North Luangwa National Park
A park known for its wild, untouched and ‘Africa as it once was’ feel...
North Luangwa National Park is a park known for its wild, untouched and ‘Africa as it once was’ feel. Often referred to as simply the ‘north park’, North Luangwa is sat north of the South Luangwa National Park in eastern Zambia, and is half the size than its neighbour, at 4,630 square kilometres. Sharing the same ecosystem as south park – bordered by the dramatic Muchinga Escarpment to the west and the Luangwa River to the east – the main difference between the two parks is that the North park is truly remote, with only three camps and a handful of visitors at one time.
Safaris to North Luangwa National Park
Safaris to North Luangwa National Park are often combined with the south park, and whilst it is not a common itinerary, with a short 10-20-minute light aircraft flight between the two, it is easy to combine. With a few exceptions, the wildlife in the north is the same as what you would find in the south. The eland (the largest of the antelope), hartebeest, larger lion prides and buffalo herds are often seen more often here compared to the south. Walking safaris are the preferred method of game viewing, and depending on which camp you stay in, you may only get into a vehicle when you are arriving or leaving!
Accommodation in North Luangwa National Park
There is little choice of accommodation in North Luangwa National Park, as only three camps sit inside the park, on the banks of the Mwaleshi River. This river, unlike the Luangwa River or any of its smaller tributaries, is a permanently flowing river and is usually shallow enough to be crossed on foot. With the wildlife concentrating around the Mwaleshi, the camps are in a position for reliable game throughout the year, as well as providing a scenic view out to the river.
