Lumangwe Falls

Lumangwe Falls is a single broad curtain of water about 35 metres high and 100 metres wide on the Kalungwishi River in northern Zambia. Its resemblance to Victoria Falls, at a fraction of the size and with a fraction of the visitors, gives it its nickname.

Why visit Lumangwe Falls

Lumangwe has its own small rainforest of spray-fed trees and a campsite within earshot. The Kabwelume Falls are a short walk downstream.

Best time to visit Lumangwe Falls

March to June, after the rains, is the time to go. Roads in the north are best in the dry months.

How to get to Lumangwe Falls

The falls lie off the Mporokoso–Kawambwa road; a 4×4 and an expedition mindset are essential.

What to see

On the Kalungwishi River, Lumangwe Falls is about 35 metres high and roughly 100 metres wide, a broad curtain often compared to a small Victoria Falls. Its spray feeds a patch of rainforest with paths to several viewpoints. Kabwelume Falls is a short walk downstream, and Chimpepe Falls is nearby. Together they make a good day of exploring.

Practical information

Lumangwe is in Zambia's Northern Province, one of the least-visited parts of the country. Facilities are basic, usually a community-run campsite. The falls are fullest from about January to May. Bring all supplies and fuel, travel by 4×4 and allow plenty of time, as roads are slow. Combine Lumangwe with Kalambo Falls and Lake Tanganyika on a northern circuit.

Pair Lumangwe Falls with a safari

See it with Kalambo Falls on our northern Zambia waterfalls expedition.

Tips for visiting Lumangwe Falls

Bring camping supplies or arrange a guided expedition; facilities are basic. Walk downstream to Kabwelume Falls, and visit in the morning when the spray catches the light. For planning, see our Zambia guide and the month-by-month water levels, or compare it with Africa's two most visited falls, Victoria Falls and Murchison Falls.

National parks and sights nearby

• Kabwelume Falls
• Lake Mweru
• Kasanka National Park