South Luangwa National Park

Pros & Cons

• Excellent wildlife viewing
• Some of the best guides in Africa work in South Luangwa
• Great night drives and walking safaris
• Lots of choice for upmarket accommodation
• The sky gets very hazy in the Dry season
• All budget accommodation is outside the park

Wildlife

You can’t miss seeing big herds of elephant and buffalo in South Luangwa, and probably some lion and leopard too. There are plenty of other animals too. Some of them you won’t see anywhere else except in Zambia: Thornicroft's giraffe, Crawshay's zebra and Cookson's wildebeest.

• More about South Luangwa's wildlife

Scenery

South Luangwa is one of the most beautiful parks in southern Africa, especially when the late-afternoon light reflects off the Luangwa River. Locally known as 'The Valley', the terrain is a mix of mopane and miombo woodland, acacia shrub, grassland savannah and riverine forest. A walking safari will give you time to really appreciate it.

Weather & Climate

It’s hot in South Luangwa throughout the year, but nights are cooler in the Dry season months from May to August. The heat builds up from June/July and is at its worst in October – just before the rains. Afternoon showers are common in the Wet season (November to April).

• More about the weather and climate

Best Time to Visit

The sunny, dry season months are best for spotting animals – especially July to September. If you visit South Luangwa during the wetter months (November to April), you’ll understand why this is called the ‘emerald season’: beautiful greenery and really fresh air.

• More about the best time to visit

Want to Visit South Luangwa NP?

• South Luangwa safaris and tours
• Tour operators for South Luangwa