Best National Parks In Zambia: A Must-See For Tourists

By Katie May | Update on: Dec 25, 2024

Zambia is renowned for offering fantastic safari experiences and is regarded as a top tourist destination. About 30% of Zambia's land is protected by national parks, helping to maintain the country's distinctive ecosystems. A remarkable array of species that is unique to each area may be found in these habitats, which vary from lush woodlands to enormous marshes. 

Thanks to its magnificent landscapes, abundance of wildlife, and unique indigenous cultures, Zambia is proud to be home to some of the African continent's top national parks and game reserves. In this article, we will show you some of the best National Parks in Zambia. Let’s see!

Zambia Safaris - Explore Top Best National Parks in Zambia with Us

1. Lower Zambezi National Park 

On the Zambian side, near the bustling city of Lusaka, lies the renowned Lower Zambezi National Park, an iconic destination for nature enthusiasts. This park immerses visitors in an authentic African experience characterized by the meandering Zambezi River, rugged cliffs, and dense acacia forests. Interestingly, prior to its official designation as a national park, the Lower Zambezi served as the private wildlife reserve of Zambia's president until 1983, unknowingly safeguarding the area's natural beauty.

Explore the Lower Zambezi National Park, which offers a plethora of opportunities to do so, and lose yourself in its alluring beauty. Glide along the tranquil Zambezi River in a canoe, encountering the graceful elegance of elephants and hippos up close. Delve into the park's dense forests on thrilling game drives and bush walks, unveiling the secrets of elusive leopards and wild dogs. Fishing enthusiasts can indulge in the catch-and-release activities offered by most camps, putting their skills to the test while experiencing the thrill of reeling in the river's bounty. Lower Zambezi National Park guarantees an extraordinary journey amidst unmatched natural beauty, leaving you with indelible memories.

• Best time to visit: Between July and October, at the beginning and conclusion of the Dry season, is the ideal time to explore Lower Zambezi. During this time, it is excellent to observe animals. 

Lower Zambezi National Park guarantees to leave you with indelible memories 

2. South Luangwa National Park

South Luangwa National Park, a top choice for Zambia vacations, offers a wealth of exciting experiences. With its abundant wildlife, stunning sunsets, and diverse birdlife, this park guarantees an unforgettable adventure.

More than 60 types of animals and 400 different bird species may be found in the park as a whole. This makes it one of the most intense concentrations of wildlife in Zambia. As you venture along the Luangwa River, a sight awaits you—approximately 50 hippos per kilometer, creating an extraordinary display of their presence. Witness the immense herds lazily lounging in the water, a scene that is not uncommon in this remarkable park. And for a truly captivating experience, indulge in night drives, offering a glimpse into the lives of predators on the prowl. The Luangwa River traverses the park, fostering an incredibly diversified ecology that is home to several different animal species. Due to the river's meanders, hippos and crocodiles can be seen in lagoons. 

• Best time to visit: In late March or early April, South Luangwa's rainy season comes to a close. While everything is still green, it is an ideal time to travel. It's a fantastic time to go bird viewing as well. Besides, it's usual to see animals like the Grey Crowned Crane and the Saddle-billed Stork.

Flock of crowned cranes in South Luangwa Zambia  

3. Mosi oa Tunya National Park

Enter the enchanting realm of Mosi-oa-Tunya, a protected sanctuary that envelopes the vast expanse surrounding the majestic Victoria Falls, stretching both upriver and downriver. The park's name pays homage to the thunderous "smoke," an enthralling phenomenon forged by the Falls themselves, as the Zambezi River crashes down the gorge with unyielding vitality. Despite its modest dimensions, spanning a mere 66 square kilometers in contrast to sprawling parks like Kafue, Mosi-oa-Tunya lavishly compensates with its awe-inspiring spectacle. As the haven for the world's largest waterfall, this petite park stands as an irresistible beacon, summoning a multitude of explorers to the captivating realms of Zambia.

Within the park's confines, a precious treasure awaits—several white rhinos under the vigilant protection of armed guards mandated by the government. In Zambia, witnessing these endangered creatures is a privilege that only a fortunate few can experience.

• Best time to visit: The Zambezi River is at its strongest between February and April, making a trip to the Falls a soggy experience. The ideal time to view the falls without getting wet is probably between May and July. Even while the falls never entirely dry up, the river will dry out later in the year and become less magnificent.

Mosi oa Tunya National Park is surrounded by the majestic Victoria Falls  

4. Blue Lagoon National Park

Located a mere 120 kilometers west of Lusaka, Blue Lagoon graces the enchanting Kafue Flats, characterized by expansive floodplains, ever-changing seasonal grasslands, and the embrace of acacia woodlands. This small yet captivating wildlife sanctuary within Zambia's Central Province boasts floodplains, seasonal grasslands, and embracing acacia woodlands that provide an idyllic haven for an abundance of birdlife and countless mammals. Encompassing approximately 500 square kilometers, this easily accessible park offers a gateway to a realm of natural wonder, merely a stone's throw away from the bustling city. 

In addition, Blue Lagoon National Park: Although Blue Lagoon isn't a typical wildlife location, the Wet season is a birdwatcher's paradise. This is also the time when the endemic Kafue lechwe congregates on the marshy floodplains. These marsh-loving antelopes from the viewing platform may be seen splashing in the marshes at dawn or night. 

• Best time to visit: Visiting Blue Lagoon from November to April during the wet season is recommended. At this stage, the 5 km (3 km) causeway will stretch well out into the lake, and the view of the Lechwe from here is breathtaking. Especially the most fantastic season to go birding is from November to April since there are many birds in breeding plumage and there are many migrants.

5. Kafue National Park

Get ready for an awe-inspiring expedition into the expansive wonder of Kafue National Park, the oldest and largest national park in Zambia. Encompassing a vast area that rivals the size of Wales, this magnificent park stands as the second largest in all of Africa, inviting you to immerse yourself in its breathtaking beauty.

Kafue National Park is a refuge of extraordinary dimensions, covering over 22,500 square kilometers of virgin nature. Immerse yourself in the South Luangwa-like variety of species that live inside its bounds. But Kafue has a special attraction that appeals to those looking for close encounters with elusive cheetahs as well as the commanding presence of roan, sable, and lechwe antelopes. Kafue National Park entices visitors to discover its untamed beauty and make lifelong memories with its enormous expanse and profusion of species. Notably, it is the only park in Zambia where exhilarating hot-air balloon flights are available.

• Best time to visit: The best time to travel is between June and October. The dry season is in full swing, making access easier, as certain portions of the park are heavily submerged. The park is beautiful in the rainy season, but you will have to put up with bad roads and torrential rain. From November to April, Kafue is transformed into a lush, green paradise. However, the hotel options are somewhat limited.

Kufue National Park stands as the second largest in all of Africa 

Some Zambia Travel Advice For First-Time Visitors

Check Visa Requirements

You should check visa requirements before traveling to Zambia to ensure a quick and easy visa application procedure. Especially you can apply for a Zambia eVisa without visiting any embassy or consulate in person through the Zambia Immigration Services website.

Flights & Getting Around

Flying is the most convenient way to travel around Zambia because of the vast distances between its parks and the country's sparse infrastructure, particularly during the wet season. In open-sided 4X4s, transfers and game drives are carried out.

Several direct flights service Zambia's main airport, Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, which is 14 kilometers from Lusaka. However, many visitors choose to go through Johannesburg. Transfer to charter planes for the national parks of Kafue, Lower Zambezi, and South Luangwa.

A game drive vehicle with a conservation team in Kafue National Park  

Money & Spending

The official currency of Zambia is the Kwacha; however, many hotels and lodges also accept US dollars. The more remote lodges could have difficulties accepting credit card payments, and Victoria Falls occasionally has high commission costs, so keep that in mind if you wish to pay with a credit card.

What To Pack

For your safari in Zambia national parks, bring lightweight, loose-fitting natural fabrics like cotton or breathable linen, along with a fleece or jacket for the mornings and evenings. Since Zambia is known for its exceptional walking safaris, bring some comfortable walking shoes and a hat or cap to protect you from the sun. Wear light neutral hues like khaki, olive, and brown when going on a game drive. When traveling to Zambia, keep in mind that there is a rigorous dress code, so bring skirts that are knee-length or longer for the females.

What are you waiting for? Pack your bags and embark on an adventure to discover the best National Parks in Zambia, where nature's wonders await at every turn.