Lower Zambezi National Park is one of Zambia’s premier safari destinations, located in the southeastern part of the country along the northern banks of the mighty Zambezi River, directly opposite Zimbabwe’s Mana Pools National Park. Together, these two protected areas form a vast transboundary wilderness teeming with wildlife.
The park covers over 4,000 square kilometres of pristine terrain, stretching from the dramatic Zambezi escarpment down to lush floodplains and river channels. This combination of rugged hills, thick woodland, and open grassland near the river creates diverse habitats that support an impressive range of wildlife.
Large herds of elephant and buffalo are common, often seen congregating along the riverbanks. Lion, leopard, and African wild dog are key predators in the area, while hippos and crocodiles are ever-present in the Zambezi’s waters. Plains game like impala, kudu, waterbuck, and zebra thrive here, and birdlife is exceptional, with hundreds of species recorded, especially near the river and in the surrounding woodlands.
The camps and lodges in the Lower Zambezi are typically small, intimate, and beautifully integrated into the landscape. Most are seasonal and constructed with a light footprint, from rustic fly-camps to more luxurious tented lodges. Their remote locations offer an authentic safari experience, with comfort and exceptional guiding at the heart of every stay.
Activities in the park are varied and take full advantage of the diverse terrain. Guests can enjoy: Day and night game drives, Walking safaris led by expert guides, Canoe safaris along quiet channels, Boat cruises on the Zambezi for birding and sunset views, Catch-and-release fishing, particularly for tigerfish
This mix of land and water-based exploration makes the Lower Zambezi a dynamic and adventurous safari destination—ideal for travellers seeking both excitement and tranquillity in one of Africa’s most scenic wildernesses.
Visiting the Lower Zambezi and staying in one of our chosen camps makes a direct contribution to Conservation Lower Zambezi (CLZ) - a non-profit organisation committed to the protection of wildlife and to the sustainable use of natural resources in the Lower Zambezi in Zambia.
Since its humble beginnings with basic support to the wildlife authority, CLZ has grown and increased its activities and efforts in the Lower Zambezi. Not only has CLZ’s support to DNPW increased substantially over the years, the organisation now also runs an Environmental Education Programme (2004), a Village Scout Unit (2013) and a Community Development Programme (2013), as well as this CLZ hosts the annual Safari Guides Training courses and exams for the Lower Zambezi (2001).
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South Luangwa National Park is one of Africa’s finest wildlife destinations, located in eastern Zambia along the winding Luangwa River, which forms the lifeblood of the park. Covering over 9,000 square kilometres, the park is renowned for its rich biodiversity, varied habitats, and excellent game-viewing opportunities.
The park is best known for its large populations of elephant, buffalo, hippo, and giraffe (specifically the endemic Thornicroft’s giraffe), along with abundant zebra, impala, and puku. It is also one of the best places in Africa to see leopards, which are commonly spotted on night drives. Lions are regularly seen, often in large prides, and wild dogs are present, though less predictable. Birdlife is outstanding, especially in the green season, with over 400 species recorded.
Activities in South Luangwa are diverse, with the park famously known as the birthplace of the walking safari. Today, it remains one of the best places for guided walking safaris, alongside day and night game drives, birding and photographic safaris
The lodges and camps in South Luangwa range from rustic bushcamps deep in the park—often accessible only on foot—to luxury lodges along the river with excellent facilities. Many are small and owner-run, offering personalised service and top-quality guiding. These camps are typically built to blend into their natural surroundings, providing an immersive and authentic safari experience.
With its combination of rich wildlife, iconic landscapes, and exceptional guiding, South Luangwa offers one of Africa’s most rewarding and authentic safari adventures.
