Eastern Borderlands, Zambia
    Very Quiet
    Malaria: High

    Safari in Kasungu National Park

    Kasungu National Park is a protected area in Zambia.

    Best timeJune to October (dry season) for walking safaris and game viewing. February to April for Victoria Falls at full flow.
    Species
    13
    Big Five
    2/5
    Recommended stay
    1-2 days

    Kasungu National Park Map

    Park location

    The African Big 5

    2 of 5 found in Kasungu National Park

    Lion
    Elephant
    Buffalo
    Leopard
    Rhino

    Recent sightings at Kasungu National Park

    Sign in to report

    13 species recorded in Kasungu National Park6 threatened

    No lodges listed for this park yet.

    Try searching nearby lodges on Go2Africa or SafariBookings.

    Book Safari Experiences in Kasungu National Park

    Game drives, guided tours, and unique experiences in Kasungu National Park

    For the ultimate Zambia safari, we recommend visiting during the dry season from May to October. This period offers the best game viewing as wildlife congregates around water sources and the...

    January

    Now
    low

    Green Season

    Expect hot and humid conditions with frequent, heavy afternoon thunderstorms. Roads can become impassable in some areas.

    The landscape is lush and vibrant, ideal for birding with many migratory species present. Calving season begins for many antelope species, attracting predators.

    We love the dramatic skies and the photographic opportunities this time of year, especially for keen birdwatchers.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Lower Zambezi National Park

    February

    low

    Green Season

    Still very hot and wet, with heavy rainfall common. Access to some camps might be limited due to road conditions.

    Birding is at its absolute peak with resident and migratory birds in full breeding plumage. Predator sightings can be challenging due to thick vegetation.

    We recommend this month for dedicated bird photographers who don't mind the rain and want to experience the bush in its most verdant state.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Kafue National Park

    March

    low

    Green Season

    Rainfall begins to decrease, though it can still be wet. Temperatures start to cool slightly, but remain warm.

    The vegetation is still dense, but game viewing improves as animals start to congregate around water sources. Birding remains excellent.

    We find the landscape incredibly beautiful and the feeling of having the parks almost to ourselves is unparalleled.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Lower Zambezi National Park

    April

    moderate

    Shoulder Season

    Rainfall tapers off significantly, leading to drying roads and clearer skies. Temperatures are pleasant, warm during the day and cooler at night.

    The bush begins to thin out, making game viewing easier. Predators are more visible, and the start of the dry season sees animals seeking out remaining waterholes.

    We think this is a fantastic month to visit as the parks transition to the dry season, offering good game viewing without peak season crowds.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Lower Zambezi National Park
    Kafue National Park

    May

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The weather is typically beautiful with sunny days and cool nights. Roads are in excellent condition.

    The dry season is in full swing, concentrating wildlife around permanent water sources. Predator sightings become more frequent and reliable.

    We love the crisp air and the excellent game viewing that begins in earnest this month, making walking safaris particularly rewarding.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Lower Zambezi National Park
    Kafue National Park

    June

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Expect cool to cold mornings and evenings, with warm, sunny days. It is generally dry and pleasant.

    Wildlife viewing is excellent as animals are drawn to rivers and waterholes. This is a prime time for leopard sightings in South Luangwa.

    We recommend June for its comfortable temperatures and the start of prime game viewing season, especially for those who enjoy cooler mornings.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Lower Zambezi National Park
    Kafue National Park

    July

    high

    Dry Season

    Cool and dry conditions prevail, with very little rain. Days are sunny and warm, while nights can be quite cold.

    This is peak game viewing season. Animals are concentrated around water, and the vegetation is sparse, offering clear sightings.

    We consider July one of the best months for wildlife viewing, with consistently good sightings across all major parks.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Lower Zambezi National Park
    Kafue National Park

    August

    peak

    Dry Season

    Similar to July, with cool, dry weather. Days are sunny and warm, and nights are cold. Water levels in rivers are low.

    Wildlife viewing remains exceptional. The dry conditions mean animals are highly visible, and predator activity is often high.

    We love August for the sheer abundance of wildlife and the dramatic scenes at waterholes, though it is the busiest month.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Lower Zambezi National Park
    Kafue National Park

    September

    high

    Dry Season

    Still very dry and hot, with temperatures starting to climb. Nights remain cool.

    The dry season continues to concentrate wildlife. This is a great month for spotting predators and seeing large herds.

    We find September offers a fantastic combination of excellent game viewing and slightly fewer crowds than August, with the heat building.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Lower Zambezi National Park
    Kafue National Park

    October

    moderate

    Shoulder Season

    This is the hottest month, with very dry conditions. The first rains may start towards the end of the month, bringing relief.

    Wildlife is still concentrated around permanent water, but the heat can make animals seek shade during the day. Birding starts to pick up.

    We recommend October for the dedicated safari enthusiast who can handle the heat, as game viewing remains strong and crowds thin.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Lower Zambezi National Park
    Kafue National Park

    November

    low

    Short Rains

    Temperatures begin to cool as the first rains arrive, often in the form of afternoon thunderstorms. The landscape starts to turn green.

    The rains bring fresh grass, dispersing animals. Birding improves significantly with the arrival of migratory species.

    We enjoy the dramatic weather and the fresh green shoots that signal the end of the dry season and the start of new life.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Lower Zambezi National Park

    December

    moderate

    Short Rains

    Hot and humid with regular afternoon showers. Roads can become muddy, but generally remain accessible.

    Calving season begins for many antelope species, leading to increased predator activity. Birding is excellent.

    We love the vibrant green scenery and the excitement of new life in the bush, making it a great time for photographers and birders.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Lower Zambezi National Park
    Kafue National Park

    January

    Now
    low

    Green Season

    Expect hot and humid conditions with frequent, heavy afternoon thunderstorms. Roads can become impassable in some areas.

    The landscape is lush and vibrant, ideal for birding with many migratory species present. Calving season begins for many antelope species, attracting predators.

    We love the dramatic skies and the photographic opportunities this time of year, especially for keen birdwatchers.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Lower Zambezi National Park

    February

    low

    Green Season

    Still very hot and wet, with heavy rainfall common. Access to some camps might be limited due to road conditions.

    Birding is at its absolute peak with resident and migratory birds in full breeding plumage. Predator sightings can be challenging due to thick vegetation.

    We recommend this month for dedicated bird photographers who don't mind the rain and want to experience the bush in its most verdant state.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Kafue National Park

    March

    low

    Green Season

    Rainfall begins to decrease, though it can still be wet. Temperatures start to cool slightly, but remain warm.

    The vegetation is still dense, but game viewing improves as animals start to congregate around water sources. Birding remains excellent.

    We find the landscape incredibly beautiful and the feeling of having the parks almost to ourselves is unparalleled.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Lower Zambezi National Park

    April

    moderate

    Shoulder Season

    Rainfall tapers off significantly, leading to drying roads and clearer skies. Temperatures are pleasant, warm during the day and cooler at night.

    The bush begins to thin out, making game viewing easier. Predators are more visible, and the start of the dry season sees animals seeking out remaining waterholes.

    We think this is a fantastic month to visit as the parks transition to the dry season, offering good game viewing without peak season crowds.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Lower Zambezi National Park
    Kafue National Park

    May

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The weather is typically beautiful with sunny days and cool nights. Roads are in excellent condition.

    The dry season is in full swing, concentrating wildlife around permanent water sources. Predator sightings become more frequent and reliable.

    We love the crisp air and the excellent game viewing that begins in earnest this month, making walking safaris particularly rewarding.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Lower Zambezi National Park
    Kafue National Park

    June

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Expect cool to cold mornings and evenings, with warm, sunny days. It is generally dry and pleasant.

    Wildlife viewing is excellent as animals are drawn to rivers and waterholes. This is a prime time for leopard sightings in South Luangwa.

    We recommend June for its comfortable temperatures and the start of prime game viewing season, especially for those who enjoy cooler mornings.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Lower Zambezi National Park
    Kafue National Park

    July

    high

    Dry Season

    Cool and dry conditions prevail, with very little rain. Days are sunny and warm, while nights can be quite cold.

    This is peak game viewing season. Animals are concentrated around water, and the vegetation is sparse, offering clear sightings.

    We consider July one of the best months for wildlife viewing, with consistently good sightings across all major parks.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Lower Zambezi National Park
    Kafue National Park

    August

    peak

    Dry Season

    Similar to July, with cool, dry weather. Days are sunny and warm, and nights are cold. Water levels in rivers are low.

    Wildlife viewing remains exceptional. The dry conditions mean animals are highly visible, and predator activity is often high.

    We love August for the sheer abundance of wildlife and the dramatic scenes at waterholes, though it is the busiest month.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Lower Zambezi National Park
    Kafue National Park

    September

    high

    Dry Season

    Still very dry and hot, with temperatures starting to climb. Nights remain cool.

    The dry season continues to concentrate wildlife. This is a great month for spotting predators and seeing large herds.

    We find September offers a fantastic combination of excellent game viewing and slightly fewer crowds than August, with the heat building.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Lower Zambezi National Park
    Kafue National Park

    October

    moderate

    Shoulder Season

    This is the hottest month, with very dry conditions. The first rains may start towards the end of the month, bringing relief.

    Wildlife is still concentrated around permanent water, but the heat can make animals seek shade during the day. Birding starts to pick up.

    We recommend October for the dedicated safari enthusiast who can handle the heat, as game viewing remains strong and crowds thin.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Lower Zambezi National Park
    Kafue National Park

    November

    low

    Short Rains

    Temperatures begin to cool as the first rains arrive, often in the form of afternoon thunderstorms. The landscape starts to turn green.

    The rains bring fresh grass, dispersing animals. Birding improves significantly with the arrival of migratory species.

    We enjoy the dramatic weather and the fresh green shoots that signal the end of the dry season and the start of new life.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Lower Zambezi National Park

    December

    moderate

    Short Rains

    Hot and humid with regular afternoon showers. Roads can become muddy, but generally remain accessible.

    Calving season begins for many antelope species, leading to increased predator activity. Birding is excellent.

    We love the vibrant green scenery and the excitement of new life in the bush, making it a great time for photographers and birders.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Lower Zambezi National Park
    Kafue National Park

    January

    Now
    low

    Green Season

    Expect hot and humid conditions with frequent, heavy afternoon thunderstorms. Roads can become impassable in some areas.

    The landscape is lush and vibrant, ideal for birding with many migratory species present. Calving season begins for many antelope species, attracting predators.

    We love the dramatic skies and the photographic opportunities this time of year, especially for keen birdwatchers.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Lower Zambezi National Park

    February

    low

    Green Season

    Still very hot and wet, with heavy rainfall common. Access to some camps might be limited due to road conditions.

    Birding is at its absolute peak with resident and migratory birds in full breeding plumage. Predator sightings can be challenging due to thick vegetation.

    We recommend this month for dedicated bird photographers who don't mind the rain and want to experience the bush in its most verdant state.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Kafue National Park

    March

    low

    Green Season

    Rainfall begins to decrease, though it can still be wet. Temperatures start to cool slightly, but remain warm.

    The vegetation is still dense, but game viewing improves as animals start to congregate around water sources. Birding remains excellent.

    We find the landscape incredibly beautiful and the feeling of having the parks almost to ourselves is unparalleled.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Lower Zambezi National Park

    April

    moderate

    Shoulder Season

    Rainfall tapers off significantly, leading to drying roads and clearer skies. Temperatures are pleasant, warm during the day and cooler at night.

    The bush begins to thin out, making game viewing easier. Predators are more visible, and the start of the dry season sees animals seeking out remaining waterholes.

    We think this is a fantastic month to visit as the parks transition to the dry season, offering good game viewing without peak season crowds.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Lower Zambezi National Park
    Kafue National Park

    May

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The weather is typically beautiful with sunny days and cool nights. Roads are in excellent condition.

    The dry season is in full swing, concentrating wildlife around permanent water sources. Predator sightings become more frequent and reliable.

    We love the crisp air and the excellent game viewing that begins in earnest this month, making walking safaris particularly rewarding.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Lower Zambezi National Park
    Kafue National Park

    June

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Expect cool to cold mornings and evenings, with warm, sunny days. It is generally dry and pleasant.

    Wildlife viewing is excellent as animals are drawn to rivers and waterholes. This is a prime time for leopard sightings in South Luangwa.

    We recommend June for its comfortable temperatures and the start of prime game viewing season, especially for those who enjoy cooler mornings.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Lower Zambezi National Park
    Kafue National Park

    July

    high

    Dry Season

    Cool and dry conditions prevail, with very little rain. Days are sunny and warm, while nights can be quite cold.

    This is peak game viewing season. Animals are concentrated around water, and the vegetation is sparse, offering clear sightings.

    We consider July one of the best months for wildlife viewing, with consistently good sightings across all major parks.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Lower Zambezi National Park
    Kafue National Park

    August

    peak

    Dry Season

    Similar to July, with cool, dry weather. Days are sunny and warm, and nights are cold. Water levels in rivers are low.

    Wildlife viewing remains exceptional. The dry conditions mean animals are highly visible, and predator activity is often high.

    We love August for the sheer abundance of wildlife and the dramatic scenes at waterholes, though it is the busiest month.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Lower Zambezi National Park
    Kafue National Park

    September

    high

    Dry Season

    Still very dry and hot, with temperatures starting to climb. Nights remain cool.

    The dry season continues to concentrate wildlife. This is a great month for spotting predators and seeing large herds.

    We find September offers a fantastic combination of excellent game viewing and slightly fewer crowds than August, with the heat building.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Lower Zambezi National Park
    Kafue National Park

    October

    moderate

    Shoulder Season

    This is the hottest month, with very dry conditions. The first rains may start towards the end of the month, bringing relief.

    Wildlife is still concentrated around permanent water, but the heat can make animals seek shade during the day. Birding starts to pick up.

    We recommend October for the dedicated safari enthusiast who can handle the heat, as game viewing remains strong and crowds thin.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Lower Zambezi National Park
    Kafue National Park

    November

    low

    Short Rains

    Temperatures begin to cool as the first rains arrive, often in the form of afternoon thunderstorms. The landscape starts to turn green.

    The rains bring fresh grass, dispersing animals. Birding improves significantly with the arrival of migratory species.

    We enjoy the dramatic weather and the fresh green shoots that signal the end of the dry season and the start of new life.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Lower Zambezi National Park

    December

    moderate

    Short Rains

    Hot and humid with regular afternoon showers. Roads can become muddy, but generally remain accessible.

    Calving season begins for many antelope species, leading to increased predator activity. Birding is excellent.

    We love the vibrant green scenery and the excitement of new life in the bush, making it a great time for photographers and birders.

    South Luangwa National Park
    Lower Zambezi National Park
    Kafue National Park
    Planning & reference

    Kasungu offers a wilder, more remote safari experience that we truly cherish. The park's vast miombo woodlands are teeming with life, and the feeling of having so much space to yourself is unparalleled. We love the opportunities for walking safaris here, where you can truly connect with the bush.

    Gate Times

    Kasungu National Park gates are typically open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. While specific seasonal variations are uncommon for gate times, it is always wise to confirm with park authorities or your lodge upon arrival. Entry permits are required for all visitors and vehicles, and these are usually purchased at the main park gate. We recommend booking accommodation in advance, especially during the peak dry season.

    Tipping

    Tipping is customary and appreciated in Zambia. For guides, we recommend around $10-20 USD per person per day, depending on the quality of service and length of your safari. For camp staff (cooks, housekeepers), a general tip of $5-10 USD per person per day is appropriate, pooled and distributed by management. Rangers on walking safaris might receive a smaller tip, perhaps $5-10 USD per day. Always tip in cash and discreetly.

    Dress Code

    We advise neutral, earthy tones for game drives and walking safaris – think khaki, olive green, and beige. Avoid bright colours and black or dark blue, which can attract tsetse flies. Layers are essential; mornings and evenings can be cool, while midday can be hot. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for any excursions. In camp, casual and comfortable clothing is perfectly acceptable.

    Photography

    Photography is generally permitted throughout the park, but always ask permission before photographing people. Be mindful of wildlife; maintain a respectful distance and avoid using flash photography directly at animals, as it can startle them. Drone usage is strictly regulated and often requires special permits and prior approval from the Department of Civil Aviation and Zambia Wildlife Authority. We recommend a good zoom lens for capturing wildlife details and a wide angle for landscapes. The light is often magical in the early morning and late afternoon.

    Etiquette

    Maintain a low noise level on game drives and walks to avoid disturbing wildlife and other visitors. Always remain in your vehicle or with your guide unless instructed otherwise. Never feed wild animals. When observing wildlife, allow animals to behave naturally and do not crowd them. In camp, respect quiet hours and the privacy of other guests. We believe in leaving no trace and respecting the natural environment.

    What to Bring

    High-strength insect repellent (DEET recommended)
    Malaria prophylaxis medication
    Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
    Wide-brimmed hat
    Binoculars
    Camera with zoom lens
    Comfortable walking shoes
    Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and trousers
    Warm fleece or jacket for evenings
    Reusable water bottle
    Small backpack for day trips
    Personal first-aid kit

    Temperature

    21.7°C

    71°F · Range: 18.49–26.3°C

    Rainfall

    271.6 mm

    Heavy rains · 26.2 rainy days

    Humidity

    83.9%

    Sunshine

    7.7 hrs/day

    Wind Speed

    3.58 m/s

    12.9 km/h

    Based on 5 years of weather data · Data source: Open-Meteo Archive API

    Kasungu National Park Reviews