A Family Conservation Safari in Zambia

Spanning almost 25,000 square kilometres and founded in 1950, Kafue National Park is Zambia’s oldest and largest park. Despite this it has often been overlooked in favour of the South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi and receives a fraction of the number of visitors.

The park is finally gaining a rightful reputation for its strong game and stunning scenery yet it remains a well-kept secret on the Zambia safari circuit and is ideal for a more exclusive family safari.

The park has a huge diversity of terrain, with the southern areas of the park featuring miles of miombo woodland and small granite outcrops, while the far northwest of the park is notable for sprawling Busanga Plains. The seasonally flooded plains are the wildlife haven of the Kafue and their fluvial landscape is often likened to a ‘mini Okavango Delta.’

The vast diversity of wildlife, rustic camps, and absence of crowds make Kafue National Park a must for any Zambia safari holiday, particularly appealing to safari purists and adventurous families seeking a more secluded experience.

The Lower Zambezi National Park, nestled along the northwestern bank of the Zambezi River, is a hidden gem of Zambia safari holidays.

Once the private retreat of Zambia’s president, this 4,092-square-kilometre park became public in 1983 and remains one of Africa’s most unspoiled wilderness areas. With some sections designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the park is famed for its dense wildlife populations, where elephants, lions, and leopards roam in strong numbers.

The Zambezi River has sculpted this landscape over centuries, enriching the area with mineral-rich volcanic soils which feed lush forests and attract an abundance of game. Families on a Zambia family safari can experience thrilling boat safaris, guided walking tours, or canoeing trips that bring you up close to hippos, Nile crocodiles, and some of the park’s nearly 400 species of bird.

South Luangwa National Park was first founded as a protected game reserve in 1904 yet has remained untouched by the mass tourism of more well known parks.

Often referred to as Africa’s last great wilderness, the South Luangwa National Park lies in a fertile valley that supports an abundance of big game and is a must-see destination on a Zambia family safari looking to escape the crowds.

South Luangwa National Park is the pride of Zambian safari. Home to four of the Big Five, the park is principally known for its predator populations, including lion, leopard and the critically endangered African wild dog.

South Luangwa National Park was first founded as a protected game reserve in 1904 yet has remained untouched by the mass tourism of more well known parks.

Often referred to as Africa’s last great wilderness, the South Luangwa National Park lies in a fertile valley that supports an abundance of big game and is a must-see destination on a Zambia family safari looking to escape the crowds.

South Luangwa National Park is the pride of Zambian safari. Home to four of the Big Five, the park is principally known for its predator populations, including lion, leopard and the critically endangered African wild dog.

Musekese Camp is a hidden gem set in the exclusive north-east region of Kafue National Park, surrounded by pristine wilderness and abundant wildlife.

Owned and run by professional guides and conservationists Phil Jeffery and Tyrone McKeith, Musekese Camp offers an authentic safari experience deeply connected to its environment. Jeffery and McKeith are also founders of the nearby Musekese Conservation Base—a centre dedicated to preserving the unique Kafue ecosystem and supporting sustainable livelihoods for local communities. Families interested in Zambian conservation can tour the centre and explore its initiatives firsthand.

With just five rustic safari tents, Musekese Camp focuses on expert guiding and top-class safari experiences. Walking safaris hosted by Phil or Tyrone are the cornerstone of the Musekese experience, while families can also enjoy boating safaris, fishing on the Kafue River, day and night game drives, and a visit to a nearby wildlife hide.

Chiawa Camp, the pioneering first safari lodge to be established in the Lower Zambezi, offers families a truly unforgettable experience.

Set along the banks of the Zambezi River, the solar-powered camp is deeply rooted in Zambia’s wilderness history, founded by the Cumings family in 1989.

Chiawa Camp features 8 luxurious tents with stunning views of the river, private plunge pools and outdoor waterfall showers. The Safari Suite, set slightly apart from the rest of the camp, features a king bedroom and separate lounge which can be converted into a second bedroom, making it perfect for families looking for a more exclusive experience. 

The camp’s location in the prime wildlife zone of the Lower Zambezi means a wide range of game meander their way into camp. Spot elephants, hippos and even prides of lions from the safety of the wildlife hide. Venturing beyond camp, guests can enjoy Big Five game drives as well as boat safaris for a peaceful yet exhilarating way to explore the river.

Mfuwe Lodge is a great gateway to the Luangwa National Park, conveniently located in close proximity to the main gate and boasting impressive game viewing in the area.

The 18 air-conditioned chalets are tactfully spaced along the lagoons’ edge to ensure an exclusive feel and allow guests to spot wallowing hippos and meandering elephants from their private verandahs. The three spacious family suites are built over two stories with a lounge and childrens’ bedroom on the ground floor and the master upstairs with mesmerising views overlooking the sprawling wilderness beyond.

Aside from day and night game drives through the game-rich Luangwa National Park, guests needn’t venture too far from camp for game viewing. During October and November elephants regularly walk through the lobby in search of some fresh mango, while hippos and prides of lions regularly visit the lagoons during the dry season. Lap up these awe-inspiring sights from the comfort of the large infinity pool or shaded deck in the main lodge.

Tucked beneath the shade of trees by the Manzi River, Kuyenda Bushcamp offers families an authentic Zambian safari experience.

With its traditional thatched rondavels, the camp captures the essence of old Africa while providing a comfortable retreat for adventure-seeking families. The six elevated chalets feature spacious beds with mosquito nets, ‘open to the stars’ bathrooms and lead onto a wooden deck where you can look out onto the surrounding grassy plains. The camp is almost completely solar-powered and atmospherically lit by traditional paraffin lamps.

Kuyenda is a prime location for wildlife viewing, with game often wandering through the camp. Families can take advantage of thrilling walking safaris, allowing guests to learn about many of the South Luangwa’s plants and insects, with opportunities to spot larger game too. Morning and night game drives are also available, with highlights including four of the Big Five and the endemic Thornicroft’s giraffe and Crawshay’s zebra.

Walking safaris with Phil Jeffery and Tyrone McKeith at Musekese Camp offer an unparalleled look at Zambia’s Kafue National Park.

As founders of the Musekese Conservation Base, Jeffery and McKeith are deeply committed to preserving the Kafue ecosystem. During these safaris, guests gain unique insights into local wildlife conservation efforts, including sustainable initiatives that support nearby communities. Families interested in conservation can also tour the Musekese Conservation Base for an unforgettable, educational experience.

Boat safaris on the Zambezi River offer a serene yet captivating way to explore this iconic waterway.

The Zambezi River is the epicentre of Zambian boat and canoeing safaris. The park’s wildlife is almost totally concentrated in the river valley, thanks to the Northern escarpment acting as a natural barrier to animals and there being few other permanent water sources in the park.

The river’s gentle flow is ideal for guided canoeing tours, offering sightings of huge pods of hippo, Nile crocodiles and even elephant and buffalo swimming between the Zambezi’s rocky islands.

At Mfuwe Lodge, cultural immersion meets conservation in South Luangwa.

During your stay, visit the Conservation South Luangwa Base to support local wildlife preservation efforts through a direct donation.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture with guided village visits, where you’ll experience authentic Zambian traditions. Browse unique, recycled wildlife jewelry at Mulberry Mongoose and explore intricate, hand-painted textiles at Tribal Textiles—both initiatives that support local artisans and celebrate Zambia’s rich artistic heritage.

Kuyenda Bushcamp offers an exceptional safari experience in South Luangwa, with morning and night game drives showcasing four of the Big Five, as well as unique species like the Thornicroft’s giraffe and Crawshay’s zebra.

For birding enthusiasts, South Luangwa is a paradise, home to over 400 bird species. Kids will delight in spotting vivid southern carmine bee-eaters nesting along the riverbanks and watching yellow-billed storks gather at seasonal waterholes, making every outing an exciting learning experience.