South Luangwa National Park in Eastern Zambia – Zambia is a wildlife sanctuary famous all over the world. It is considered as among the greatest sanctuaries of its kind all across the globe.
Location
South Luangwa National Park in Eastern Zambia – Zambia is at the southernmost valley along the Luangwa River. It is bounded by the Muchinga Escarpment on its northwestern side.
Getting There
Flying in is via the airport in Mfuwe as this is the closest one to the South Luangwa National Park in Eastern Zambia – Zambia. From the airport, you can take a car hire service to reach the Mfuwe Gate – one of the two entry points into the national park.
If you wish to drive instead of flying in to Mfuwe, you can start from Chipata and then follow the road that goes straight to Mfuwe. It is about one hundred and twenty – three kilometers off and most of the roads on this route are unpaved and rough.
On the other hand, the most comfortable and convenient way of reaching and visiting the park is by joining a tour. There are a good number of reliable tour companies in the country that offer expeditions to the national parks in Zambia.
What to See and Do
South Luangwa National Park in Eastern Zambia – Zambia actually initiated the “walking safari” type of exploration of Africa’s wilderness.
Today, the best way to experience this particular national park is still through a walking safari tour.
The park is covered in lush vegetation and its wildlife concentration is considered as among the densest in these parts of the continent.
As a matter of fact, approximately sixty various animal species live in the park grounds and well over four hundred various bird species can be found here as well.
As you go on your explorations of the park, you will see hippos, antelopes, baboons and crowned cranes going about their routines. Further along, herds of elephants can be seen – at least 70 in all in one area of the park alone.
Buffalos, zebras, hyenas, lions and leopards can also be seen in various parts of the park. The most notable animal species here however, is Thornicroft’s Giraffe, which is endemic to Luangwa Valley.
Brief History
The South Luangwa National Park in Eastern Zambia – Zambia was established in the year 1972. Prior to this, the area was a game reserve, established in the year 1938.
The park has a coverage area of nine thousand and fifty – two square kilometers. There is a very popular lodge located just outside the boundary of the park on its eastern side.
The lodge itself is a tourist attraction as each year, in the month of November; elephants just walk straight through the lobby to gain access to a wild mango tree.
Cost
Entry fees into the South Luangwa National Park in Eastern Zambia – Zambia is approximately US$ 25 per person, valid for twenty – four hours. Safaris generally cost about US$ 135 per person, per night while lodgings range from US$ 220 per night up to US$ 430 per night.
Lodging costs usually cover park entry fees, game drives and meals so it’s best to check with your chosen accommodations the inclusions in their rates.
Other Information
If you wish to see the most number and variety of animals during your visit to South Luangwa National Park in Eastern Zambia – Zambia, you may want to come in October – generally the hottest month in Luangwa.
It is during this time when game concentration is at its peak.
