About Tena Tena
Top-notch guiding, flexibility and personal service, all wrapped up in a “close to nature” setting: this is Tena Tena.
In the remote yet game-rich Nsefu Sector of the South Luangwa, just a stone’s throw from the Luangwa River, the six stylish tents of this intimate little camp are spread out within a shady mahogany grove.
To wander along sandy pathways to the camp’s split-level hub is to get a real feel for the environment – with comfortable seating and a large bar an added bonus.
The upper level is a great place to sit and chat, or to enjoy a convivial meal with fellow guests, while sunset from the lower level is a time to be savoured over a relaxed drink – if you’re not out in the bush, that is.
Central to a day at Tena Tena is to explore on a 4x4 game drive, by day or by night, or even on foot, under the expert guidance of some of the Luangwa’s most experienced guides.
Back in camp, whether you’re watching from an armchair on your private veranda, from your king-size bed, or even from the “loo with a view”, the river – or riverbed – is rarely out of sight, a magnet for wildlife, even during the dry season.
Accommodation
6 tents
Children
OK for ages 12+
Open
22 May to 31 October
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Cultural excursion
Guided walking safari
Night drive
Traveller reviews of Tena Tena
160 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
Arrived 14 Sep 2024, 4 nights
"Tena Tena review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 8 Sep 2024, 3 nights
"Tena Tena review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 22 Aug 2024, 3 nights
"Tena Tena review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 24 Aug 2024, 2 nights
"Tena Tena review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 9 Aug 2024, 3 nights
"Tena Tena review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 5 Aug 2024, 3 nights
"Tena Tena review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 27 Oct 2023, 3 nights
"Tena Tena review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 10 Oct 2023, 3 nights
"Tena Tena review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 5 Oct 2023, 3 nights
"Tena Tena review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 13 Sep 2023, 4 nights
"Tena Tena 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 47 pictures and 2 videos of Tena Tena to get the candid view.
View gallerySafaris visiting Tena Tena
Just ideas, we'll always tailor-make a trip for you


Hippo Safari
10 days • 4 locations • 1 country
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LIVINGSTONE AIRPORT
Combining excellent game with aspects of remoter safari in South Luangwa, as well as the cultural delights of Livingstone, this trip also makes use of long-stay discounts, making it an excellent-value and well-rounded adventure.
Visiting South Luangwa, Livingstone
US$7,360 - US$8,780 per person


Crawshay's Zebra Safari
10 days • 4 locations • 1 country
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT
This superb safari combines two of Zambia’s best national parks, the South Luangwa and the Lower Zambezi. The camps are small and high quality with excellent safari guides.
Visiting Lower Zambezi, South Luangwa
US$10,460 - US$13,820 per person
Tena Tena: Our full report
On the north side of Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park, Tena Tena lies in the remote but game-rich Nsefu Sector.
Due to the changing course of the river, the camp was moved about a kilometre upstream in 2012, and while it is still on the riverbank, the river itself can be some distance away during the dry season. The camp, which is run by Robin Pope Safaris, focuses on excellent guiding and flexible activities, with personal service and attention, all in very comfortable surroundings.
Tena Tena today is both stylish and built to a high standard, yet it remains a tented camp, and it is perhaps this that helps it to retain a 'close to nature' feel. Both the tents and the main area are tucked away in a shady mahogany grove with views over the Luangwa River.
Tena Tena has six spacious tents, each with its own private shady location. Every tent has a veranda, with a couple of comfy armchairs and views of the sandy bed of the Luangwa River, a spot that's popular with wildlife. And as the front of the tents can be rolled up, you can even enjoy the view from your bed. One of the six, designated the honeymoon tent, has a larger seating area and a larger couch outside. It is also set even further away and thus affords more privacy than the others.
Inside, locally made straw mats lie on polished concrete floors and the décor is in neutral safari tones: stylish but very subtle. In the centre is a king-size bed, whose polished concrete headboard sports two solar-powered reading lamps. Behind the headboard is an area for storing luggage along with ample hanging space and shelves. There are fans for the hotter months, when it’s great to wet the kikois (simple cotton wraps) that are provided in each tent, and relax in the shade with them wrapped around you! Guests will also find Maglite torches, mosquito repellent and drinking water by the beds, and a plug point for charging batteries.
Through a flap to one side of each tent is an open-air bathroom, with a flush toilet, double basins and hot-and-cold shower. Toiletries are also supplied.
Sandy pathways lead from the tents to Tena Tena's main area. Split over two levels, this is built under a vast tented roof supported by rustic poles, with views across the river. The upper level offers a comfortable place to relax, its lovely wooden furniture set with cream and ochre cushions. It is also home to a big dining table with directors' chairs, where most meals are enjoyed, and to a large wooden bar, a good spot to chat to fellow guests after game activities or before dinner. A ‘loo with a (very good!) view’ is located nearby. From the lower level, built-in seating with ample cushions in the same cream and ochre colour scheme affords a great spot to watch the sun setting – if you are not out on a game activity!
Typically there are two guided activities per day from Tena Tena, each lasting around 3–4 hours and led by an expert guide; the standards of guiding here are exceptionally high. For each activity you'll have a choice: from walking safaris, 4WD game safaris and night drives. All walking safaris are accompanied by both an armed scout and a fully qualified guide.
Tena Tena is a few hours' drive north of RPS’s main camp, Nkwali, which is in the Mfuwe area, and is reasonably close to its sister bushcamp, Nsefu, which is the only other permanent camp in the Nsefu Sector. These three camps combine really well with each other – and if you are staying at both Nsefu and Tena Tena, it is possible to do a half-day walking safari between the two. On our last trip, in June 2017, we walked to Tena Tena from Nsefu with a guide who was incredibly knowledgeable about many of the smaller animals. We were also able to sit and observe elephant and buffalo from close range.
The more adventurous may like to spend one or two nights outside at a Robin Pope Safaris bushcamp (more of a fly-camping experience, in Meru-style tents) or to link one of the permanent camps with a longer RPS walking mobile safari. Speak to us if you would like to include either of these experiences in your visit to Tena Tena.
Those looking to experience something of the local culture can also combine Tena Tena with a trip to Kawaza Village, which was originally set up with the help of Robin Pope Safaris.
Geographics
- Location
- South Luangwa National Park, Zambia
- Ideal length of stay
- We recommend a minimum stay of three nights at Tena Tena, perhaps preceded by two to three nights at Tena Tena's sister camp, Nkwali.
- Directions
- From Mfuwe Airport, guests are transferred by road to camp, taking approximately one hour.
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board & Activities
- Food quality
- Though we didn’t have time to stay for a meal during our last visit in June 2017, we've visited Tena Tena many times before and each time their meals could not be faulted.
Breakfast is normally served around the campfire before an early-morning activity. It often includes hot porridge, cereals and bread toasted over the coals, with the option of eggs cooked to order. Fresh fruit and tea and coffee are also on offer.
Brunch is served at around 11.30am or midday, depending on the time everyone returns from the morning activity. You can expect light salads, quiches and a selection of vegetables, as well as a hot dish. We loved the fish pie (hake), followed by a hot chocolate brownie for dessert on our last stay in October 2014.
Dinner starts with a few relaxed drinks around the campfire or at the bar, then moves on to the dining table, beautifully set up either in the main area or outside under the stars. The camp serves a set menu on most evenings, though with advance notice they can cater to a variety of dietary requests. On a previous visit the starter of blue cheese and pear salad was particularly memorable, as were the handmade fishcakes served with lemon mayonnaise as a main course. You can also expect an indulgent dessert, rounded off with coffee. - Dining style
- Group Meals
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- No
- Drinks included
- Filtered drinking water, soft drinks, house wine and local spirits are included in the rates. Fine wines, champagne and imported spirits and liqueurs are charged as extras, and need to be ordered in advance.
Special interests
- Solo safaris
- Tena Tena is another great Robin Pope Safaris camp in the game-rich Nsefu Sector which has flexible activities and excellent guiding – as well as a very relaxed social feeling. It's a great choice for solo travel in Zambia, especially as it charges no single supplement.
- See ideas for Solo safaris in Zambia
- Honeymoons
- Tena Tena is a lovely choice for those who want to combine luxury with a touch of wilderness on their honeymoon to Zambia. Offering delicious food, great guiding and a very comfortable, private and secluded honeymoon tent, the service is attentive and thoughtful.
- See ideas for Honeymoons in Zambia
- Walking safaris
- Tena Tena overlooks the Luangwa River on the edge of the Nsefu Sector, some of which is very open and flat, so well suited to those looking for a walking safari in Zambia. The guiding standards are also very high. Serious walkers might choose to sleep under the stars at a Robin Pope Safaris bushcamp.
- See ideas for Walking safaris in Zambia
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Tena Tena is happy to accommodate mature, well-behaved children.
- Property’s age restrictions
- Children of 12 years and over are welcome at Tena Tena.
- Special activities & services
- None
- Equipment
- None
- Generally recommended for children
- This is a remote bushcamp with quite an adult atmosphere and we feel that it is suited only to older, sensible children. Families with children may prefer to stay at Luangwa Safari House or Robin's House which both offer more privacy and flexibility for family groups.
- Notes
- Children will need to be constantly supervised by their parents as the camp is not fenced in and game wanders freely throughout.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Tena Tena
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Tena Tena 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

93% success

93% success

88% success

88% success

80% success

47% success

27% success

7% success

5% success

3% success

0% success

0% success
Communications
- Power supply notes
- There is a back-up generator on site if necessary.
- Communications
- Tena Tena is in constant radio contact with its sister camp, Nkwali, which has a landline phone as well as internet. There is no cellphone reception at Tena Tena.
- TV & radio
- Tena Tena has no TVs or radios
- Water supply
- Borehole
- Water supply notes
- Bathrooms in all the tents are fully plumbed, with flush toilets and hot-and-cold showers.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- There is a doctor based in the Mfuwe area, about an hour’s drive from Tena Tena. First-aid kits are provided in the camp vehicles and all guides are trained in first aid.
- Dangerous animals
- High Risk
- Security measures
- There are two night watchmen at Tena Tena, and you will be escorted to and from your tent after dark.
- Fire safety
- There are fire buckets at each tent. Fire extinguishers are located in the main areas and staff are trained in their use.
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Cultural excursion
Guided walking safari
Night drive
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Laundry facilities
- A complimentary laundry service is included. Items are hand washed by male staff and then line dried. This does not include ladies' underwear, which you would need to wash yourself; washing powder is provided in the bathrooms for this.
- Money
- Safes are provided in all the rooms.
There are no exchange facilities available at Tena Tena. - Accepted payment on location
- Tena Tena does not accept debit or credit cards, but payments may be made in cash with US dollars, British pounds, Zambian kwacha and euros.
Visa and Mastercard payments may be made, with prior agreement, at Tena Tena’s sister camp Nkwali.
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Tena Tena's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Tena Tena.
Excursions from Tena Tena
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Tena Tena. 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.

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.

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
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 Tena Tena 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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