Discover the Untamed Beauty of South Luangwa National Park
Experience the wild heart of Africa at South Luangwa National Park, a sanctuary of biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes.
South Luangwa National Park is an extraordinary haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers, sprawling over 9,050 square kilometers of pristine wilderness in Zambia. Renowned for its diverse ecosystems, the park is home to an impressive array of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, and the elusive wild dog. The Luangwa River, which winds through the park, serves as a lifeline for the flora and fauna, creating breathtaking landscapes that change with the seasons. Visitors can embark on thrilling safari drives and guided walking safaris, offering a unique perspective on the incredible wildlife and their habitats. The park is particularly famous for its walking safaris, a more intimate way to experience the African bush, allowing tourists to connect with nature in a profound way. The best time to visit South Luangwa is during the dry season, from May to October, when wildlife congregates around water sources, making sightings more frequent. The park's varied habitats, including woodlands, grasslands, and riverine forests, provide excellent opportunities for birdwatching, with over 400 species recorded. Accommodations range from luxury lodges to budget-friendly campsites, catering to all types of travelers. Each visit to South Luangwa offers a chance to witness the circle of life in action, from playful elephant calves to majestic predators at dusk. Whether you're an avid photographer, an adventurous soul, or simply seeking tranquility in nature, South Luangwa National Park promises a memorable experience in one of Africa's last true wilderness areas.
Local tips
- Opt for a guided walking safari for a closer, more personal experience with the wildlife.
- Visit during the dry season for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Bring binoculars and a good camera to capture the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.
- Stay in different lodges to experience various wildlife hotspots within the park.
- Consider a night safari to witness the park's nocturnal creatures in action.
A brief summary to South Luangwa National Park
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving to South Luangwa National Park, start your journey from the capital of Northern Province, Kasama. Take the T2 road south towards Chipata. After approximately 370 km, turn onto the M1 road towards Lusaka. Continue on the M1 for another 200 km until you reach the junction for the Luangwa Bridge. Follow the signs to South Luangwa National Park, which is about 50 km from the junction. Note that the roads can be bumpy, so a 4x4 vehicle is recommended. Ensure your vehicle is fueled up before leaving Chipata, as services can be sparse.
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Public Transportation - Bus
To reach South Luangwa National Park via public transport, you can board a bus from Kasama to Chipata. Buses run regularly from the main bus station and the fare is approximately ZMW 70. The journey takes about 6 hours. Once in Chipata, you will need to catch another bus or minibus to Mfuwe, which is the nearest town to the park. The fare for this leg is around ZMW 30 and the journey takes about 1.5 hours. From Mfuwe, you can hire a taxi or a shuttle service to the park entrance, which is about 20 km away. Expect to pay around ZMW 150 for the taxi.
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Private Transfer
For a more comfortable and direct route, consider booking a private transfer from Chipata to South Luangwa National Park. Many tour companies offer this service, and it can be arranged in advance. The cost typically ranges from ZMW 1000 to ZMW 1500 depending on the provider and vehicle type. This option allows you to travel at your own pace and directly to the park entrance, which is the most convenient choice if you have luggage or prefer not to deal with multiple transport changes.
Attractions Nearby to South Luangwa National Park
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Nkwali Camp
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Mikango Safari
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Mushilashi Bridge
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Chinzombo viewpoint
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World Wild Life Monument
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Njobvu Safari
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Project Luangwa
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TIME + TIDE LUWI CAMP
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Norman Carr Monument
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Wild tours and safaris
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Mulberry Mongoose
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Chibembe Bush Camp (Closed November to June)
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Luangwa River
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Shenton Safaris Kaingo Camp
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Lion Camp, South Luangwa National Park
Landmarks nearby to South Luangwa National Park
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Kuyenda Bushcamp, The Bushcamp Company
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Chichele Presidential Lodge Zambia
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Puku Ridge Camp
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Luangwa Safari House
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Wildlife Camp
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TIME + TIDE CHINZOMBO
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Kafunta River Lodge
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Flatdogs Camp
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the Bush-Spa, South Luangwa National Park
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Mfuwe Lodge, The Bushcamp Company
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Track and Trail River Camp
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Personal Touch Safaris South Luangwa National Park
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Croc Valley Camp
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Thornicroft Lodge - South Luangwa
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Luangwa River Camp