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Zambia
South Luangwa

Explore the national park South Luangwa, including things to see and best time to go

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visit South Luangwa

South Luangwa National Park in Zambia is a unique destination for backpackers due to its diverse wildlife and remote location. The park is known for its high concentration of hippos, elephants, and leopards, offering backpackers a chance to experience a truly wild and untouched environment. However, the park’s remote location can make it difficult to access, and the lack of infrastructure means that backpackers will need to be prepared for basic accommodations and limited amenities. Despite these challenges, South Luangwa National Park offers backpackers an authentic and immersive safari experience, making it a must-visit for those seeking adventure and wildlife encounters off the beaten path.

đź’ˇ Highlights
Top-10 things to do in South Luangwa

1. Game Drives: South Luangwa is famous for its abundant wildlife, and a game drive is the best way to see it all up close.

2. Walking Safaris: Explore the African bush on foot with an experienced guide for a more intimate wildlife experience.

3. Bird Watching: South Luangwa is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 400 species of birds to spot.

4. Sunset Cruise on the Luangwa River: Relax and enjoy the stunning sunset while spotting hippos, crocodiles, and other wildlife along the riverbanks.

5. Visit Tribal Textiles: Take a tour of the Tribal Textiles workshop to see how traditional African fabrics are made.

6. Mfuwe Village Tour: Immerse yourself in local culture with a visit to the nearby Mfuwe village.

7. Photography Safaris: Capture the beauty of South Luangwa’s landscapes and wildlife with a photography safari.

8. Visit Kawaza Village: Experience rural Zambian life and participate in community projects in Kawaza Village.

9. Hot Air Balloon Safari: Get a bird’s eye view of the South Luangwa landscape and wildlife from a hot air balloon.

10. Relax at a Luxury Lodge: Unwind and indulge in the luxury accommodations and amenities offered at the various lodges in South Luangwa.

🌤️ When to go?
Best time to visit South Luangwa

The best time to visit South Luangwa for backpacking is during the dry season, from May to October. During this time, the weather is cooler and the wildlife is more concentrated around water sources, making it easier to spot animals.

In May, the temperatures range from 10-30°C (50-86°F) and the landscape is lush and green from the rainy season. As the dry season progresses, the temperatures rise, reaching highs of 35°C (95°F) in October.

The dry season is also ideal for backpacking because the trails are less muddy and easier to navigate. Additionally, the lack of foliage makes it easier to spot wildlife, including elephants, hippos, and a variety of bird species.

It’s important to note that South Luangwa can get quite hot during the day, so it’s essential to pack plenty of water, sun protection, and lightweight, breathable clothing. Overall, the dry season offers the best conditions for backpacking and wildlife viewing in South Luangwa.JANFEBMARAPRMAYJUNJULAUGSEPOCTNOVDEC

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last page update: 24 September 2024

Explore Zambia

South Luangwa isn’t the only highlight in Zambia. Explore all what Zambia has to offer.

🌆 Cities: Kabwe, Kitwe, Livingstone, Lusaka, Ndola
🏔️ Hikes: Luapula River, Victoria Falls
🏞️ National parks: Kafue, Liuwa Plain, Lochinvar, Lower Zambezi, South Luangwa
🛕 World wonders: Victoria Falls

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