1 safari lodges
    Southern Zambia & Victoria Falls, Zambia
    Very Quiet
    Malaria: High

    Safari in Lochinvar National Park

    Another key park on the Kafue Flats, Lochinvar is primarily a birding paradise, boasting an incredible diversity of waterbirds and raptors. It's also home to large herds of Kafue lechwe and offers a unique landscape of floodplains and hot springs, making it a specialized destination for ornithologists.

    Best timeJune to October (dry season) for walking safaris and game viewing. February to April for Victoria Falls at full flow.
    Species
    36
    Big Five
    0/5
    Lodges
    1
    Recommended stay
    1-2 days
    Est.
    1972

    Lochinvar National Park Map

    Park location and safari lodges

    Recent sightings at Lochinvar National Park

    Sign in to report

    36 species recorded in Lochinvar National Park6 threatened

    Book Safari Experiences in Lochinvar National Park

    Game drives, guided tours, and unique experiences in Lochinvar 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

    Lochinvar is a birder's paradise, a truly wild and untamed wetland that feels miles from anywhere, offering a unique contrast to Zambia's more famous parks. We love the sheer abundance of waterbirds and the unique Kafue Lechwe, providing a distinct safari experience away from the typical big-five circuit. It's a place where we feel deeply connected to Zambia's wild heart, perfect for those seeking solitude and exceptional birding.

    Gate Times

    We find that Lochinvar National Park typically operates from 06:00 to 18:00 daily. During the dry season, these hours are strictly observed to ensure visitor safety and wildlife undisturbed. We always recommend pre-booking permits through the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW) or your safari operator, as spontaneous entry can be challenging and can lead to delays.

    Tipping

    Tipping is customary and a meaningful way to show appreciation for excellent service. For your main safari guide, we suggest USD 10-15 per person per day. Camp staff, including trackers and general lodge personnel, might receive USD 5-10 per person per day, often pooled. Rangers on walking safaris often appreciate USD 5 per person per walk. We always advise tipping in local currency or USD, discreetly, at the end of your stay or activity.

    Dress Code

    We always pack neutral colours like khaki, olive, and brown. Bright colours can disturb wildlife and attract insects. Layers are essential; mornings are cool, warming up significantly by midday, then cooling again for evening game drives. A wide-brimmed hat, UV-protective sunglasses, and sturdy closed-toe walking shoes or boots are non-negotiable for comfort and protection on walks and game drives.

    Photography

    Lochinvar offers incredible photographic opportunities, especially for its prolific birdlife and the endemic Kafue Lechwe. We recommend a long lens, at least 300mm, for capturing distant raptors and waterbirds. Drones are generally prohibited without special permits, which are difficult to obtain. Always respect wildlife, never use flash photography at night, and keep noise to a minimum. The golden hours at dawn and dusk are sensational for capturing the landscape and its inhabitants.

    Etiquette

    Silence is golden on safari. We always advise keeping voices low, especially near wildlife, to avoid disturbing them and to enhance the experience for everyone. Remain seated in your vehicle unless instructed otherwise by your guide; this is for your safety and the animals'. Never feed or approach wildlife. In camp, respect fellow guests' peace and the natural environment. We believe a quiet, respectful presence enhances everyone's experience.

    What to Bring

    Lightweight, neutral-coloured clothing
    Wide-brimmed hat
    UV-protective sunglasses
    Sturdy walking shoes or boots
    Insect repellent with DEET
    Malaria prophylaxis (as prescribed by your doctor)
    Binoculars
    Camera with a long lens and spare batteries
    Small backpack for day trips
    Reusable water bottle
    Headlamp or small flashlight
    Personal first-aid kit including any personal medications

    Temperature

    22.67°C

    73°F · Range: 19.69–26.57°C

    Rainfall

    299 mm

    Heavy rains · 24.4 rainy days

    Humidity

    81%

    Sunshine

    8.9 hrs/day

    Wind Speed

    4.25 m/s

    15.3 km/h

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

    Lochinvar National Park Reviews