National Parks in Zambia
The Central African country of Zambia lies at the heart of Africa and has been independent for almost 50 years. The country’s name derives from the Zambezi River, which flows through western Zambia, and there are several other rivers and inland bodies of water.
Due to the fact that Zambia itself has no access to the ocean, these water sources are vital not only for people, but also for flora and fauna. To protect nature, there are 19 national parks in Zambia, many of which are well maintained.
The Kafue National Park
Named after the Kafue River, the Kafue National Park is one of the largest protected areas in the world. The park covers almost 22,500 km² and is known for its unique landscape. In the south, the land changes from a dry semi-desert to a bush landscape, which merges into extensive floodplains and forests in the far north. Two tributaries of the Kafue, the Lufupa and the Lunga, form the lifeline of the park. In the floodplains, impalas and pukus roam, while in the savannah large zebras and buffalo are on the move. However, the largest share of wildlife is made up of different antelope species; the Kafue National Park is considered the area with the most antelopes in the entire African region.
The Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park
Since 1989, the Victoria Falls have been part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The waterfalls of the Zambezi lie within the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, which is very popular with tourists. Visitors appreciate the park not only for the Victoria Falls; it is also very well developed and can be entered and explored without a ranger.
With a size of 66 km², the national park is quite small, but it is home to a wide variety of different animal species in a very small space. In the bush landscape along the waterfall, which is dotted with small trees, rhinoceroses, elephants and giraffes live. Occasionally, wild cats such as lions can be spotted in the protected area, hunting the local zebra herds. With a rental car, the park can be explored in just a few hours.
The South Luangwa National Park
The most popular national park in Zambia is the South Luangwa National Park in the east of the country. In 1972, the area on the banks of the Luangwa was declared a national park; with an area of over 9,000 km², it is one of the largest parks in the Central African state.
The South Luangwa National Park is very well developed for visitors. There is an airport and accommodation within the park. Due to its vegetation, the protected area is ideal for a photo safari. Along the Muchinga Mountains, the light Miombo forest shapes the landscape, while away from the river there is a steppe landscape. Dense floodplains are typical along the banks of the Luangwa.
Endangered animal species live here under strict protection in their natural environment. During a safari, visitors can catch a glimpse of Thornicroft's giraffes, gnus and zebras. The steppe is crisscrossed by huge elephant and buffalo herds, while crocodiles and hippopotamuses find ideal living conditions not far from the river.
