Zambia Parks
By Alan Murphy
Alan is a renowned Africa expert and has authored many Lonely Planet guidebooks, including the guide to Zambia.
Safety
Most visitors to Zambia come to enjoy the national parks, which are all very safe destinations, including Kafue National Park. Crime against tourists is a very rare occurrence in any of the parks.
Charter plane services between parks are popular because of the long distances between destinations, and the conditions of the roads. Safari-goers fly from park to park, and this is obviously very safe, as you will be picked up at the airstrip and transported to your lodge.
Ideally, self-drive visitors to Kafue should have some experience in off-road driving and should seek advice on road conditions before starting their expedition.
Malaria & Vaccinations
Consult your travel clinic or local doctor regarding appropriate vaccinations to receive before visiting Zambia. Malaria is an issue in Zambia and Kafue is no exception – safety precautions are important. Your first line of defense is to cover up during the evening and apply mosquito repellent (containing at least 30% DEET). Taking antimalarials is strongly recommended as well. Please consult your travel clinic or doctor to find out which antimalarials are available and most effective for the area of Zambia you are visiting.
Wildlife Viewing
Always listen to the advice given by your guide. This is especially important on a walking safari. Incidents involving wildlife are extremely rare, but wild animals can be unpredictable. Most of the lodges are unfenced, and there will be a safety briefing given at the lodge upon check-in. Please also take note of the ‘wildlife viewing safety precautions’ below.
Further advice on limiting dangers and annoyances when traveling:
- Wildlife Viewing Safety Precautions
- General Safety Precautions
- Cities & Other Urban Areas: Safety Precautions
- Safety & Security – Zambia
- Malaria & Vaccinations – Zambia
