GRI – Wildlife Discovery Centre, Lusaka National Park

The Wildlife Discovery Centre (WDC) in Lusaka National Park is a purpose-built hub for conservation education, science, and public engagement. Opened in 2022, the centre provides an immersive space that translates conservation research and ranger stories into tangible experiences for visitors of all ages. It sits at the heart of a broader conservation effort led by Game Rangers International (GRI) to protect wildlife and empower nearby communities, with Lusaka National Park serving as the permanent home for the GRI Elephant Nursery.

One of the centre’s most compelling highlights is witnessing the rehabilitation journey of orphaned elephants. The Elephant Nursery, relocated from Lilayi, offers visitors a glimpse into rescue, care, and the careful pathway back to the wild. Through guided observations, interactive displays, and storytelling, guests learn how protection, rescue, and release programmes contribute to species recovery and to the resilience of whole ecosystems. The experience emphasises that every stage of elephant care—from rescue to release—relies on a blend of science, welfare considerations, and community collaboration.

The WDC is designed to make conservation accessible and practical. It offers curriculum-aligned lessons, interactive exhibits, and outdoor learning to help translate conservation science into meaningful understanding for Zambia’s wildlife. With more than a decade of involvement in conservation education, GRI aims to foster empathy for wildlife and encourage action that supports sustainable coexistence between people and nature.

What to see and do

• Explore interactive exhibits that connect classroom science with field experiences and ranger insights.
• Observe the Lusaka Elephant Nursery and learn about care, rehabilitation, and eventual release back into the wild.
• Participate in guided tours and discovery days that blend learning with real-world conservation challenges.
• Engage with conservation partners and learn how education, research, and community engagement intersect to strengthen national wildlife protection.

Who it’s best for

The centre is well suited to families, school groups, researchers, and anyone with an interest in wildlife conservation. With outreach that engages schoolchildren and a steady stream of local and international visitors, the WDC serves as a practical example of how conservation science can be made relevant to everyday life and future generations of conservationists.

Practical tips

• Plan a day that combines indoor interactive exhibits with outdoor learning elements to maximise engagement with wildlife and conservation topics.
• Check for organised Discovery Days or education sessions that align with visiting interests and age groups.
• Respect wildlife and ranger guidelines during any on-site activities or field excursions associated with the centre.

Best time to visit

While specific seasonal guidance isn’t listed in the available materials, Lusaka National Park typically offers favourable wildlife encounters during dry seasons when animals are more easily observed near water sources. Consider visiting during daylight hours to experience the full range of exhibits and outdoor learning opportunities the centre has to offer.

Getting there

The Wildlife Discovery Centre is located within Lusaka National Park in the Kafue District, Lusaka Province. For those visiting from outside the area, the centre forms a key educational waypoint within Zambia’s network of wildlife conservation sites managed by GRI.

Safety and etiquette

As with any conservation-focused site, visitors are encouraged to follow on-site guidance, stay with authorised paths during outdoor components, and respect the welfare needs of animals involved in rehabilitation programmes. Engaging with staff and tour guides helps ensure safety and enhances understanding of conservation work.

Impact and partnerships

The WDC functions as a hub that links education, research, and community engagement to support broader wildlife conservation aims in Zambia. It operates alongside GRI’s other projects, including the Elephant Orphanage Project and the Zambia Primate Project, and benefits from the support of diverse collaborators in conservation and government agencies. The centre’s work embodies GRI’s mission to empower rangers, protect wildlife, and foster sustainable livelihoods for surrounding communities.

How to support

Visitors and supporters can engage with GRI’s work by sponsoring Discovery Days, adopting elephants or primates, volunteering, or purchasing merchandise that supports conservation programmes. Through donations and involvement, individuals contribute to long-term protection of Zambia’s wildlife and the people who share the landscape with them.