Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
SOUTHERN ZAMBIA
This region is a real highlight of Zambia with some wonderful natural attractions. There are
national parks, with the Lower Zambezi in particular highly regarded for both its wildlife
(especially elephants) and its scenic landscape. The area is also home to the remote Lochin-
var National Park, a World Heritage Wetland Site with pristine wetlands well worth a visit.
Then there's the massive Lake Kariba, with Siavonga's sandy beaches and Chikanka Island
(smack in the middle of the lake) providing fascinating views of the night sky and a
glimpse of the 60 elephants that make their way between the islands. If you're lucky
enough to see a storm roll in over the steely waters from Zimbabwe, it'll be an experience
you'll long remember. Siavonga itself offers the chance to experience the more rural side of
the country, including an opportunity to go on a traditional village tour.
Southern Zambia covers the area southwest down to Livingstone, south to Lake Kariba
and southeast to incorporate the Lower Zambezi National Park.
Chirundu
0211
This dusty and bedraggled border town is on the main road between Lusaka and Harare.
The only reason to stay here is if you're going on to Zimbabwe or planning to explore the
Lower Zambezi National Park. Other than a few shops and bars, as well as a Barclays Bank
with ATM and a number of moneychangers, there's little else to note. What's more, the
roads are permanently clogged with snaking queues of heavy-duty trucks, all heading for,
or coming from, the Zimbabwean border.
There is no petrol station in town. Gwabi Lodge has a couple of fuel pumps, but there is
a limited supply so it's safer to stock up in Lusaka or Kafue. If all else fails, there are al-
ways a few people selling black-market fuel in the street.
Sleeping
CAMPGROUND
Zambezi Breezers $$
( 0979 279468; zambezibreezers@gmail.com; campsite per person ZMW50, r without
bathroom ZMW190, s/d chalet incl breakfast ZMW375/650; )
Especially popular with
backpackers and overland trucks, Breezers, only 6km from Chirundu, can take on a party
