South Luangwa National Park
Africa · Zambia
See also
Lilongwe
Malawi13.98°S 33.78°E · 1,050 m
Overview
South Luangwa is one of Africa’s greatest wildlife sanctuaries, with one of the continent’s largest concentrations of wildlife in a 9,050 km² park centered on the Luangwa River. Unlike many famous parks, it remains relatively inaccessible and uncrowded—and it’s one of the few African parks that allow night safaris, letting you see predators in action after dark.
Languages: English
Why go?
South Luangwa is one of Africa’s greatest wildlife sanctuaries, with one of the continent’s largest concentrations of wildlife in a 9,050 km² park centered on the Luangwa River. Unlike many famous parks, it remains relatively inaccessible and uncrowded—and it’s one of the few African parks that allow night safaris, letting you see predators in action after dark. The best time to visit is now, before visitor numbers catch up to Kruger or Serengeti levels.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Getting in
The two main access points are Mfuwe Gate near the village of Mfuwe (connected by bridge) and Nyamaluma 50 km southwest, where a pontoon ferry crosses the river. Most visitors fly into Mfuwe Airport or arrive via private vehicle from Lusaka, Chipata, or Lilongwe, but public transport to Mfuwe is possible for budget travelers.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Fees and permits
As of 2016, non-Zambians pay US$25 per day park fee. Bringing your own vehicle costs an extra US$15 (foreign registration) or 12,500 kwacha for locals. Entry permits are valid for a single calendar day only, from 06:00 to 18:00. Full fee schedules are published by Zambia Tourism.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
When to go
Peak season is May to October; May–August are cool and dry, while September–October are very hot with humidity building but offer the best game viewing as animals gather near water sources. November to December is hot and humid, and January–April is the rainy “green” season—some lodges close, others offer steep discounts, and birdwatching peaks. March to June is prime time for spotting the elusive African wild dog.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Where to stay
Accommodation ranges from budget camping at US$10-12 per person to mid-range lodges at US$150-250 per person per night, up to luxury options at US$370-500 per person per night. July–September peak season sees high demand—book far in advance. During green season (January–April), many lodges close but those open often offer 30-50% discounts. Budget options include Marula Lodge (dorms from US$10, tents US$15 pp/pn) and Track and Trail River Camp (camping US$10 low season).
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Things to do
Game drives are the primary activity, typically costing US$50-100 for half-day excursions. Night safaris are a standout feature—South Luangwa is one of the few parks in Africa where this is permitted. Walking safaris are offered by most camps including Island Bush Camp, and some lodges like Shenton Safaris operate photographic hides used by National Geographic and BBC. Cultural village tours are available at some lodges.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Safety
Walking in the bush at night is extremely dangerous—all lodges provide escorts even for short distances within their grounds. Hippos, crocodiles, lions, and buffalo kill people every year; victims are mostly unfortunate locals, but tourists should remain vigilant. Never walk alone after dark, follow your guide’s instructions, and stay inside vehicles during game drives unless on a guided walking safari.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Connectivity
Mobile phones do work in the park and Mfuwe village has GSM coverage. However, safari lodges and the airport rely on radio systems for local communication. The CyberDog Internet Café at Flatdog Camp offers two terminals at US$1 per 15 minutes, open 07:00–21:30. WiFi at lodges like Mushroom Lodge and Croc Valley is available but often dependent on generator electricity.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Budget
Budget travelers should budget US$25/day for park fees, US$10-35 for accommodation (camping to dorms), and US$50-100 for game drives. Multi-day all-inclusive safari tours from operators like Jackalberry Safaris start around US$135 for 3 days including transport from Chipata, meals, and activities. Budget camping plus self-catering can keep daily costs around US$60-80 excluding flights.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Day trips
Mfuwe village just outside the park has minor attractions and services. North Luangwa National Park offers wilder game and fewer visitors but requires either a short flight or an arduous drive. Several operators offer day trips departing from nearby towns.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Go next
Mfuwe village sits just outside the park with basic services and minor attractions. North Luangwa National Park is reachable by short flight or long drive, offering wilder game experiences with fewer visitors. Lusaka, Chipata, and Lilongwe (Malawi) are major transport hubs for regional connections.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Field guide adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0. Text has been adapted and organized for this guide. About our sources.
Places to know
A few starting points from the guide. Check current hours and prices before you go.
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Croc Valley
Terraces with nice view of the river and hippos. Chalets, shared rooms, tents, camping, restaurant, bar, swimming pool, gym, morning / sunset + night game drives, walking safaris and other excursions available. Wi-Fi when electricity is available. Elephants may wander around.
Recorded price: Shared room w/ shared Bathroom: US$35, morning / sunset + night 4-hour game drive: US$50
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
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Island Bush Camp
Island Bush Camp lies under a grove of mahogany trees on the banks of the Luangwa River in the heart of the South Luangwa National Park. This intimate bush camp provides a real safari bush experience in rustic but comfortable accommodation in grass and reed huts built on stilts providing great views of the Luangwa Valley. The camp specialises in walking safaris but also offers game drives and night drives.
Recorded price: US$270-495
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
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Kafunta River Lodge
Wonderful safari lodge with friendly service, knowledgeable guides, stunning views of the Luangwa River and the Luangwa Valley. It has a pool, a natural hot spring tub, a wellness spa, a hide and a tree deck. Kafunta River Lodge has its own pontoon 5 minutes from the lodge taking you to the more remote areas of the park and providing a shortcut to the main gate 10 km north of the lodge.
Recorded price: US$370-490
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
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Marula Lodge
Budget accommodation right on the Luangwa river with chalets and safari tents. It's the closest lodge to the main gate of South Luangwa National Park and has lots of wildlife wandering through the property. There is a pool and bar/restaurant area and a kitchen so you can cook your own food. Good budget option with tents from US$12 or full board in a chalet for $150.
Recorded price: US$12-150
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
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Mushroom Lodge
It is a unique site on the Mfuwe Lagoon inside the South Luangwa Park, and was built in the early 1970s to accommodate the Head of State and his VIP guests. The main lodge area boasts an expansive verandah that overlooks the lagoon, meals are taken here. The Mushroom Pub is a great social meeting area. The lodge features twelve double chalets, each with bathroom en-suite and wireless broadband internet. Each chalet is equipped with twin or double bed options and a spacious lounge complete with mini bar.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
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Shenton Safaris
Offers two bush camps and six photographic hides that are used regularly by National Geographic, BBC and Discovery channel for numerous photographic shoots and the making of wildlife documentaries. Visitors in these hides will have a unique up-close-and-personal view into the lives of these animals, enabling you to watch them undisturbed in their natural environment.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
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Thornicroft Lodge
Classically African on the banks of the Luangwa River overlooking the South Luangwa National Park. An intimate lodge with 9 chalets and a Zambia shaped swimming pool. Rates: US$205 low season and $255 high season per person per night including two four-hour safaris per full day stayed, breakfast, lunch and dinner and transfers, based on two people sharing. Specials: Thornicroft Lodge also offers upgrades from standard safari to walking safari and all-day in the park which can be requested by email.
Recorded price: Standard package from US$205 pppn
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
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Track and Trail River Camp
On the Luangwa River, with the park boundary on the other side of the river. Expect the daily elephant herds outside your window, lion prints outside your tent and hippos keeping you up all night. The 'terrifying at the time' memory of looking up at the elephants as they tred carefully around your tent throughout the night is definitely a once in a lifetime opportunity and not to be missed. The camp features a tidy ablution block, luxury tents, swimming pool, massage room, two storey chalets, shady trees. Each camping spot has electricity, running water and a barbeque. Great meals, friendly service, free airport transfers. Game drives are organised on request; ask for Godfrey. Camping US$10/7.50 in high/low season.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
Before you go
Connectivity
GSM mobile works in park and Mfuwe. Safari lodges use radio systems. CyberDog Internet Café at Flatdog Camp: US$1 per 15 min. WiFi at some lodges dependent on generator power.
Money
Park fees US$25/day (non-Zambians). Most lodges accept credit cards but confirm in advance. US dollars widely accepted; kwacha needed for local services in Mfuwe.
Safety
Walking in the bush at night is extremely dangerous; lodges provide escorts. Hippos, crocodiles, lions, and buffalo kill people annually—follow guide instructions and stay inside vehicles during game drives.
Transport
Fly to Mfuwe Airport or arrive by private vehicle from Lusaka/Chipata. Public transport to Mfuwe possible. Park has two gates: Mfuwe Gate (main) and Nyamaluma (pontoon crossing).
Weather
Peak season May–October. May–August: cool and dry. September–October: very hot, best for game viewing. Green season (Jan–Apr) brings discounts but some lodges close.