The diversity of Kafue's ecosystems, Miombo woodlands, mangrove forests, grasslands and wetlands, allows for the existence of a large number of animal species. As many as 55 species of mammals and 500 species of birds have been recorded in Kafue.

The Busanga plains are where the greatest number of animals can be observed. With herds of different species of herbivores arriving in these grasslands, this is also the best hunting area for lions and wild dogs. The cheetah also occasionally roams these plains.

At almost 22,500 square kilometres, Kafue is one of the largest national parks in Africa and also one of the least visited. Its remote location and the lack of knowledge about this park means that very few travellers choose to visit Kafue, which is considered by many one of the last true wildernesses in Africa.