South Luangwa (Zambia) and Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) are often weighed against each other. This comparison uses seasons, activities and access to help you choose.
| South Luangwa | Victoria Falls | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Zambia | Zimbabwe |
| Type | National park | National park |
| Approx. area | 9,050 km² | 23 km² |
| Best time | August to October | May to October |
| Suggested stay | 3–5 days | 2–3 days |
| Main gateway airport | Mfuwe International Airport (MFU) | Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA) |
| Big Five | Not all five | Not all five |
| Malaria | Malaria area: see a travel doctor | Malaria area: see a travel doctor |
| Families | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Honeymooners | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Photographers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| First-time visitors | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Budget travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Luxury travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Month by month
| Month | South Luangwa | Victoria Falls |
|---|---|---|
| January | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| February | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| March | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| April | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| 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 | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| November | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
| December | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
How to choose
Choose South Luangwa if
- you are travelling in June to November
- you want walking safaris, night drives and camping
- you hope to see lions, leopards, African wild dogs, hyenas and eland
Choose Victoria Falls if
- you want hiking, scenic flights, boat safaris and canoeing
- you hope to see sable antelope
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, South Luangwa or Victoria Falls?
It depends on when you travel and what you want to see. South Luangwa is stronger in June to November.
When is the best time for each?
South Luangwa: August to October. Victoria Falls: May to October.
Sources: Zambia Tourism - South Luangwa National Park · Zambia Tourism - Mfuwe International Airport · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - Zambia (Mfuwe) · ZimParks - Victoria Falls National Park · UNESCO World Heritage Centre - Mosi-oa-Tunya / Victoria Falls · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - Victoria Falls
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.