Experts have dubbed South Luangwa one of the greatest wildlife sanctuaries in the world. The concentration of game around the Luangwa River and its oxbow lagoons is among the highest in Africa.

The park and its surrounding areas are often called the Valley of the Leopard, as the dense thickets and abundance of plains game create the perfect habitat for this beautiful and elusive cat. Naturally, this makes Shenton Safaris an excellent destination for leopard sightings—in fact, during the 2016, 2017, and 2018 seasons, we had a 100% success rate.

Just ask our safari guides—they’re experts at finding our ten resident leopards, whether on game drives or even on foot.

The now-famous walking safari originated in this park and remains an incredible way to experience this pristine wilderness firsthand. The changing seasons add to South Luangwa’s richness, shifting from the dry season (May to November) to the lush, green jungle of the rainy summer months, then back to dry plains, grasslands, and woodlands—all drawing wildlife toward the rivers and waterholes.

Close to the meandering Luangwa River, dambos support vast numbers of grazers and browsers, including buffalo, zebra, and various antelope species—especially puku, impala, kudu, and waterbuck—as well as baboons and Thornicroft’s giraffe.

Throughout the year, the area is home to 400 bird species, 60 different mammals, and three lion prides. Seasonal highlights include the spectacular carmine bee-eater colony, dramatic fishing parties, and breathtaking quelea displays. Be sure to look out for our endemic species—the Thornicroft’s giraffe and Cookson’s wildebeest.

Try our camp checklist—it’s not uncommon to spot over 100 bird species and numerous animals in just a few days!