Kafue National Park - Discovering Zambia

Travelling to Kafue National Park

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kafue National Park, a pretty good destination in Zambia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Kafue National Park and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Kafue National Park, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Zambia, here's everything to know about Kafue National Park for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kafue National Park

Kafue National Park is one of the largest and oldest national parks in Zambia, covering an area of about 22,400 square kilometers. It is located in the central-western part of Zambia and stretches over three provinces. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, buffaloes, zebras, and many species of antelopes. It also boasts over 400 bird species, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers. The best time to visit Kafue National Park is during the dry season from May to October, when the wildlife congregates around water sources, making it easier to spot them. There are several lodges and campsites within the park, offering a range of accommodation options for visitors.

What to visit in Kafue National Park

Kafue National Park is the largest national park in Zambia and offers a wide range of tourist attractions. Below are some of the top tourist attractions in Kafue National Park along with some information about each of them: 1. Busanga Plains - Busanga Plains is located in the northern region of Kafue National Park and is one of the top tourist attractions in the park. This area is known for its vast floodplains, which attract a large number of antelopes, zebras, and wildebeest. Visitors can also spot predators such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas in this area.
2. Kafue River - Kafue River is the lifeline of Kafue National Park and offers several activities for tourists. This river is perfect for fishing, boat rides, and canoeing. It is also home to a large number of hippos and crocodiles, which can be seen from the boat.
3. Lunga River Lodge - Lunga River Lodge is a luxury lodge that offers a comfortable stay for tourists visiting Kafue National Park. It is located next to Lunga River and offers a wide range of activities such as game drives and walking safaris.
4. Itezhi-Tezhi Dam - Itezhi-Tezhi Dam is an artificial lake located in the middle of Kafue National Park. This lake attracts a large number of animals such as elephants, buffaloes, and leopards. Visitors can also take boat rides on this lake to spot wildlife.
5. Lufupa River Camp - Lufupa River Camp is another luxury lodge that offers a comfortable stay for tourists. It is located next to Lufupa River and offers a wide range of activities such as game drives and walking safaris. Visitors can also enjoy boat rides on the river.
6. Nanzhila Plains Safari Camp - Nanzhila Plains Safari Camp is a luxury tented camp located in the southern region of Kafue National Park. It offers a comfortable stay for tourists and is known for its walking safaris and game drives.
7. Hippo Lodge - Hippo Lodge is a budget-friendly lodge located in the southern part of Kafue National Park. It is known for its close encounters with wildlife such as hippos and elephants.
These are just some of the top tourist attractions in Kafue National Park. Visitors can explore the park further to discover more exciting experiences and attractions.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Zambia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Kafue National Park.

When to go on holiday to Kafue National Park

The best time to visit Kafue National Park in Zambia is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this time, the park is more accessible and wildlife is more concentrated around water sources. However, if you are interested in bird watching, the wet season (November to April) can be a great time to visit because many migratory birds arrive in the park. Just keep in mind that some areas of the park may be closed due to flooding during this time.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Kafue National Park

Kafue National Park is located in Zambia, and there are a few ways to get there: 1. By Air: The nearest major airport is Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka. From there, you can take a domestic flight to one of the two airstrips within the park: Chunga or Lufupa.
2. By Road: Kafue National Park is accessible by road from Lusaka or Livingstone. The road journey from Lusaka takes around 3-4 hours, while from Livingstone, it takes around 7-8 hours.
3. By private transfer: Many lodges in and around Kafue National Park offer private transfers to the park. This option is more expensive, but it can be more comfortable and convenient.
It's worth noting that the roads can be rough, particularly during the rainy season. If you're planning a self-drive trip, make sure you have a sturdy vehicle and a good map.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kafue National Park, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kafue National Park

Kafue National Park in Zambia offers a variety of traditional Zambian meals that are cooked using local ingredients. Here are some of the typical foods of Kafue National Park with a short description for each of them: 1. Nshima - This is the staple food in Zambia and has a consistency of mashed potatoes or polenta. It is made from ground maize flour mixed with water, boiled and stirred until it forms a thick porridge-like texture.
2. Kapenta fish - This is a small, sardine-size fish that is dried and salted. It is commonly eaten with nshima and a vegetable relish.
3. Chikanda - Also known as African polony, this is a popular snack made from grated cassava, ground peanuts, and spices. It is usually consumed as a replacement for meat.
4. Bream fish - This is a popular fish that is caught locally in the Kafue River. It is usually grilled or fried and served alongside nshima and a vegetable relish.
5. Ifisashi - This is a popular Zambian dish which is a thick peanut butter and spinach stew. It is usually served with nshima.
6. Tende - This is a vegetable which is similar to pumpkin leaves. It is usually cooked with groundnuts and served with nshima.
7. Vitumbuwa - These are small spongy sweet cakes made with flour, baking powder, cardamom, coconut milk, and sugar. They are usually served as a dessert or snack.
You can find general info about typical foods in Zambia here.

Is Kafue National Park an expensive destination for tourists?

Kafue National Park in Zambia can be an expensive destination for tourists, but it depends on the type of accommodations and activities you choose. Luxury lodges and private game reserves can be quite expensive, but there are also camping options and affordable lodges available. Entrance fees to the park are also relatively affordable. Additionally, if you book a tour package, you may be able to save money on accommodations and activities. Overall, it is possible to visit Kafue National Park on a budget, but you will need to do some research and plan accordingly.

Where to find accomodation in Kafue National Park

If you are planning to visit Kafue National Park in Zambia, the best areas to find accommodation would be in the surrounding areas of the park. These areas include Lusaka, the capital city of Zambia which is about a 3-4 hour drive from the park, and the towns of Mumbwa and Itezhi-Tezhi which are located closer to the southern part of the park. There are also several lodges and campsites within the park itself that offer accommodation options for visitors.
You can check hotel prices at Kafue National Park here:
Booking.com

Is Kafue National Park a safe destination for tourists?

Kafue National Park in Zambia has a good safety record and is generally considered a safe place for tourists to visit. However, as with all travel destinations, it is important to take certain precautions to ensure your safety.
The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and hippos, among others, so visitors are advised to stay in their vehicles and not to approach or feed the animals. It's also important to take precautions against mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria, which is prevalent in the region.
When traveling to Kafue National Park, it is recommended to book through a reputable tour operator who can provide experienced guides and ensure that you have safe and comfortable accommodations. It's also a good idea to check with your government's travel advisories before your trip to stay up to date on any safety concerns in the area.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Zambia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Kafue National Park.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kafue National Park the most?

Kafue National Park in Zambia is a great destination for all types of travelers, including couples, young people looking for fun and families. For nature enthusiasts, travelers can enjoy game drives and walking safaris to explore the diverse wildlife in the park, which includes elephants, lions, leopards, and hippos. Birdwatchers will also enjoy Kafue National Park, as it’s home to over 500 bird species. For families and travelers seeking adventure, there are several activities to enjoy such as fishing, canoeing, and camping. Additionally, Kafue National Park offers a serene environment that provides a great escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, making it a perfect destination for couples looking to relax and unwind.

How to get around Kafue National Park

In Kafue National Park, the most common modes of transportation are 4x4 safari vehicles, guided walking safaris, and boat trips along the Kafue River. Private game drives can also be arranged with experienced guides. It is not recommended to use public transportation, as most areas are remote and difficult to reach without a proper vehicle.

What to see around Kafue National Park

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Kafue National Park: 1. Lake Itezhi-Tezhi: A beautiful lake situated just outside the park with stunning views and opportunities for fishing and boating.
2. Lukanga Swamp: A large wetland area with a diverse range of wildlife, including leopards, hyenas, and a variety of bird species.
3. Mukuni Big 5 Safaris: A private game reserve with a focus on the "big five" (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo), located about 2 hours' drive from Kafue.
4. Livingstone: A historic town located about 3 hours' drive from Kafue, known for its proximity to the Victoria Falls and other tourist attractions.
5. Chirundu: A town located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, about 2.5 hours' drive from Kafue, known for its markets and scenic views of the Zambezi River.
6. Lower Zambezi National Park: A relatively small but diverse park located about 3 hours' drive from Kafue, known for its riverside location and abundance of wildlife, including elephants, hippos, and crocodiles.
7. Sioma Ngwezi National Park: A remote and lesser-known park located about 5 hours' drive from Kafue, known for its stunning landscapes and wildlife, including lions, leopards, and African wild dogs.
For every travel information about Zambia you can click here.

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