Simalaha Community Conservancy

Simalaha Community Conservancy is a protected area in Zambia.

Simalaha Community Conservancy at a Glance

Location
Western Zambia, Zambia, Southern Africa
Coordinates
-17.380860, 24.968624
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 Simalaha Community Conservancy

Nearest airport: Impalila Island Lodge, 50 km away.

Nearest international airport: Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI), 102 km away.

Big Five in Simalaha Community Conservancy

2 of the Big Five can be found here: African Buffalo, White Rhinoceros.

Weather & Climate in Simalaha Community Conservancy

The warmest temperatures in Simalaha Community Conservancy occur in October, averaging 29.1°C (up to 36.4°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 18.8°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in August with average rainfall of 0.0mm. Average humidity: 28.9%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 23.4°C (rainfall: 243.3mm)
  • February: 24.4°C (rainfall: 116.5mm)
  • March: 24.4°C (rainfall: 64.9mm)
  • April: 23.6°C (rainfall: 12.8mm)
  • May: 21.3°C (rainfall: 0.1mm)
  • June: 19.0°C (rainfall: 0.1mm)
  • July: 18.8°C (rainfall: 0.1mm)
  • August: 22.4°C (rainfall: 0.0mm)
  • September: 26.6°C (rainfall: 0.0mm)
  • October: 29.1°C (rainfall: 2.4mm)
  • November: 27.8°C (rainfall: 56.9mm)
  • December: 25.8°C (rainfall: 125.3mm)

Best Time to Visit Simalaha Community Conservancy

The best months to visit Simalaha Community Conservancy are May, June, July, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 23.35°C, rainfall 243.3mm, sunshine 9.3 hrs, humidity 77.8%
  • February: Great, temperature 24.39°C, rainfall 116.5mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 70.8%
  • March: Great, temperature 24.35°C, rainfall 64.9mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 66.8%
  • April: Great, temperature 23.55°C, rainfall 12.8mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 55.7%
  • May: Great, temperature 21.33°C, rainfall 0.1mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 41.8%
  • June: Great, temperature 18.97°C, rainfall 0.1mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 39.9%
  • July: Great, temperature 18.79°C, rainfall 0.1mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 34.8%
  • August: Great, temperature 22.35°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 28.9%
  • September: Great, temperature 26.63°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 25%
  • October: Great, temperature 29.07°C, rainfall 2.4mm, sunshine 11.7 hrs, humidity 27.2%
  • November: Great, temperature 27.81°C, rainfall 56.9mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 47.6%
  • December: Great, temperature 25.81°C, rainfall 125.3mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 62.9%

Wildlife in Simalaha Community Conservancy

Home to 76 recorded species including 30 waterbirds, 21 iconic birds, 12 birds of prey, 3 big five, 3 tropical birds, 3 reptiles.

Recommended Packing List for Simalaha Community Conservancy

Based on average temperature of 23.9°C, typical conditions, humidity 48%.

  • Light layers - comfortable for 24°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 Simalaha Community Conservancy

2 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in Western Zambia

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Zambia

Travel advisory for Zambia

Simalaha Community Conservancy FAQs

What makes Simalaha Community Conservancy a unique safari destination compared to more well-known parks in Zambia?

Simalaha stands out for its incredibly low visitor numbers, offering an exceptionally private and intimate safari experience away from the crowds. As a community-led initiative, it also provides a unique opportunity to engage with local conservation efforts and directly benefit the surrounding communities.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in Simalaha, and is it different from other Zambian parks?

Simalaha is renowned for its successful reintroduction of plains game, including thousands of wildebeest, zebra, and red lechwe, creating impressive herds across the floodplains. While predator populations are still establishing, the focus here is on vast numbers of grazers and a unique birdlife experience, particularly along the Zambezi.

When is the best time to visit Simalaha Community Conservancy for optimal wildlife viewing and overall experience?

The dry season, from May to October, is generally best for wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources and the vegetation is sparser. However, the green season (November-April) offers lush landscapes, migratory birds, and the chance to witness newborn animals, providing a different, equally rewarding experience.

How does visiting Simalaha Community Conservancy contribute to local communities and conservation efforts?

As a community conservancy, a significant portion of tourism revenue directly supports local development projects, education, and healthcare initiatives for the surrounding villages. Your visit directly funds the ongoing rewilding efforts and anti-poaching patrols, ensuring the long-term sustainability of this vital ecosystem.

What specific health precautions should I take when planning a trip to Simalaha Community Conservancy?

Given the high malaria risk in the region, it is crucial to consult your doctor about prescription antimalarial medication well before your trip. Additionally, pack long-sleeved clothing and insect repellent for dusk and dawn, and ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date.

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.