Bird watching safaris in Zambia

Whether you're an enthusiastic birder or simply enjoy discovering remarkable birdlife alongside iconic wildlife, Wilderness’ safari camps in Zambia cater to all safari-goers, rather than just dedicated birding specialists. With two lodges located in a private concession in the Busanga Plains, within Kafue National Park, Wilderness offers access to one of Zambia’s best birding areas while also offering a rich and rewarding safari experience. And with the option of private guides, you have the flexibility to spend as much time dedicated to birds as you like.

Additionally, the birding safari experience at Kafue National Park can be combined with a stay at Wilderness Toka Leya, our safari camp on the banks of the Zambezi River, close to Victoria Falls in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. Adding a stay here before or after your Zambia birding safari offers you the chance to see an even wider range of avian species. 

If you’re dreaming of a bird watching safari in Zambia, Wilderness can help tailor an itinerary around your interests, whether you want to combine birding with exceptional game viewing or would like to explore as much of Zambia’s varied habitats as possible. With remote safari lodges, access to private vehicles and guides, and all the logistics from road transfers to city stays and light aircraft connections taken care of, you only need to worry about what to pack.

For bird watching in Zambia, pack lightweight, neutral-coloured clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen and comfortable walking shoes. A good pair of binoculars is also essential while a camera with a telephoto lens is ideal for bird photography. You also want to ensure you pack everything into a soft sided bag, ensuring that you adhere to any luggage weight restrictions for small planes between safari camps.

When to go on a bird watching safari tour in Zambia?

Due to seasonal safari conditions, our safari camps in Zambia are only open from April to October each year, offering one of Africa’s most exclusive bird watching safari experiences. Early in the season or late will bring the chance for spotting seasonal migrants to the area, while boating opportunities may also be possible during these months, depending on rain, allowing for a different perspective for bird watching. Sightings of raptors and night species like owls and nightjars are generally best in the drier months around July and August while these months also offer up opportunities for walking which may allow for more intimate bird sightings without vehicle noise. 

What is the best place in Zambia to spot birds?

Wilderness Toka Leya overlooks the Zambezi River upstream from Victoria Falls and is perfectly placed for riverine birding. Colonies of carmine bee-eaters nest in nearby banks, kingfishers dart along the water’s edge, and herons and storks gather in the shallows. The area is also good for African finfoot, half-collared kingfisher, Schalow’s turaco, and rock pratincole. And if you are really lucky you may spot an African Pitta.

In Kafue National Park, a diverse range of habitats offer the chance to see a vast multitude of bird species, alongside incredible wildlife with the Busanga Plains area near our camps particularly rewarding.