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The birthplace of the walking safari, South Luangwa Park is a wildlife haven, especially for big cats. Luangwa Valley – where the park is located – is known as the “valley of the leopard” due to the high concentrations of leopards found here. Lions also call this park home, along with a host of other species. A South Luangwa Park safari is a true untamed wilderness experience.
Must-Visit Areas in South Luangwa Park
Visit the Luangwa River and its oxbow lagoons to see animals in the water and along the banks, and head to the Mfuwe section for phenomenal wildlife sightings:
Luangwa River: Lifeblood of the Park
As a major river system on the continent, the Luangwa River is home to a variety of wildlife and impressive flora.
You’ll find incredible concentrations of hippos and Nile crocodiles in and along the river. Large herds of elephants and buffaloes are often found along the riverbanks where they come to drink.
Mfuwe Sector: Explore the Wilderness on Foot
Due to the high concentration of wildlife here, this is an excellent area for game drives and walking safaris. As a popular region of the park, this is where many lodges lie.
Animals are more habituated than their cousins in North Luangwa Park, so don’t be surprised if you see a herd of elephants walking past your accommodation!
When’s the Best Time to Visit South Luangwa Park?
For the ultimate Zambia wildlife safari, South Luangwa Park is best visited in the dry season, from May to November. This time of the year sees little to no rainfall to dampen your game drives and walking safaris. Dry conditions thin out the vegetation and reduce the number of water sources, making it easier to find wildlife.
If you’re looking forward to adding a lot of birds to your list, it’s best to visit South Luangwa Park during the wet season, from December to April. Migrant species populate the park, making birdwatching safaris all the more exciting.
Animals Found in South Luangwa Park
Four of the Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, and buffaloes) can be spotted in South Luangwa Park, with the population of leopards here being one of the highest naturally occurring concentrations in the world. Other major drawcards for a Zambia safari here include healthy populations of spotted hyenas and African wild dogs. The Thornicroft’s giraffes that roam the plains are found only in this region, while the Cookson’s wildebeest are endemic to the Luangwa Valley ecosystem.
With over 400 species of birds, birdwatching safaris here are thrilling. Southern carmine bee-eaters and saddle-billed storks can be found in wetland areas, while other notable species to spot include Pel’s fishing owls, Lilian’s lovebirds, and woodland kingfishers.
How to Get to South Luangwa Park
Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in the capital city of Lusaka will be the starting point of your safari in Zambia. To get to South Luangwa Park, you’ll then take a flight to Mfuwe Airport within the park.
