National Park in Zambia
A floodplain of lions and lechwe
The Busanga Plains lie in the far north of Kafue National Park, a vast seasonal floodplain of about 750 square kilometres that is among the most beautiful and wildlife-rich places in Zambia. During the rains the plains flood, and as the water recedes from June, the grass turns gold and the animals return.
Busanga is known for its lions, including prides that climb trees, for cheetah hunting in the open, and for large herds of red lechwe, puku, wildebeest, buffalo and zebra. Roan, sable, hyena, serval and wild dog also live here, and the birdlife is excellent. Hot-air balloon flights over the plains at dawn are a highlight.
The camps are small and seasonal, and the plains are open from about June to October.
The plains hold large herds of red lechwe, puku, wildebeest, buffalo and zebra, with roan, sable, oribi and sitatunga on the edges. Lion, leopard, cheetah, spotted hyena, serval and wild dog hunt here, and the plains are one of the best places in Africa to see cheetah.
Chance of seeing
Our estimate for a stay of two or three nights with a good guide. Wildlife is wild, so nothing is promised.
A flat, open sea of grass, scattered with palm islands and fig trees, framed by a wide sky. At sunrise, mist hangs over the plains.
Activities here
Busanga is hot in the dry season and wet and flooded in summer. The rains fall from November to April, and the plains are usually under water until May.
| Month | Day °C | Night °C | Rain mm |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 28 | 17 | 230 |
| Feb | 28 | 17 | 210 |
| Mar | 28 | 17 | 170 |
| Apr | 28 | 15 | 40 |
| May | 27 | 11 | 5 |
| Jun | 25 | 8 | 0 |
| Jul | 25 | 8 | 0 |
| Aug | 28 | 10 | 0 |
| Sep | 31 | 13 | 0 |
| Oct | 32 | 16 | 25 |
| Nov | 30 | 17 | 120 |
| Dec | 28 | 17 | 210 |
Approximate long-term averages. Higher ground is cooler, and forests can rain in any month.
June to October is dry. The floodwater recedes and animals concentrate on the plains. Nights are cold in June and July.
November to May is wet. The plains flood, the camps close, and the area is inaccessible.
July to October is the best time, with the greatest concentrations of animals as the water retreats. The camps open from about June.
Best time to visit Jul to Nov
Busanga is reached by a charter flight from Lusaka of about 90 minutes to the Busanga airstrip, or from Livingstone or South Luangwa. A road transfer from the airstrip to the camps takes up to an hour. Light aircraft have a 20 kilogram soft-bag limit.
Park fees are included in our safaris. Many nationalities are exempt from a Zambian visa for stays of up to 90 days, and others can buy a visa on arrival or apply for an e-visa. Please check the rules for your passport.
Busanga is remote and a malaria area, so please take medical advice. Evacuation is by air, so good insurance is essential.
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City & TownLusakaCapital and gatewayOur take
“Our take”
Busanga is best from July to September. Stay at least three nights, and spend the evenings watching the lions.
Safaris from
US$9,776 per person
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