Zambia

South Luangwa National Park The home of the walking safari

4 days recommended From $1,400 Best: May–October
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Highlights
  • Walking safari birthplace
  • highest leopard concentration in Africa
  • night drives
  • 1000+ buffalo herds
  • Luangwa River hippos
  • wild dog

South Luangwa is the park where the walking safari was born — Norman Carr pioneered the concept here in the 1950s and the tradition continues today with Zambia’s rigidly trained walking safari guides. The park holds one of the highest concentrations of leopard in Africa — sightings here are more reliable than almost anywhere else on the continent. The Luangwa River and its oxbow lagoons support enormous concentrations of hippos and crocodiles. Buffalo herds of 1,000 or more move through the flood plains. Night drives are permitted here and deliver extraordinary sightings: genets, civets, African wild cat, lion hunts, and leopard on kills.

The Plan · Signature Journeys

Safaris through
South Luangwa National Park

Hand-picked expeditions — tell us your dates and we'll route South Luangwa National Park into your trip.

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Where to Stay

Camps & lodges
in the region

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Robin Pope Nkwali Camp

Robin Pope's flagship on the Luangwa River. Eight rooms, exceptional guiding, and the finest walking safari programme in…

From $720/night View
Good to Know

Planning South Luangwa National Park

When is the best time to visit South Luangwa National Park?
The best time is May–October. We plan around the wildlife and conditions you care about, so we'll match your dates to what's happening on the ground.
How many days do I need for South Luangwa National Park?
We recommend around 4 days here, and we can fold it into a longer Northern Circuit or beach-and-bush itinerary.
How much does a South Luangwa National Park safari cost?
A guided safari to South Luangwa National Park starts from about $1,400 per person, depending on season, lodge tier and group size. We send a transparent, all-in quote before you commit.
How do I get to South Luangwa National Park?
Most travellers fly into Kilimanjaro (JRO) and start from Arusha. We arrange every transfer, vehicle and internal flight so you never have to work out the logistics yourself.
Is it suitable for first-timers and families?
Yes. Every trip is private and guided, so the pace, drive times and activities are built around you — including families with children and first-time safari-goers.
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South Luangwa National Park?

Tell us your dates and interests — Shaiya replies personally within 24 hours.

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