How many national parks are in Zambia?

Zambia has 20 designated national parks, with 19 officially gazetted and managed under the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW). One park remains under development and limited in access. These protected areas span a variety of ecosystems and play a key role in conservation and tourism. These parks differ in size, ecosystem and wildlife concentration and this provides a great experience for nature lovers, photographers and adventure seekers.

Gazetted and protected areas

Out of these 20 parks 19 are gazetted and protected parks and one is under development. DNPW reporting to the Ministry of Tourism and Arts manages the parks which ensure that tourism development does not compromise wildlife conservation..

Wildlife diversity in the parks

Below are some of the most iconic species of Africa that call some of the national parks in Zambia home.

• Elephants
• Lions
• Leopards
• Buffaloes
• A rich diversity of birds, reptiles and plant life

Famous national parks in Zambia

The most common and ecologically renowned parks are:

• South Luangwa National Park: Eminently known for walking safari as well as leopard spotting.
• Lower Zambezi National Park: It is renowned for canoeing safaris and safari on rivers.
• Kafue National Park: Zambia’s oldest and largest national park.
• Liuwa Plain National Park: Known for wildebeest migration and vibrant skies.

The role of national parks in conservation

These parks are very important as they help in the protection of Zambia’s natural heritage and development of eco-tourism.

• Employment opportunities
• Conservation education
• Cultural tourism projects

Tourist activities and infrastructure

Tourists can explore the parks through various exciting activities such as:

• Guided game drives
• Walking safaris
• Boat rides
• Hot air balloon safaris (in select parks)

Note: Hot air balloon safaris are available in select parks such as Kafue, though these are premium experiences offered by a limited number of high-end lodges.

Park entry fees help fund wildlife protection, community development and tourism infrastructure improvements.

National parks as Zambia’s ecological treasure

In short, Zambia’s national parks are not just tourist destinations, they are the heart of the nation’s biodiversity and living testimony of its commitment to nature conservation.

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