About Luangwa River Camp
Luangwa River Camp was built by a young English couple, Barry and Tara, who arrived in Zambia in 2001 with ...
... a host of ideas and huge enthusiasm. Their experiences were chronicled by the BBC TV programme ‘No Going Back’, which followed their day-to-day lives as they designed, built and furnished the lodge. The result, set under shady trees on the banks of the Luangwa River, was the contemporary Luangwa River Lodge. In April 2011 the management was taken over by Robin Pope Safaris, and the lodge renamed Luangwa River Camp.
Luangwa River Camp is an attractive safari camp with a high degree of design and style. It is set in a fantastic location and there is often plenty to see without having to leave camp. Nevertheless, it’s definitely worth venturing out on game activities into a part of the park that is known to offer some great wildlife viewing – though you may share some of your sightings with other vehicles in this busier area near to Mfuwe.
Our view
Luangwa River Camp is an attractive safari camp with a high degree of design and style. It is set in a fantastic location and there is often plenty to see without having to leave camp. Nevertheless, it’s definitely worth venturing out on game activities into a part of the park that is known to offer some great wildlife viewing – though you may share some of your sightings with other vehicles in this busier area near to Mfuwe.
Country manager: Zambia
Accommodation
5 chalets
Children
Best for aged about 10+
Open
22nd January to 30th November
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Cultural excursion
Guided walking safari
Night drive
Traveller reviews of Luangwa River Camp
83 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
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View galleryLuangwa River Camp: Our full report
Luangwa River Camp was built by a young English couple, Barry and Tara, who arrived in Zambia in 2001 with ...
... a host of ideas and huge enthusiasm. Their experiences were chronicled by the BBC TV programme ‘No Going Back’, which followed their day-to-day lives as they designed, built and furnished the lodge. The result, set under shady trees on the banks of the Luangwa River, was the contemporary Luangwa River Lodge. In April 2011 the management was taken over by Robin Pope Safaris, and the lodge renamed Luangwa River Camp.
The Moroccan villa-style main building, complete with water features, banana trees and enormous red earthen plaster pillars, is fairly unusual for a camp in the South Luangwa and may not appeal to the traditionalist, but these features of Luangwa River Camp do give the building an air of luxury.
At one end is a large wooden bar lined with tall bar stools, balanced at the other end by Luangwa River Camp’s dining area. To the front of the bar, with an equally good view towards the river, white armchairs and sofas scattered with lovely blue-and-white cushions really brighten up the space. A variety of reference and photographic books are usually scattered across the table, and further books of interest can be found in a small library at the back.
A double-level infinity pool is sunk into the tiered wooden deck that runs along the front of the lodge, overlooking a large manicured lawn dotted with sausage and African ebony trees, and the Luangwa River beyond. On our most recent visit in June 2017, we could imagine spending many a happy hour during siesta relaxing on the sunloungers under elegant ‘hanging’ umbrellas, whilst watching elephants crossing the river and puku grazing on the lawns.
Luangwa River Camp has five spacious chalets built of brick and thatch, shaded by evergreen Natal mahogany trees. Inside are twin beds or a large double beneath a capacious walk-in mosquito net; behind you’ll find some shelving and hanging space for clothes. There’s also a sitting area with a daybed which we think is perfectly designed for napping or reading – we tested it! Adding a touch of style are some unusual fittings and furniture designs, such as the beautifully carved coffee table and bedside tables.
To the side of each room is an enormous bathroom with a flush toilet, twin handbasins, a huge open-sided shower and a bath. In some of the chalets there are vast sunken baths, which certainly look impressive, but can take over an hour to fill; a problem if you want a hot bath. Others now have more traditional claw-foot baths instead, and there are plans to replace the rest in time. If the ceiling fans aren’t enough to keep you cool during the day, louvred doors from both the bathroom and the bedroom open out onto a wooden deck, looking out over the Luangwa.
Activities from Luangwa River Camp include both walks and 4WD day and night drives. The lodge is situated in a game management area (GMA) across the Luangwa River from South Luangwa National Park. Most of the guided walks take place in the GMA, under the tall canopy of a pretty grove of African ebony trees behind the lodge, where herds of elephant, bushbuck, the odd leopard and various other animals are often seen, but some take place within the park itself.
In the earlier part of the season, drives and walks in South Luangwa National Park start with a short boat trip across the river, while later, when it’s drier, you’ll be driven straight across the river. Luangwa River Camp utilises an area of the park renowned for its game numbers and amazing wildlife sightings. The flip side is that it is also one of the busiest. However, because the lodge has its own private entrance to the park, guests here have a head start, though there will still be occasions when you might see three or four vehicles at one time.
Luangwa River Camp is one of the few lodges in South Luangwa National Park that is open during part of the 'green season', also known as the ‘emerald season’ in Zambia. Although drives at that time of year are limited to areas of the park with ‘all-season’ gravel roads, boat trips on the flooded Luangwa River become possible as the river levels rise – and are often a highlight at this time of year.
Geographics
- Location
- South Luangwa National Park, Zambia
- Ideal length of stay
- If you plan Luangwa River Camp to be your only destination in the Luangwa Valley we recommend a three- or four-night stay. If you visit the lodge as part of a longer visit, to include some of the park’s more remote bushcamps, we recommend a shorter stay of two nights here at the beginning of your safari.
- Directions
- From Mfuwe Airport, it’s a slow, 90-minute meandering drive through South Luangwa National Park to the crossing point on the Luangwa Wafwa lagoon. From here, you’ll have a quick boat or vehicle transfer across the river, depending on the water levels.
- Accessible by
- Self-drive or Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board & Activities
- Food quality
- Meals at Luangwa River Camp are varied, tasty and of a high standard, and we have always enjoyed the food here on previous visits, and our stay in June 2017 was no exception. The team at the camp are more than happy to cater for special diets if advised in advance.
Breakfast is usually served as a buffet in the dining room before the morning activity. This might include cereals, fruit, muffins, hot porridge and toast. For guests who decide to sleep in or who are transferring to an early flight this might include a cooked option with eggs made to order.
Upon returning from the morning walk or drive there is a little time to freshen up before lunch. Served as a buffet, dishes often include a variety of salads, freshly baked bread and a meat option.
Snacks are served with sundowner drinks whilst out on activities and then dinner is taken at a communal table at around 8.00pm. This is usually a set three-course meal, though on our last visit we enjoyed a delicious braai, served under the stars. - Dining style
- Group Meals
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- No
- Drinks included
- All drinks are included with the exception of premium brands such as malt whiskies or bottled wines. Bottled water is provided, though Luangwa River Camp also has its own bore hole and can provide plenty of safe drinking water.
Special interests
- Solo safaris
- Meals and activities are communal at Luangwa River Camp, but secluded chalets provide quiet spots to watch elephants crossing the river. As with all Robin Pope Safari’s lodges there is no single supplement, making it perfect for solo travellers in Zambia.
- See ideas for Solo safaris in Zambia
- Honeymoons
- Luangwa River Camp is a wonderful spot to be pampered. The secluded chalets have a romantic feel to them, and the team are excellent at making people feel special on their Zambian honeymoon. Treats such as private suppers can be arranged.
- See ideas for Honeymoons in Zambia
- Birdwatching
- Luangwa River Camp stands on a bend in the Luangwa River near several lagoons. These varied environments are within easy reach, making this a great camp for birdwatching in Zambia. There are numerous species including spoonbills, raptors, bee-eaters and rollers.
- See ideas for Birdwatching in Zambia
- Wildlife safaris
- South Luangwa is one of Africa’s top big-game destinations, and high densities of wildlife make Luangwa River Camp a good option for wildlife safaris in Zambia. Night drives make sightings of lion and leopard particularly common.
- See ideas for Wildlife safaris in Zambia
- Walking
- South Luangwa is one of Africa’s best parks for walking safaris. Luangwa River Camp offers these in the game management area, in the park, and between camps in the area, making this a great camp for walking safaris in Zambia.
- See ideas for Walking in Zambia
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Luangwa River Lodge welcomes children over the age of seven.
- Property’s age restrictions
- The minimum age limit is seven years but due to park regulations, children under the age of 12 years are not allowed to walk in the South Luangwa.
- Special activities & services
- None
- Equipment
- An extra bed could be added into any of the chalets, allowing a child to share with the parents, but this would make it a bit of a squash.
- Generally recommended for children
- While the brick-and-thatch chalets are likely to make children (and their parents) feel a bit more secure than a tented camp, Luangwa River Camp has a very adult atmosphere. We'd recommend it for sensible children over the age of about ten years, although we think that Robin's House or Luangwa Safari House are better suited for families with children. Each of these has its own chef, guide and vehicle, so families have greater flexibility with meals, mealtimes and activities than they’d have at Luangwa River Camp.
- Notes
- The lodge is unfenced, so dangerous animals do roam through the camp. The pool is also unfenced. Children must remain under parental supervision throughout their stay.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Luangwa River Camp
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Luangwa River Camp have kindly recorded their wildlife sightings and shared them with us. The results are below. Click an animal to see more, and here to see more on our methodology.
100% success
100% success
100% success
97% success
83% success
82% success
78% success
76% success
38% success
3% success
3% success
3% success
3% success
0% success
0% success
Communications
- Power supply notes
- Three-pin UK style plugs are provided in the chalets. (Adaptors are available on request.)
- Communications
- Telephone, email and internet are available for guests to use. The lodge also has mobile reception although guests are requested to set their mobile phones to silent when in communal areas and phones must be switched off during all game drives and walks.
- TV & radio
- None
- Water supply
- Borehole
- Water supply notes
- Tap water is from a borehole and we are advised that it is safe for drinking, although for those who prefer it, bottled water is also available. The chalets all have flushing toilets, as well as hot and cold running water for the handbasins, bath and shower.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- The operators in the South Luangwa have grouped together to sponsor a doctor who is constantly on call.
- Dangerous animals
- High Risk
- Security measures
- There are two watchmen at that patrol at night and escort guests to their room. Each of the rooms has lockboxes where guests can store any cash of valuables.
- Fire safety
- There are fire extinguishers in the rooms and in the bar, kitchen and workshop.
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Cultural excursion
Guided walking safari
Night drive
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Laundry facilities
- A full laundry service is Included at Luangwa River Camp. Washing powder is available on request if guests prefer to hand wash delicate items.
- Money
- Each of the chalets has a small lock-box for valuables. The camp does not offer currency-exchange facilities.
- Accepted payment on location
- Payment for all extras can be made either by Visa credit card or in cash; Zambian kwacha, US dollars, euros and pounds sterling are accepted.
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Luangwa River Camp's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Luangwa River Camp.
Excursions from Luangwa River Camp
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Luangwa River Camp. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.
Kawaza Village Visit
Two to three hours
Just outside Zambia's South Luangwa National Park lies a normal, working rural African village which is open and welcoming to visitors to the Luangwa valley. There is nothing artificial or contrived about Kawaza Village, and it offers a rare opportunity to experience and appreciate Kunda culture, and meet local Zambians.
More about Kawaza Village Visit
Tribal Textiles Tour
One - two hours
Visit the Tribal Textiles workshop, where hand-painted textiles are produced by more than a hundred local people. The workshop is close to Mfuwe Airport, so is ideally placed for a stop en route to/from the South Luangwa. With products ranging from cushion covers to bags and T-shirts, it's a great place for souvenir shopping while at the same time supporting the local community.
More about Tribal Textiles TourOther lodges in South Luangwa National Park
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
Tafika
One of the best camps in Zambia, Tafika is naturally built, combining excellent service and food with top guiding skills for a superb wildlife experience.
Nkwali
On the banks of the Luangwa River, with its own access to the national park, the intimate Nkwali is open year round.
Kaingo Camp
Small and owner-run, the riverside Kaingo occupies a a quiet but excellent game area, with a series of wildlife hides and a focus on photography.
Nsefu
One of the Luangwa's oldest camps, Nsefu is a great safari camp in a remote, beautiful and game-rich location with top-rate guiding.
Mwamba Bushcamp
Small, remote and owner-run, Mwamba offers first-class walking, 4WD safari drives and superb hides, with excellent guides and a real bush feel.
Tena Tena
One of the Luangwa's best camps, in a beautiful, remote bush location, Tena Tena is very small, exceedingly well-run and has top-rate guiding.
Chikoko Tree Camp
Chikoko Tree Camp is an excellent small, rustic bushcamp that concentrates on walking safaris, and is run by a top-quality operation.
Big Lagoon Camp
Big Lagoon Camp is a great little rustic bushcamp built to high standards that focuses on excellent walking safaris, with the emphasis on top wildlife guides.
Flatdogs Camp
A relatively big safari camp, Flatdogs offers value for money with great guiding and good food in a comfortable, relaxed setting.
Kapani Lodge
Kapani Lodge is now the main office base for Norman Carr Safaris, one of the Luangwa's oldest safari operations.
Mchenja Bushcamp
Set in a shady ebony grove on the banks of the Luangwa, Mchenja is a smart tented bushcamp. It combines well with Kakuli and Nsolo – its sister camps with a focus on walking safaris.
Kakuli Bushcamp
Beside the Luangwa River, Kakuli is a comfortable tented bushcamp offering 4WD safaris and walking safaris – the best of which are camp-to-camp walks linking Kakuli with its nearby sister camps.
Nsolo Bushcamp
Nsolo is a small, comfortable bushcamp overlooking one or two pools in the usually dry Luwi riverbed. It concentrates on walking safaris in an interesting and diverse area, led by a knowledgeable guide.
Kafunta River Lodge
Kafunta is a laid-back, friendly and good-value lodge on the outskirts of South Luangwa National Park.
Luwi Bushcamp
In a remote part of the South Luangwa National Park, Luwi is a rustic bushcamp whose emphasis is on walking safaris with great guiding and a chance of seeing some rarely seen and elusive antelope.
Lion Camp
Lion Camp is an established and comfortable camp with a swimming pool, located near to the game-rich Lion Plain in the northern part of South Luangwa National Park.
Robin Pope mobile
RPS mobile safari camps are at the heart of their set-itinerary walking safaris in South Luangwa National Park, which start and finish at a permanent camp.
Puku Ridge
Puku Ridge is a luxurious designer camp set in a stunning location, high on a hill overlooking a floodplain within South Luangwa. Explore from here on 4WD safaris and walks.
Kapamba Bushcamp
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Mfuwe Lodge
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Kuyenda Bushcamp
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Three Rivers Camp
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Island Bushcamp is a good-value, rustic, walking-only camp, in arguably one of the most remote parts of the South Luangwa, well away from all other camps.
Bilimungwe Bushcamp
A smart bushcamp with four very spacious chalets, Bilimungwe offers interesting walking safaris in pretty riverine woodland, as well as day and night safari drives.
Chinzombo
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Chindeni
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Robin's House
With your own expert guide, private vehicle, chef and valet, the two-bedroom Robin's House offers an exclusive, flexible safari experience – and is open year round.
Kawaza Village
Kawaza Village – beside the South Luangwa National Park, offers guests the rare opportunity to appreciate local village life. Visit for a few hours or stay overnight.
Chamilandu Bushcamp
A comfortable little bushcamp, Chamilandu has a picturesque setting by the Luangwa River, in an area with a range of habitats to explore on foot and by 4WD.
Mwamba Camp-out
The Mwamba-Camp Out allows you to have an incredibly adventurous night in the bush, sleeping under mosquito nets with activities led by some of the best guides in Zambia.
Zungulila
Zungulila is a small, comfortable tented bushcamp with an emphasis on walking safaris, in the remote southern section of the South Luangwa.
Shawa Luangwa
Opened in June 2021, Shawa Luangwa Camp is a small, intimate and rustic camp, with a good location in a remote section of the South Luangwa National Park.
Luwi Riverbed Sleepout
For an adventurous night in South Luangwa National Park, come and sleep out in the bush, around a campfire, with an experienced guide and game scout.
Chichele Lodge
Currently in the final stages of an extensive rebuild, Chichele Presidential Lodge stands high within the park, with superb views, and is due to reopen in early 2025.
Nkonzi Camp
A simple and rustic bush camp, Nkonzi has a strong focus on walking safaris in this remote section of Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park.
Chikunto
Chikunto Safari Lodge is a more traditional property in the South Luangwa National Park, sitting on a peninsula of land created by the meandering Luangwa River.
When to go to South Luangwa National Park
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Luangwa River Camp in South Luangwa National Park
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
South Luangwa National Park in January
January marks the height of the wet season in South Luangwa. Expect frequent downpours, often lasting a few hours, with intermittent sunny periods. The mercury regularly climbs above 30°C, accompanied by high humidity. The park's landscape is verdant and lush, with crystal-clear air.
However, the abundance of water causes most larger animals to disperse, and the thick vegetation can hinder game viewing. Walking safaris are largely impractical during this time. Migratory birds, many in breeding plumage, boost the area's avian diversity. Most lodges close and the few that remain open offer their lowest rates. Only the central network of all-weather roads is reliably passable for 4WD safaris. Low numbers of visitors ensuring a tranquil park experience for those who do visit.
- Wet season peak, frequent showers
- Most lodges and all bush-camps are closed
- Lush vegetation, ideal for photography
- Large wildlife is scattered, can be challenging to spot
- Few tourists, budget-friendly rates
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in January
South Luangwa National Park in February
February continues the ‘green season’ trend in South Luangwa National Park, with impressive thunderstorms delivering short bursts of rain most days, punctuated by clear skies. The park remains awash with water, affecting wildlife distribution and lodge operations.
Dense vegetation limits game viewing opportunities on safari and walking safaris aren’t usually possible. However, the swollen Luangwa River allows for unique boating experiences unavailable during drier months. Despite challenging conditions, patient visitors may be rewarded with sightings of animals caring for their young. The handful of operational lodges maintain low rates, and the park sees few visitors during this period.
- Continued wet season, regular downpours
- All bush-camps and most lodges are closed
- Verdant scenery, photogenic landscapes
- Game viewing challenging due to thick foliage
- Low visitor numbers, economical pricing
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in February
South Luangwa National Park in March
March signals the tail end of South Luangwa's rainy season, with heavy showers still frequent. Water levels peak, so driving off the park’s all-weather road network remains challenging. Daytime temperatures consistently exceed 30°C, with rain-induced humidity remaining high.
Most lodges are still closed, and thick vegetation continues to impact game viewing and walking safaris. However, this period can offer exceptional sightings of animals with their offspring, and predator activity often increases. Wild dogs have historically been particularly active in the park during this time. The combination of clear air and increasingly blue skies provides excellent photographic opportunities. Birdwatching remains superb as migratory species prepare for their winter journey.
- Wet season persists, intermittent rain
- Many lodges remain closed
- Abundant greenery, picturesque settings
- Young animals plentiful, but hard to see
- Minimal crowds, cost-effective travel
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in March
South Luangwa National Park in April
April represents a transitional period in South Luangwa National Park as the rains shift from intense downpours to lighter, less frequent showers. The park's scenery remains incredibly green and vibrant, though larger wildlife can be harder to spot on safaris.
Some lodges begin to reopen while seasonal bushcamps remain closed as they prepare for the upcoming dry season. The Luangwa River reaches often its highest level in April, creating a spectacular sight. Despite the challenges, this period can offer unique experiences for those willing to brave the unpredictable conditions – and accept a greatly reduced choice of places to stay.
- Wet season waning, occasional showers
- Some lodges begin reopening
- Landscape still lush, great for photographers
- Wildlife viewing slowly improving
- Few visitors, attractive off-season rates
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in April
South Luangwa National Park in May
May is a lovely month; it typically heralds the start of the dry season in South Luangwa. While occasional showers may occur, most days are clear and sunny. As winter approaches, temperatures begin to drop, with daytime highs around 26°C.
The drying landscape improves access within the park, and most lodges reopen. Some standing water remains, but game viewing noticeably improves as the vegetation thins out. The clear air continues to benefit photographers. Late May is very popular among the Luangwa’s ‘safari regulars’ who seek to capitalise on good weather, improved wildlife sightings, newly-opened camps (including some seasonal bush-camps) and the final weeks of low-season rates at many lodges.
- Dry season onset, clearer skies
- Most lodges and some bush-camps operational
- Vegetation still green, crisp air
- Game viewing conditions improving
- Last month for lower accommodation prices
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in May
South Luangwa National Park in June
June in South Luangwa National Park is characterised by virtually rainless days and abundant sunshine. Humidity levels plummet, and winter's approach brings cooler temperatures, with nighttime lows around 10°C and daytime highs of 25°C.
The landscape remains lush, but the thinning vegetation significantly enhances visibility for game viewing, the conditions are ideal for walking safaris. All the lodges and bushcamps in the park are operational by early June. While some offer shoulder season rates, others are already running with high-season pricing. Wildlife begins to concentrate around water sources, setting the stage for excellent game viewing in the coming months.
- Consistently sunny, cooler nights
- All South Luangwa lodges open
- Wildlife sightings becoming more frequent
- Ideal conditions for walking safaris
- Viewing of the Victoria Falls at its best
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in June
South Luangwa National Park in July
As the dry season progresses in South Luangwa, July sees vegetation and grasses dying back, with water becoming increasingly scarce. Wildlife congregates around remaining water sources, most notably along the Luangwa River, leading to excellent game viewing opportunities.
July marks the heart of winter, with daytime temperatures in the 20s Celsius, whilst nighttime lows can drop to single digits. Early morning and late evening game drives can be particularly chilly, with lodges often providing blankets and hot water bottles. Bring your hats, coats and gloves! Visitor numbers rise significantly, and space at popular small camps can become limited. Nearly all properties now charge their highest rates.
- Warm days, chilly evenings
- Game viewing notably improved
- Excellent visibility for walking safaris
- High season prices for most camps and lodges
- Comfortable daytime temperatures
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in July
South Luangwa National Park in August
August in the national park offers some of the year's best game viewing opportunities. South Luangwa’s vegetation has largely died back, and wildlife clusters around remaining water sources.
Rain is extremely unlikely, with sunny days largely guaranteed, though a haze may sometimes appear on the horizon due to dust and smoke in the air. Nighttime temperatures can dip below 5°C, but daytime highs reach the 20s Celsius. Warm clothing is essential for morning and evening drives. This is one of the most popular months to visit the park for a safari, with lodges and camps charging peak rates and often booking up far in advance.
- Very dry warm days and cold nights
- Prime wildlife viewing near water sources
- Perfect weather for walking safaris
- Peak season means highest prices
- Some haze may affect photography
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in August
South Luangwa National Park in September
September is arguably the very best time to visit South Luangwa National Park. It probably hasn’t rained for many months, humidity is low, and temperatures are just beginning to climb.
Mornings are more comfortable for 4WD safaris, rising to daytime typical highs in the low 30s Celsius. Water scarcity forces the wildlife to congregate around remaining sources, particularly around the Luangwa River, where most of the camps and lodges are situated. There high game densities lead to increased chances of inter-species interactions. It’s peak season for lodges and camps charge which are often fully booked. A little haze may affect long-distance views and photography. The Luangwa River's water levels continue to drop, concentrating hippos and crocodiles life in the remaining stretches.
- Dry and hot, clear skies
- Exceptional month for wildlife observation
- Landscape sometimes hazy due to dust and smoke
- Peak season, lodges often fully booked
- Higher prices for accommodation
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in September
South Luangwa National Park in October
October sees the dry season peak in South Luangwa at its most intense, with the landscape increasing parched. Occasional showers may occur as the promise of rain approaches. Temperatures can soar above 40°C during the day, rarely dropping below 20°C at night.
This heat can be draining, so walking safaris will set off early in the morning to beat the heat and sitting in an open 4WD on safaris can feel like facing a large hair-drier. Heat-haze and smoke may obscure the horizon as the Luangwa River becomes a series of pools, crowded with hippos and crocodiles. Other wildlife cautiously approaches these water sources, leading to thrilling predator-prey interactions. Game viewing is at its absolute best with the best chance of witnessing hunts.
- Optimal wildlife viewing conditions
- Very hot days and nights
- Dusty, hazy atmosphere is challenging for photos
- Some lodges start lowering their rates
- Less crowded than previous months
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in October
South Luangwa National Park in November
November typically witnesses the end of the dry season in South Luangwa. While the onset of rains is unpredictable, temperatures remain consistently high and humidity builds as the wet season approaches.
Early November may still be dry, but spectacular thunderstorms usually arrive, often later in the month, triggering rapid green growth when they do come – and an explosion of life from insects and smaller animals. Everything seems to come to life! When pools of water becomes more readily available away from the Luangwa River the wildlife quickly disperses. Some camps and all the seasonal bush-camps camps close; those that remain open reduce their rates. The rains quickly clear the air of dust and smoke, improving visibility and photographic conditions.
- Unpredictable month: depends on the rains
- Hot and humid – then the set season begins
- Wildlife dispersing as vegetation thickens
- Lower accommodation rates, fewer tourists
- Improved conditions for landscape photography
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in November
South Luangwa National Park in December
December usually marks the first full month of South Luangwa's wet season. Heavy thunderstorms become frequent, interspersed with sunny intervals. Daytime temperatures often exceed 30°C, accompanied by high humidity.
The rainfall transforms the landscape, encouraging lush vegetation growth. It’s a time renewal when insects, birds and smaller wildlife abound. While the larger species of wildlife remains in the park, wildlife viewing becomes more challenging due to the thick greenery and dispersed animal populations. Many lodges and all seasonal bush-camps are now closed as access to the park’s outlying areas becomes difficult. The few lodges that remain open offer lower rates and see few visitors. The rains clear the air, restoring vibrant blue skies and crystal-clear air which delights photographers.
- Rainy season in full swing
- Most lodges closed or offering low rates
- Wildlife harder to spot in thick vegetation
- Few visitors, budget-friendly period
- Lush green scenery, very photogenic landscapes
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in December
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