Why choose South Luangwa?

A wild valley on the Luangwa River famed as the birthplace of the walking safari and known as the Valley of the Leopard, with excellent guiding and low vehicle density.

When is the best time to visit?

June to October is dry with concentrated wildlife and peak walking conditions. November to April is green with newborns, dramatic skies and rich birding. We tailor pacing to your dates.

Are night drives allowed?

Yes. Guided night drives are a hallmark of South Luangwa and complement daytime viewing with leopard and other nocturnal species.

What unique seasonal spectacles occur?

Southern carmine bee-eaters nest in colonies along the Luangwa’s banks typically from August to October, creating world class photographic opportunities at specialist hides.

Blend riverfront elegance with classic bush camps: Chinzombo pairs well with a walking circuit between Luwi, Nsolo, Kakuli and Mchenja. Add hilltop views at Puku Ridge or historic Chichele Presidential.

SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK

South Luangwa is a wild valley of ebony groves, floodplains and the meandering Luangwa River. Known as the Valley of the Leopard and birthplace of the walking safari, it offers superb day and night game viewing, rich birdlife and authentic, unhurried safari. From riverside elegance to remote bush camps.

Explore Experience Inspiration

Boat safari on the Luangwa River, South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

QUICK FACTS
Luangwa River
Leopard stronghold
Walking safaris
Night drives
Carmine bee-eater

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Luxury safari suite with private deck overlooking the plains, South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

Rivers, Ebony Groves & Predators

Begin on the Luangwa’s sweeping bend at Chinzombo, then walk between Luwi, Nsolo and Kakuli or game-drive to ebony-shaded Mchenja. Track leopard at dusk and wake to elephant crossings near Puku Ridge; pause for hilltop views at Chichele Presidential. South Luangwa moves at a wild, unhurried pace.

Experiences & Highlights

Shape days around Walking Safaris, day & night drives and time in wildlife hides; add seasonal boating when water levels allow, golden-hour Photography Safaris, and Under-the-Stars sleepouts. Evenings bring Bush Dining and Stargazing. NOMARA crafted stays range from riverside style at Chinzombo or Mchenja to classic vantage points at Puku Ridge and Chichele Presidential.