About Puku Ridge
Set on the side of a rocky ridge, the smart, luxurious Puku Ridge is almost unique in the Luangwa Valley ...
... in having a little elevation, which gives its main areas and suites a stunning view from its vantage point over a vast grassy plain, often frequented by plentiful wildlife. To the north lies the relatively busy areas around Mfuwe, where the game is habituated and relaxed, but visitors more numerous; whilst to its south, the quieter roads are a little ‘less travelled’.
The accent at the old Puku Ridge was always firmly on the 'luxury' part of safari and while the camp is changed in many aspects, this element is still very much the same, but combined now with more respect for nature and a better game-viewing experience. Meanwhile every time we visit, we're reminded that looking over the Kakumbi Floodplain from camp gives Puku one of the best views in the valley.
Our view
The accent at the old Puku Ridge was always firmly on the 'luxury' part of safari and while the camp is changed in many aspects, this element is still very much the same, but combined now with more respect for nature and a better game-viewing experience. Meanwhile every time we visit, we're reminded that looking over the Kakumbi Floodplain from camp gives Puku one of the best views in the valley.
Accommodation
8 tented suites
Children
Best for aged 12+
Open
01 April to 30 Nov
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Cultural excursion
Guided walking safari
Night drive
Traveller reviews of Puku Ridge
23 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
Arrived 10 Oct 2024, 3 nights
"Puku Ridge review"
Overall rating: Good
Arrived 11 Sep 2024, 4 nights
"Puku Ridge review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 24 Aug 2023, 3 nights
"Puku Ridge review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 29 Jul 2023, 5 nights
"Puku Ridge review"
Overall rating: Good
Arrived 27 Jun 2023, 3 nights
"Puku Ridge review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 1 May 2023, 3 nights
"Puku Ridge review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 28 Aug 2022, 3 nights
"Puku Ridge review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 13 Jul 2022, 5 nights
"Puku Ridge review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 10 Jun 2022, 3 nights
"Puku Ridge review June 2022"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 17 Apr 2022, 4 nights
"Puku Ridge review"
Overall rating: Excellent







Expert Africa's gallery
When we travel we take lots of photos ourselves to give you a real and un-edited view of the safaris. See our 1 pictures and 1 videos of Puku Ridge to get the candid view.
View gallerySafaris visiting Puku Ridge
Just ideas, we'll always tailor-make a trip for you


Vervet Monkey Safari
7 days • 2 locations • 1 country
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT
Explore the world-class wildlife of Zambia’s South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi national parks in considerable luxury, guided by experts from two sister camps renowned for their excellent level of care.
Visiting Lower Zambezi, South Luangwa
US$8,780 - US$10,990 per person
Puku Ridge: Our full report
Set on the side of a rocky ridge, the smart, luxurious Puku Ridge is almost unique in the Luangwa Valley ...
... in having a little elevation, which gives its main areas and suites a stunning view from its vantage point over a vast grassy plain, often frequented by plentiful wildlife. To the north lies the relatively busy areas around Mfuwe, where the game is habituated and relaxed, but visitors more numerous; whilst to its south, the quieter roads are a little ‘less travelled’.
Away from the escarpment which lines the Luangwa Valley, there are few hills – and very few in what are now the prime game-viewing areas at the centre of the park, most likely accounting for the reason Zambia’s founding President, Kenneth Kaunda, chose the Chichele Hill for the location of his ‘Chichele Presidential Lodge’ in the early 1970s.
Built on the slopes of the opposite hills from the ‘Presidential Lodge’, Puku Ridge overlooks a large grassy plain which is usually frequented by scattered groups of the eponymous puku antelope and, between the two, they have some of the best views of any camp in the Luangwa Valley.
The camp underwent an impressive rebuild and renovation, and re-opened in late 2019 under new ownership, in part by the Cumings family, owners of Chiawa Camp and Old Mondoro Camp in the Lower Zambezi National Park.
Eight tented suites, all with either a super king bed or large twin beds, sit along the ridgeline of the hills, overlooking the plains.
The suites are elegantly designed, with beautiful attention to detail, like the contour lines of the local area etched into the headboards, and stunning black and white photos adorning the walls. With the style comes practicality: there’s an overhead fan inside the four-poster mosquito net, and air conditioning as well for the hotter months. USB sockets and reading lights are each side of the bed, and bedside tables with lamps, mosquito spray and insect repellent too.
A small seating area and drinks cabinet are to one side of the suite, with a tea and coffee station and well-stocked minibar.
Ensuite bathrooms each have a large bath, double sinks and both indoor and outdoor showers.
Screened sliding doors lead out to a multi-level outdoor deck has comfortable seating area and a private plunge pool, looking out across the vast flood plains. Each tented suite also has its own private star bed; an outdoor staircase winds up to the top of a small observation tower where a large bed is located, draped under a dark mosquito net, all the better to see the night sky above – though your bedroom is always made up and ready inside, in case of a change of heart!
The expansive main area stretches across split level decks, with a covered dining area, outdoor lounge areas, a lower ‘breakfast deck’ and a fire pit surrounded with comfortable directors’ chairs. Telescopes are available for viewing both stars and wildlife, and there’s a small library area with some informative wildlife books.
A gift shop sits to one side, and down some steps to the other end of the decking you’ll find a sunken viewing hide, looking out to the waterhole in front of camp.
Activities from Puku Ridge focus on day and night safari drives, with guided walking safaris also on offer.
The camp is situated on the southern edge of Luangwa's main all-weather road network, which means it can open and close much closer to the rainy season than other camps in the area, allowing guests to see the park at different times of the year. The game drive areas are varied in this section of the park, with a mix of open plains and riverine grasslands, wooded with evergreen sausage trees, winterthorn, tamarind and dotted with baobab.
Geographics
- Location
- South Luangwa National Park, Zambia
- Ideal length of stay
- We recommend a two or three night stay at Puku Ridge. Consider combining this with its sister camps in the Lower Zambezi National Park – Old Mondoro or Chiawa.
- Directions
- From Mfuwe Airport, it is around a 90-minute drive through Mfuwe Village into the South Luangwa National Park and to Puku Ridge.
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board & Activities
- Food quality
- On our last stay in October 2022, as on previous occasions, the food was very good and the portions sensible, but not excessive. The team can also cater for a variety of dietary requirements, with advance notice.
A light breakfast is served around the campfire before the morning activity, which usually consists of toast, muffins, pancakes or pastries, cereal, yoghurt and porridge, along with tea, coffee and fresh fruit juice, plus the morning ‘special’ – on our last visit, we enjoyed French toast with bacon and banana.
Though we didn’t have the chance to experience brunch during our last visits, it’s usually a buffet along with an optional full English breakfast, served around midday once you've had some time to freshen up after your morning activity.
Afternoon tea is served before the afternoon activity, and usually involves a freshly baked sweet dish along with a savoury option.
Dinner is generally a four-course meal, with wine pairings. We enjoyed baked cheese and focaccia, then a delicious beef fillet served simply with grilled vegetables, though a vegetarian curry option was also on offer. We had a light fruit plater for dessert, though other guests enjoyed what looked to be a rather good chocolate mousse! - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Drinks included
- Tea, coffee, soft drinks and a selection of spirits and wines are included. Premium brand liqueurs and spirits incur an additional charge, and may need to be requested in advance.
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Children over the age of 12 are welcome at Puku Ridge.
- Property’s age restrictions
- The minimum age at Puku Ridge is 12 years.
- Special activities & services
- A pack is available for all guests, including children, which contains several useful spotting guides and a pair of binoculars. It’s possible for children to take part in short walks around camp, on request, but there are no specific activities for children.
- Generally recommended for children
- We recommend this camp for mature, well-behaved children over the age of 12.
- Notes
- Puku Ridge is an unfenced lodge, and dangerous wildlife often wanders through. The plunge pool are also not fenced. Children must be closely supervised by a parent or guardian at all times.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Puku Ridge
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Puku Ridge 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

100% success

100% success

100% success

100% success

92% success

79% success

60% success

11% success

0% success

0% success

0% success

0% success
Communications
- Power supply notes
- The camp is on mains electricity, and multiple international charging points are available in the rooms for charging 24 hours a day. There are limited 3-pin 240V plug sockets and USB charging points in the game drive vehicles. The camp also has a generator in case of power outage.
- Communications
- There is some cell phone reception at the camp, and complimentary WiFi is available in the suites and the main area, though the speed can be slow at times.
- TV & radio
- The camp is in the bush so there are no TVs or radios here.
- Water supply
- Borehole
- Water supply notes
- All of the bathrooms are plumbed in with flushing toilets and showers with hot water always available. Water from the borehole that has been filtered is provided as drinking water in all of the rooms, and each guests is given a personal water bottle for use during their stay, although bottled water is readily available if you prefer.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- Management staff are first-aid trained. The closest clinic is located in Mfuwe, a drive of a couple of hours. There is also a visiting doctor who is usually based at one of the safari lodges in the Mfuwe area.
- Dangerous animals
- High Risk
- Security measures
- As animals sometimes pass though the camp, guests will be escorted to their chalets and around camp after dark. There is a radio located in each suite in case of emergency.
- Fire safety
- Each of the suites has a fire extinguisher in case of fire, and further extinguishers are located throughout the camp and main area.
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 Puku Ridge, and washing powder is provided in the bathroom to wash any delicate items.
- Money
- There is a small safe in each suite. No money-exchange facilities are offered.
- Accepted payment on location
- Payments for curios, spa treatments and any additional items can be made in cash using US dollars, and Zambia kwacha. Mastercard and Visa are also accepted for card payments, though not American Express.
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Puku Ridge's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Puku Ridge.
Excursions from Puku Ridge
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Puku Ridge. 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.

Luangwa River Camp
Luangwa River Lodge is a small and consciously stylish lodge in the Mfuwe area, overlooking the Luangwa River and the South Luangwa National Park beyond – an area renowned for great game.

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.

Kapamba Bushcamp
In the remote far south of South Luangwa National Park, Kapamba is a small and very comfortable bushcamp offering good walks and game drives.

Mfuwe Lodge
In a game-rich area close to the South Luangwa’s main Mfuwe Gate, Mfuwe Lodge is relatively large by park standards, but it’s stylish, modern and family friendly.

Kuyenda Bushcamp
Kuyenda Bushcamp is a classic bushcamp with particularly delightful hosts and offers top-class walking safaris in South Luangwa National Park.

Luangwa Safari House
Luangwa Safari House is a vast and very smart four-bedroom house specifically designed for families and small groups, and offering an exclusive and flexible safari experience.

Three Rivers Camp
In the remote far south of South Luangwa National Park, Three Rivers Lodge sits at the confluence of three of the valleys rivers.

Island Bush Camp
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
Opened in early June 2013, Chinzombo offers luxurious and stylish accommodation with very high levels of service and excellent guiding.

Chindeni
Chindeni Bushcamp is a very modern and minimalist camp, which is a far cry from your traditional bushcamp and unlike most of the other camps in South Luangwa.

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 Puku Ridge 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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