SOUTH LUANGWA
ZAMBIA
Budget : Premium Safari*
"WILDEST AFRICA"
The South Luangwa region
The Luangwa Valley, one of Africa's last, most authentic and richest wilderness paradises. The South Luangwa Park is renowned for its immense herds of buffalo, its families of elephants passing through the heart of the campsites and its many predators, including the superb leopard, the elusive wild dog and, of course, the lion.
The Luangwa River is also home to Africa's largest population of hippopotamus and colonies of carmine bee-eaters that nest on the riverbank between August and October: a unique sight. Birdwatchers will not be disappointed: over 400 species of birds live here.
South Luangwa National Park has a rare beauty that will leave no safarist indifferent. It is a place where you can experience magnificent moments of immersion, photographing some of the most sought-after animals on the African continent on 4x4 safaris or on foot.
A seasonal destination for memorable safaris
South Luangwa is mainly accessible during the dry season, with the majority of camps open from May to late October/early November before the rains.
The perfect destination for wildlife photographers!
Starting season
May to June
The landscapes retain a touch of greenery, ideal for photography. The animals adopt typical dry-season behaviours, and the cool temperatures make it easier to observe active predators for long periods. Prices are also more attractive than in high season, and the colours will be more vivid for your photographs.
Peak Dry Season
July to Octoer
Wildlife concentrated around waterholes, sparse vegetation for optimum visibility. Leopards take refuge in the trees to keep cool, and the flowering sausage trees attract many species. The waterholes dry up and large herds of buffalo gather on the last lagoons to drink... with the lions never far away. This is also the period when the wild dogs have their young before leaving the den in September and becoming more mobile once again.
Essential highlight
September to October
The nesting of carmine bee-eaters on the banks of the Luangwa offers a unique opportunity to photograph huge colonies.
In short...
If you love wild and remote experiences, authentic safari camps, incredible wildlife density and photographic encounters with lions, leopards, wild dogs, elephants and more, then this is the destination for you.
Highlights
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One of the most beautiful and wildest parks in Africa
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Exceptional photographic opportunities of large predators
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Very few other vehicles on sightings
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Great diversity of bird and mammal species
Iconic species to photograph
Carmine Bee-Eater
Thousands of birds form huge colonies that come to nest on the banks of the Zambezi in September and October.
Thornicroft Girafe
A species endemic to the South Luangwa Park.
Elephant
An important feature of the Zambian landscape, they offer superb photographic opportunities along the Zambezi and its natural channels.
Lion
The largest cat in Zambia and an icon of the African continent.
Wild Dog
Wild dog is the Africa's most efficient predator. Numerous packs are regularly seen in South Luangwa.
Leopard
A symbol of elegance and power, the leopard is the master of the Luangwa Valley. One of the best places to photograph them.
Discover the experience
Because a picture is worth a thousand words, let yourself be seduced by the magic of South Luangwa in the gallery below.
Shared moments, grandiose landscapes and authentic campsites invite you to dream of your next adventure.
Testimonials
Your feedback is my greatest source of pride.
Our stay was packed with animals and incredible scenes of life that you only see ‘in documentaries’.
The lions on a giraffe carcass and the wild dogs that I absolutely wanted to photograph and see hunting😍, not forgetting the leopards that delighted us.
Maudhub W.
Valentin's knowledge of the South Luangwa Park enabled us to find leopards both during the day and at night, and thanks to his expertise in photography, we were able to learn how to take photos from different angles. He accommodates our wishes and shares his experience to give us the best experience of our safari.
Chazoulle C.
Valentin recommended this destination to me for its more exclusive side and for its reputation as the Valley of the Leopard in South Luangwa. His knowledge of the area enabled us to find and photograph many different leopards with incredible life scenes. We were often alone with the animals, which allowed us to enjoy them to the full.
Perrier T.
Feedback on guest experience
Embark on a 10-day adventure across Namibia with a small group of amateur photographers and my friend, photographer JC Pieri. From north to south, we explored the country's natural wonders: enchanting desert landscapes, a legendary ghost town, majestic ocean views, and unforgettable safaris — enough to amaze the whole team!
* Explorer Safari – from 4 500€ | Premium Safari – from 6 500€ | Luxury Safari – from 8 000€