Unquestionably Zambia's most famous wildlife sanctuary, the South Luangwa covers a vast 9050 square kilometres and is dominated by a flood plain and savannah that extends from the Luangwa River to the Muchinga escarpment, rising over 800 metres from the valley floor in the west. The annual rains fill the valley's sandy rivers and feed the Luangwa which becomes a raging torrent in its journey down to the Zambezi - this annual flooding replenishes the Luangwa's game carrying capacity as it fills the low-lying plains and spawns new ox-bow lakes. The green season (November to April) although practically off limits at that time is when large herds of elephant congregate.
The North Luangwa, about half the size of its southern counterpart is an undeveloped and entry-restricted gem in the African bush. If you're looking for exclusivity and remoteness, then you'll find few places in Africa to compare!
Similar in terms of game and vegetation to the South Luangwa, this wilderness area is renowned for its buffalo herds and attendant lions. Mark and Delia Owens brought the North Luangwa to public attention through their book "The Eye of the Elephant" (also available under the title "Survivor's Song"). The Park remains totally off-limits to the public as it has for nearly 4 decades. Only two operators have access to this pristine wildlife area.
