Best Safari Itineraries Featuring South Luangwa (7, 10, 14 Days)

South Luangwa National Park in Zambia is one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations — often dubbed the birthplace of the walking safari. With its diverse habitats, excellent leopard sightings, and fewer crowds compared to better-known parks, it’s a top choice for both first-time and seasoned safari-goers.

Here are the best 7, 10, and 14-day safari itineraries that feature South Luangwa as the central highlight.

7-Day South Luangwa Safari Itinerary

Perfect for: Travelers who want a focused, immersive experience in South Luangwa.

Day 1: Arrive in Lusaka, transfer to Mfuwe by flight or road. Transfer to a lodge or bushcamp near the park.

Days 2–6: Morning and afternoon game drives, night drives, and guided walking safaris. Explore different sectors of the park or switch between camps for varied terrain and wildlife. Look out for leopards, elephants, wild dogs, and hippos.

Day 7: Final morning activity, then transfer back to Lusaka for departure.

Optional add-on: Visit a local village or community conservation project.

10-Day South Luangwa + Lower Zambezi or Victoria Falls

Perfect for: Those who want to combine South Luangwa with a water-based safari or cultural wonder.

Days 1–4: Fly into Mfuwe and begin safari in South Luangwa. Stay at two different camps for contrasting environments.

Days 5–7: Fly or transfer to Lower Zambezi National Park. Enjoy canoe safaris, boating, tiger fishing, and riverbank game drives.

Days 8–9: Fly to Livingstone for Victoria Falls. Explore the falls on foot, take a helicopter ride, or join a Zambezi River sunset cruise.

Day 10: Departure from Livingstone.

Alternative: Replace Victoria Falls with more time in the Zambezi Valley or a conservation-focused stay.

14-Day Ultimate Zambia Safari (South Luangwa + Multi-Park Extension)

Perfect for: Enthusiasts looking for a comprehensive Zambian safari experience.

Days 1–6: Start in South Luangwa. Combine walking safaris with game drives. Base at multiple bushcamps to experience the remote wilderness.

Days 7–9: Transfer to Lower Zambezi. Shift from land-based to water-based safari activities.

Days 10–11: Optional fly-in to Kafue National Park for big game and predator tracking.

Days 12–13: Head to Livingstone. Spend two nights enjoying Victoria Falls, cultural excursions, or adventure activities.

Day 14: Departure via Lusaka or Livingstone.

What to Expect in South Luangwa

• Best time to go: July to October (dry season) for peak wildlife viewing. Green season (November to March) is lush and ideal for photography and birding.
• Activities: Walking safaris, 4×4 game drives, night drives, hide photography, birding.
• Wildlife: Leopards, elephants, hippos, crocodiles, wild dogs, lions, Thornicroft’s giraffe.
• Accommodations: A mix of rustic bushcamps and upscale safari lodges.

Tips for Planning

• Internal flights save time and connect remote regions efficiently.
• Bushcamp circuits allow for immersive multi-night walking safaris.
• Private or small group tours ensure a more intimate experience.
• Add variety by including river-based safaris or cultural components.

Sample Summary Table

Itinerary	Duration	Key Highlights
South Luangwa only	7 days	Game drives, walking safaris, night drives
Luangwa + Zambezi/Victoria Falls	10 days	Safari variety + waterfall experience
Multi-park Zambia tour	14 days	South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi, Kafue, Victoria Falls

Conclusion

No matter how many days you can spare, South Luangwa offers an authentic and exhilarating safari experience. Whether you focus entirely on this park or combine it with Zambia’s other gems, these 7-, 10-, and 14-day itineraries help you make the most of one of Africa’s best-kept safari secrets.

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