South Luangwa National Park
Welcome to South Luangwa National Park
The insider's travel guide to South Luangwa National ParkSouth 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.
The South Luangwa National Park atlas
7 picks Places & Experiences You Won't Find Elsewhere-
There’s some good accommodation in South Luangwa but one of my favourites is Chikunto Safari Lodge, located on a horseshoe bend in the Luangwa River near the Mfuwe entrance in the park’s southern edge. What makes this place really stand out is the six-metre high platform with panoramic views over the river and a private tented suite where you can camp out overnight under the stars. When I visited I found it totally breathtaking. It doesn’t come cheap, but I always recommend it for honeymooners or couples looking for something extra special.
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If it’s big cats you’re after, look no further than South Luangwa, nicknamed the Valley of the Leopards, with one of the densest populations of leopard anywhere. It's also home to lions and spotted hyena, along with an abundant wild dog population on team canine. Some of my most memorable leopard encounters have happened in South Luangwa. Watching as a leopard, completely unaware of our presence, descended from a tree, only spotting us once she’d reached the ground, was an encounter to remember. Leopards love to drag their kills up into trees for safekeeping, so don’t forget to look up from time to time when you’re out on a drive. My favourite way to see the wildlife in South Luangwa is on a walking safari. On a walking safari, you can see lions, leopards, elephants and learn about the flora of the park. It’s not all about big beasts however; a walking safari will allow you to get up close with a termite mound and learn about Zambia’s ecosystem.
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My pick for South Luangua is probably Shenton Safaris' Kaingo Camp, which has a collection of incredible photographic hides and guides who are specialised in getting guests into the perfect position for great photos, both in the hides and out on drive.
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Begin your Zambian safari by flying into capital Lusaka, spending a few hours exploring its markets and crafts. Transfer from Lusaka to Mfuwe on the edge of South Luangwa National Park. From here, you can spend a couple of days exploring the park’s wildlife, searching for its famed leopards, looking for hippos on the Luangwa River and watching baboons scurry by. Make sure to take a walking safari, where you can get closer to the wildlife and access areas off-limits to vehicles, or a nocturnal game drive to see big cats hunting prey. End your trip back in Lusaka, for your departure.
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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.
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A classic seven-day itinerary to two of Zambia's biggest highlights. Fly into Zambia’s capital city of Lusaka before transferring to South Luangwa National Park. Dubbed one of the world’s greatest wildlife sanctuaries, this is the place to see more than 60 animal species and 400 bird species. Look for the Park’s signature leopards, or take a walking safari through the bush to get closer to the wildlife. After your safari, travel to the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls on the border with Zimbabwe. There are several viewing points, but those looking for an adrenaline rush can try swimming in the Devil’s Pool – right on the edge of the 100m high falls. Head to nearby Livingstone for your departure.
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Begin your trip by exploring Lusaka’s markets and museums, before travelling to the Lower Zambezi National Park for boat safaris, canoeing and the chance to see elephants, crocodiles, zebras and many more. Spend a couple of days wildlife watching before transferring the South Luangwa National Park. This wildlife sanctuary is famous for its population of leopards, so take a night safari to try to catch these big cats hunting. Once you’ve had your fill of safaris, travel to Livingstone for adventure activities including bungy jumping and white-water rafting, before spending a couple of days exploring the awesome power of Victoria Falls. Depart from Livingstone.
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Chikunto Safari Lodge
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The best place for big cats
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Kaingo Camp
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Leopard spotting in South Luangwa
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South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi safari
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South Luangwa and Victoria Falls Safari
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Victoria Falls and Zambia’s wildlife
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