Zebraherde in der goldenen Abendsonne auf den Busanga-Ebenen im Kafue-Nationalpark.

Safari in Zambia's untouched wilderness paradise

Hidden in the heart of Zambia and yet of impressive size: Kafue National Park is one of the largest game reserves in Africa - and a real insider tip for nature lovers. With its 22,400 square kilometers of untouched landscapes, the park offers an incomparable safari experience. From vast floodplains and fertile teak forests to arid savannah, Kafue National Park is a paradise for wildlife and adventurers alike.

Go on a safari in Kafue National Park and experience Africa's nature up close: on foot, in an off-road vehicle, on the water or from a bird's eye view. Each safari perspective tells a unique story about the heart of Africa. Prick up your ears, listen to the sounds of the wilderness and let yourself be enchanted by Zambia's breathtaking beauty.

Written by: Anja Sterker Last updated at: December 20, 2024

Best Travel Time


J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

Kafue National Park: Facts and highlights

1# Size

22,400 square kilometers - one of the largest national parks in Africa.

2# Founded

1950s, initiated by Norman Carr, the pioneer of walking safaris.

3# Biodiversity

Home to four of the Big Five (lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo) and over 500 bird species.

4# Part of KAZA

Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area: A conservation project that connects wildlife in several African countries.

5# Nature conservation

Since 2022, the park has been managed by African Parks, an organization committed to sustainable nature conservation and cooperation with local communities.

Kafue National Park: Wildlife and nature

Although there are no longer any black rhinos in this part of the African continent, Kafue National Park is known for its unparalleled biodiversity. In addition to large lion colonies, you can also marvel at herds of elephants, hippos and over 500 exotic bird species in the region. Even rare species such as the African greyhound and big cats such as cheetahs and leopards find a protected habitat here.

Busanga Plains

The Busanga Plains in the north of Kafue National Park are of particular interest to safari travelers from all over the world. During the dry season between May and October, you can observe the wild animals at waterholes and river courses with the best visibility. Steppe zebras, impalas, waterbucks, buffalos and wildebeests rest there in large herds - lions, hyenas and other predators in their lee.

Traveling along the Kafue River

Would you like to delve deeper into the diverse park profile? Follow the Kafue River in a southerly direction. Observe how the landscape changes from green floodplains with forests and swamps to dry savannah.

Safari in Kafue National Park: activities and experiences

The activities on offer in Kafue National Park are as numerous as the wild animals in the park. To get to know the park's diverse flora and fauna in depth, we therefore recommend a stay of several days. Once you have arrived in Kafue National Park, you will want to enjoy the pure natural beauty for as long as possible anyway.

Game drives and walking safaris

Explore the impressive wildlife of Kafue National Park on a classic game drive or a walking safari with experienced guides. Discover herds of elephants, prides of lions and rare animals such as cheetahs or the African wild dog.

Safari-Teilnehmer beobachten einen Löwen aus einem offenen Safari-Fahrzeug in der Busanga-Ebene, Kafue-Nationalpark, im Morgenlicht.

Adventures on the water

Slow down on a canoe tour or a boat trip on the Kafue River. Observe peacefully bathing hippos, sunbathing crocodiles and exotic bird species on the banks.

Flusspferde im Wasser eines Flusslaufs in der Busanga-Ebene, umgeben von flacher Landschaft und Bäumen im Kafue-Nationalpark, Sambia.

Safari from a bird's eye view

A hot air balloon flight over the Busanga Plains is an unforgettable experience. From a bird's eye view, the vastness of the park is revealed in all its glory - an adventure that is second to none.

Luftaufnahme einer weiten, sumpfigen Landschaft in der Busanga-Ebene im Kafue-Nationalpark, Sambia, mit Wasserläufen und spärlicher Vegetation.

Night safaris

Experience the magic of the wilderness after sunset. On a night safari, you can track down nocturnal animals such as porcupines, civets and leopards.

Safarifahrzeug im Kafue-Nationalpark, im Hintergrund eine Löwin und grasende Antilopen.

Nature conservation and the work of African Parks

The African Parks organization has been managing the Kafue National Park since 2022 and is doing pioneering work in nature conservation. The use of modern technology, vehicles and helicopters has increased the protection of wild animals. Anti-poaching measures are beginning to bear fruit and the population of elephants, lions and other species is slowly recovering.

Cooperation with local communities is also an important component. The aim is not only to preserve the park as a habitat for animals, but also to establish it as a sustainable safari destination. A visit to Kafue National Park therefore actively supports the protection of this unique region.

Kafue National Park: Best time to visit and weather

The dry season from May to October/early November is ideal for trips to Kafue National Park. Numerous hours of sunshine per day and maximum summer temperatures between 27 and 33 degrees Celsius ensure the best safari conditions. Many travelers from Europe find the moderate temperatures in June and July particularly pleasant.

During the rainy season between December and April, most safari lodges in Kafue National Park remain closed. The heavy rainfall at this time of year causes flooding in many places. Roads and access routes are barely passable. This is especially true for the Busanga Plains in the northern park area.

Tailor-made trips to the Kafue National Park

Discover Kafue National Park, one of Africa's last great wilderness regions. Our tailor-made travel packages take you to the heart of Zambia - with unforgettable game drives, walking safaris and luxurious lodges that perfectly combine nature and comfort.

Contact us today to plan your safari in Kafue National Park. Experience Africa's wilderness like never before!

Lodges in Kafue National Park

Stay in the most beautiful and exclusive lodges in Kafue National Park and make your safari even more unforgettable

Ready for your biggest adventure?

To book a trip or for more information, contact us. We'll help you plan and guide you through your upcoming adventure!

You might also like this