Countless wildlife and bird species can be viewed during a luxury safari in Lower Zambezi National Park, with much of the wildlife gathering around the Zambezi River. On the fertile banks of the river, elephant herds and other herbivores gather to reap the rewards of the rich soil and tall green trees. The result is a stunningly beautiful rich landscape, a true utopia for anybody seeking pure Africa.
The lush floodplains, grasslands and tall forests are inhabited by all the species you would expect to see during a luxury Africa safari, except for the rhino. However, there is so much to discover, big and small, that you will be overwhelmed by all the nature splendour. There is a strong, diverse population of big game in the Lower Zambezi. Elephant and buffalo sightings are common as they like to swim between the mosaic of islands on the river. Large prides of lions, hyenas, wild dogs and leopards are the main predators in the areas. Leopards especially feel at home because of the many large trees, in which this slightly elusive cat likes to hide. Impalas are everywhere and kudu, eland, waterbuck, zebra and wildebeest are common.
Whether you are already a hardcore bird-enthusiast or never thought about ‘birding’ before in your life: after your first luxury safari to the Lower Zambezi, birds will win over your heart. The come in so many shapes and sizes: 378 species have been recorded here, including many species of eagles, herons, storks and bee-eaters. And just considering the kingfishers (both beautifully coloured and black and white species) you’ll find that the pied, giant, woodland, malachite and brown-hooded kingfishers are all common here. Similarly, the river is frequented by darters, cormorants, egrets, storks and fish eagles that are often seen perching in trees, overlooking the water. The Lower Zambezi is also rich in wading birds, both resident and migrant; uncommon residents include ospreys, spoonbills and African skimmers. No worries if all these names do not ring a bell: your guide will tell you where to focus your binoculars and share plenty of bird-factoids.
