Best Time to Visit South
Luangwa National Park
Discover the Ideal Season
for Your South Luangwa Adventure
The best time to visit South Luangwa National Park depends on what you want to experience during your Zambian safari. Renowned for its abundant wildlife, stunning landscapes, and unique walking safari experiences, this wildlife haven in eastern Zambia offers unforgettable adventures.
The park is home to a plethora of diverse wildlife, from elephants and leopards to buffalo and various antelope species, to name a few. In addition to its wildlife, South Luangwa boasts incredibly diverse landscapes that support these vast animal species, including floodplains, woodlands, and riverine forests.
The dry season, considered the most optimal, occurs between May and October. However, different seasons provide unique opportunities for travellers.
Here is our guide on the best time to visit South Luangwa National Park.
Peak Wildlife Viewing
The dry season (May to October) is considered the prime time to visit! During this period, water sources start to shrink, drawing animals closer together and making wildlife sightings more frequent and predictable. Visitors can expect incredible opportunities to observe elephants, leopards, hippos, and many other species as they congregate around rivers, lagoons, and remaining waterholes. This season truly showcases the richness of South Luangwa’s wildlife.
Walking Safaris
South Luangwa is famed for its walking safaris. The dry season offers ideal conditions for exploring the bush on foot.
Birding
The wet season (November to April) brings a burst of vibrant birdlife and lush, green landscapes to South Luangwa. During this time, the park transforms into a birder’s paradise, with migratory birds arriving and resident species displaying their striking breeding plumage. Although wildlife viewing can be a bit more challenging due to the dense vegetation, the wet season offers a unique and tranquil experience, showcasing the park’s natural beauty in a whole new light.
Beyond the “Best”
Each season offers unique advantages:
Shoulder Seasons: Enjoy smaller crowds in April-May or October-November.
Wet Season Adventures: Experienced safari-goers may find appeal in the park’s raw beauty and lower prices.
