Plizio Visual Lab

Itezhi-Tezhi Lake

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Lake

Weather…

Itezhi-Tezhi Lake is a massive man-made reservoir on the Kafue River in Zambia's Central Province. It was created between 1974 and 1977 following the construction of the Itezhi-Tezhi Dam, primarily designed to regulate water flow for the Kafue Gorge Lower Power Station downstream. The lake is situated within the boundaries of Kafue National Park, one of the world's largest protected wildlife areas, and has fundamentally reshaped the local ecology. Covering an area of approximately 370 square kilometers, the lake provides a sanctuary for substantial populations of hippos and crocodiles. During the dry season, the lake's receding shores attract an extraordinary array of wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, and various antelope species seeking water. Despite its artificial origin, the lake has developed into a critical ecosystem that also supports a significant local fishing industry. The vast expanse of water set against the backdrop of the park's rolling hills makes Itezhi-Tezhi one of the most scenic locations in the Zambian interior.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	24	23	23	22	20	18	18	21	25	28	27	24
Rain mm	198	151	97	23	2	1	0	0	1	10	83	195

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

The lake is typically reached via dirt and gravel roads leading from the town of Itezhi-Tezhi or through Kafue National Park. A sturdy 4x4 vehicle is usually recommended, especially since road conditions can deteriorate significantly after rain.

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Best season

The dry season, roughly between June and October, is generally considered the best time to visit for wildlife viewing along the shores. During the wet season, access roads can become extremely muddy and sometimes completely impassable.

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Terrain & paths

The shoreline features a mix of grassy floodplains, muddy banks, and scattered woodlands that border the vast expanse of water. The terrain is largely flat near the water, though the surrounding national park has more undulating topography.

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What to bring

Visitors should bring binoculars for spotting distant wildlife, as well as plenty of insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes. Comfortable outdoor clothing, sun protection, and a good camera are also typical necessities for a visit here.

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Parking

There are typically no dedicated paved parking lots right at the lake edge; instead, drivers usually park their vehicles at designated lodges, campsites, or clearings. It is important to ensure your car is safely parked away from muddy patches.

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Safety

Always maintain a very safe distance from the water's edge due to the presence of large wildlife such as crocodiles and hippos. Visitors should adhere strictly to the rules of the surrounding national park and preferably explore with a guide.

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Time needed

A typical visit ranges from a half-day excursion to a multi-day stay at nearby lodges to fully experience the wildlife activity. Game drives or boat trips on the lake usually last around two to three hours.