Kasungu National Park

Kasungu National Park is a protected area in Zambia.

Kasungu National Park at a Glance

Location
Eastern Borderlands, Zambia, Southern Africa
Coordinates
-12.955191, 33.141956
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
High
Best Time to Visit
June to October (dry season) for walking safaris and game viewing. February to April for Victoria Falls at full flow.

Getting to Kasungu National Park

Nearest airport: Aeroporto, 182 km away.

Nearest international airport: Club Makokola International (CMK), 262 km away.

Big Five in Kasungu National Park

1 of the Big Five can be found here: African Buffalo.

Weather & Climate in Kasungu National Park

The warmest temperatures in Kasungu National Park occur in November, averaging 25.7°C (up to 32.5°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 17.8°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in July with average rainfall of 0.3mm. Average humidity: 55.2%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 21.7°C (rainfall: 271.6mm)
  • February: 22.0°C (rainfall: 202.0mm)
  • March: 21.5°C (rainfall: 141.5mm)
  • April: 21.0°C (rainfall: 38.4mm)
  • May: 19.5°C (rainfall: 2.3mm)
  • June: 18.1°C (rainfall: 1.1mm)
  • July: 17.8°C (rainfall: 0.3mm)
  • August: 20.1°C (rainfall: 1.0mm)
  • September: 22.6°C (rainfall: 0.6mm)
  • October: 25.1°C (rainfall: 9.4mm)
  • November: 25.7°C (rainfall: 28.1mm)
  • December: 24.1°C (rainfall: 123.8mm)

Best Time to Visit Kasungu National Park

The best months to visit Kasungu National Park are September, October, November, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 21.7°C, rainfall 271.6mm, sunshine 7.7 hrs, humidity 83.9%
  • February: Good, temperature 21.96°C, rainfall 202mm, sunshine 8.4 hrs, humidity 83.1%
  • March: Good, temperature 21.47°C, rainfall 141.5mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 83.1%
  • April: Great, temperature 20.99°C, rainfall 38.4mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 75.4%
  • May: Great, temperature 19.49°C, rainfall 2.3mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 62.8%
  • June: Great, temperature 18.07°C, rainfall 1.1mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 60.3%
  • July: Great, temperature 17.8°C, rainfall 0.3mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 55.2%
  • August: Great, temperature 20.13°C, rainfall 1mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 50.1%
  • September: Great, temperature 22.59°C, rainfall 0.6mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 45.8%
  • October: Great, temperature 25.07°C, rainfall 9.4mm, sunshine 11.6 hrs, humidity 45.7%
  • November: Great, temperature 25.71°C, rainfall 28.1mm, sunshine 11.9 hrs, humidity 51.6%
  • December: Great, temperature 24.06°C, rainfall 123.8mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 67.3%

Wildlife in Kasungu National Park

Home to 13 recorded species including 5 birds of prey, 2 waterbirds, 2 big five, 2 big herbivores, 1 iconic birds, 1 antelope & gazelle.

Recommended Packing List for Kasungu National Park

Based on average temperature of 21.6°C, typical conditions, humidity 64%.

  • Light layers - comfortable for 22°C weather
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Similar Parks in Eastern Borderlands

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Zambia

Travel advisory for Zambia

Kasungu National Park FAQs

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in Kasungu National Park, and how does the low crowding level impact the viewing experience?

Kasungu National Park is home to elephants, various antelope species like roan and sable, and a rich diversity of birdlife. Due to its extremely low crowding (1/5), you can enjoy incredibly intimate and undisturbed wildlife encounters, often having sightings all to yourself without other vehicles present.

What is the best time of year to visit Kasungu National Park for optimal wildlife viewing and accessibility?

The dry season, typically from May to October, offers the best conditions for a safari in Kasungu. During these months, vegetation is sparse and animals congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot, and park roads are more accessible.

What are the typical costs associated with a safari in Kasungu National Park, and is it considered a more budget-friendly option?

Kasungu National Park generally offers a more affordable safari experience compared to Zambia's more renowned parks, primarily due to lower demand and fewer high-end lodges. Expect to pay park entry fees and consider costs for accommodation, which ranges from basic campsites to modest lodges, and guided activities.

Given the high malaria risk in Kasungu National Park, what essential health and safety precautions should visitors take during their safari?

While malaria prophylaxis is strongly recommended, also ensure you use insect repellent, wear long clothing at dusk, and sleep under mosquito nets. For general safety, always follow your guide's instructions, maintain a safe distance from wildlife, and avoid walking outside designated areas, especially after dark.

What kind of unique safari experience can visitors expect at Kasungu National Park, distinguishing it from more popular Zambian destinations?

Kasungu offers an authentic, off-the-beaten-path safari experience characterized by profound tranquility and a sense of true wilderness. You can anticipate uncrowded game drives, allowing for intimate wildlife observations and a deep connection with nature, far from the typical tourist routes.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • Lonely Planet Botswana & Namibia by Lonely Planet - Covers the Okavango Delta, Chobe, Etosha, Sossusvlei, and the Skeleton Coast. Essential for self-drive safaris through two of southern Africa's wildest destinations.
  • Lonely Planet Zambia & Mozambique by Lonely Planet - From Victoria Falls and South Luangwa to Mozambique's pristine coastline. Practical advice for two of Africa's most rewarding off-the-beaten-path destinations.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • Lonely Planet Southern Africa by Lonely Planet - Covers South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. Practical planning information with detailed park and city guides.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Bradt Guide: Zambia by Chris McIntyre - The definitive Zambia guide - South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi, Kafue, and Victoria Falls in unmatched detail. Essential for self-drive and walking safari planning.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Roberts Bird Guide by Hugh Chittenden, Greg Davies & Ingrid Weiersbye - Comprehensive southern African bird guide covering 960+ species with detailed range maps and illustrations. The birder's bible for safaris in South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Sasol Birds of Southern Africa by Ian Sinclair, Phil Hockey & Warwick Tarboton - The southern Africa birding bible. Covers over 950 species with detailed illustrations, distribution maps, and habitat notes. The most trusted bird field guide for South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Mozambique.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.