The Remarkable Bat Migration in Kasanka National Park, Zambia

Despite common misconceptions, Africa’s largest wildlife migration occurs not in the Serengeti or Masai Mara but in the skies over the Congo and Zambia. Each year, over 10 million straw-coloured fruit bats migrate to Kasanka National Park between October and December.

What is the Bat Migration?

Animal migrations draw tourists from around the globe, with the great wildebeest migration between Tanzania and Kenya being the most renowned. Here, nearly two million wildebeests and zebras roam across more than 10,000 square kilometers, attracting millions of visitors annually. However, the bat migration at Kasanka tops many of Africa’s famous migrations due to its sheer numbers. Between October and December, about 10 million straw-coloured fruit bats converge in the park, settling in a small patch of swampy forest.

“The scale of it is immense – bats as far as the eye can see in every direction.”

Geraldine Taylor from the Kasanka Trust explains, “Each evening millions of bats lazily fly off to find food as the sun sets.”

What to Expect During the Migration

Kasanka National Park features numerous viewpoints, including hides—wooden platforms built in trees—and public viewing areas. According to Taylor, hides are often limited for lodge guests accompanied by knowledgeable guides, while public viewpoints offer unobstructed views. Visitors can enjoy sitting on benches and witnessing the sheer scale of the bat migration.

“They are big bats, with wingspans of around 80cm (32 inches), so it’s quite fun to pick out individuals and watch their progress.”

Occasionally, you may spot a bat taking a small dive to scratch its neck or see individuals with unique features, such as a hole in their wing or peculiar fur styles.

Throughout the day, observe the squeaking masses of bats clinging to tree canopies, as branches sometimes collapse under their weight. As sunset approaches, you will see the bats’ small, dog-like faces looking down at you as they take flight.

Despite being one of Zambia’s smallest national parks at just 470 square kilometers (181 square miles), Kasanka boasts rich biodiversity, thanks to its wetland and floodplain locations. Apart from the millions of bats, the park houses nearly 500 bird species and 114 mammal species, including a recovering population of elephants. Common sightings include puku and sitatunga, with occasional views of buffalo and elusive antelope.

Essential Tips for Visitors

Zambia is known as one of the safest countries in Africa. Visitors can obtain a 90-day visa at both Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka and Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport in Livingstone. The bats usually arrive by mid-October and leave by the end of December, making November the best month for noticeable bat viewing.

While the bats are undoubtedly a highlight, attendees should consider weather patterns and other attractions they wish to explore. For example, if you plan to visit Victoria Falls, aim to go before December, as water levels drop significantly, affecting accessibility to Devil’s Pool. The dry season generally spans from May to November, offering blue skies and some of the hottest temperatures in Zambia, particularly in October and early November. Late November and early December indicate the onset of the rainy season, lasting through March.

Taylor recommends chartering a plane from Lusaka, given that the seven-hour drive from the city can be both pricey and inconvenient. The best experience in the park is on foot with a local guide, though guests may drive freely within the park.

Accommodations Around Kasanka

Wasa Lodge serves as the main lodge in Kasanka National Park, featuring catered chalets that overlook Lake Wasa. It is located approximately 30 minutes from the forests where the bats roost. Luwombwa Lodge, on the banks of the Luwombwa River, is a cozy alternative, but it is about an hour’s drive from the main migration areas. Various campsites and self-catered tented camps are also available throughout the park.

Explore Nearby Attractions

In addition to visiting Victoria Falls, Taylor highlights the nearby Bangweulu Wetlands, a large expanse filled with aquatic birds and herds of zebra, tsessebe, and buffalo. The Mutinondo Wilderness, located further north, features beautiful rocky hills and expansive miombo woodlands, perfect for adventure seekers. If you’re an avid adventurer, consider exploring Nsumbu National Park on Lake Tanganyika, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, ideal for fishing, swimming, and snorkeling.