The birthplace of the walking safari and one of Africa’s finest game viewing destinations. The Luangwa River and its many oxbow lagoons create extraordinary wildlife corridors — the park has Africa’s highest hippo density and one of its most reliable leopard populations. Guiding standards are extraordinarily high: South Luangwa’s walking safari guides are considered among the most knowledgeable in Africa.
Ratings
Wildlife Density: ★★★★★ Infrastructure: ★★★☆☆ Photography: ★★★★★
Adventure: ★★★★★ Exclusivity: ★★★★☆ Value for Money: ★★★☆☆ Scenery: ★★★★★
Key wildlife: Leopard (exceptional density and reliability), lion, elephant, hippo (highest density in Africa), Nile crocodile, buffalo, wild dog (regular packs), Cookson’s wildebeest (endemic), Thornicroft’s giraffe (endemic), puku, impala
Best for: Walking safaris, leopard sightings, serious wildlife enthusiasts, expert guiding, night drives
Best time: May–October (dry season, walking safaris, wildlife concentrates at river)
More about this reserve will be added here over time.