"Remote Northern Zambia harbours some special reserves and boasts a fascinating history. The vast Bangweulu Wetlands is home to a wealth of largely aquatic wildlife, including large herds of endemic black lechwe and the rare shoebill – one of Africa’s most sought-after birds. Nearby Kasanka National Park is also a birding hotspot, with such unusual wildlife as the elusive sitatunga antelope and, during November and December, a spectacular congregation of up to 15 million straw-coloured fruit bats. This whole area is Livingstone country, the great explorer having been laid to rest at Chitambo Village, and the beguiling English manor house at Shiwa Ng’Andu offers an interesting cultural addition to any safari.”
- Mike Unwin
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PLAN MY JOURNEYNorthern Zambia
Northern Zambia is off the usual beaten safari track but offers some excellent add-ons to a standard trip, including one or two unique wildlife attractions. It also has an interesting historical dimension, being the region in which Livingstone’s explorations came to an end and also the site of an extraordinary English manor house.
In the far northwest, the Bangweulu wetlands comprise a mosaic of lakes, pools and seasonally flooded grasslands, in which huge numbers of endemic black lechwe antelope – among reedbuck, tsessebe, oribi and other grazers – share the rich grazing with local fishing communities. The bird life is prolific, and this is one of very few places in Africa where the bizarre shoebill can be seen. Accommodation options are limited – ecotourism is currently being overhauled under conservation NGO African Parks – and exploration involves long hikes through swampy terrain or boat trips in dugout canoes, depending on the season.
Just south of Bangweulu, the bijou Kasanka National Park hosts one of the world’s great migrations: a spectacular gathering of up to 15 million straw-coloured fruit bats that flock to its fruiting trees during November and December. As with Bangweulu, large game such as elephant and buffalo does occur here, but the area is better known for its rich birdlife and rarities such as the elusive sitatunga (reliably seen from a viewing hide) and rare slender-snouted crocodile.
East of Bangweulu, Shiwa Ng’Andu is a grand English manor house, set on a lake within a beautiful estate, that was made famous by the best-selling book The Africa House. Filled with memorabilia from a sepia-tinted past, this unexpected landmark offers a delightful safari add-on, with gentle activities including horse-riding, lake cruises. and simply strolling the house and grounds – the latter teeming with birdlife.
When to go
Find out when is best to visit
- Excellent
- Good
- Poor
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 in stark contrast to the dry season.
Great bird watching with the arrival of migratory bird species into the area.
Northern Zambia like the rest of country 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 around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that heavy rains during the wet season can make this part of the country very inaccessible. Those who are dedicated to visiting during the wet season can however be rewarded with some great bird life.
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 in stark contrast to the dry season.
Great bird watching with the arrival of migratory bird species into the area.
Northern Zambia like the rest of country 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 around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that heavy rains during the wet season can make this part of the country very inaccessible. Those who are dedicated to visiting during the wet season can however be rewarded with some great bird life.
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 in stark contrast to the dry season.
Great bird watching with the arrival of migratory bird species into the area.
Northern Zambia like the rest of country 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 around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that heavy rains during the wet season can make this part of the country very inaccessible. Those who are dedicated to visiting during the wet season can however be rewarded with some great bird life.
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 in stark contrast to the dry season.
Great bird watching with the arrival of migratory bird species into the area.
Northern Zambia like the rest of country 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 around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that heavy rains during the wet season can make this part of the country very inaccessible. Those who are dedicated to visiting during the wet season can however be rewarded with some great bird life.
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.
Great bird watching with the arrival of migratory bird species into the area. May is also the best month to find the shoebill stork in the Bangweulu Wetlands.
Northern Zambia like the rest of country 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 around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that heavy rains during the wet season can make this part of the country very inaccessible. Those who are dedicated to visiting during the wet season can however be rewarded with some great bird life.
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.
Great time to see large numbers of lechwe and other grazers - is the best time to see big herds of lechwe and other grazers the Bangweulu Wetlands.
Northern Zambia like the rest of country 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 around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that heavy rains during the wet season can make this part of the country very inaccessible. Those who are dedicated to visiting during the wet season can however be rewarded with some great bird life.
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.
Great time to see large numbers of lechwe and other grazers - is the best time to see big herds of lechwe and other grazers the Bangweulu Wetlands.
Northern Zambia like the rest of country 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 around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that heavy rains during the wet season can make this part of the country very inaccessible. Those who are dedicated to visiting during the wet season can however be rewarded with some great bird life.
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.
Northern Zambia like the rest of country 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 around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that heavy rains during the wet season can make this part of the country very inaccessible. Those who are dedicated to visiting during the wet season can however be rewarded with some great bird life.
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.
Northern Zambia like the rest of country 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 around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that heavy rains during the wet season can make this part of the country very inaccessible. Those who are dedicated to visiting during the wet season can however be rewarded with some great bird life.
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!
This period marks the migration of 10 million fruit bats from Central Africa to Kasanka National Park.
Northern Zambia like the rest of country 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 around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that heavy rains during the wet season can make this part of the country very inaccessible. Those who are dedicated to visiting during the wet season can however be rewarded with some great bird life.
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.
Great bird watching with the arrival of migratory bird species into the area. This period also marks the migration of 10 million fruit bats from Central Africa to Kasanka National Park.
Northern Zambia like the rest of country 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 around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that heavy rains during the wet season can make this part of the country very inaccessible. Those who are dedicated to visiting during the wet season can however be rewarded with some great bird life.
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.
Great bird watching with the arrival of migratory bird species into the area. This period also marks the migration of 10 million fruit bats from Central Africa to Kasanka National Park.
Northern Zambia like the rest of country 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 around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. It is also important to say that heavy rains during the wet season can make this part of the country very inaccessible. Those who are dedicated to visiting during the wet season can however be rewarded with some great bird life.
Experiences
Explore Northern Zambia Properties
Mutinondo Wilderness
Mutinondo Wilderness
Embark on a simple and enriching stay at Mutinondo Wilderness Lodge, a hidden gem set amid an expanse of remote wilderness. With just four chalets, simple communal spaces and many camping options, Mutinondo is an opportunity to ..
What People Say
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The personalised service provided was far beyond my expectations. A three week trip visiting four countries in Africa, multiple game reserves, wineries and much, much more was flawless. While a close encounter with a leopard and her cubs…
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We got in touch after hearing about Hide & Seek from a friend. Have to say hats off to Jamie, he was so patient throughout, even through our indecisiveness! Ultimately we ended up with the most incredible holiday of our lives. Thank you again, we will be back!!
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Thank you for arranging our Safari holiday in Kenya and Tanzania for us. It was to celebrate our 40th. Wedding anniversary which was on July 1st. 2018, and through your arrangements, we have had a holiday that we will never forget...
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Thanks so much for a truly unforgettable once in a life time holiday. Hopefully we will be in touch again soon!
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Spot on in terms of itinerary . We not disappointed by any of the suggestions and had the best holiday ever! Thank you!
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Jamie was very helpful throughout the booking process and recommended the perfect holiday. There was nothing we would change having now been out to Tanzania. I would highly recommend Hide & Seek to friends and relatives.
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Jamie was excellent. Once I described what we wanted I knew he would come up with the business. ..and he did!!! 5 stars
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We spoke to numerous travel agents over the period we looked at booking our honeymoon and only hide and seek gave me the confidence I was looking for. Really pleased with our decision.
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Hide and seek dealt with our last minute travel plans extremely well. Obviously, our accommodations shifted as availability diminished but ultimately they came up with a vacation that we will never forget.
