Highlights

Kafue National Park, Zambia’s largest wildlife reserve, offers diverse landscapes and exceptional safari experiences. The Busanga Plains, a seasonal floodplain, is a top highlight, attracting large herds of buffalo, antelope, and predators like lions and cheetahs. The Kafue River and its tributaries provide excellent boat safaris, offering sightings of hippos, crocodiles, and abundant birdlife. Walking safaris allow visitors to experience the bush up close, with opportunities to spot elephants, leopards, and wild dogs. The park is home to over 500 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Game drives in the northern and central regions reveal a variety of habitats, from dense forests to open grasslands. Kafue’s remote and less-visited nature ensures an exclusive, uncrowded safari experience in the heart of Zambia.

Getting there

Kafue National Park is accessible by road and air. The nearest international airport is Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka, about 3–5 hours away by road, depending on the park entrance. The easiest access is via the M9 road, leading to the central and southern sections. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended, especially during the rainy season (November–April), when some roads become impassable.

For quicker access, charter flights from Lusaka or Livingstone land at airstrips within the park, such as Chunga, Lufupa, and Busanga. Many lodges offer transfers from major cities. Self-drivers should ensure they have enough fuel and supplies, as facilities are limited. Despite its remote nature, Kafue’s diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife make the journey well worth the effort.