Photo: Thomas Fuhrmann, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Zambia · Southern Africa · Safari

South Luangwa National Park

The home of the walking safari, and one of Africa’s best parks for leopards.

Best timeJun to Oct
Ideal stay3 to 4 nights
GatewayMfuwe

South Luangwa offers some of Africa’s best walking safaris, plus night drives that often find leopards. The Luangwa River is packed with hippos and crocodiles in the dry season.

Highlights

  • Walking safaris
  • Night drives for leopards
  • Thornicroft’s giraffe
  • Carmine bee-eaters

Wildlife to look for

Where to stay

Bush camps along the river, plus good-value lodges near Mfuwe.

Getting there

Fly to Mfuwe via Lusaka.

Tips

  • Some bush camps close from about November to April.
  • The “emerald season” after the rains is green and good for birds.
  • Combine with the Lower Zambezi and Victoria Falls.

Best time to visit

Jun to Oct. See where to go in Africa in June and our guide to the best time to visit Africa.

Plan your stay

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Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit South Luangwa National Park?

Jun to Oct. Some bush camps close from about November to April.

How long should I spend at South Luangwa National Park?

3 to 4 nights.

How do I get to South Luangwa National Park?

Fly to Mfuwe via Lusaka.

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