Description: Can you resist the lure of Earth's greatest wildlife spectacle? We certainly couldn't! Lower Zambezi National Park is one of Zambia's premiere game parks. Situated along the banks of the majestic Zambezi River, it offers not only traditional game drives and walking safaris, but also the possibility of exotic canoe safaris while slowly drifting down the river. Here you will have the opportunity to observe African nature in its purest form. Watch in awe as myriad leopards, elephants, hippos, hyenas, antelope, crocks and lions roam around in their natural environment, seemingly oblivious to your presence. In addition, Zambia is one of the few countries in the world that allow night drives inside their national parks; you'll never forget the first time you see and hear, or rather feel, a lion roaring while hunting at night - the sound and vibrations are indescribable.
Most people stay just outside the gates of the park as accommodations within the park itself are strictly of the highest luxury and are intended for high rollers only: expect to pay between US$300-500 per person per day all inclusive. Choose between the Chiawa Camp, Sausage Tree Camp and Royal Zambezi Lodge - all have full amenities and an excellent reputation. Normal travellers will undoubtedly opt for more realistic options.
Self drivers can stay at Chongwe Camp or Mvuu Lodge just outside the park (both options offer camping for US$15 or chalets for about US$50 per person per day), or camp at the lovely community campsite (US$5 per person per day, directly supporting the local community!).
Budget travellers will find it easiest to visit Lower Zam by joining a budget camping safari like we did. For US$400 per person, we had a five day package including transportation to/from Lusaka, park entry fees, food, camping accommodations and, of course, game drives, night drives, walking safaris and canoe safaris. These excellent value packages can be arranged through Wade at Cha Cha Cha Backpackers in Lusaka - this is an opportunity not to be missed!
While on safari in Lower Zambezi, we were lucky enough to see many lions, elephants, hyenas and antelopes. Often we were able to get extremely close to the animals without disturbing them - you'll be surprised how disinterested they are in you! The highlight of our trip came when we entered the park at the break of dawn and encountered a leopard still sleeping in the middle of the path - wow, what a rare find! Walking safaris (with an armed guard) will enable you to explore the park on foot and appreciate some of its finer details such as termite mounds, ant lions and others that are missed while driving.
Our guide Levi and our cook Charles took excellent care of us - the food, guiding and accommodations were all superb and enjoyable; oh, there were also a few animals to look at here and there... enjoy!
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