Chimfunshi Wildlife Trust

Chimfunshi Wildlife Trust is a protected area in Zambia.

Chimfunshi Wildlife Trust at a Glance

Location
North-Western Zambia, Zambia, Southern Africa
Coordinates
-12.344565, 27.505089
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 Chimfunshi Wildlife Trust

Nearest airport: Solwezi Airport (SLI), 125 km away.

Weather & Climate in Chimfunshi Wildlife Trust

The warmest temperatures in Chimfunshi Wildlife Trust occur in October, averaging 25.6°C (up to 32.3°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 18.6°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in June with average rainfall of 0.0mm. Average humidity: 46.1%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 20.6°C (rainfall: 289.8mm)
  • February: 21.0°C (rainfall: 218.7mm)
  • March: 20.8°C (rainfall: 198.5mm)
  • April: 20.6°C (rainfall: 56.6mm)
  • May: 19.9°C (rainfall: 1.4mm)
  • June: 18.6°C (rainfall: 0.0mm)
  • July: 18.6°C (rainfall: 0.0mm)
  • August: 21.4°C (rainfall: 0.1mm)
  • September: 24.4°C (rainfall: 0.2mm)
  • October: 25.6°C (rainfall: 13.6mm)
  • November: 23.1°C (rainfall: 113.5mm)
  • December: 21.8°C (rainfall: 201.9mm)

Best Time to Visit Chimfunshi Wildlife Trust

The best months to visit Chimfunshi Wildlife Trust are August, September, October, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 20.55°C, rainfall 289.8mm, sunshine 8.4 hrs, humidity 84.1%
  • February: Good, temperature 20.99°C, rainfall 218.7mm, sunshine 9.1 hrs, humidity 82.7%
  • March: Good, temperature 20.8°C, rainfall 198.5mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 83.1%
  • April: Good, temperature 20.61°C, rainfall 56.6mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 72.4%
  • May: Great, temperature 19.87°C, rainfall 1.4mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 53%
  • June: Great, temperature 18.65°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 46.1%
  • July: Great, temperature 18.58°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 40.4%
  • August: Great, temperature 21.41°C, rainfall 0.1mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 33.9%
  • September: Great, temperature 24.39°C, rainfall 0.2mm, sunshine 11.6 hrs, humidity 30.7%
  • October: Great, temperature 25.57°C, rainfall 13.6mm, sunshine 11.5 hrs, humidity 38.4%
  • November: Great, temperature 23.11°C, rainfall 113.5mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 66.1%
  • December: Good, temperature 21.79°C, rainfall 201.9mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 76.3%

Wildlife in Chimfunshi Wildlife Trust

Home to 6 recorded species including 2 birds of prey, 2 reptiles, 1 waterbirds, 1 iconic birds.

Recommended Packing List for Chimfunshi Wildlife Trust

Based on average temperature of 21.4°C, typical conditions, humidity 59%.

  • Light layers - comfortable for 21°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

Safari Lodges in Chimfunshi Wildlife Trust

3 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in North-Western Zambia

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Zambia

Travel advisory for Zambia

Chimfunshi Wildlife Trust FAQs

What makes Chimfunshi Wildlife Trust a unique destination compared to other wildlife areas in the region?

Chimfunshi is primarily renowned as the world's largest chimpanzee sanctuary, offering a unique opportunity to observe rescued and rehabilitated chimpanzees in a semi-wild environment. Unlike traditional safari parks focused on the 'Big Five,' the emphasis here is on primate conservation and education.

What can visitors expect during a typical visit to Chimfunshi, and how close can one get to the chimpanzees?

Visitors typically join guided tours that provide insights into the sanctuary's conservation efforts and the individual stories of the chimpanzees. While direct interaction is not permitted for safety and ethical reasons, you can observe the chimps from designated viewing platforms, learning about their behavior and rehabilitation.

What is the best time of year to visit Chimfunshi for optimal conditions, and what are the travel logistics?

The dry season, from May to October, is generally recommended for visiting Chimfunshi as road conditions are better and the weather is more pleasant. Located in the Copperbelt Province, it's accessible by a 4x4 vehicle from nearby towns like Chingola, or through pre-arranged transfers.

Are there accommodation options available directly at Chimfunshi Wildlife Trust, and what are the typical costs for a visit?

Chimfunshi offers basic but comfortable on-site accommodation, including chalets and camping facilities, allowing for an immersive experience. Entry fees and guided tour costs vary, so it's advisable to check their official website or contact them directly for current pricing.

What specific health and safety considerations should I be aware of when planning a trip to Chimfunshi?

Due to its natural setting, visitors should come prepared with insect repellent and wear long clothing, especially during dawn and dusk. It is highly recommended to consult your doctor regarding appropriate vaccinations and any necessary prophylactic medications before your travel.

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.