Birdwatching

Zambia is mainly covered in woodland, the nature of which is defined by the three main rivers that flow through the country, the Zambezi, Kafue and Luangwa Rivers. The profile of the woodland changes as you go from the dry and hot northeastern grassland areas north of the Luangwa valley to the Mopane forests of the southwest, and when combined with the large amounts of water, including wetlands such as Bangwelu and Lochinvar, you have a huge variety of habitats that lead to a correspondingly huge variety of birdlife.

There are specific places to head for interesting sights if you are a keen birder - the aforementioned Lake Bengwelu and surrounding area is one of the few places in the world that you will see the Shoebill, and the huge numbers of waders and waterfowl that congregate at Lochinvar make that a good destination as well. These are not typical safari destinations (which may be a good thing!) but it does mean the infrastructure isn't always fully in place and so getting there can be difficult [cont.]

and expensive.

The woodlands of the South Luangwa, Kafue and Lower Zambezi all host countless species of interesting birds such as Lovebirds, Rollers, Weavers, Bee-eaters, Pelicans, Storks, Fish Eagles, and Cranes. An additional bonus of a safari in Zambia is the possibility of taking night drives, where you can see nocturnal birds such as Nightjars, Coursers and Owls, including the Giant Eagle Owl.

Obviously the season that you visit Zambia has a great influence on what you are likely to see, and where, since many species are migratory. In general the rainy season begins at the end of December and lasts through until March, although the rivers will remain elevated until May. This can be a good time to visit Zambia for a birding expedition, as there are many species around, you'll get good photos and also benefit from reduced rates. In many areas transport will be entirely river-based though as many roads are flooded. For more information on a birding safari in Zambia, why not contact your ZambiaAway specialist?