed ZMW 20,000 ($1,000+) depending on the accommodations and activities planned.
Tips For Travellers
Safety: Check with local authorities or travel agencies to get up-to-date information for safety reasons. Know everything important in detail.
Packing Tips: Carry good footwear, sunblock, insect repellent, and binoculars for wildlife viewing.
Conservation: Observe park rules, avoid littering, and support eco-lodges/eco-guides involved in capturing the glory of nature.
Health: Vaccination for malaria and yellow fever is suggested, and all necessary medicines should be carried.
Kafue National Park is a mesmerising destination providing unique safari experiences in the pristine wilderness of Zambia. Book your next trip to Kafue National Park with TripXL to explore the whole day as it offers many experiences with landscapes and wildlife. From wild game drives to peaceful moments by the river, this park is a destination for every tourist’s bucket list.
Cover Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons
