South Luangwa on a budget

South Luangwa works on a budget with some planning.

Suitability: ★★★★★

South Luangwa National Park lies in eastern Zambia along the Luangwa River and is the country's best-known park. It is known for guided walking safaris and night drives.

Why South Luangwa on a budget?

• Budget options are relatively limited here.
• Travelling by road instead of flying in keeps costs down.

What awaits you in South Luangwa

• A pioneer of walking safaris
• Night drives with good leopard sightings
• Thornicroft's giraffe, endemic to the valley
• Large hippo pods in the river
• Small bush camps

Wildlife you may encounter: lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, hippos and crocodiles.

Suggested time on the ground: 3 to 5 days. A flight of about an hour connects Lusaka with Mfuwe, followed by a road transfer to Mfuwe Gate and nearby lodges. Driving is possible in the dry season with a 4x4.

Activities that fit

game drives, birdwatching and camping.

When to go

The best period overall is August to October. For quieter months and often better value, try April to May and November.

Peak dry season: wildlife concentrates along the Luangwa River and oxbow lagoons, though October is very hot.

Other destinations on a budget

• Kruger South Africa
• Merzouga Morocco
• Addo South Africa
• Pilanesberg South Africa
• Tarangire Tanzania
• Akagera Rwanda

Full South Luangwa guideBest safaris on a budget

No trips are listed for this destination yet. Send a request and we will check with providers.

Sources: Zambia Tourism - South Luangwa National Park · Zambia Tourism - Mfuwe International Airport · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - Zambia (Mfuwe)
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.