Zambezi National Park
Derrick Chanda
The Lower Zambezi National Park, characterized by the possibility of extraordinary sightings of large animals and the beautiful waters of the Zambezi River, has a lot to offer. Located in the expanse of the Lower Zambezi Valley, the national park owes its abundance of fauna to the permanent waters of the Zambezi River, its many tributaries and the lagoons that have formed in its meanders. The river flows along the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe and is a major attraction for its wildlife, with elephants like to cross it often. The presence of the Zambezi is equally popular with visitors, as canoe safaris are the ideal way to observe the animals on both sides of the river. Buffaloes and elephants are easy to spot in the park, along the banks of the Zambezi or perhaps wading from bank to bank – an experience that could be really exciting if an elephant decides to cross the river a few meters from your canoe. Unfortunately giraffes, rhinos and cheetahs are not present; however, their absence is compensated for by the possibility of spotting lions, hyenas and leopards.
The observation of the avifauna in the park is truly exceptional, with about 350 species recorded in the area. A number of beautiful surprises await bird lovers: the Zambezi River is a popular destination for fish eagles, storks and herons, while ospreys can occasionally be seen.
Aside from bird watching, the location offers both day and night safaris, the latter giving you the chance to get a glimpse into the life of the park’s nocturnal animals – and are also a good chance to see leopards. Walking safaris are the best way to really get in touch with nature and can last up to four hours if you wish. Camps and lodgings in the national park harness the magic of the riverside environment, offering the opportunity to stay overnight in luxury bush camps, which can range from luxurious tent-suites to spacious chalets.
The Zambezi National Park together with the Victoria Falls National Park covers an area of 56,000 hectares. The northern border of the Park is formed by the great Zambezi River which for much of its length also marks the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia.
Elephants coming down to drink in the Zambezi National Park
A wide variety of larger mammals can be found within the Zambezi National Park including elephants, lions, buffaloes and leopards. In addition, it is possible to observe herds of black antelopes, elands, zebras, giraffes, kudus, waterbucks and impalas, as well as many of the smaller species of game.
The Zambezi River is home to over 75 species of fish and is famous for its bream and fighting tiger fish. You can read more about fishing in the Zambezi here.
The Zambezi National Park in Zimbabwe has two main game viewing sections:
The Zambezi River Game Drive, with an extensive network of riverside roads accessed through the Park’s main gate, and the 25-kilometer Chamabondo Game Drive in the southern part of the Park, which begins approximately 5 kilometers from the city of Victoria Falls – just off the main road to Bulawayo. The roads are in reasonable condition, but please note that the park closes after heavy rain..
In other words the Zambezi National Park is a natural vestige of wildlife a unique and spectacular place. Impossible to live without having come here at least once. I hope that with my short description it has made you want!
Derrick Chanda corresponding Zambian roots project
