South Luangwa

South Luangwa National Park: Zambia’s Leopard Capital

The South Luangwa National Park in Zambia lies at the wild, southern end of the Great Rift Valley. Here, the mighty Luangwa River snakes through ancient ebony groves, primeval forest, and lush savanna, creating one of Africa’s most biodiverse sanctuaries. Think hippo-packed ox-bow lagoons, silent mopane woodland, and enough birdlife (450+ species) to distract even hardened big-cat addicts.

An ideal South Luangwa safari is six to eight nights in two or three contrasting camps. Start in the central sector—Chinzombo, Nkwali or Mfuwe Lodge—where game is relaxed and photography is almost too easy.

Then perhaps trade wheels for walking boots and head to some of the more remote Luangwa bush camps. Tiny hideaways on forgotten river loops where elephants rumble past your tent flap.

The South Luangwa is particularly known for its walking safaris. Both multi-day options, but also simply walking from one bush camp to another.

But flexible guiding is a hallmark in the South Luangwa. Perhaps swap a morning game drive for a 2-3-hour walk. Or combine the two. Night drives give you the chance to spot prowling leopard.

Getting to your South Luangwa Safari

There are daily flights into Mfuwe airport from Lusaka, (and in season you may be able to fly direct to/from Lower Zambezi). From Mfuwe, your lodge collects you to transfer, sometimes game-viewing en route, to the camp.

Also daily flight to/from Lilongwe in Malawi so you can combine South Luangwa with Lake Malawi.

In short: if you like your wilderness raw, your predators plentiful and your sundowners perfectly chilled, South Luangwa delivers in spades.

Ready for your South Luangwa adventure?

Chat with our safari designers and craft a tailor-made itinerary—leopard tracking and legendary walking safaris included.