Why the South Luangwa?
Hippo trails crisscross through the grasslands between the Luangwa River and idle lagoons. Follow in their footsteps with an expert guide on a walking safari, taking in your surroundings whilst observing birds, elephants and antelope. The valley floods during the rainy season between December and March, but in the dry season the river becomes the hottest bar in town as animals visit to drink and bathe.
The 3,500 square-mile South Luangwa park provides plenty of space for a private safari experience. Lodges and camps here are small-scale and comfortable, situated in scenic groves or overlooking the river. Just don’t rush off to bed too quickly – night drives add context to what you’ll have seen during the day. If you’re a first-time visitor to Zambia, this is the perfect place to begin your journey.
The 3,500 square-mile South Luangwa park provides plenty of space for a private safari experience. Lodges and camps here are small-scale and comfortable, situated in scenic groves or overlooking the river. Just don’t rush off to bed too quickly – night drives add context to what you’ll have seen during the day. If you’re a first-time visitor to Zambia, this is the perfect place to begin your journey.
- Beautiful valley floodplain with a winding river.
- Outstanding wildlife viewing.
- Idyllic walking safaris.
- Night-time game drives.
- Birdwatching.
- Best to visit during the dry season.
Best Places to Stay in the South Luangwa
Puku Ridge
Puku Ridge inhabits a remote world of its own, watching the ancient patterns of life and survival while treating its visitors to enjoyably civilised hospitality. This small and intimate camp is built unobtrusively overlooking a vast floodplain where the Puku antelope after which the camp is named can be seen grazing throughout the day.
Lion Camp
There are no fences at Lion Camp, so elephant, buffalo, and antelope come and go as they please. You can watch them from your private deck or the board walk, and they may well be watching you as you swim in the pool. The camp prides itself on its support for conservation and local community development initiatives, including Conservation South Luangwa and the Chipembele Wildlife Education Centre.
Mchenja Bushcamp
Mchenja, meaning "the ebony tree", is set beneath a magnificent grove of these trees on the banks of the Luangwa River. It is the most luxurious of the Norman Carr tented camps yet it is also designed to combine excellently with other more rustic bush camps.
Private Journeys Tailored to You
We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 30 years we have been crafting the finest tailor-made holidays to the world’s wild places. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you every time.We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 30 years we have been crafting the finest tailor-made holidays to the world’s wild places. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you every time.
Who are Journeysmiths?
An experienced team of well-travelled individuals, passionate about crafting journeys that are as exceptional as they are personal, while maximising our positive impact on the places in which we work.
Why Travel With Us?
While the evolution of travel and technology has seen much change at Journeysmiths over the years, our fundamental beliefs about the perfect holiday have not.
Positive Impact Mission
Journeysmiths mission is to inspire and expand peoples horizons through exceptional travel experiences, while preserving the natural world for future generations.
Looking for Inspiration?
Zambia Trip Idea
Take The Path Less Travelled
Embark on an extraordinary safari journey through Zambia's remote wilderness. Discover luxurious accommodation amid untouched landscapes. Traverse untamed plains, witness incredible wildlife, and unwind in exclusive camps offering unparalleled luxury amidst the raw beauty of remote Zambia.
Tanzania Trip Idea
Victoria Falls and Safari
Indulge in a luxurious Zambian getaway. Start with the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, then venture into the wilderness for an exclusive safari, encountering Zambia's diverse wildlife while unwinding in stunning accommodations, creating an unforgettable African adventure.
Article
Top 10 Zambia Activities
We’ve compiled a list of our favourite experiences to inspire your imagination.
Article
Three Great Rivers Zambia
Three of Africa’s great rivers set the scene for your Zambia safari. The Zambezi, the Luangwa and the Kafue rivers are all of different character and have national parks named for them.
Occasional round-up of the best wild places, unique experiences and expert travel tips straight to your inbox.
Keep the Inspiration Flowing