INTRODUCTION
Kasanka National Park and Lake Bangweulu are two of Zambia’s most enchanting natural destinations.
Kasanka is a small but richly biodiverse park famous for its seasonal bat migration (one of the largest mammal migrations in the world), while Lake Bangweulu, meaning "where the water meets the sky," is a vast wetland teeming with birdlife and unique aquatic habitats. Here’s your comprehensive guide to exploring these incredible spots.
Getting There
Kasanka National Park:
By Air:
The closest airport to Kasanka is Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka. From Lusaka, charter flights can be arranged to Kasanka’s airstrip, or to Mansa to the north.
By Road
Kasanka is about a 7 hour drive from Lusaka. The drive involves taking the Great North Road (T2) towards Serenje, followed by a turn-off towards the park. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for the final stretch, especially during the rainy season.
Lake Bangweulu:
By Air:
Similar to Kasanka, visitors can fly into Lusaka and take a charter flight to the Samfya airstrip or a scheduled service to Mansa, with transfers to Lake Bangweulu.
By Road
Lake Bangweulu is about an 8-9 hour drive from Lusaka via the Great North Road, turning off towards Samfya. The roads can be challenging, so a 4x4 vehicle is advisable.
Best Times to Visit
Kasanka National Park:
November to December: This is the best time to witness the spectacular bat migration, where millions of straw-coloured fruit bats congregate in the park.
May to October: The dry season offers excellent wildlife viewing, as animals gather around water sources, and the park is more accessible.
Lake Bangweulu:
June to November: During the dry season, water levels recede, making it easier to explore the wetlands and spot wildlife. During this period it is the peak time to see the Shoebill nesting, but they are very elusive.
March to May: The wet season is ideal for birdwatching, as many migratory species arrive, and the landscape is lush and vibrant.
Wildlife
Kasanka National Park:
Bat Migration
The park is renowned for the annual bat migration, one of Africa’s most impressive wildlife spectacles.
Sitatunga Antelope
These elusive antelopes can be seen in the swampy areas of the park.
Elephants, Hippos, & Crocodiles
Commonly spotted along the rivers and wetlands.
Birdlife
Over 400 species of birds, including the Ross's turaco, Pel’s fishing owl, and various kingfishers and eagles.
Lake Bangweulu:
Shoebill Storks
These rare and prehistoric-looking birds are a major attraction, especially in the swamps.
Black Lechwe
Large herds of this endemic antelope can be seen grazing in the floodplains.
Fishing Communities
The lake is home to traditional fishing villages, providing a cultural aspect to the visit.
Birdlife
An extraordinary diversity of waterbirds, including herons, ibises, and wattled cranes.
Activities
Kasanka National Park:
Game Drives: Explore the park in 4x4 vehicles with experienced guides.
Walking Safaris: Get up close to the wildlife and learn about the flora and fauna.
Bat Viewing: Special platforms are set up to observe the bat migration.
Lake Bangweulu:
Birdwatching: Especially for spotting the rare shoebill stork and other waterbirds.
Boat Safaris: Navigate through the swamps and open water for wildlife viewing.
Fishing: Engage with local fishing practices or try your hand at catching some of the lake’s fish.
Cultural Tours: Visit local fishing villages to learn about traditional lifestyles and practices.
Accommodation
Kasanka National Park:
Lodges and Campsites**: Options range from comfortable lodges to basic campsites. Wasa Lodge and Luwombwa Lodge are popular choices within the park but are of a basic nature and get booked quickly.
Lake Bangweulu:
Lodges: In towns like Samfya, options include comfortable lodges.
Conclusion
Kasanka National Park and Lake Bangweulu offer some of Zambia’s most unique wildlife experiences. From the awe-inspiring bat migration in Kasanka to the rare shoebill storks of Bangweulu, these destinations promise unforgettable experiences especially if combined with a tour of the Northern Circuit or in combination with the Luangwa Valley