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Kabwe Lowlands
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The Kabwe Lowlands are located in the Central Province of Zambia and represent a geologically and historically fascinating region. The area is primarily known for its rich lead and zinc deposits, which were discovered in 1902 and led to the founding of the town of Kabwe, formerly known as Broken Hill. A standout scientific discovery in this region was the Broken Hill skull found in 1921, which was attributed to an ancestor of modern humans, Homo rhodesiensis, dating back approximately 300,000 years. Topographically, it is a relatively flat plain that forms part of the Mulungushi River catchment area. Agriculture currently plays a central role in the lowlands, with maize, tobacco, and wheat being the primary crops. Despite the economic success of mining, the region grapples with the environmental legacy of decades of heavy metal pollution, which once made Kabwe one of the most polluted places in the world. Nevertheless, the lowlands remain a vital transportation hub, connecting the capital Lusaka with the north of the country.
- Location: Zambia
- Nearby: Chibombo (17 km)
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 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 21 | 19 | 17 | 17 | 20 | 24 | 27 | 26 | 23 |
| Rain mm | 235 | 178 | 106 | 32 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 11 | 94 | 228 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Reached by descending south from the central plateau, using secondary provincial roads that connect the expansive landscape. An off-road vehicle is often necessary for any deeper exploration beyond the main transit routes.
Best season
The optimal visiting time is during the pleasant, dry winter months from May to August, avoiding intense heat. Summer rains inevitably turn the lowlands into vast muddy plains and seasonal wetlands, making access incredibly tough.
Terrain & paths
The landscape features expansive flat plains, vast seasonal marshes, and mixed scrub vegetation typical of the region. Walking is generally quite easy physically, but the ground can be heavily vegetated or surprisingly soft.
What to bring
Lightweight, highly breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes are strongly advised for the flat environment. Visitors must bring plenty of drinking water, insect repellent, and strong sun protection for the open areas.
Parking
Informal parking is the norm, usually done along main dirt roads or within the boundaries of local villages. Always pull off the track safely and seek local permission if leaving the vehicle unattended for long periods.
Safety
The intense daytime heat and a high risk of rapid dehydration are the primary safety concerns in these exposed plains. Sticking firmly to known tracks and avoiding physical exertion during peak heat hours is highly recommended.
Time needed
A comprehensive drive and exploration of the lowlands ecology can easily take a full, demanding day of travel. Transit visitors passing through might simply spend a few hours observing the rapidly changing topographical landscape.
Geography
Facts
- The 300,000-year-old Broken Hill skull was discovered here in 1921.
- Lead and zinc deposits were first developed here in 1902.
- Kabwe was the first major mining center in what is now Zambia.
- The lowlands are drained by the Mulungushi River system.
- The area is situated at an average elevation of 1180 meters.
- The region is a significant hub for commercial maize production.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is Kabwe-Tiefland suitable for cycling tours?
The flat landscape is well-suited for tours, provided the paths are dry.
Are there settlements there?
Yes, there are some small villages where you can find basic food items.
What is the soil composition?
Predominantly sandy and clay-like, which can become very muddy in rain.
Are there malaria-free areas?
No, the entire region is considered a malaria area; prophylaxis is necessary.
Is camping nearby safe?
It is generally safe, but keep away from water holes.
Kabwe Lowlands: where is it located?
Kabwe Lowlands is located in Zambia.
Kabwe Lowlands: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Aug.
Kabwe Lowlands: why is it worth visiting?
The Kabwe Lowlands are located in the Central Province of Zambia and represent a geologically and historically fascinating region.
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More places
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A central plateau where Lusaka lies.
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A topographical step that limits the central plateau.
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A vast, seasonally flooded alluvial plain.
Munali Nickel Mine
One of the few mines in Zambia specializing in the extraction of nickel.
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Zambia's largest sugar factory, surrounded by extensive sugarcane plantations.
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