South Luangwa National Park- Self Drive Zambia
South Luangwa National Park, is located in the eastern part of Zambia, in the heart of the Luangwa Valley. The park spans across Northern, Eastern, and Central Zambia and is situated approximately 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) from the capital, Lusaka.
It lies along the Luangwa River, and is widely regarded as one of the most exceptional wildlife sanctuaries in the world spanning 9,050 km² (5,623 mi²), the park is famous for its rich concentration of wildlife, particularly around the Luangwa River and its oxbow lagoons, which are essential to the ecosystem.
The river, the most intact major river system in Africa, sustains a remarkable variety of animals, birds, and plant life, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. As the birthplace of the famous ‘walking safari,’ South Luangwa offers an intimate, on-foot way to experience Africa’s untouched wilderness.
The park’s beauty is further enhanced by the changing seasons, from the dry, open bush in winter (April to October) to the vibrant, green landscapes in summer (November to March). Home to over 60 animal species and 400 bird species, including 39 birds of prey and 47 migratory species, the park provides plenty of opportunities for wildlife observation, though the rhino, sadly poached to extinction, is no longer found here.
South Luangwa is also known as the Leopard Capital of Africa, with the highest density of leopards in the world, offering visitors a rare chance to witness these elusive big cats in their natural environment. The dense vegetation of the Luangwa Valley provides perfect camouflage, adding to the excitement of a safari.
The park is also rich in diverse plant life, including impressive trees like mopane, leadwood, marula, and baobab, which further enrich the experience. Whether you’re watching leopards or exploring the park’s diverse flora and fauna, the expertise of local guides ensures an enriching adventure.
With its extraordinary wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and first-class accommodations, South Luangwa guarantees an unforgettable safari experience. Founded in 1972, the park continues to captivate visitors with its unparalleled natural beauty and unique wildlife encounters.
Must See in South Luangwa
- Lions
- African Wild Dogs
- Elephants
- Buffalos
- Giant Forest Hog
- Endangered Black Rhinos
- Leopards

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Things to do in South Luangwa National Park
South Luangwa National Park has a lot of exciting things to do for everyone who loves safaris. Whether you want to see amazing animals, enjoy nature, or learn about the park’s plants and animals, there’s something for you.
You can go on thrilling game drives, walking safaris, birdwatching, and night safaris, each offering a unique way to experience the park’s beautiful wilderness. Here are some of the best things to do in South Luangwa National Park:
Walking Safaris, in South Luangwa are a legacy, pioneered by the legendary conservationist Norman Carr in the late 1960s, and offer an extraordinary, immersive experience that connects visitors directly with the wilderness.
Widely recognized as the birthplace of walking safaris, Zambia and South Luangwa set the gold standard for this unique adventure. Guided by seasoned experts with decades of experience, every walk is tailored to the environment and wildlife, ensuring no two experiences are alike. From encountering elephants and lions to the elusive leopard, walking safaris provide an intimate and exhilarating perspective of the park’s wildlife. The knowledgeable guides are crucial to the experience, sharing fascinating insights into the ecosystem, and transforming each trek into an educational journey.
Whether you’re walking from camp to camp with an armed ranger, or exploring on foot, this thrilling activity offers a rare and captivating way to explore the heart of Africa.
Night game drives, As the sun sets over South Luangwa, a whole new world comes to life with the thrilling adventure of night drives. These drives offer a unique chance to explore the park’s nocturnal realm, where elusive leopards, primarily active at night, can often be spotted, adding an element of excitement and mystery.
Spotlights reveal hidden wonders like hyenas and civets, while the sounds of the African night—animal calls, rustling leaves, and the distant roar of a lion—further enhance the sensory experience. Filtered red spotlights minimize disturbance to wildlife while providing excellent visibility for guests.
Night drives typically last until around 9:00 p.m., allowing ample time to observe the behavior patterns of nocturnal animals, offering a perspective distinct from daytime sightings. This thrilling experience adds a captivating new dimension to your safari adventure, immersing you in the vibrant, mysterious world of South Luangwa after dark.
Wildlife experience, South Luangwa National Park offers the classic safari experience, with opportunities to see the Big 5—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—along with wild dogs, giraffes, and many other iconic species.
The park is home to unique wildlife, including species found nowhere else on Earth, such as Cookson’s wildebeest, Crawshay’s zebra, and Thornicroft’s giraffe, making each sighting special. These endemic species contribute to the park’s charm and allure, along with over 60 different animal species, including majestic African elephants and lions.
Watching a pride of lions or a herd of elephants moving through the bush leaves a lasting impression, while the park’s biodiversity ensures diverse and exciting wildlife sightings. South Luangwa is particularly renowned for its large herds of elephants and Cape buffalo, and whether exploring on foot or by vehicle, the chance to encounter such impressive wildlife is unmatched. Additionally, unique solar-powered e-cruisers are available at Shawa Luangwa Camp, adding an eco-friendly touch to your safari adventure.
Birding, for birdwatchers, South Luangwa National Park is a true paradise, home to over 400 bird species that will captivate any enthusiast.
The park boasts an extraordinary diversity of avian life, from the iconic African fish eagle to the elusive Pel’s fishing owl, making it a bird lover’s dream. One of the most spectacular sights is the gathering of southern carmine bee-eaters, which establish their breeding grounds in the park from late August to early September. Their vibrant plumage and large colonies create a visual spectacle unlike any other. The Green Season, from November to April, is the best time for birdwatching, as the lush landscape comes alive with resident and migratory species alike, further enriching the park’s birdlife. Whether you’re a seasoned ornithologist or a casual bird lover, South Luangwa offers a rich and rewarding birdwatching experience.

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Boat Safaris, available during the dry season, boat safaris offer a different perspective on the park as you glide past hippos and crocodiles while enjoying birdwatching and a sunset on the river.
Sleep Outs, for a unique experience, spend a night under the stars in a ‘sleep out’ – either on the ground or on a raised deck. Enjoy the sounds of the wild while safe with an armed ranger nearby.
Shopping with a Purpose, visit Mulberry Mongoose for jewellery made from poachers’ snare wire, supporting local conservation efforts. Tribal Textiles offers locally made goods, with 5% of sales reinvested in community and conservation initiatives.
Best Time to Visit
A significant advantage of South Luangwa National Park is its year-round accessibility, the best time to visit varies depending on your preferences for wildlife sightings, weather, and crowds. From July to October, during the peak season, you’ll experience the most prolific wildlife sightings as dry conditions make it easier to spot animals around rivers and waterholes, though temperatures soar in September and October.
The park is more accessible with reduced vegetation, but it is also the busiest time of the year. April to June offers a mid-season experience with mild temperatures, lush greenery, and fewer crowds, making it a great time to enjoy comfortable conditions and beautiful scenery. From November to March, the green season brings lush landscapes, blooming flowers, and an increase in birdlife, ideal for birdwatching and spotting new born animals.
While fewer camps may be open and some roads can be challenging, this period offers lower prices and a more peaceful experience.
Getting There,
South Luangwa is easily accessible via Mfuwe Airport, located near the park. Scheduled flights include daily services from Lusaka (1 hour) with Proflight and four weekly flights from Lilongwe (1 hour) with Nyasa Express. Charter flights are also available from other destinations such as Lower Zambezi, Kafue, Livingstone, and Liuwa Plains. If you’re combining your safari with a visit to Malawi, Lilongwe is just a 4-hour drive away.
Additionally, you can easily connect to Livingstone (Victoria Falls) from Lusaka and then take a short flight to South Luangwa, making it a seamless Zambia experience. As by road, the park is well-connected, with good-conditioned roads from Chipata to Mfuwe and compacted unpaved roads, ensuring easy navigation regardless of the season. This makes it an ideal destination for experiencing the wonders of the African wilderness at any time of the year.

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Car Rental in Kenya- Self Drive in East Africa.
If your planning an overland road trip to explore the best Kenya National parks like Aberdare National Park its possible to book Toyota Land Cruiser lx 76 series is recommended for road trips to Namibia, Zambia , Botswana, Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda, bush camper manual transmission, reliable 4×4 for self drive safari. Equipped with a rooftop tent suitable for 2 people with a mattress, sleeping bags, and pillows or a connectable ground tent and camping equipment ( Kitchen utensils, a dining table, a camping light and chairs)Go wild camping Any everywhere with 4wd Africa
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Landcruiser 76 Series | UGANDA | TANZANIA | KENYA | RWANDA |
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SELF DRIVE | $100 | $150 | $150 | $140 |
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Practical information about Lake Mburo
Entrance Fees: Entrance fees to the park are about $40 per foreign adult.
Game Drive: Game drives with a ranger cost around $30–$40 for a half-day drive.
Boat Safari: The cost for a boat safari is around $30 per person for a 1–2-hour ride.
Walking Safari: A guided walking safari costs around $30 per person.
Horseback Safari: Horseback safaris are available at $50 per person for a 1–2-hour ride.
Fishing: Fishing trips are typically around $30 for a half-day trip.
Remarks
Lake Mburo National Park is a distinctive and easily reachable destination that offers a close-up wildlife experience. Whether you’re an animal enthusiast, an adventure lover, or simply seeking a tranquil day in nature, Lake Mburo promises an unforgettable outing.
With its undulating hills, serene lake waters, thrilling game drives, and quiet boat safaris, there is a perfect activity for every type of traveler in Lake Mburo National Park. It’s among Uganda’s best-kept secrets and is highly recommended for those wanting to escape the chaos of daily life.
Whether it’s your first trip to Uganda or you’ve explored other national parks, experiencing Lake Mburo will create lasting memories and foster a profound appreciation for the country’s stunning natural landscapes.

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