Upemba National Park: Congo’s Land of Lakes and Wetlands
Tucked into the southeastern highlands of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Upemba National Park is a diverse and beautiful wilderness. Established in 1939, the park covers over 11,700 square kilometers and is known for its mosaic of wetlands, lakes, savannahs, and mountains. Unlike Congo’s rainforest parks, Upemba offers wide horizons, bird-filled lakes, and a safari feel reminiscent of East Africa, yet far more remote and untouched.
Location and Landscape
Upemba National Park lies in Haut-Lomami and Haut-Katanga Provinces, along the Upemba Depression, a vast basin of wetlands and lakes formed by the Lualaba River.
The park is famous for its Upemba Lakes, a chain of more than 50 lakes, including Lake Upemba and Lake Kisale. Around these waters stretch papyrus swamps, wooded savannahs, and rocky outcrops. The variation in landscapes makes it one of Congo’s most scenic protected areas.
Wildlife of Upemba
The park shelters a wide range of species adapted to both wetlands and savannah:
- Mammals: Elephants, buffalo, zebras, hippos, and lechwe antelopes thrive in the grasslands and wetlands.
- Predators: Lions, hyenas, and leopards roam the savannah plains.
- Aquatic Life: The lakes and rivers teem with fish and crocodiles.
- Birds: Over 400 bird species make it a paradise for birdwatchers, including storks, herons, and migratory species.
Upemba’s wetlands are especially important for migratory birds, making the park a key link in Africa’s avian flyways.
Conservation and Challenges
Upemba has endured decades of instability, poaching, and habitat degradation. Once home to large elephant herds, numbers have declined, but ongoing conservation by ICCN and partners is working to stabilize populations. Protecting wetlands is also crucial, as they provide water, fish, and livelihoods for surrounding communities.
Despite challenges, Upemba remains a critical sanctuary for both wildlife and people.
Visiting Upemba National Park
Tourism in Upemba is very limited, but the park offers spectacular landscapes and opportunities for adventurous exploration.
- Access: The nearest towns are Likasi and Lubumbashi, from which charter trips can be arranged.
- Accommodation: Basic camps exist near the lakes, but visitors should prepare for rustic conditions.
- Activities: Birdwatching, fishing, game drives, boat trips on the lakes, and cultural visits to local fishing villages.
For those who make the journey, Upemba offers a safari experience few others have witnessed.
Best For, Tip & Idea
Best For: Birdwatchers, eco-adventurers, and travelers seeking remote wetlands and lake systems.
Tip: The best time to visit is during the dry season (May to September) when access is easier and wildlife congregates near water sources.
Idea: Combine Upemba with a trip to Kundelungu National Park nearby, famous for its dramatic Lofoi Waterfalls, for a perfect double-park safari.
Conclusion
Upemba National Park is one of Congo’s most scenic and unique protected areas. With its shimmering lakes, papyrus swamps, and savannah plains, it offers a wildlife experience unlike the rainforests of Salonga or Virunga’s volcanic landscapes. For travelers looking to uncover the hidden gems of the Congo Basin, Upemba is a destination waiting to be rediscovered.
