Established
1972
Size
9,050 km²
Elevation
500–700 m
Ecosystem
Luangwa Valley, Riverine, Mopane
Best Time
May – October
Entry Fee
$25 per adult/day
About South Luangwa National Park
South Luangwa is one of Africa's greatest wildlife sanctuaries and the birthplace of the walking safari. The Luangwa River, one of Africa's most intact major waterways, forms the park's eastern boundary and draws extraordinary concentrations of hippo (estimated 50 per km of river), crocodile, elephant, and predators. Norman Carr pioneered the walking safari concept here in the 1950s, and today South Luangwa remains the premier destination for this most authentic form of safari. The park's 9,050 km² of valley bushveld supports one of the densest leopard populations in Africa, thriving wild dog packs, and the endemic Thornicroft's giraffe found nowhere else on Earth.
What Makes It Special
Birthplace of the walking safari
Highest leopard density
Endemic Thornicroft's giraffe
50 hippos per km of river
Luangwa River wildlife corridor
Wildlife & Species
Things to Do
Best Time to Visit
Peak Season
Best wildlife viewing
JulAugSepOct
Shoulder Season
Fewer crowds, good value
JunNov
Green Season
Lush landscapes, birding
DecJanFebMarAprMay
Where to Stay
Chinzombo
Ultra-LuxuryNorman Carr Safaris' flagship with six luxurious villas on the Luangwa River.
From $1,200/night / night
Flatdogs Camp
Mid-RangePopular camp on the river boundary with chalets, tents, and a vibrant bar.
From $250/night / night
Mfuwe Lodge
LuxuryFamous for elephants walking through the lobby during mango season (October–December).
From $600/night / night
Safari Packages
5-Day South Luangwa Walking Safari
Walk with expert guides in the birthplace of the walking safari
7-Day Luangwa & Lower Zambezi Combined
Two of Zambia's greatest parks with walking and canoe safaris