Where to see wild dogs in Zambia
African wild dogs are among the continent’s most compelling animals. Much misunderstood, these rare, tie-dyed canids are amazingly efficient hunters with a fascinating social life.
Quick facts about Wild dog
| Scientific name: | Lycaon pictus | Habitat: | Savannah & woodland |
|---|---|---|---|
| IUCN status: | Endangered | Adult weight: | 20–36kg |
Zambia is one of just seven ‘stronghold countries’ that still harbour a viable population of African wild dogs. A recent census found roughly 475 individuals countrywide, split between 43 packs. However, numbers fluctuate as packs move and disperse, sometimes even crossing east into Mozambique. The population is concentrated in three key areas: the Luangwa valley, the Lower Zambezi valley and Kafue National Park, but wandering individuals may turn up far from these protected areas, leaving them vulnerable to threats such as road traffic and persecution. The Zambian Carnivore Programme has done an excellent job in protecting and monitoring the species, and recent indications of an upturn are testament to their hard work.
1.9–5.2kg
Daily meat consumed
±60%
Kill success rate
10
Average litter size
8–10 weeks
Pups abandon den
The top camps for seeing wild dog in Zambia
Based on 349 reports by our travellers since Mar 2018, visitors at these camps in Zambia have the best chances of sighting wild dog.
Best chances to see
Good chances to see
Some sightings
No sightings yet
Best areas to see wild dogs in Zambia
African wild dogs wander widely and so are often hard to track down. If you find them, stay with them: they are typically unconcerned and you may witness a hunt.
Zambia: wild dog hot spots
The Luangwa valley has a large and apparently increasing wild dog population, with reliable sightings in South Luangwa National Park. Well-known packs, including the Hot Springs and Puku Plain packs, are regularly seen in their respective areas – typically betrayed by the alarm calls of puku and impala – although denning locations change, and sometimes packs leave the park for adjacent game management areas. The Lower Zambezi National Park wild dog population is smaller but features the celebrated Jeki pack, which has numbered over 40 individuals and may even hunt adult buffalo. Wild dogs are more dispersed in Kafue National Park, though regularly seen in the Busanga, Nanzhila and – increasingly – Musekese regions. In 2021, three wild dogs were re-introduced to Liuwa Plain, in the west. They have since settled and bred.
Our best Zambia holidays for wild dog sightings
Based on our travellers' reports, these ideas for Zambia safaris are likely to give the best wild dog sightings
Civet Safari
9 days • 4 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT
Combining three intimate bushcamps in the quieter south of the South Luangwa, this safari will appeal to those looking for an interesting mix of walking and vehicle safari.
US$8,490 - US$9,970 per person
Greater Bushbaby Safari
8 days • 2 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT
The perfect safari for a family or group of friends during which to create everlasting memories. Visit Zambia’s two most productive wildlife parks staying in four-bedroom houses, designed in a unique and fun way.
US$10,660 - US$13,240 per person
Hippo Safari
10 days • 4 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LIVINGSTONE AIRPORT
Combining excellent game with aspects of remoter safari in South Luangwa, as well as the cultural delights of Livingstone, this trip also makes use of long-stay discounts, making it an excellent-value and well-rounded adventure.
US$7,360 - US$8,780 per person
Crawshay's Zebra Safari
10 days • 4 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT
This superb safari combines two of Zambia’s best national parks, the South Luangwa and the Lower Zambezi. The camps are small and high quality with excellent safari guides.
US$10,460 - US$13,820 per person
Perekani Walking Trail
10 days • 5 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT
Five smart but rustic bushcamps are the comfortable staging posts for this walking safari in South Luangwa. The route offers outstanding seclusion and rich wildlife with top-quality guiding throughout.
US$9,590 - US$12,210 per person
Hyena Safari
11 days • 4 locations
VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT TO LILONGWE AIRPORT
Mix relaxation and adventure on a safari combining the South Luangwa with Victoria Falls and the beaches of Lake Malawi. These three locations are among the most iconic in southern Africa.
US$9,490 - US$11,910 per person
Robin Pope Walking Safari
7 days • 3 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT
The definitive, original mobile walking safari; explore the remote north of the South Luangwa on foot while staying in a simple mobile camp that moves with the group.
US$7,370 - US$8,500 per person
Vervet Monkey Safari
7 days • 2 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT
Explore the world-class wildlife of Zambia’s South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi national parks in considerable luxury, guided by experts from two sister camps renowned for their excellent level of care.
US$8,780 - US$10,990 per person
Boehm's Zebra Safari
7 days • 2 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT
This safari combines two high-quality owner-run camps in a very productive region of the South Luangwa. The guiding is excellent and with its hides this safari is perfect for serious photographers.
US$7,490 - US$9,410 per person
More information about wild dog in our other destinations
Click here for detailed information about wild dog in other countries, including the places for sighting wild dog.
