Things To Do
in Kafue
Kafue, Zambia sits along the Kafue River just outside Lusaka, blending riverine landscapes with nearby national park wilderness. The town serves as a gateway to Kafue National Park and the surrounding floodplains teeming with birdlife and wildlife. Visitors can experience river safaris, traditional markets, and close encounters with local communities.
The climate is hot and tropical with a distinct wet and dry season, shaping activities throughout the year.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early with a guided safari through the Kafue National Park, where the sun rises over the vast savannah. As you traverse the park, keep an eye out for herds of elephants and lions lounging in the grasslands. The crisp morning air is filled with the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves, making this a truly immersive wildlife experience.
After a hearty lunch at a local lodge, embark on a leisurely boat cruise along the Kafue River. This serene adventure allows you to see hippos basking in the sun and crocodiles lounging on the banks. The afternoon light casts a golden hue over the landscape, creating stunning photo opportunities.
As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional Zambian dinner under the stars, surrounded by the sounds of the wilderness. Experience local cuisine featuring grilled meats and fresh vegetables, paired with a refreshing drink. The evening concludes with a captivating storytelling session around the campfire, sharing tales of the African bush.
Wake up to the symphony of birds chirping outside your lodge and prepare for a morning of birdwatching. Join a local ornithologist who will guide you through the diverse habitats of Kafue, showcasing over 500 species of birds. With binoculars in hand, you'll spot beautiful species like the African fish eagle and the vibrant lilac-breasted roller.
After a delightful picnic lunch, continue your birdwatching adventure in the wetlands of the park. The afternoon light enhances the colors of the birds as they flit about, making it the perfect time for photography. Don't forget to take notes on the various species you spot, adding to your personal birding journal.
Return to your lodge for a relaxing evening where you can share your birdwatching experiences with fellow travelers. Enjoy a delicious dinner featuring a mix of international and local dishes, while discussing the incredible wildlife you’ve seen. Cap off the night with a stargazing session, marveling at the clear African sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $25-50 |
| 🚗Local transport (short ride) | $2-8 |
| 💧Bottled water (1.5L) | $1-2 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Kafue National Park and riverine scenery
- Warm, welcoming locals and a relaxed pace
- Limited nightlife and infrastructure in some areas
- Rural roads can be rough and seasonally affected by rains
- "Uli shani?" - How are you?
- "Zikomo" - Thank you
- "Pepani" - Sorry
- "Muli bwanji?" - How are you?
- "Chabwino" - Good
- "Ndine wabwino" - I am fine
Places to Visit in Kafue
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light over the river with potential wildlife silhouettes.
Expansive wetlands hosting birds and waders during the wet season.
Elevated deck with unobstructed views of the water and silhouettes.
Food in Kafue
Kafue Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
The staple maize meal served with vegetables, beans, or peanut sauce.
Must-Try!
Dried small fish cooked with vegetables and served with nshima.
Spinach cooked in peanut sauce, a protein-rich vegetarian relish.
Hearty meat stew common in local eateries.
A traditional, starchy cake enjoyed with side dishes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market offering fresh produce, maize, and fish; great for a quick nshima side or roasted maize.
Street vendors selling grilled fish, fried plantains, and snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a warm handshake; use polite titles; English is common, local languages used in villages.
Ask before photographing people, particularly in villages or at ceremonies.
Dress modestly, especially in markets and villages; avoid loud behavior around wildlife and sacred sites.
Safety
Tipping in Kafue
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping 5-10% at lodges and for guides; small tips for porters and cooks; cash is preferred.
Cash in local currency (ZKW) and USD widely accepted at lodges; many lodges accept card payments; mobile money increasingly common in towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid; heavy rains in the afternoon; vibrant greenery; great for birding but roads can be boggy.
Pleasant daytime temperatures, cooler nights; best for wildlife sightings as animals gather near water sources; some rivers may be lower.
Kafue at Night
Hiking in Kafue
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Riverside trail with viewpoints over the Kafue Gorge and surrounding landscapes; best with a guide.
Short trails along the floodplain offering birding and landscape photography opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Kafue by plane.
Main international gateway to Zambia; about 60-80 km from Kafue by road; flights connect to regional hubs.
Small domestic airport serving the region; access is via road from Kafue; limited services and schedule.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Bemba, Nyanja, and English widely spoken; rural villages have strong local dialects.
Farming, fishing, and tourism-related work around the river and park.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across towns and rural areas; local matches often draw community crowds.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kafue.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Nshima with vegetables, peanut sauce, beans, legumes, and grilled vegetables; request no meat or fish and ask for peanut or tomato-based sauces.