Madikwe (South Africa) and South Luangwa (Zambia) are often weighed against each other. This comparison uses seasons, activities and access to help you choose.
| Madikwe | South Luangwa | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | South Africa | Zambia |
| Type | Reserve | National park |
| Approx. area | 750 km² | 9,050 km² |
| Best time | July to September | August to October |
| Suggested stay | 2–4 days | 3–5 days |
| Main gateway airport | O. R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) | Mfuwe International Airport (MFU) |
| Big Five | Present | Not all five |
| Malaria | None | Malaria area: see a travel doctor |
| Families | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Honeymooners | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Photographers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| First-time visitors | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Budget travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Luxury travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Month by month
| Month | Madikwe | South Luangwa |
|---|---|---|
| January | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| February | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| March | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| April | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
| May | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| June | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| July | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| August | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| September | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| October | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| November | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
| December | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ rainy season |
How to choose
Choose Madikwe if
- you are travelling in July and December to May
- you hope to see cheetahs, white rhino, black rhino and wildebeest
Choose South Luangwa if
- you are travelling in October
- you want camping
- you hope to see crocodiles
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Madikwe or South Luangwa?
It depends on when you travel and what you want to see. Madikwe is stronger in July and December to May. South Luangwa is stronger in October.
When is the best time for each?
Madikwe: July to September. South Luangwa: August to October.
Sources: North West Parks Board · South African Tourism - Madikwe · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - South Africa (Mahikeng) · 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.