All National Parks
South Luangwa National Park
Birthplace of the Walking Safari
South Luangwa is Zambia's finest national park and widely regarded as one of the best in Africa — renowned for extraordinary concentrations of leopards, the largest density of hippos in Africa, and as the birthplace of the walking safari in 1950. The park's remote, off-the-beaten-path character and high-quality camp operators create a genuinely authentic safari experience far removed from mass tourism.
Size
9,050 km²
Est.
1972
Peak Season
Jun – Oct (dry season)
From
$400–$1,200/day
Why Visit South Luangwa National Park?
Walking safaris — guided on foot through wilderness with tracking experts — a bucket-list experience invented here in 1950
The highest concentration of leopards in Africa — multiple sightings per game drive are common
Thornicroft's giraffe and Cookson's wildebeest are endemic subspecies found only in the Luangwa Valley
Wildlife
LeopardLionAfrican Wild DogElephantHippoThornicroft's GiraffeCookson's WildebeestCarmine Bee-Eater
Activities
Walking SafariGame DriveNight DrivePhotographic HideCanoe SafariVillage Visit
Best Time to Visit & Costs
Peak Season
Jun – Oct (dry season)
Best Months
May, June, July
Daily Cost (all-in)
$400–$1,200
Park Entrance Fee
$25/day per person
Safari Tours to Zambia
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Browse all safari tours →Frequently Asked Questions
Why is South Luangwa famous for walking safaris?
Norman Carr pioneered the walking safari in South Luangwa in 1950 — the first operator to offer guided walks through African wilderness. The park's dense bush and rich wildlife make tracking on foot exhilarating. All licensed camps offer guided walking safaris led by experienced armed professional guides. Night walks are also available.
What is the best time to visit South Luangwa?
May–October is peak season — the Luangwa River level drops, concentrating hippos and crocodiles in pools, and wildlife gathers at remaining water sources. July–October is outstanding for leopard sightings. The Emerald Season (Nov–Apr) brings dramatic skies, newborn animals, and the famous carmine bee-eater colonies (Oct–Dec).
How much does South Luangwa cost?
South Luangwa camps range from budget bush camps ($200–$300/night) to ultra-luxury properties ($1,000–$2,000/night). Most mid-range camps ($400–$700/night) are fully inclusive of all meals, game activities, park fees, and laundry. The park's remoteness keeps visitor numbers low — a deliberate conservation strategy.
Is South Luangwa good for leopards?
Yes — South Luangwa has the highest documented leopard density in Africa. Leopard sightings are so reliable that repeat visitors sometimes see 3–5 leopards in a single evening drive. The riverine forest along the Luangwa River provides ideal leopard habitat. Night drives (unique to South Luangwa among major parks) dramatically increase sighting opportunities.
How do I get to South Luangwa?
Fly into Mfuwe Airport from Lusaka (1.5 hours) or Johannesburg (via Lusaka). Charter flights connect to smaller airstrips deeper in the park. Road access from Lusaka takes 7–8 hours on the Great East Road — scenic but long. The standard South Luangwa itinerary is 4–6 nights with a Lusaka stopover for international connections.
Combine with Nearby Parks
Ready to Visit South Luangwa National Park?
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