South Luangwa for photographers

South Luangwa is one of the best choices for photographers.

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 for photographers?

• Chances to photograph lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo and giraffes.
• The best light is in the first hour after sunrise and the last before sunset.

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, night drives and birdwatching.

When to go

The best period overall is August to October.

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

Other destinations for photographers

• Okavango Delta Botswana
• Masai Mara Kenya
• Merzouga Morocco
• Mana Pools Zimbabwe
• Ngorongoro Tanzania
• Tarangire Tanzania

Full South Luangwa guideBest safaris for photographers

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.