Kafue National Park
Established in 1924, Kafue covers more than 11,800 sq miles and is the oldest and one of the largest parks in Africa. Remote and extraordinarily beautiful, it is bisected by two main rivers - the Kafue and the Lunga, both of which are perfect for water based safaris. Despite the Park’s proximity to both Lusaka and the Copperbelt, it has remained underdeveloped until the most recent years. The Park is a raw and diverse slice of African wilderness with excellent game viewing, birdwatching and fishing opportunities.
Spread over such a vast area, the Kafue National Park encompasses a variety of landscapes. From the astounding Busanga Plains in the north-western section of the Park to the tree-choked wilderness and the lush dambos of the south, fed by the emerald green Lunga, Lufupa and Kafue Rivers, the park sustains huge herds of a great diversity of wildlife. Large prides of lion, solitary leopards and cheetahs are the prime predators. There is a host of smaller carnivores from the side-striped jackal, civet, genet and various mongooses. Bird-watching - especially on the rivers and the dambos is superb. Notables include the wattled crane, purple crested loerie and Pel’s fishing owl. Over 400 species of birds have been recorded throughout the park.
The Kafue and Lunga Rivers offer superb fishing opportunities, especially good bream, barbel and fresh water pike. Most lodges have fishing tackle, rods, boats and bait available. Musungwa Lodge in the south, hosts an annual fishing competition in September on Lake Itezhi Tezhi.