Wildlife - Nanzhila Safaris | Exclusive Safari Lodges in Kafue National Par

Wildlife of Southern Kafue & Lake Itezhi-Tezhi

The Untamed Frontier: Where the Plains Meet the Water. While the north of Kafue often steals the spotlight, the southern sector and the vast expanse of Lake Itezhi-Tezhi offer a raw, exclusive wildlife experience. This is a land of dramatic contrasts, from the semi-deciduous teak forests and mopane woodlands to the shimmering blue horizons of the lake.

01 / Predators

The predators Playground

Southern Kafue is one of the best places in Zambia to see the Endangered African Wild Dog. The open terrain also makes it a prime habitat for Cheetahs, which are rarely seen in other parts of the country. Lions and leopards remain the reigning monarchs here, often found stalking the riverine thickets.

02 / Antelope Species

A Tapestry of Antelope

Kafue boasts the highest diversity of antelope in Africa (21 species). In the south, you will encounter the endemic Red Lechwe splashing through marshes, alongside the stately Sable, Roan, and the ever-present Puku.

03/ Birding

World Class Birding

In addition to offering near-guaranteed sightings of the Black-cheeked love bird, Nanzhila Plains is home to world class birding. Wattled Crane, Racket-Tailed Rollers and Pel’s Fishing Owl. Our bird list is over 500 species strong and Nanzhila Plains is a must for keen birders.

04/ Lesser known species

Smaller species including honeybadgers, bushbabies, civet, genet and more..

Lake Itezhi-Tezhi acts as a permanent life-source. During the dry season, it is not uncommon to see "super-herds" of over 300 elephants congregating along the water’s edge. Massive pods of hippos and some of Africa’s largest Nile crocodiles dominate the shallows.