"North Luangwa National Park is a true wilderness, with only a fraction of the visitors to South Luangwa. The meandering floodplain and dense woodland resemble those of its sister park, but with few roads and only a handful of lodges, the emphasis here is firmly on walking safaris, where the guiding is superb. Game is less habituated than in South Luangwa, but huge buffalo herds draw large lion prides, which you may meet on foot. Countless hippo congregate where the clear-flowing Mwaleshi river meets the sluggish Luangwa. An intensive protection zone now also supports a black rhino introduction project. Access is restricted to the May–October dry season.”
- Mike Unwin
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PLAN MY JOURNEYNorth Luangwa National Park
My single visit to North Luangwa remains one of my most memorable safari experiences. From a tiny bush camp beside the clear-flowing Mwaleshi, our small party spent four days of walking without seeing another visitor. One night, I watched by moonlight from my deck as hyenas brought down a puku in the shallow river below and then surrendered their kill to a huge male lion. The following morning, following the same river, we ran into more lions – this time tailing a huge buffalo herd – and watched more than 400 hippo grunting and jostling at the deep-water confluence with the Luangwa. The sense of wilderness was intense.
North Luangwa’s terrain broadly resembles South Luangwa’s, with open floodplains, ebony groves and mopane woodland. The park includes more escarpment, however, thus supporting forest species such as bush pig and blue monkey. Large mammals are less habituated than further south; I saw few elephants, despite abundant evidence of their presence. That said, there are plentiful impala, puku and endemic Cookson’s wildebeest, plus some huge buffalo herds – which attract large lion prides. Among other predators, spotted hyena are numerous and leopard widespread. Giraffe are absent, but more unusual herbivores include eland and Lichtenstein’s hartebeest, while in places the rivers teem with hippos, and black rhinos have been re-introduced to an intensive protection zone. Birders will find all the Luangwa classics, plus a handful of east African species, such as white-winged starling, at the southern limit of their range.
This is a park for the wilderness aficionado, for whom tracking lions on foot beats any view from a vehicle. The relative challenge of finding large larger mammals puts guides at the very top of their game, bringing the bush to life in a myriad thrilling ways. Access is easiest via the airstrip, a 45 minute-flight from Mfuwe in South Luangwa, and is restricted to the May–October dry season.
When to go
Find out when is best to visit
- Excellent
- Good
- Poor
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
Wettest time of the year, with rain falling most days of the month, although rarely prolonged in nature. Temperatures are a very pleasant, averaging 31°C/89°F midday, while the nights average 20°C/68°F. During this period the park transforms into a lush green landscape, a stark contrast to the dry season.
Like the rest of Zambia, North Luangwa has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting South Luangwa during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
Please note that safaris are not conducted in North Luangwa during the wet season, the logistics during this time just make such operations not viable. Many lodges in South Luangwa do however remain open.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
Wettest time of the year, with rain falling most days of the month, although rarely prolonged in nature. Temperatures are a very pleasant, averaging 31°C/89°F midday, while the nights average 20°C/68°F. During this period the park transforms into a lush green landscape, a stark contrast to the dry season.
Like the rest of Zambia, North Luangwa has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting South Luangwa during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
Please note that safaris are not conducted in North Luangwa during the wet season, the logistics during this time just make such operations not viable. Many lodges in South Luangwa do however remain open.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
Wettest time of the year, with rain falling most days of the month, although rarely prolonged in nature. Temperatures are a very pleasant, averaging 31°C/89°F midday, while the nights average 20°C/68°F. During this period the park transforms into a lush green landscape, a stark contrast to the dry season.
Like the rest of Zambia, North Luangwa has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting South Luangwa during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
Please note that safaris are not conducted in North Luangwa during the wet season, the logistics during this time just make such operations not viable. Many lodges in South Luangwa do however remain open.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
Temperatures are pleasant, and the rains are beginning to ease.
Like the rest of Zambia, North Luangwa has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting South Luangwa during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
Please note that safaris are not conducted in North Luangwa during the wet season, the logistics during this time just make such operations not viable. Many lodges in South Luangwa do however remain open.
DRY SEASON
May is the beginning of the dry season, although the landscape will still be many shades of green following the rains. Midday temperatures are average around 28°C/82°F, the mornings can however be surprisingly cool at around 10°C/49°F, so be sure to pack a warm fleece.
Like the rest of Zambia, North Luangwa has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting South Luangwa during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
Please note that safaris are not conducted in North Luangwa during the wet season, the logistics during this time just make such operations not viable. Many lodges in South Luangwa do however remain open.
DRY SEASON
The landscape continues to dry up, with good game sightings becoming more likely. Midday temperatures are average around 28°C/82°F, the mornings can however be surprisingly cool at around 11°C/52°F, so be sure to pack a warm fleece.
Like the rest of Zambia, North Luangwa has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting South Luangwa during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
Please note that safaris are not conducted in North Luangwa during the wet season, the logistics during this time just make such operations not viable. Many lodges in South Luangwa do however remain open.
DRY SEASON
The landscape continues to dry up, with good game sightings becoming more likely. Midday temperatures are average around 28°C/82°F, the mornings can however be surprisingly cool at around 11°C/52°F, so be sure to pack a warm fleece.
Like the rest of Zambia, North Luangwa has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting South Luangwa during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
Please note that safaris are not conducted in North Luangwa during the wet season, the logistics during this time just make such operations not viable. Many lodges in South Luangwa do however remain open.
DRY SEASON
Clear skies still dominate, the landscape has now become quite parched; ultimately making this the perfect time for game viewing. Midday and night temperatures are a little warmer during these months, averaging 33°C/91°F and 18°C/64°F respectfully.
Like the rest of Zambia, North Luangwa has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting South Luangwa during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
Please note that safaris are not conducted in North Luangwa during the wet season, the logistics during this time just make such operations not viable. Many lodges in South Luangwa do however remain open.
DRY SEASON
Clear skies still dominate, the landscape has now become quite parched; ultimately making this the perfect time for game viewing. Midday and night temperatures are a little warmer during these months, averaging 33°C/91°F and 18°C/64°F respectfully.
Like the rest of Zambia, North Luangwa has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting South Luangwa during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
Please note that safaris are not conducted in North Luangwa during the wet season, the logistics during this time just make such operations not viable. Many lodges in South Luangwa do however remain open.
DRY SEASON
Game viewing can be spectacular during October; however, temperatures continue to rise before the start of the rains, with midday temperatures over 40°C/104°F not uncommon. We suggest early morning starts during this time to make the most of the cool temperatures!
Like the rest of Zambia, North Luangwa has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting South Luangwa during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
Please note that safaris are not conducted in North Luangwa during the wet season, the logistics during this time just make such operations not viable. Many lodges in South Luangwa do however remain open.
WET SEASON
The first rains arrive, usually in the form of sharp afternoon showers. The temperatures still however remain very hot, while the humidity adds level of discomfort.
Like the rest of Zambia, North Luangwa has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting South Luangwa during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
Please note that safaris are not conducted in North Luangwa during the wet season, the logistics during this time just make such operations not viable. Many lodges in South Luangwa do however remain open.
WET SEASON
Wettest time of the year, with rain falling most days of the month, although rarely prolonged in nature. Temperatures are a very pleasant, averaging 31°C/89°F midday, while the nights average 20°C/68°F. During this period the park transforms into a lush green landscape, a stark contrast to the dry season.
Like the rest of Zambia, North Luangwa has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting South Luangwa during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
Please note that safaris are not conducted in North Luangwa during the wet season, the logistics during this time just make such operations not viable. Many lodges in South Luangwa do however remain open.
Experiences
Explore North Luangwa National Park Properties
Mwaleshi Camp
Mwaleshi Camp
Mwaleshi Camp is a small, rustic camp open during Zambia’s dry season. Run by Remote Africa, guiding is exceptional at this family-run accommodation, which is known to be one of Africa’s best walking camps. Set on the banks of ..
What People Say
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The personalised service provided was far beyond my expectations. A three week trip visiting four countries in Africa, multiple game reserves, wineries and much, much more was flawless. While a close encounter with a leopard and her cubs…
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We got in touch after hearing about Hide & Seek from a friend. Have to say hats off to Jamie, he was so patient throughout, even through our indecisiveness! Ultimately we ended up with the most incredible holiday of our lives. Thank you again, we will be back!!
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Thank you for arranging our Safari holiday in Kenya and Tanzania for us. It was to celebrate our 40th. Wedding anniversary which was on July 1st. 2018, and through your arrangements, we have had a holiday that we will never forget...
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Thanks so much for a truly unforgettable once in a life time holiday. Hopefully we will be in touch again soon!
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Spot on in terms of itinerary . We not disappointed by any of the suggestions and had the best holiday ever! Thank you!
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Jamie was very helpful throughout the booking process and recommended the perfect holiday. There was nothing we would change having now been out to Tanzania. I would highly recommend Hide & Seek to friends and relatives.
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Hide and seek dealt with our last minute travel plans extremely well. Obviously, our accommodations shifted as availability diminished but ultimately they came up with a vacation that we will never forget.
