Found deep in eastern Zambia’s remote wilderness, South Luangwa National Park is one of Africa’s last unspoilt safari frontiers, and staying within its borders is nothing short of extraordinary.
Known as the birthplace of the walking safari, the Luangwa Valley offers an intimate connection to nature that few destinations can match.
At South Luangwa National Park safari lodges days unfold to the rhythm of the bush: lions padding across the dusty plains, elephants drinking from oxbow lagoons, and carmine bee-eaters flashing scarlet against the river cliffs.
South Luangwa National Park boasts 60 different animal species and over 400 bird types. The Luangwa River is one of the most intact water systems in Africa, sustaining both fauna and flora in this vast untouched wilderness.
Why Stay Inside South Luangwa National Park
Choosing to stay at a South Luangwa safari lodge places you at the heart of the action. Most properties are set within private concessions or along the park boundary, allowing for early morning and late-afternoon drives when wildlife activity peaks. Guides are some of Africa’s most experienced, sharing their deep knowledge on foot during thrilling South Luangwa walking safaris
You’ll hear hippos grunting from your deck, see leopards hunting at dusk, and witness the daily drama of predator and prey without ever straying far from your South Luangwa National Park safari lodge.
Evenings bring the signature Zambian night drive, a highlight unique to the region, spot genets, civets, honey badgers and, if you’re lucky, a prowling leopard illuminated in the spotlight.
Best Time to Visit South Luangwa
The South Luangwa region is defined by distinct seasonal changes. The dry winter season, from the middle of April to October is the best time to visit while on a Zambia safari. The concentration of wildlife is at its peak. The days are sunny and the evenings very temperate.
The hottest month of the year is October. The summer rains from November turn the arid winter landscape into a lush green vista. In late March the migrant birds start to arrive, however many lodges close in the wet season as access is impossible.
The South Luangwa National Park is accessible by scheduled or chartered flights as well as road transfers. In the rainy season lodges steadily close as access becomes more difficult.
Stay at The Best Safari Lodges in South Luangwa
Think open-front chalets where you can watch giraffes wander by from your bed, or candlelit dinners beneath a sky scattered with southern stars.
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Luxury South Luangwa Lodges: Elegant riverfront retreats with plunge pools, spa treatments, fine dining and air-conditioned suites - perfect for honeymooners and discerning travellers.
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Classic South Luangwa Safari Camps: Canvas tents and thatched chalets with open-air bathrooms and campfires under the stars, delivering comfort with authentic safari charm.
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South Luangwa Bush Camps: Remote seasonal camps deep in the park’s wilderness areas - ideal for adventurous travellers seeking an immersive, off-grid walking safari experience.
Mfuwe Lodge in South Luangwa National Park, Zambia has a very special feature - you don't need to go out looking for wildlife, they come to ...
Experience the safari of a lifetime at Chikunto Safari Lodge in one of Africa’s most pristine and captivating landscapes - South Luangwa N...
A variety of exclusive and personalised safaris, traditional reed chalets and excellent cuisine is offered in a homely and welcoming atmosph...
Puku Ridge Camp is the type of Zambian safari lodge where you can revel in the rich abundance of wildlife offered along with traditional s...
Take a walk on the wild side at Chikoko Trails' two safari camps - Chikoko Tree Camp and Big Lagoon Camp, located on the west bank of the So...
Kapamba Bush Camp in Zambia provides you a South Luangwa safari experience of the highest standards. Relax and enjoy!...
Chamilandu Bushcamp is an exclusive Zambia game lodge miles from anywhere in an untouched part of Africa. Guests wont have to do without any...
Chindeni Bushcamp, a safari lodge is situated in the remote region of South Luangwa National Park in Zambia. It is shaded by a grove of larg...
Kafunta River Lodge is one of the best South Luangwa National Park safari lodges in Zambia. Set in riverside forest on the banks of the Luan...
Situated within the South Luangwa National Park, Kaingo Camp overlooks the Luangwa Deep River that offers exciting game viewing opportunitie...
Mwamba Bush Camp provides the opportunity for people with an adventurous spirit to explore the heartland of South Luangwa National Park in Z...
Kakuli Bush Camp is a seasonal camp which offers guests spacious accommodation in the scenic South Luangwa National Park, Zambia....
Luwi Bush Camp is located deep in one of Zambia's premier wildlife destinations, the South Luangwa National Park. This remote destination...
Mchenja Bush Camp lies hidden in a shady grove of age-old ebony trees on the bank of the Luangwa River in south Luangwa national Park, Zambi...
Luangwa Safari House is situated in the spell binding country of Zambia. This luxury South Luangwa National Park safari lodge can accommodat...
The family-friendly Nkwali Camp is home to Robin and Jo Pope and is the only camp located in the central Mfuwe area of South Luangwa....
Tena Tena is a remote and small safari camp in Zambia, guaranteeing personal service and attention to detail. Large custom made tents...
Nsefu Camp is situated in the Nsefu Sector in South Luangwa, Zambia. Guests can enjoy the breathtaking views over the Luangwa river...
Thornicroft is a South Luangwa National Park safari lodge in Zambia offering comfort and great value. You'll explore this pristine wildernes...
Remote and secluded, Zungulila Bushcamp in South Luangwa, offers guests a chance to see African wildlife on a Zambia walking safari....