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.
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...
Heaven on Earth! The staff, the service, the food, the accommodation, the safari, the Hippos..sublime! Thank you! If you’re debating booking just go for it, you won’t be disappointed!
Chikunto is an exceptional safari location. I have been in the African safari and tourism industry since 2012 and there are few lodges as complete as Chikunto when it comes to the overall standard. We spent 5 nights visiting Chikunto Safari Lodge and it is hard to sum up the experience in the space provided by Trip Advisor. Over the duration of our 5 night stay, I noted down how Chikunto made me...
Chikunto Safari Lodge exceeded every expectation that I had for a luxury safari trip. From Harry meeting us at the airport and seeing a hyena coming down the road straight at us over the bridge at the park entrance to the leopard with its kill all on the way to the lodge. Irene warmly greeted us as we arrived and set the tone for the week. You will see lots of animals during your stay, but it is t...
