"Kafue National Park is Zambia’s largest park and one of the biggest in Africa. Its immensity embraces many very different landscapes that, accessed from different areas, serve almost as discrete parks. This habitat diversity ensures great wildlife variety and, except for rhinos, Kafue pretty much has it all. Its relatively low safari profile reflects some historical neglect, and for years the park has been in South Luangwa’s shadow. The consequent lack of tourist traffic in many areas explains the distinct skittishness of wildlife – and brings a corresponding sense of adventure. A wide portfolio of lodges includes some impressive top-end options, while game drives, walking safaris, night drives, boat trips and balloon rides are among the activities”

- Mike Unwin

Kafue National Park

Kafue is huge. At 22,500 sq kms, this park is the biggest in Zambia and larger even than South Africa’s Kruger. Its vast expanse comprises many different landscapes, from large tracts of miombo woodland to rocky outcrops, open savannah, swampy floodplains and tumbling rapids. Such diversity means a wide spectrum of wildlife, though game-viewing is not always as easy as in South Luangwa: the park has received less attention over the years, and animals are less habituated to people and vehicles. With fewer visitors, however, comes a genuine sense of exploration.

The Okavango-like floodplains of Busanga in the northwest have a unique appeal. Here you will find large herds of lechwe and puku bounding through the shallows and lion prides trooping from date-palm islands to hunt the open grasslands. Cheetah and wild dog also occur, while serval stalk the long grass for rodents. This is the domain of the fly-in lodge, open only during the dry season.

Broad-leafed miombo woodland dominates the park’s central plateau. Lodges here focus on the meandering Kafue and Lufupa rivers, where hippo pods fill larger pools and leopards are often seen prowling the banks. Further south, large buffalo herds graze the shores of lake Ithezi-Thezi, while Nanzhila Plains is cheetah country. Elephants roam throughout Kafue, while an impressive range of antelope includes sable, roan and Lichtenstein’s hartebeest. The park’s bird list is, unsurprisingly, Zambia’s largest, with African finfoot and wattled crane among the specials.

Kafue’s many landscapes are so distinct that it can help to envisage the park as a series of smaller parks, each accessed separately. Every region has its lodges, some very remote, which all offer game drives, guided walking safaris and night drives. Those on the river also offer boat trips, the best way to see the park’s large hippo and crocodile population, while in Busanga you can even take flight in a hot air balloon.

When to go

Find out when is best to visit

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WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’

Wettest time of the year, with rain falling most days of the month, although rarely prolonged in nature. Temperatures are a very pleasant, averaging 30°C/86°F midday, while the Busanga Plains flood. Nights average 20°C/68°F. During this period the park transforms into a lush green landscape and the a stark contrast to the dry season.

Like the rest of Zambia, Kafue has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that much of the park is flooded and inaccessible during the wet season, it would, therefore, be unusual to see properties operating during this period.

WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’

Wettest time of the year, with rain falling most days of the month, although rarely prolonged in nature. Temperatures are a very pleasant, averaging 30°C/86°F midday, while the Busanga Plains flood. Nights average 20°C/68°F. During this period the park transforms into a lush green landscape and the a stark contrast to the dry season.

Like the rest of Zambia, Kafue has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that much of the park is flooded and inaccessible during the wet season, it would, therefore, be unusual to see properties operating during this period.

WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’

Wettest time of the year, with rain falling most days of the month, although rarely prolonged in nature. Temperatures are a very pleasant, averaging 30°C/86°F midday, while the Busanga Plains flood. Nights average 20°C/68°F. During this period the park transforms into a lush green landscape and the a stark contrast to the dry season.

Like the rest of Zambia, Kafue has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that much of the park is flooded and inaccessible during the wet season, it would, therefore, be unusual to see properties operating during this period.

WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’

Wettest time of the year, with rain falling most days of the month, although rarely prolonged in nature. Temperatures are a very pleasant, averaging 30°C/86°F midday, while the Busanga Plains flood. Nights average 20°C/68°F. During this period the park transforms into a lush green landscape and the a stark contrast to the dry season.

Like the rest of Zambia, Kafue has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that much of the park is flooded and inaccessible during the wet season, it would, therefore, be unusual to see properties operating during this period.

DRY SEASON

May is the beginning of the dry season, although the landscape will still be many shades of green following the rains. Midday temperatures are average around 28°C/82°F, the mornings can, however, be surprising cool at around 10°C/49°F, so be sure to pack a warm fleece.

Like the rest of Zambia, Kafue has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that much of the park is flooded and inaccessible during the wet season, it would, therefore, be unusual to see properties operating during this period.

DRY SEASON

The landscape continues to dry up, with game wildlife sightings becoming more common. The Busanga Plains remain largely flooded. Midday temperatures average around 25°C/77°F, the mornings can, however, be surprisingly cold at around 6°C/43°F, so be sure to pack a warm fleece.

Like the rest of Zambia, Kafue has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that much of the park is flooded and inaccessible during the wet season, it would, therefore, be unusual to see properties operating during this period.

DRY SEASON

The landscape continues to dry up, with game wildlife sightings becoming more common. The Busanga Plains remain largely flooded. Midday temperatures average around 25°C/77°F, the mornings can, however, be surprisingly cold at around 6°C/43°F, so be sure to pack a warm fleece.

Like the rest of Zambia, Kafue has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that much of the park is flooded and inaccessible during the wet season, it would, therefore, be unusual to see properties operating during this period.

DRY SEASON

Clear skies still dominate, the landscape has now become quite parched; ultimately making this the perfect time for game viewing. The Busanga Plains have now largely dried up revealing short grass plains which draw in dense wildlife concentrations from the surrounding regions. Midday and night temperatures are a little warmer during these months, averaging 31°C/88°F and 13°C/55°F respectfully.

Like the rest of Zambia, Kafue has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that much of the park is flooded and inaccessible during the wet season, it would, therefore, be unusual to see properties operating during this period.

DRY SEASON

Clear skies still dominate, the landscape has now become quite parched; ultimately making this the perfect time for game viewing. The Busanga Plains have now largely dried up revealing short grass plains which draw in dense wildlife concentrations from the surrounding regions. Midday and night temperatures are a little warmer during these months, averaging 31°C/88°F and 13°C/55°F respectfully.

Like the rest of Zambia, Kafue has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that much of the park is flooded and inaccessible during the wet season, it would, therefore, be unusual to see properties operating during this period.

DRY SEASON

Game viewing can be spectacular during October; however, temperatures continue to rise before the start of the rains, with midday temperatures over 35°C/95°F not uncommon. The Busanga Plains have now dried up revealing short grass plains which draw in dense wildlife concentrations from the surrounding regions. We suggest early morning starts during this time to make the most of the cool temperatures!

Like the rest of Zambia, Kafue has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that much of the park is flooded and inaccessible during the wet season, it would, therefore, be unusual to see properties operating during this period.

WET SEASON

The first rains arrive, usually in the form of sharp afternoon showers. The temperatures still however remain hot, while the humidity adds an extra level of discomfort. Game viewing can still be great, but just be prepared for a little heat.

Like the rest of Zambia, Kafue has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that much of the park is flooded and inaccessible during the wet season, it would, therefore, be unusual to see properties operating during this period.

WET SEASON

Wettest time of the year, with rain falling most days of the month, although rarely prolonged in nature. Temperatures are a very pleasant, averaging 30°C/86°F midday, while the nights average 20°C/68°F. During this period the park transforms into a lush green landscape, a stark contrast to the dry season.

Like the rest of Zambia, Kafue has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting the park during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated whilst at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that much of the park is flooded and inaccessible during the wet season, it would, therefore, be unusual to see properties operating during this period.

Experiences

Soar 1000 feet above the endless plains for a birds-eye view of the surrounds

Making the most of the still morning air, float over the landscape in a hot air balloon for an infinite view of the stunning Busanga Plains. Drifting over the national park, enjoy a cup of coffee or a glass of champagne from your wicker basket as the sun peeps over the horizon.

Kafue’s large tracts of virgin bush, untouched by big lodges and tourist attractions, offer a remarkable wilderness area to explore on foot

Escape the confines of your vehicle and be at one with nature on an immersive walking safari. Discover the small wonders of the pure wilderness and track big game with highly experienced guides.

An exceptional spot for those keen on birding

With a diversity of habitat including rivers, wetlands, floodplains and miambo woodland, the park boasts a remarkable total of 491 species including the endemic Chaplin or Zambian Barbet and the rare African finfoot. Head out on foot to tick them off your list.

Home to a rich array of wildlife

Witness the impressive herds of red lechwe, puku, buffalo and wildebeest, the rare roan antelope, cheetah and ofcourse, the famous lions of Kafue. During the dry season, the Kafue River is the park’s life blood and animals are easy to spot through the thin vegetation, making the most of the waterholes.

Take things at your own pace on as you glide down the Kafue River on a boat safari

Spend a day on the emerald green waters of the Kafue. Sit back with a drink on this large yet infinitely serene river to weave through sleepy hippos and stalking crocodiles as kingfishers dart in and out of the water in front of you.

In Africa’s largest national park game drives offer the freedom to explore

Roll across the vast national park on game drives to explore this largely untouched landscape. From the sanctuary of your vehicle, see the landscape transform from flat grasslands veined by rivers in Busanga Plains to Miambo woodlands and huge granite hills.

Explore Kafue National Park Properties

Busanga Bush Camp

Busanga Bush Camp

Busanga Bush Camp is a high-end yet simple seasonal accommodation with a rustic atmosphere. A draw for nature lovers, the camp stays true to the bush camp style with intimate, simple chalets hidden beneath sycamore fig trees and ..

Shumba Camp

Shumba Camp

Shumba is a smart, luxury camp on Kafue’s picturesque Busanga Plains. Designed to harmonize with the surrounding landscape, Shumba has a gentle and welcoming atmosphere and offers a wealth of activities for both dry and wetter ..

What People Say

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