Lion at sunset, Busanga Plains, Kafue National Park, Zambia

Kafue National Park

This enormous expanse of wilderness covers a large tranche of central Zambia, with a number of rivers cutting through it.

Unspoilt and still relatively overlooked, this magnificent park is home to a diverse range of landscapes and wildlife. The remarkable Busanga Plains fill the lush northern reaches, whilst grasslands, miombo forests, rock-strewn river valleys, reed-lined lakes and teak woodlands coat the central and southern regions.

The range of wildlife is fantastic, with an incredible array of plains game found on the floodplains and grasslands. More than 20 species of antelopes can be found here, making Kafue one of the foremost parks in Africa for plains game.

Hippo yawning, Busanga Plains, Kafue National Park, Zambia
Kafue National Park, Zambia

A little more about Kafue National Park

Predators, including wild dogs, lions, cheetahs and leopards, also stalk this wild landscape. The elephant population, as with many parks, has seen a rapid decline in recent decades. However, it is now said to be in recovery, with large herds once more roaming the park.

The vast array of landscapes and the watery nature of Kafue combine to support an incredible wealth of avifauna. Almost 500 species of birds can be found here, including a number of unusual species, such as wattled cranes, crested guinea-fowls, black-cheeked lovebirds and slaty egrets.

Kafue Flats lechwe running in the water on the plains
Lechwe, Kafue Flats

Why Visit Kafue National Park?

“Allowing for a multitude of extraordinary experiences and photographic opportunities, the Kafue River offers an exceptional diversity of wildlife – both at its banks and in its waters. It is possible to spot pods of hippos, crocodiles, nesting bee-eaters and a variety of other birds. Despite this, it is uncommon to see more than three boats at any given time while on the waters, ensuring that a boat safari on the Kafue River instils a sense of peace and tranquillity, as well as anticipation.”

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Lion at dawn, Busanga Plains, Kafue National Park, Zambia
Kafue National Park, Zambia

What to do in Kafue

  • Spot red lechwes grazing on the floodplains of Busanga, in the north
  • Track packs of wild dogs on the southern edge of Lake Itezhi-Tezhi
  • Take boat cruises down the slow-moving Kafue River
  • Explore the variety of landscapes that make up this vast park
  • Spend several days canoeing down the beautiful Kafue River
  • Take a hot air balloon trip above the mesmerising Busanga Plains
African Wild Dogs, Zambia, Southern Africa
Kafue National Park, Zambia

When to go to Kafue

Kafue National Park is generally best visited in the dry season, which runs from July until October. Not only is it easier to spot wildlife during this time, but it is also the best time to access the park.

The floodplains of the north are almost entirely inaccessible during the rains, with camps closing between November and May. Camps further south may stay open a little longer, but still tend to close during the wettest part of the year.

Experiences

Tell us what you love doing and we’ll curate a journey that’s perfect for you.

Kafue River Sunset

Canoe the Kafue River

Spend several days canoeing down the beautiful Kafue River.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Balloon over Busanga Plains, Kafue National Park, Zambia

Hot Air Balloon Adventure

Take a hot air balloon trip above the mesmerising Busanga Plains.

Suggested Holiday Idea

African Wild Dogs, Zambia, Southern Africa

Wild Dogs in Kafue

Track packs of wild dogs on the southern edge of Lake Itezhi-Tezhi.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Busanga Bush Camp Front view of Camp, Kafue National Park, Zambia

Busanga Floodplains

Spot red lechwes and pukus grazing on the floodplains of Busanga, in the north.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Meet our experts

A passion for travel runs right through every one of our experts - meaning they're always ready with first-hand insight about their specialist countries.

Illona Cross

Born in a small South African town, I have always followed my passion for nature and discovery. After studying Nature Conservation in Pretoria, I was one of the first women to complete a very tough cadetship in the Natal Parks Board. It was here where I cut my teeth in African wildlife management.

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  • 01285 880 980

Chris Johnston

Chris is the Conde Nast Traveller chosen Specialist for Africa.

25 years ago, my first trip to Africa took on a life of its own. I planned for three months, I stayed for two years. Whilst there, I was mistaken for a priest, attacked by sharks and arrested. Yet the countless, clattering journeys opened my eyes to the beauty of the landscapes and the grace of the people. My recent trips are undoubtedly more comfortable, but the welcome is as warm as ever and the best experiences are still those I never see coming.

Talk with our experts
  • 01285 880 980

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