Lower Zambezi National Park is located in the southeast region of Zambia where it runs along the bank of the Zambezi River. The park covers an area of 1,580 square miles (4,092 sq km) creating an extensive protected area for the astounding wildlife.
Lower Zambezi is renowned for both its array and abundance of wildlife species as well as its remoteness which creates a true African adventure. The park is isolated along the Zambezi River with no real road access. Visitors must take a small plane or a boat up the Zambezi River to reach the park area.
The Zambezi River serves as the foundation of the park with wilderness and national parks on both sides of the river which serves as the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. The river is also the source for Victoria Falls located upriver from Lower Zambezi National Park. Travelers often tie Victoria Falls and the national park together during their stay.
The Beautiful Scenery of the Park
The Lower Zambezi is simply gorgeous. Its furry, leathery and feathered inhabitants are all housed in the most spectacular amphitheater imaginable.
Think mopane forest that hugs meandering river systems, which spill into the Zambezi. Think palm trees, baobabs, acacias, and Machiavellian strangler figs.
Wildlife
The ecological unit of LZNP and the Chiawa Game Management Area support a relatively large population of mammals. The escarpment and plateau regions are largely inaccessible and have not been formally surveyed. A small area on the valley floor is host to many of the bigger mammals, elephant, buffalo, hippo, waterbuck, kudu, zebra, and crocodiles, and occasionally, roan, eland and the Samango monkey. Nocturnal animals here are hyaena, porcupine, civet, genet and honeybadger.
The birdlife along the riverbanks is exceptional. Many a fish eagle can be seen and heard for miles around. Nesting along the cliffs are white-fronted and carmine bee eaters. Other unusual species are the red-winged pratincole, the elegant crested guinea fowl, black eagle, and vast swarms of quelea. In summer the stunning narina trogon makes its home here. Other specialities are the trumpeter hornbill, Meyers parrot and Lilian’s lovebird.
Think mountains, wetlands and valleys. You get the picture.