South Luangwa National Park
South Luangwa National Park is one of the greatest wildlife sanctuaries and unspoilt wilderness areas in Africa. The park covers 9050 square kilometres, with seasonal floodplains that create a biological rich environment home to cover 450 bird species, 110 species of mammals and wide variety of reptiles, insect’s, amphibians and plants.
The park offers a unique combination of South Luangwa National Park’s open grassy plains and mature, mesmerising woodlands, crowned with the pristine, impressive Luangwa River. This area’s reputation for abundant wildlife and unspoiled vegetation is well- earned, so whether driving around or walking through, the intense beauty calls to you from every corner.
The meandering of the Luangwa River - the life-blood of the park - is the most intact major river system in Africa, with huge populations of crocodiles and hippos. Several large prides of up to 20 lions make their home, and South Luangwa a famous home for more wild leopards per square kilometers that anywhere else in the world.
South Luangwa National Park has a wide range of accommodation options. You could choose an incredible, remote tented camp with an outdoor shower, open-air-facilities, and up close and personal game interactions. You might prefer a luxurious lodge with a deep bath tub, formal dining room, and exquisite plunge pools. You might have some trouble choosing between all these amazing destinations, but keep this in mind: stunning views, excellent bush cuisine, and warm hospitality are standard in all South Luangwa National Park lodges.
Where To Stay
South Luangwa National Park offers a variety of accommodation options, including luxurious lodges with deep bath tubs and plunge pools, and remote tented camps with outdoor showers and game interactions. These unfenced lodges allow wildlife to roam, providing a unique African experience. The Park offers stunning views, excellent bush cuisine, and warm hospitality.
Croc Valley Camp
Set on the banks of the Luangwa River overlooking the South Luangwa National Park nestled under shady Mahogany trees lies the picturesque Croc Valley Camp. “Your camp with personality” Croc Valley Camp offer a variety of varied accommodation to suit everyone’s pocket, from self-contained chalets on platforms, luxury en-suite tents on the river bank, ten dollars per night backpacker/dorm rooms, Family House to the campsite with thatched lapa's, electrical points and water outlets all on lush green lawns.
Kafunta River Lodge
A classic lodge located on the edge of South Luangwa National Park overlooking a great flood plain of the Luangwa River. Kafunta River Lodge offers you all the essentials for a mesmerizing and memorable African trip. This is a great place to come home after an exhilarating day on safari, put your feet, and be pampered.
Mfuwe Lodge
Set around two lagoons, shaded by the canopy of ebony and mahogany trees, award-winning Mfuwe Lodge is the perfect place to ease into Luangwa life.
Mfuwe Lodge is a luxurious safari lodge nestled in the heart of South Luangwa National Park in Zambia. Surrounded by pristine wilderness and abundant wildlife, the lodge offers a unique and unforgettable safari experience.
KuKaya Lodge
A unique lodge that redefines the safari experience, KuKaya gives you the freedom of choice to design your own private safari
Set in private bush overlooking permanent water holes, only 2.5 kilometers from the main gate of South Luangwa National Park. This luxurious lodge offers an unparalleled safari experience, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the breathtaking beauty of African wilderness.
Activities & Experiences
South Luangwa National Park offers a variety of activities, with a strong emphasis on wildlife viewing. Game drives, walking safaris, and night drives are popular options, allowing visitors to experience the diverse fauna and unique landscapes of the park. Staying in bush camps, enjoying sundowners by the river, and even mountain biking are also unique experiences available.
Game Drives
Morning and afternoon game drives are a classic safari experience, with knowledgeable guides leading you to the best wildlife viewing spots.
Enjoying drinks at sunset with views of the Luangwa River and its wildlife is a quintessential safari experience.
Night drives provide an opportunity to spot nocturnal animals like leopards, which are often seen hunting after dark.
Walking Safaris
South Luangwa is known as the birthplace of the walking safari, offering a unique perspective on the bush and allowing you to track animals on foot.
Photography Safaris
The Park offers excellent opportunities for capturing stunning wildlife photos, especially during early morning and late afternoon game drives.
Birding Safaris
South Luangwa boasts a vast array of birdlife, making it a great destination for birdwatching.
Visit the Local Villages
For those interested in the culture and heritage of the area, a visit to one of the villages will definitely give you more insights.
Why South Luangwa National Park
South Luangwa National Park is a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts due to its abundant and diverse wildlife, including leopards, elephants, and unique species like Thornicroft's giraffe. The Park is also known for its walking safaris, pioneered by Norman Carr, offering an intimate way to experience the natural environment.
Visit Mfuwe Town
Mfuwe Town, a vibrant city in Zambia's Eastern Province, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. It's close to South Luangwa National Park, making it a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
The town's diverse community, including a bustling market and welcoming locals, offers an unforgettable experience for visitors to explore the surrounding wilderness.
Visit The Tribal Textiles
Visiting the Tribal Textiles in South Luangwa National Park is one of the must-do activities. Treat yourself to some shopping, relax in the Café’s courtyard and watch the production process of our handmade designs.
There’s even the chance to get creative during a Batik Workshop where you can paint your own cushion or tote bag to collet and take home.
Project Luangwa
Project Luangwa is a non-profit organization based in Zambia that focuses on improving the lives of communities living near South Luangwa National Park. By working closely with locals, they develop sustainable initiatives that support education, healthcare, and conservation efforts in the region. Through their projects, Project Luangwa aims to create a more prosperous and balanced environment for both people and wildlife to thrive.
Mulberry Mongoose
Mulberry Mongoose is a unique brand that intertwines ethical sourcing with stunning designs to create jewelry that not only looks beautiful but also has a positive impact on the world.
With a focus on empowering local artisans and using recycled materials, Mulberry Mongoose is at the forefront of sustainable fashion. Their commitment to social and environmental responsibility sets them apart in the world of jewelry design.
When to Visit South Luangwa National Park
South Luangwa National Park is open all year round. The ideal time to visit the park will vary depending on personal preferences and needs. However, the best time to visit the park to see wildlife is from late May to October, which is the dry season. Since there is less vegetation during this time, it is simpler to see the animals gathered near the Luangwa River and its other water sources. Although the park is lovely all year round, the best chances to see wildlife are during the dry season.
If you appreciate lush scenery and birdwatching, you might want to explore the green season, which runs from November to April. However, keep in mind that this time may present challenges regarding road conditions.
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