Lower Zambezi National Park - Zambia

The beauty of the Lower Zambezi National Park is its state of absolute wilderness. Lying in the Lower Zambezi Valley between the rolling hills of the hazy escarpment and the Zambezi River, it is sprinkled with reed islands, which are home and feeding ground for many animals. These waters are a focal point for Elephant, Hippo, Buffalo, Zebra, Lion, Leopard, various antelope species, and Baboon and vervet Monkeys, together with a great variety of birds. The wildlife punctuates this landscape perfectly, leaving the visitor often at a loss as to which to admire more, the scenery or the animals.

Canoe safaris from half a day to three or four days are the perfect way to become one with the surroundings. Creatures seem to take less notice of you when you are on the water, and you are likely to have some spectacular close encounters with elephant, buffalo, hippos and crocodiles.

Bird watchers will be delighted at the variety of colourful birds such as scarlet and green lovebirds, yellow, blue and gray parrots, azure kingfishers and large-beaked hornbills. You will also hear one of the most unforgettable cries of Africa - the eerie lament of African Fish Eagles.

Friendly local Zambian fisherman eek out a subsistence living on the banks of the Zambezi by catching fish from their dug out canoes and growing a few crops. The Lower Zambezi is one of Zambia's really special safari destinations.

Lodges of the Lower Zambezi:

• Chiawa Camp
• Kayila Lodge
• Kulefu Camp
• Lower Zambezi River Camp - self catering
• Sausage Tree Camp

Climate:

Dry Season:

The best time to visit the Lower Zambezi River Valley is during the dry season from June to November. This season starts off warm with daytime temperatures in the region of 24°C (75°F) but quite cool nights. It then heats up in October and November to about 35°C (95°F) with little humidity.

Rainy Season:

The hot and humid rainy season is from December to March, when the foliage becomes thicker, making wildlife more difficult to spot. Temperatures are uncomfortably sticky at around 28°C (82°F) and several lodges of the Lower Zambezi close their doors until May, due to inaccessibility.