South Luangwa Safari Park
South Luangwa Safari
THE LUANGWA VALLEY was formed by the same massive forces which created the East African Rift. Located some 600 kilometers from Lusaka, the capital of Zambia, the vast South Luangwa National Park covers an area of 9,050 square kilometers and averages 600 meters in altitude. The Valley floor is dominated by the meandering Luangwa River. This river is dynamic and constantly changing its course. The resulting lagoons and sandbanks attract an abundance of wildlife.
The Wildlife
The birds, some 400 recorded species, are spectacular and colorful. With three distinct habitats, the river, the adjoining lagoons and the plains, there is a wide diversity of game. Among the many species, waterbuck, zebra, warthog, eland and greater kudu are commonplace. The wandering herds of elephant are among some of the largest left in Africa. Buffalo continuously move in search of fresh pastures and water. In their wake come the predators, the lion and hyena. Leopards hunt the smaller game under cover of darkness.
The Seasons
Seasons govern the movement within the valley. During the rains (November – April) only the central area is accessible. Nkwali Camp opens in April as the last of the heavy rain storms fade and the lush, green bush is in peak condition. As Tena Tena opens at the start of the dry season, all is still fresh in the June sunlight. By August the bush is dry and the game is drawn to the remaining water. The isolated storms in November clear the air and new growth erupts. The water points are a magical focus for the gameviewing.
The Gameviewing
Much of the game viewing is in open vehicles, carrying up to 7 guests. However, each morning there is an opportunity to go walking from the camps in small groups (maximum 6). The walks are led by a licensed guide and an armed wildlife scout. Robin and his staff are expert at interpreting the signs of the wild. On foot, one can truly experience the African bush. By night, it is a different land. After sundowners on the river bank, the vehicle continues and, by using a powerful beam, you explore the nocturnal world. You often witness life and death struggles unfold. This truly is untouched Africa.
South Luangwa Safari Park is a must visit
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