Is Kafue National Park worth visiting?

Absolutely. Kafue National Park is one of Africa's last great wilderness areas, offering a truly off-the-beaten-path safari experience. Spanning over 22,000 km², it is Zambia's largest and oldest national park, yet remains relatively undiscovered compared to more commercialised parks. This means fewer crowds and a more authentic connection with nature.

Whether you're a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned wildlife enthusiast, Kafue offers something you won't find in more commercial parks: space, solitude, and staggering biodiversity.

Kafue's size means it encompasses a wide range of habitats, from miombo woodlands and riverine forests to seasonal floodplains and the famous Busanga Plains. These contrasting ecosystems support an extraordinary variety of wildlife and offer different safari experiences depending on where you go within the park.

Home to more than 150 mammal species, including 21 antelope species—the highest diversity in Africa—Kafue is a paradise for wildlife lovers. It's one of the best places to see African wild dogs, leopards, cheetahs, and lions, especially in the north and central regions. The Busanga Plains are a seasonal highlight, attracting predators and prey in dramatic numbers during the dry months.

Unlike better-known parks in Southern or East Africa, Kafue remains relatively uncrowded. Safari camps are widely spaced, and visitor numbers are low, meaning you're unlikely to share sightings with other vehicles. If you're seeking a more authentic and private safari, this is one of the few places left in Africa that delivers it.

With over 500 recorded bird species, including rarities like the endemic Chaplin's barbet, Kafue is a must-visit for serious and casual birders alike. The varied habitats—from wetlands to woodlands—make for excellent birding year-round.

The Busanga Plains, in the far northwest of Kafue, are arguably the park's most iconic feature. This seasonal floodplain is only accessible from June to October and becomes a hotspot for large herds of red lechwe, roan antelope, and buffalo, drawing in lions, wild dogs, and cheetahs. The open terrain makes it one of the best areas in Zambia for predator sightings and dramatic photography.

Kafue is increasingly recognised for its conservation potential. With support from the Zambian Carnivore Programme and African Parks, wildlife populations are recovering, and sustainable tourism is helping fund anti-poaching and community initiatives. Visiting Kafue contributes directly to the park's protection and long-term success.