3. South Luangwa National Park
If you want to go to where the action is, head straight to South Luangwa National Park. The park boasts one of the highest concentrations of wildlife on the continent, including large amounts of elephant, giraffe, and Cape Buffalo. South Luangwa National Park slopes down from the mountain peaks and into the valley of the Luangwa River—home to vast populations of crocodiles and hippos. To have the best chance to spot lots of wildlife, head to the park during the dry season (July to October), when the animals congregate on the banks of the Luangwa River. Just be prepared to see lions and leopards trying to catch some dinner!
4. Kafue National Park
Kafue National Park is the jewel in the crown of Zambia’s national parks. Founded in 1924, Kafue is the oldest and largest protected game area in the country and the second-largest in Africa. The park spans 22,400 square kilometres in central Zambia. In the far north of Kafue sits the Busanga Plains and wetlands, home to vast herds of antelopes, wildebeests, zebras, and the elusive cheetah. The Kafue River hosts hippos and some of the largest crocodiles in southern Africa. Here you can also spot wild African dogs in the high grass as you watch the large elephant population roam the savannah.
