Sioma Ngwezi National Park
Overview
Zambia Parks
Philip has traveled through Zambia several times and is the author of more than 20 guidebooks to various African destinations.
Zambia’s third-largest park, Sioma Ngwezi National Park is a remote and seldom-visited wilderness area with practically no amenities and low wildlife densities. As long as your expectations aren’t too high, the park is worth a visit when staying in the area. Nearby attractions are the impressive Ngonye Falls and a beautiful stretch of the Zambezi River (popular for tiger fishing). Sioma Ngwezi forms part of the Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA), a vast international peace park that allows free movement of animals throughout.
Pros & Cons
Wildlife
There is a good variety of wildlife in Sioma Ngwezi. Most of the usual species are present (rhino is missing). Elephant numbers are high, and giraffes might be spotted too. Different habitats support herds of zebra, puku, impala, eland and tsessebe. Sought-after antelopes such as sable and roan are present too. The main predators are lion, leopard and spotted hyena but they are rarely encountered. Cheetah and wild dog might be present as well.
Scenery
Sioma Ngwezi’s main habitat is Kalahari woodland. The dry terrain is flat and forested with tracts of miombo and acacia woodland. There are areas of magnificent teak forest as well. The Kwando River forms the western boundary (also the border with Angola) but there are no other waterways in the park. Dambos (wetland pools) are the main source of water for animals.
Weather & Climate
The weather and climate of Sioma Ngwezi is comparable to that of Zambia in general. More info:
Best Time To Visit
Sioma Ngwezi has no permanent water sources and animals move out in the Dry season. The park is best visited in May and June, just after the Wet season, when there is still some water around. From December to April, the roads might become difficult to navigate.
Getting There
There is a good road from Livingstone to Sioma Ngwezi, but the sandy tracks in the park aren’t great, and a sturdy 4x4 is essential. If you want to visit the park independently, you should pick up a scout at the park’s office. Alternatively, you can try to book a trip with one of the lodges along the Zambezi near Ngonye Falls.
Health & Safety
Please read our ‘Malaria & Vaccinations – Zambia’ page and our general ‘Wildlife Viewing Safety Precautions’ for more info:
