6-Day South Luangwa Budget Safari

• You'll be collected from the airport.
• Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.

Arrival and Welcome

Your South Luangwa adventure begins with a warm welcome at Mfuwe Airport, where our friendly local team will be waiting to transfer you to your lodge. The drive from the airport takes about 30 minutes, offering a first glimpse of the rural charm and wildlife-rich surroundings of the Luangwa Valley. Upon arrival, you’ll check in and settle into your comfortable, locally-run accommodation. Enjoy light refreshments and an orientation to get you familiar with the days ahead. In the late afternoon, stretch your legs with a casual stroll around the lodge or along the nearby riverbanks. As the sun begins to set, gather for a sundowner overlooking the landscape, followed by a delicious dinner prepared with locally sourced ingredients. This relaxing first day sets the tone for a meaningful, community-powered safari experience. It’s all about authentic connection—from the moment you arrive, you’re part of something special.

Main Destination:

South Luangwa National Park

Best Time To Visit July to October (Animals are easy to find)

High Season July to October (Busy and high-season rates apply)

Best Weather April to August (Cooler and it hardly ever rains)

Wildlife in South Luangwa NP

ElephantAbundant

GiraffeCommon

LionCommon

LeopardCommon

BuffaloAbundant

HippoAbundant

Show more

ZebraCommon

HyenaCommon

Wild DogOccasional

WildebeestRare

White RhinoNone

Black RhinoNone

CheetahNone

Accommodation:

Local Lodge

• Budget guest house located inside South Luangwa NP

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Wildlife Drives by Day and Night

Start your day early with tea or coffee before heading out on a thrilling morning game drive at around 06:00 hrs. In an open 4×4 vehicle guided by a skilled local expert, you’ll explore South Luangwa’s diverse landscapes—from floodplains to woodlands—spotting lions, leopards, elephants, giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, and a rich variety of birdlife. Return to the lodge by midday for a well-earned lunch and some rest during the hottest part of the day. In the evening, after dinner, embark on a night drive with a spotlight to uncover the park’s nocturnal side. Look out for shy and elusive creatures like civets, genets, bush babies, owls, and perhaps even a leopard on the hunt. This full day of safari adventure gives you a taste of South Luangwa’s incredible biodiversity, guided by passionate locals who know the land best.

Main Destination:

South Luangwa National Park

Accommodation:

Local Lodge

• Budget lodge located inside South Luangwa NP

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Full-Day Safari Expedition

Today is all about immersing yourself in the wild heart of South Luangwa. After an early breakfast, set out at 06:00 hrs for a full-day game drive, venturing deep into the park’s most iconic areas such as Point and Nsefu Lofu. With a packed breakfast and lunch enjoyed under shady acacia trees, you’ll have the flexibility to follow wildlife activity as it unfolds—especially predators like lions and leopards around riverbanks and open plains. Your experienced local guide will tailor the route to maximize sightings, whether it’s elephants at a waterhole or hippos in the river. Take a break in the afternoon for a scenic sundowner at a stunning viewpoint, watching the landscape shift under golden light. Return to the lodge around 18:00 hrs for a relaxing evening, a hearty dinner, and time to reflect on the unforgettable day. This extended drive offers both adventure and quiet connection with nature in one of Zambia’s finest wildlife areas.

Main Destination:

South Luangwa National Park

Accommodation:

Local Lodge

• Budget lodge located inside South Luangwa NP

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Walking Safari & Relaxation

Begin the day with a light snack and tea or coffee before setting off on a guided walking safari around 06:00 hrs. Accompanied by a licensed local guide and armed scout, this 3–4 hour walk offers a deeper, more intimate experience of the bush. Learn to identify animal tracks, bird calls, insects, and medicinal plants while safely exploring the ecosystem on foot. It’s an eye-opening way to see the small wonders often missed on game drives. After the walk, return to the lodge for a well-deserved hearty brunch and a relaxing afternoon—ideal for a nap, a swim, or catching up on a good book. In the late afternoon, enjoy a short game drive or unwind with sundowners by the riverbank. The day ends with another delicious dinner at the lodge, filled with stories and reflections on the beauty of the Luangwa wilderness.

Main Destination:

South Luangwa National Park

Accommodation:

Local Lodge

• Budget lodge located inside South Luangwa NP

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Culture & Community

After breakfast, immerse yourself in the heart of local life with a guided village tour lasting 3–4 hours. Limited to a small group of 1–8 guests, this respectful, authentic experience allows you to engage with the local community near South Luangwa. Learn about daily life, traditional farming methods, local crafts, and perhaps even help prepare a simple, home-cooked meal. It’s a chance to connect, share stories, and gain meaningful insight into the culture that surrounds the park. Return to the lodge by midday for lunch and a relaxing afternoon—enjoy a siesta, take a swim, or choose an optional short game drive if you're still feeling adventurous. In the evening, gather for a special farewell dinner, celebrating not only the wildlife you’ve seen but also the people you’ve met. This day reinforces the core of our 100% local initiative—travel that empowers and connects.

Main Destination:

South Luangwa National Park

Accommodation:

Local Lodge

• Budget lodge located inside South Luangwa NP

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Departure

Your final day begins with a leisurely breakfast at the lodge, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature one last time. After breakfast, our team will transfer you to Mfuwe Airport in time for your onward flight to Lusaka or your next destination. It’s a smooth and scenic drive, giving you a moment to reflect on your incredible journey—one filled with rich wildlife encounters, meaningful community interactions, and authentic Zambian hospitality. As you say goodbye to South Luangwa, you leave not just with beautiful memories but also knowing your visit directly supported the people and places that make this region so special. Thank you for choosing a safari that truly makes a difference.

Main Destination:

No major destination visited

Accommodation:

No accommodation (End of tour)

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast & lunch (Dinner not included)
• Drinks not included

• Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost.
• You'll be dropped off at the airport.