Zambia’s National Parks
Wildlife is important to everyone in Zambia. More than 30% of Zambia’s territory is reserved for animals, with 20 National Parks and 34 other game management areas around the country. If you are visiting Zambia it is likely that you will spend at least some time in and around Zambia’s National Parks.
Some of Zambia’s National Parks remain relatively untouched. Whether intentionally or not, parks such as Nyika Plateau and Luambe are home to large numbers of wildlife but are less visited due to a lack of infrastructure, camps and lodges.
Other National Parks in Zambia, like South Luangwa, Kafue and Lower Zambezi are shining examples of wildlife and tourism management, and are consistently ranked amongst the best in Africa.
Which is the largest National Park in Zambia?
At around 8650 square miles, Kafue National Park is not only the largest National Park in Zambia, it is one of the largest National Parks in Africa. Founded in the 1920s (and formally established as a National Park in the 1950s) Kafue is also the oldest wildlife reserve in Zambia. Despite its size and rich biodiversity, Kafue remains relatively undeveloped and less visited than other major parks, offering a more remote and untouched safari experience.
Which is the most visited National Park in Zambia?
The most visited national park in Zambia is South Luangwa National Park. Known for its exceptional wildlife density, particularly leopards, as well as its pioneering walking safaris, South Luangwa attracts a significant number of visitors each year. The park’s accessibility, combined with a variety of accommodation options ranging from luxury lodges to bush camps, makes it a top choice for both first-time safari-goers and seasoned wildlife enthusiasts. Despite its visitor numbers, South Luangwa National Park is still able to offers intimate and uncrowded safaris, compared to some of the other commercialised parks in other African countries.
Is Victoria Falls a National Park?
Victoria Falls is actually located within Zambia’s Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, named after the local Lozi name for the falls, which means “The Smoke That Thunders.” This National Park not only protects Victoria Falls but it also includes a section of the Zambezi River upstream, as well as a protected wildlife area where you can see various animals such as elephants and giraffes. Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is also the only location in Zambia where it is possible to see white rhinos.
Can you see Africa’s Big 5 in Zambia’s National Parks?
Whilst you can see Africa’s Big 5 when visiting Zambia’s National Parks, it is important to note that you cannot see all the Big 5 in just one park.
- Elephants are abundant in many of Zambia’s National Parks. There are especially large herds found in Lower Zambezi and South Luangwa National Parks.
- Lion prides are also regularly spotted where there is a good supply of food. They are prevalent in South Luangwa, Kafue and Lower Zambezi National Parks.
- South Luangwa is particularly well-known for its high density of leopards, making it one of the best places in Africa to view them.
- Buffalo are found in big herds throughout the largest of Zambia’s National Parks, including Kafue, Lower Zambezi and South Luangwa.
- White Rhinos are endangered and can only be seen in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, near Victoria Falls. This National Park is strictly managed as a zoological park, and has good populations of antelope, elephants, giraffe as well as the rhino, but does not feature any big cats or other predators.
Plan Your Zambian Adventure
Our Africa Destination Experts have travelled all over Africa and can help plan and create an unforgettable holiday with our range of immersive wildlife safaris and incredible choice of relaxing beach resorts, activities and experiences.
Plan your holiday
