South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi safari
See both sides of Zambia
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Lusaka
Sprawling Lusaka is Zambia’s capital and commercial centre... -
South Luangwa National Park
South Luangwa National Park, in the Eastern province of Zambia, is one of the most wildlife-rich national parks in the country... -
Lower Zambezi National Park
The Lower Zambezi National Park’s wildlife is centred around the floodplain along the northeastern side of the Zambezi River... -
Lusaka
Sprawling Lusaka is Zambia’s capital and commercial centre...
Explore the best of Zambia’s safari destination on this route. Begin in capital city Lusaka, before flying to Mfuwe airport on the edge of South Luangwa National Park. Here, you can take a walking safari through the African bush to get closer to the wildlife or go on a night drive to see big cats hunting. Continue your wildlife adventure by transferring to the riverfront of the Lower Zambezi, where you can see hippos, elephants, lions and more. Take a boat safari along the Zambezi, or – if you feel adventurous – go canoeing. Travel back to Lusaka for your departure.
Key information
| Destinations | Lower Zambezi National Park, South Luangwa National Park, Lusaka |
|---|---|
| Activity | Safari, Luxury, Nature & Wildlife |
| Physical Level | Easy |
 Season |
January - December |
This itinerary costs between $4,895 and $5,955 per person with our Zambia specialist.
Suggested itinerary
Spot leopards in South Luangwa National Park
Day 1–4 in South Luangwa National Park
South Luangwa National Park, in the Eastern province of Zambia, is one of the most wildlife-rich national parks in the country.
Nicknamed the Valley of Leopards, the main predators here are leopard, lion, spotted hyena and wild dog – with the leopard and wild dog populations being amongst the densest on the continent.
The park is home to more than 400 species of birds and over 60 different mammals, including antelopes, lions, elephants and more.
South Luangwa is the only place in the world to see the Thornicroft species of giraffe as well as the Cookson’s wildebeest.
Go wildlife watching in the Lower Zambezi National Park
Day 5–6 in Lower Zambezi National Park
The Lower Zambezi National Park’s wildlife is centred around the floodplain along the northeastern side of the Zambezi River.
Situated in Zambia’s southern region, Lower Zambezi National Park was named the world’s first carbon-neutral national park in 2016 after a joint collaboration with lodge operators under the Lower Zambezi REDD+ Project.
Combined with Mana Pools National Park in Zimbabwe, this is one of Africa’s best places to see elephants, zebras, leopards, lions and many more.
Named after the Zambezi river which runs through it, the park provides a lifeline for more than 60 mammal species and 378 types of bird. Animals such as elephants, leopards, buffalo, waterbuck ( a type of antelope) and wild dogs can be spotted in the park.
Don't miss
Go Tiger fishing on the Lower Zambezi
The razor-toothed tiger fish is one of the world’s most powerful freshwater fishes. Found in the Lower Zambezi area, you can fish them year-round – but look out for crocodiles and hippos lurking below the water’s surface.
Return to Lusaka and depart
Day 7 in Lusaka
Fly from Lower Zambezi Royal Airstrip to Lusaka International Airport for your onward flight.
Where to stay
Deluxe
Mfuwe Lodge
Located just inside South Luangwa National Park and less than an hour drive from Mfuwe International Airport, Mfuwe Lodge was voted the Best Lodge in Zambia in 2009. Choose from eighteen thatched chalets, complete with private decks, on the banks of two wonderfully wildlife-rich lagoons.
Deluxe
Royal Zambezi Lodge
Situated on the bank of the Zambezi river opposite Zimbabwe’s birdlife-rich Mana Pools, the family-owned Royal Zambezi Lodge offers 15 elegant safari suites overlooking the river. The lodge has a range of facilities, with a spa and wellness centre, outdoor pool, cocktail bar and restaurant serving international cuisine.
Book this itinerary
This route booked with one of our specialist tour operators may cost between $4,895 and $5,955pp. Pricing varies by accommodation class, and can be tailored to suit your budget.
Pricing is typically inclusive of hotels, transfers, meals, and all guided excursions and activities.
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Speak to Absolute Zambia Safaris for expert advice
This tour is operated by
Absolute Zambia Safaris
