RoadAtlas
Great East Road — Zambia — Wildlife
Africa

Great East Road

Zambia

In short: Great East Road is a 580 km wildlife road trip in Zambia, typically driven over 5–7 days, best in Jun–Oct. Highlights: Lusaka, Chongwe, Nyimba.

Distance
580 km
Duration
5–7 days
Best Season
Jun–Oct
NotableModerateSUV onlyWildlifeOff-road sections

Drive the Great East Road from Lusaka through the Luangwa Valley to South Luangwa National Park, one of Africa's finest wildlife sanctuaries and the birthplace of the walking safari.

~1 refuel
~2 charges
Practical notes
The Great East Road deteriorates significantly east of Petauke, with potholes and unpaved sections common near the Luangwa Valley. A high-clearance SUV is strongly advised. Park entry fees apply at South Luangwa but no special permit is required in advance.
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Plan this trip

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Stops along the route

Lusaka — Departure — Great East Road — Zambia
Departure
Lusaka
Zambia's sprawling capital. Stock up at the vibrant Soweto Market before heading east into the bush.
Hotels
Chongwe — City — Great East Road — Zambia
City
Chongwe
First town east of Lusaka on the Great East Road, where the city thins into open miombo woodland.
Hotels
Nyimba — City — Great East Road — Zambia
City
Nyimba
Midpoint market town on the Eastern Province plains. A logical fuel and rest stop on the long haul east.
Chipata — City — Great East Road — Zambia
City
Chipata
The last major town before the park. Fuel up, buy fresh produce, and feel the anticipation build.
Hotels
South Luangwa National Park — Arrival — Great East Road — Zambia
Arrival
South Luangwa National Park
The birthplace of the walking safari. Leopard density here is among the highest on Earth.

Things to Do

Mfuwe Gate — Landmark — Great East Road — Zambia
Landmark
Mfuwe Gate
The main entrance to South Luangwa. Hippos block the road after dark — not a warning, a certainty.
Lower Zambezi National Park — National Park — Great East Road — Zambia
National Park
Lower Zambezi National Park
Offers stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife, perfect for game drives and river safaris.
Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage — Wildlife Sanctuary — Great East Road — Zambia
Wildlife Sanctuary
Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage
Home to rescued chimpanzees, providing educational tours about conservation efforts.
Victoria Falls — Waterfall — Great East Road — Zambia
Waterfall
Victoria Falls
One of the largest and most famous waterfalls in the world, offering breathtaking views and adventure activities.
Kafue National Park — National Park — Great East Road — Zambia
National Park
Kafue National Park
Zambia's largest national park, known for its diverse wildlife and vast landscapes.

Where to Eat

The Royal Solwezi Hotel Restaurant — International — Great East Road — Zambia
International
The Royal Solwezi Hotel Restaurant
Offers a variety of international dishes in a comfortable setting, perfect for travelers seeking a familiar taste.
Hungry Lion Chipata — Fast Food — Great East Road — Zambia
Fast Food
Hungry Lion Chipata
Popular fast-food chain serving fried chicken and burgers, ideal for a quick meal on the go.
Kilimanjaro Restaurant — African — Great East Road — Zambia
African
Kilimanjaro Restaurant
Serves traditional Zambian and African dishes in a vibrant atmosphere, offering an authentic culinary experience.
Stefano's Restaurant — Italian — Great East Road — Zambia
Italian
Stefano's Restaurant
Authentic Italian cuisine with a selection of pastas and pizzas, providing a taste of Italy in Zambia.

Explore related routes

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Nearby and similar drives

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Great East Road drive?

The Great East Road covers 580 km from start to finish.

How long does the Great East Road take to drive?

Most travellers spend 5–7 days on the Great East Road, depending on stops and pace.

When is the best time to drive the Great East Road?

The recommended season for the Great East Road is Jun–Oct.

Where does the Great East Road start and end?

The Great East Road runs from Lusaka to South Luangwa National Park.

What are the main stops on the Great East Road?

The Great East Road passes through Lusaka, Chongwe, Nyimba.

How difficult is the Great East Road to drive?

The Great East Road is rated moderate and is best handled with suv only.

Do I need a 4WD for the Great East Road?

Yes — the Great East Road includes off-road or rough sections that require suv only.

How many fuel stops are needed on the Great East Road?

Plan around 1 refuels (or about 2 EV charges) along the Great East Road, based on its 580 km length.

Is the Great East Road safe to drive?

The Great East Road deteriorates significantly east of Petauke, with potholes and unpaved sections common near the Luangwa Valley. A high-clearance SUV is strongly advised. Park entry fees apply at South Luangwa but no special permit is required in advance.

What scenic tier is the Great East Road?

The Great East Road is a notable drive — Notable scenic drives — strong character routes that locals know well and that reward travellers willing to step beyond the most-photographed roads.