Overview
Take a trip to South Luangwa National Park on your Zambia Vacation
Located in eastern Zambia, South Luangwa National Park is the southernmost (of three) national park found in the valley of the Luangwa River. World-renowned for its wildlife on Zambia safaris, the park was pivotal in the development of the now popular African walking safari.
In May 1938, three reserves were established in the valley of the Luangwa River: North Luangwa Game Reserve, Lukusuzi Game Reserve and South Luangwa Reserve. The following year, Norman Carr, a British conservationist, was appointed as a game ranger within South Luangwa. He was a pioneer when it came to commercial walking safaris and helped build the strong reputation that South Luangwa maintains today. With the help of new legislation, the reserve was designated as a national park in 1972.
While South Luangwa remains popular with tourists on a Zambia safari, its inaccessible location ensures that visitor numbers never get too high at any given time. The concentration of games found around the river and its lagoons are some of the most intense in Africa. The park supports large herds of Thornicroft’s giraffes, elephants and buffalo while it is estimated that there are around 50 hippopotami per kilometre of the river. The density of leopards is among the highest in the world, and with South Luangwa being one of a few parks to allow night safaris, there is a chance that visitors may spot these elusive creatures on a Zambia vacation.
At a Glance
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Zambian Kwacha (ZMW)What do the experts say?
Compared to some other African safari destinations like Kenya or South Africa, Zambia offers a more off-the-beaten-path, less commercialized experience. Its a hidden treasure.
If you looking for the best time to visit then pick June to October for prime wildlife viewing and ideal weather conditions.
Zambia still feels like visiting a hidden gem.. It feels authentic, rugged and unscathed by tourism. South Luwangwa has stunning landscapes, high levels of biodiversity, and expert guides who openly and expertly share their knowledge of the wildlife and ecosystems.
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