Luangwa National Park - Discovering Zambia

Travelling to Luangwa National Park

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Luangwa National Park, a pretty good destination in Zambia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Luangwa National Park and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Luangwa National Park, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Zambia, here's everything to know about Luangwa National Park for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Luangwa National Park

Luangwa National Park is a protected area in eastern Zambia known for its abundant wildlife, including a large population of elephants, lions, leopards, hippos, and other animals. The park is located in the Luangwa River Valley and covers an area of over 9000 square kilometers. It is home to several lodges and safari companies that offer visitors the chance to explore the park on foot or by vehicle, and to experience its stunning landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and rich cultural heritage. Some of the most popular activities in the park include wildlife viewing, bird watching, nature walks, and cultural tours. Luangwa National Park is also renowned for its conservation efforts and the support it provides to local communities.

What to visit in Luangwa National Park

1. South Luangwa National Park: This is the main tourist attraction in Luangwa National Park, which offers a great opportunity for wildlife viewing. It is known for its high concentration of leopards and hippos. The park is also home to a variety of other animals including elephants, giraffes, zebras, crocodiles, and many species of birds.
2. Luangwa River: This is the main river that runs through the park. It offers scenic boat rides or canoeing for tourists. The river is also home to a variety of aquatic wildlife including crocodiles and hippos.
3. Thornicroft's Giraffe: The park is home to a subspecies of giraffe known as Thornicroft's Giraffe. These giraffes are distinct because of their white legs and they are found only in this region.
4. The Hippo Pool: This is a popular attraction in the park where visitors can witness the largest concentration of hippos. They are easily visible along the side of the Luangwa River.
5. Mfuwe Lodge and Cultural Village: This is one of the best places to stay when visiting the park. The lodge offers luxury accommodations, while the cultural village nearby offers tourists a chance to learn about the local culture and traditions.
6. Tafika Camp: This camp offers visitors a unique experience as it is built on the banks of the Luangwa River. Guests can enjoy beautiful views while relaxing in their tent or on the open-air deck.
7. Wakani Lake: This is a beautiful lake located within the park where visitors can enjoy fishing. The lake is home to a variety of fish such as catfish and bream.
8. Chipembele Wildlife Education Centre: This is a conservation education center located near the park. It is dedicated to the rehabilitation of orphaned wildlife and educating visitors about conservation efforts in the region.
9. Kawaza Village: This is a small village located near the park where visitors can learn about the traditional ways of life of the local people. Tourists have a chance to participate in cultural activities such as dancing, drumming and cooking.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Zambia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Luangwa National Park.

When to go on holiday to Luangwa National Park

The best time to visit Luangwa National Park in Zambia is during the dry season from late May to October. During this time, the wildlife congregates around water sources, making it easier to spot them on game drives. The temperatures are cooler during this time compared to the hot and humid wet season from November to April. However, birdwatchers may prefer the wet season as it is when many migratory birds visit the park.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Luangwa National Park

To get to Luangwa National Park in Zambia, you will need to take a flight or a bus to either Mfuwe or Chipata. By Air: You can book a flight from Lusaka to Mfuwe via Proflight Zambia or Ulendo Airlink By Bus: You can take a bus from Lusaka or Chipata to Mfuwe. The distance is around 500 kilometers and the journey can take around 10 hours. You can use bus companies like Juldan Motors or Jonda Bus.
Once you arrive in Mfuwe, you can take either a taxi or a safari vehicle to the park entrance.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Luangwa National Park, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Luangwa National Park

1. Nshima: This is the staple food of Zambia and is a type of thickened porridge made from maize meal. It is typically served with various stews, vegetables and meat.
2. Kapenta: A small freshwater fish that is found in the lower Zambezi and Luangwa rivers. The fish is usually dried, salted and then fried until crispy. It is often served as a snack or as a side dish with nshima.
3. Biltong: A popular snack in southern Africa, this is a type of dried, cured meat similar to beef jerky. It is often made from beef, but can also be made using game meat like buffalo or kudu.
4. Groundnuts: Also known as peanuts, this crop is grown in Zambia and is a common ingredient in many dishes. It is often ground into a paste and used as a thickener in stews or served as a snack.
5. Mopane Worms: These are a type of edible caterpillar that are a delicacy in Zambia. They are typically dried, fried and seasoned with salt and spices. They are high in protein and are often served as a snack or as part of a main meal.
6. Chikanda: A popular vegetarian dish made from ground peanuts, fresh vegetables and spices. The mixture is formed into small cakes and boiled before being served.
7. Game meat: As Luangwa National Park is a game reserve, there are plenty of opportunities to try various types of game meat. This can include impala, kudu, buffalo and even crocodile. The meat is often grilled or roasted and served with nshima and vegetables.
You can find general info about typical foods in Zambia here.

Is Luangwa National Park an expensive destination for tourists?

Luangwa National Park in Zambia can be considered a relatively expensive destination for tourists compared to other parks in the region. The prices for lodges and camps in the area vary according to the level of luxury, but in general, they tend to be on the higher side. Additionally, getting to the park can also be costly as it usually requires a chartered flight or a long drive from Lusaka. However, the experience of being in one of the most unspoiled and diverse wildlife habitats on earth is definitely worth the cost. It is recommended to plan your trip in advance and look for deals or packages that can help you save some money.

Where to find accomodation in Luangwa National Park

The three main areas to find accommodation for a visit to Luangwa National Park in Zambia are: 1. South Luangwa: This is the most popular area and has the largest concentration of lodges and camps. It is also the closest to the park entrance.
2. North Luangwa: This area is more remote and less visited than South Luangwa. It offers a more wild and authentic experience of the park.
3. Luambe National Park: This area is adjacent to South Luangwa and offers a quieter and less touristic experience.
You can check hotel prices at Luangwa National Park here:
Booking.com

Is Luangwa National Park a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Luangwa National Park in Zambia is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, like with any travel destination, it is important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. It is best to travel with a reputable tour operator or travel agency and stay well-informed about local conditions and any potential safety risks. Additionally, it is important to follow park rules and guidelines to minimize any risks while enjoying the beautiful wildlife and natural scenery that Luangwa National Park has to offer.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Zambia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Luangwa National Park.

What type of travelers will enjoy Luangwa National Park the most?

Luangwa National Park in Zambia is a great destination for a wide range of travelers. Here are some suggestions based on the interests of different types of travelers: 1. Couples: Couples who are interested in wildlife and nature will definitely enjoy Luangwa National Park. It's a place where you can enjoy some quiet, peaceful moments with your loved one while observing animals in their natural habitats. The park also offers many romantic accommodations including lodges with private decks overlooking the river, treehouses, and luxury tented camps.
2. Young people looking for fun: Luangwa National Park might not be the best destination for young people looking for nightlife and parties. However, if they are interested in adventure activities like walking safaris, night drives, and canoeing, the park has a lot to offer. The park also has several budget-friendly lodges and campsites for backpackers.
3. Families: Luangwa National Park is a great destination for families with children of all ages. Both adults and kids will enjoy watching animals on game drives and walking safaris. There are also family-friendly lodges and campsites that offer activities like bushwalks, bushcraft, and kid's clubs.

How to get around Luangwa National Park

The best way to move around Luangwa National Park in Zambia is through a 4x4 vehicle, as the roads can be rough and sometimes not accessible by regular cars. Safari companies in the area typically provide guided game drives in open safari vehicles, and some lodges offer their own 4x4 vehicles for self-drives. Walking safaris are also a popular way to explore the park and get up close with the wildlife.

What to see around Luangwa National Park

Certainly, here are some places to visit in a day trip from Luangwa National Park, Zambia: 1. Chipata: Located about 2 hours and 30 minutes from Luangwa National Park, Chipata is the capital of the Eastern Province of Zambia. Here you can visit the vibrant market, explore the local culture and try the traditional Zambian food.
2. South Luangwa National Park: Not technically a day trip as it is already in Luangwa valley, but still worth a visit if you haven't already. Located next to Luangwa National Park, the South Luangwa National Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including lions, leopards, hyenas, elephants, and many more.
3. Kundalila Falls: Located about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Luangwa National Park, Kundalila Falls is a stunning, secluded waterfall. The hike to the falls is relatively easy and takes around 20-30 minutes. You can enjoy swimming or a picnic while enjoying the scenic views.
4. Chikweti Game Ranch: It is only an hour's drive from Luangwa National Park. You can visit the Chikweti Game Ranch to see giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and other wildlife. You can also enjoy horse riding and guided nature walks.
5. Victoria Falls: The Victoria Falls are located approximately six hours away from Luangwa National Park. However, visiting Victoria Falls will make a fantastic day trip. The majestic waterfall on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe is one of the largest waterfalls in the world and is a must-see attraction.
For every travel information about Zambia you can click here.

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