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.
Hidden gems in South Luangwa National Park
South Luangwa National Park
Chikunto Safari Lodge
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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South Luangwa National Park
The best place for big cats
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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South Luangwa National Park
Kaingo Camp
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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Chikunto Safari Lodge
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Kaingo Camp
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South Luangwa National Park itineraries
Zambia
Victoria Falls and Zambia’s wildlife
Wildlife sanctuaries and powerful waterfalls
10 days $4,430 – $5,590 ppSouth Luangwa National Park travel companies
Central America,
Africa,
Central Asia
YellowWood Adventures
Sustainable travel for the modern-day explorer
South America,
Africa,
Europe
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