Located along the Zambezi River in the southeastern region of Zambia, directly across from Zimbabwe’s Mana Pools National Park, the Lower Zambezi National Park spans 4,092 square kilometers and features 120 kilometers of riverfront. The rugged escarpment to the north, the river itself, and the numerous islands, lagoons, and floodplains are its distinguishing features, attracting a wealth of Zambian wildlife. The Park is home to around 50 species of mammals and 400 species of birds, alongside a diverse array of stunning trees, grasses, and flowers.
This region remains perfect, being relatively new to tourism and enjoying significant protection from both the Zambian Government and local tour operators. Declared a National Park in 1983, it was the Cumings Family, owners of Chiawa Camp, who introduced the first tourists to the park in 1990. This initiative led to the creation of one of the finest African safari experiences, providing access to the game viewing loops that are enjoyed within the park today.
What to do in Lower Zambezi National Park
Birdwatching in Lower Zambezi Park
The bird life along the river bank is exceptional. A variety of birds, including the Fish Eagle, can be heard singing in the far distance. On the cliffs are the white-fronted carmine bee-eaters. Additional bird species encompass the crested-guinea fowl, sizable flocks of quelea, red-winged practincole, and black eagles. During the summer, the dramatic narina trogan nests in this area. Among the other distinctive species are the Meyer’s parrot, Lillian’s lovebird, and the trumpeter hornbill.
Zambezi River Rafting
Is rafting on the Zambezi safe? With proper guidance, it is entirely safe and ranks among the best activities in the lower Zambezi for adventurous travelers. Although many may worry about the crocodiles in the Zambezi River, rest assured that your guides have chosen a secure route and will ensure that you follow their guidelines during the experience. While it is widely recognized that crocs do not favor rapids, it is essential to stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
White river rafting, Zambezi edition, offers an exhilarating adventure packed with thrilling dips and rapids, alongside calm moments to pause and catch your breath. It is appropriate for everyone and typically features a lunch where participants can unwind, reflect, and share experiences with fellow rafters.
Fishing On River Zambezi
Fishing for tiger in the Lower Zambezi is essential for every passionate angler. Renowned for their agility, strength, and propensity to leap from the water, successfully catching a tigerfish requires both time and patience. Fishing can be done throughout the year, but the best period is from September to December. During this time, the weather is milder, water levels drop, and it coincides with the breeding season, leading to increased fish activity and regular feeding.
Camps and lodges that provide fishing excursions usually feature top-notch tackle available for guests to utilize. Guests are encouraged to bring their own equipment as well.
Explore the Wild Dogs
Lower Zambezi National Park stands out as one of Zambia’s top safari destinations, showcasing not just the Big 4 – lion, leopard, buffalo, and elephant – but also the endangered African wild dogs. The park is home to one of the larger wild dog packs, and while sightings are not guaranteed, they are truly remarkable when they occur.
This park offers the unique opportunity to experience both day and night drives, providing a chance to observe pack members during their peak activity times at dusk and dawn, along with a variety of nocturnal wildlife.
Helicopter Tours
The most famous helicopter flight in Zambia and Zimbabwe is the renowned ‘Flight of Angels’ over the expansive Victoria Falls. Glide above the mist and appreciate the vastness of this Natural Wonder of the World while admiring the extensive Zambezi River.
Several camps and lodges in the region, as well as Lower Zambezi National Park, provide helicopter transfers from Lusaka. Observe the wild scenery unfold beneath you while staying vigilant for wandering elephants and other majestic wildlife. Time + Tide Chongwe Camp is one of the lodges that provides this experience.
Walking Safari In Lower Zambezi, Zambia
Similar to its Zambian counterpart and the origin of the walking safari, South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi National Park provides excellent opportunities for on-foot adventures. Whether it’s a brief trail, an extended hike with a backpack, or a day trip with vehicle or boat support, this is certainly one of the finest methods to discover the bush.
Pay attention to the unique calls of local bird species and the distinctive trumpeting of elephants while you appreciate the finer details: the intricate dawn spiderwebs, industrious dung beetles, and blooming flowers. The region is recognized for its exceptional guides who are enthusiastic about imparting their expertise.
Trace the paths and signs left by wildlife that have recently traversed the region and take pleasure in observing both large and small game as they engage in their daily activities. In the absence of the characteristic rumble of a vehicle, this presents an ideal chance to gain a fresh perspective with even more detail.
Best Time to visit Lower Zambezi National Park
Zambia, similar to numerous African safari destinations, experiences both a wet season and a dry season. The ideal time to explore the Lower Zambezi National Park is in the dry season, which spans from May to November. When water supplies diminish between June and October, opportunities for game viewing and Zambezi wildlife photography are numerous, as animals are frequently seen seeking their next drink. For those who can tolerate warmer temperatures, September and October offer the best opportunities for exceptional wildlife sightings.
If you plan to visit Victoria Falls before or after your Lower Zambezi safari with Chiawa, the period from March to May is perfect for witnessing the magnificent flow of the Mosi-oa-Tunya. The rainy months of the Lower Zambezi, known as the green season, turn the landscape into a lush and vibrant oasis. However, this also indicates a deficiency in wildlife viewing, as the rise in humidity contributes to a greater mosquito population. Numerous lodges, such as our two Zambezi camps, Old Mondoro and Chiawa Camp, remain closed during this period.
