The Kafue’s northern section, specifically the Busanga Plains area, is remote, wild and extremely diverse. And under water for a good part of the year, thanks to the seasonal flooding of the Kafue river.

Covering 750 square kilometres of pristine wilderness, the Busanga Plains is home to 158 mammal species, including puku, red lechwe, roan, buffalo, elephant and all of the major predators – lion, leopard, cheetah and wild dog. More than 491 species of birds also make it a top destination for birdwatchers. Top of the tick-lists are the pink-throated longclaw and both wattled and crowned cranes. And, of course, where there’s water, there’s lots of hippos!

The Kafue National Park’s flat expanses make it perfect for walking and examining the smaller, and sometimes infinitely more interesting flora and fauna of the African bush. Try your hand at tracking, spotting and following paw prints and other spoor.

The wide open spaces are dotted with islands of trees, often dominated by huge sycomore figs, which are a perfect place to stop and sit awhile in the shade, admiring the amazing scenery and the equally amazing animals which call it home.

Other areas of interest in Zambia:
South Luangwa National Park | Lower Zambezi National Park | Victoria Falls

Other regions in close proximity to Zambia:
Botswana | Victoria Falls | Namibia