Lavushi Manda National Park wilderness guide
National Park · Muchinga Province, Zambia

Lavushi Manda National Park

Lavushi Manda National Park is a remote protected area in northeastern Zambia known for its rich biodiversity, diverse habitats, and opportunities for wildlife viewing and hiking.

National Park410,0004+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

410,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Lavushi Manda National Park

Lavushi Manda National Park is a remote protected area in northeastern Zambia known for its rich biodiversity, diverse habitats, and opportunities for wildlife viewing and hiking.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Established as a National Park in 1972, Lavushi Manda covers a vast area in the Muchinga Province of Zambia. The park features a combination of Miombo woodland, open grasslands, and wetland ecosystems, supporting a wide variety of flora and fauna including several endemic and endangered species. The landscape is marked by the Lavushi Mountains and the Manda Hills, which provide scenic vistas and challenging terrain for outdoor enthusiasts. Wildlife in the park includes elephants, buffaloes, leopards, roan antelope, and various bird species, making it an important area for conservation and biodiversity. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails that traverse undisturbed wilderness, and the park offers excellent opportunities for guided game drives and bird watching. Despite its remote location and relatively low visitor numbers compared to other parks in Zambia, Lavushi Manda retains a pristine environment and offers a more intimate wildlife experience. Its isolation means tourism infrastructure is minimal, providing a genuine wilderness adventure for well-prepared travelers. The park is also significant for its cultural heritage, with local communities living in the surrounding area and traditional practices continuing nearby.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Lavushi Manda National Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Lavushi Mountains offering panoramic views and challenging hikes✦ Diverse Miombo woodland ecosystem hosting rare wildlife species✦ Opportunities to see African elephants and roan antelope in natural habitats✦ Low visitor density providing a remote and exclusive wilderness experience
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Lavushi Manda National Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Lavushi Manda National Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Lavushi Manda National Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Lavushi Manda National Park
Park Recreation

Bird Watching

Available in Lavushi Manda National Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Lavushi Manda National Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Lavushi Manda National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Park entry fees are required; permits are obtainable at park gates or through the Zambia Wildlife Authority

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Lavushi Manda National Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Lavushi Campsite

Basic campsite located near the park headquarters with limited facilities, ideal for self-sufficient visitors.

Manda Hills Camp

Remote camping area providing access to hiking trails in the Manda Hills; requires carrying all supplies.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Lavushi Manda National Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Mpika, Zambia
⌖ 41.81 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mpika, Zambia

Mpika is a quiet Zambian town serving as the gateway to incredible safaris, hiking trails, and remote wilderness. Its proximity to South Luangwa National Park offers outdoor lovers chance to hike, camp, fish, and spot diverse wildlife in unspoiled settings.

May to October (dry season)
Explore Town
Mpika, Muchinga Province
⌖ 41.81 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mpika, Muchinga Province

Mpika is a remote adventure town in Muchinga Province, Zambia, serving as a gateway to South Luangwa National Park. Ideal for hiking, mountain biking, paddling, and wildlife viewing, it offers authentic wilderness experiences away from crowds.

May to October (dry season)
Explore Town