South Luangwa National Park, situated in the Eastern Province of Zambia, a one-hour internal flight from the Capital Lusaka to the local airport of Mfuwe, has rightfully earned its reputation as one of Africa's premier national parks. The story of this 9,050 km2 park, Zambia’s premier National Park, is woven into the fabric of African conservation and showcases the beauty of its diverse ecosystems.
It was in 1938 that South Luangwa was declared a game reserve by the British colonial authorities, recognizing its ecological significance, with one of the park's defining moments occurring in the 1950s when visionary conservationist Norman Carr pioneered innovative wildlife protection strategies, including the concept of walking safaris. His efforts laid the foundation for sustainable tourism and the preservation of South Luangwa's unique flora and fauna.
Today, South Luangwa National Park is celebrated for its incredible biodiversity, including over 60 animal species and over 400 birdlife species. The park, known to many as the Valley of the Leopard is especially renowned for its large populations of predators, including lions, wild dogs and the eponymous leopards. In addition, large numbers of elephants, buffalos, hippos and a variety of antelope offers visitors unparalleled opportunities for wildlife viewing.
South Luangwa's commitment to responsible tourism and community engagement ensures that the park remains a model for conservation and sustainable development and firmly cements its position as one of Africa's premier national parks and a must-visit destination for any nature enthusiast, photographer or wildlife lover.
There is no ‘wrong’ time to visit South Luangwa National Park, with each season having its own attractions: The Cool Dry – mid-to-late-April / to late-July; the Hot Dry - August to October; the Early Rains – early / mid-November & December and the Peak Rains - January to March.
At Chikunto Safari Camp & Lodge their Emerald Season runs from mid-February to the end of May, with a combination of water-based and land-based safari options available (subject to water levels) with fabulous light conditions and an ideal time for ‘birders’. For details on your preferred dates or for a more detailed description contact Chikunto directly.
The peak safari season runs from June to the end of September, with what is known as the ‘shoulder season’ running from October to the middle of November. As the Luangwa River starts to dry the concentration of animals around the dwindling water sources grows ever higher.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ An unforgettable stay at Chikunto Safari Lodge! What a magnificent experience! Chikunto Safari Lodge is simply exceptional. The setting is splendid, the lodge magnificent, the food excellent, and the atmosphere incredibly warm. But what makes this place truly special is, above all, its staff. The entire team is remarkably kind, always smiling, attentive, and ready to help. We felt welcomed...
This is a very comfortable lodge with excellent guides. The lodge is well located with good viewing both north and south along the river. The service overseen by Irene is excellent, the tents comfortable and the food well presented and good quality. A recommended lodge to explore South Luangwa.
I just returned from a 6 night stay at Chikuntu Safari Lodge in South Luangwa, and it's hands-down one of the best safari experiences I have had. From the moment our group arrived, the hospitality was outstanding. The food at the lodge was genuinely gourmet, beautifully presented, and a lovely surprise in such a remote setting. The kitchen staff clearly takes pride in their work. But the wild...
We just returned from a fantastic week at the Chikunto Safari Lodge. Having been on safari several times in different countries I searched for a new and unique place and Chikunto was recommend by friends. It now tops my list and I can not recommend it highly enough. The accommodations and setting are lovely, the staff, led by wonderful Irene, were so friendly and helpful and the food was except...
This safari lodge is beautiful and located in South LuangwaNational Park. The luxury tent is a beautiful accomodation with an outdoor patio, a very comfortable bed, and a nice view of the savanna and water hole. You are more than likely to experience an elephant, hippos or cape buffalo close to your accomodations. You have to be vigilant even during the day for the wildlife. The host, Irene is a...
