10 Things to See and Do in Zambia’s Lower Zambezi National Park

1. Enjoy A Classic Game Drive

When it comes to lower Zambezi activities, there's nothing quite like embarking on a game drive to discover the prolific bird- and wildlife that inhabit Lower Zambezi National Park. With around 400 recorded bird species and 4 of the infamous Big 5, there is plenty to see – feel the rumble of elephant herds traversing the land, watch as hordes of peaceful buffalo graze along the river, and hippos as they lounge in the shallows.

For those searching for predators, lions, leopards, and spotted hyenas can all be found while cruising around the park, with the occasional African wild dog sighting. Other intriguing species can also be seen on occasion such as roan, Samango monkeys, and eland. For any night drives, keep an eye peeled for civets, genets, porcupines, and even honey badgers.

As several areas become inaccessible during the wetter months of the year, the dry season (May to November) is the best time to visit, especially as it draws animals out to the closest remaining water sources.

2. Zambezi River Sunset Cruise

There's nothing quite like a Zambezi River sunset cruise – glide along the tranquil waters while admiring one of Africa's signature sunsets. Watch as the skies burst into colour and reflect across the water as you sip on a refreshing drink while looking out for resident hippos, crocodiles, and wildlife on the river banks.

In Africa, a sundowner is known to be a safari staple, be it out in the bush or the comfort of your camp. It symbolises winding down and provides the perfect opportunity to gather and share stories from the day. A luxury Zambezi river cruise is the ideal excuse to come together and reminisce about the day while simultaneously experiencing something new.

3. Discover the Lower Zambezi River Birds

Whether consulting a bird book is a daily occurrence for you or you've never even picked one up, it's difficult to ignore the striking birdlife of the Lower Zambezi. Around 378 recorded birds can be spotted in the area, from year-round residents to migrants species.

Aviary enthusiasts can look forward to sightings such as Lilian's lovebird, Verreaux's eagle, the African pitta, bee-eaters, and various kingfishers to name a few. The river is also teeming with life and enjoys visits from storks, fish eagles, cormorants, egrets, and darters. Keep an eye out for the less common residents like ospreys, African skimmers, and spoonbills.

Birds can be seen year-round but is notoriously good in the wet months, November to April, as migrants arrive and various species display their vibrant mating plumage. As the park is usually inaccessible until March, birders should aim to visit in April should they wish to see certain migratory species.

4. Embark On A Walking Safari In The Lower Zambezi, Zambia

Like its Zambian neighbour and birthplace of the walking safari, South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi National Park offers fantastic on-foot excursions. Whether it's a short trail, a longer trek with a backpack, or a day trip with vehicle or boat backup, this is undoubtedly one of the best ways to explore the bush.

Listen for the distinctive calls of resident aviary species and the trumpeting of elephants as you soak in smaller details; the delicate dawn spiderwebs, hard-working dung beetles, and flourishing flowers. The area is known for its fantastic guides who are eager to share their knowledge.

Follow the tracks and spoor of wildlife who have recently passed through the area and enjoy watching game, both big and small, go about their daily lives. Without the distinctive rumble of a vehicle, this is the perfect opportunity to get a different perspective in even greater detail.

Places To Experience Walking Safaris:

5. Fishing On The Zambezi

Lower Zambezi tiger fishing is a must for all avid anglers. Known for their agility, strength, and tendency to leap out of the water, catching a tigerfish takes time and patience. While it's possible to fish year-round, prime time is considered September to December when the weather is warmer, water levels are lower, and it's breeding season – the fish then become more active and feed regularly.

Typically, the camps and lodges that offer fishing excursions as part of their activity profile have high-quality tackle for guests to use. Guests are also welcome to bring their own equipment.

Places To Experience Tiger Fishing in Lower Zambezi National Park:

6. Go In Search Of Lower Zambezi Wild Dogs

Lower Zambezi National Park is one of Zambia's premier safari destinations, featuring not only the Big 4 – lion, leopard, buffalo, and leopard – but endangered African wild dogs. Although the park houses one of the larger wild dog packs, sightings are never guaranteed, but incredibly special when they do happen.

As a park that allows both day and night drives, there's a chance to see members of the pack during their most active hours, dusk and dawn, as well as nocturnal wildlife.

7. A Trip To The Skies With Zambezi Helicopters

The most well-known helicopter flight in Zambia and Zimbabwe is the notorious ‘Flight of Angels' over the vast Victoria Falls. Soar over the spray and take in the sheer expanse of this Natural Wonder of the World while marvelling at the far-reaching Zambezi River.

Some of the camps and lodges in the area, and Lower Zambezi National Park, also offer helicopter transfers from Lusaka. Watch as the wild landscapes pass below you and keep an eye out for roaming elephants and other large wildlife. One of the lodges to offer this is Time + Tide Chongwe Camp.

8. Zambezi River Rafting

Is rafting the Zambezi safe? With the right guidance, it's perfectly safe and one of the top lower Zambezi activities for adventurous travellers. While most are concerned about the resident Zambezi River crocodiles, trust that your guides have selected a safe passage and adhere to their rules throughout the experience. Although it's a known fact that crocs aren't a fan of rapids, always maintain an awareness of your surroundings.

White river rafting, Zambezi edition, is an exhilarating experience filled with thrilling dips and rapids, as well as some more peaceful moments to catch your breath. It's suited to all levels and usually includes a lunch of some kind to sit back, relax, and look back on the journey with fellow rafters.

9. Zambezi River Trips

While we know sunset cruises are a firm favourite, for those who are keen to be a little more hands on with their experience, consider canoeing the Zambezi River or even a quick Zambezi kayak. While a guide typically accompanies these excursions, they still offer the opportunity to take in the local sites and superb sightings at your own pace.

10. Zambezi River Waterfall Expeditions

Step away from the Zambezi and towards one of its tributaries, the Chongwe River, to discover its stunning waterfalls. Explore various pools and well-worn rock structures with fascinating circular erosions – not dissimilar to the likes of Bourke's Luck Potholes along the Panorama Route. Walk along the river and keep an eye out for the prolific aviary population and even the elusive Samango, also known as a blue monkey.

Often lodges and camps in the area will offer guided tours to Chongwe Falls, usually including a delicious picnic to be enjoyed along the shaded banks of the river.

Other Information: Lower Zambezi National Park

• Heavy summer rains mean that the park isn't traversable for up to six months of the year (usually about November to March). So, for half a year, the animals don't see many people or vehicles at all. This means that, especially from about April when the camps are re-opening, wildlife may either be very shy or skittish. Elephants can be particularly vocal when they are unused to vehicles. If you are used to the very relaxed animals of South Africa's Kruger National Park, for example, which see vehicles and people all day, this can be quite thrilling.
• The opposite side of the Zambezi River is Zimbabwe's Mana Pools National Park – combining the two destinations would create a really exciting safari experience.
• Lower Zambezi National Park is not a Big 5 area as there are no rhino present. Due to the topography, wildebeest and giraffe are also not found here.
• Zambia has what they call ‘game management areas' or GMAs that border national parks. Hunting, under strict conditions, is permitted in GMAs. We believe that the more photographic and traditional safaris in these areas, the more local communities and the government will appreciate the value of conserving the animals and try to absorb GMAs into the national parks.
• Tsetse fly are present in Zambia. They give painful bites and are attracted to the colours blue and black so please do not pack or wear blue or black clothes (please see here for What to Pack for Safari). Tsetse fly traps consist of poisoned black-and-blue cloths hung in the bush. As with much in nature, there is an upside to the presence of tsetse fly in Zambia's national parks: they keep livestock out. Community herders won't risk their cattle dying of ‘sleeping sickness' so they don't encroach on national parks for grazing, minimising conflict with conservationists.
• If you specifically want tea or coffee with your wake-up call, be sure to ask for it. Many Zambian camps do not automatically serve tea or coffee in the mornings.
• Wi-Fi is present but can be spotty. Lamps are often solar powered – we suggest that you bring a headlamp as tents can be fairly dark at night. A headlamp is also ideal for reading in bed or when packing your bag at some of the more traditional or remote camps.
• Bathrooms can be very open-plan and often lead directly off the bedroom with open showers and toilets. If you need more privacy, be sure to mention this to your Africa Safari Expert so they can ensure that the camp meets your needs.

Ready to Discover Zambia's Lower Zambezi National Park?

Are you ready to explore the hidden magic found within the Lower Zambezi? With fantastic sightings and fascinating ecosystems, it's an ideal safari destination, especially when combined with the likes of Victoria Falls, South Luangwa, Mana Pools, or even Kafue for our more seasoned safari-goers. Connect with an Africa Safari Expert to discuss your ideal safari experience.