South Luangwa National Park

South Luangwa National Park

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.