South Luangwa is a destination that captures the hearts of nature enthusiasts, photographers, and adventurers alike. But when is the best time to visit this extraordinary corner of the world? With us, any time between May and October offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Here’s what you can expect during each month of the season.

As the season begins, South Luangwa is a lush paradise, vibrant with greenery and teeming with life. The rains have subsided, leaving the landscape fresh and abundant. This is a prime time for birdwatchers, as the migrant species are still around, and the resident birds are in full breeding plumage. The bush is thick, making wildlife sightings more of an adventure, but the thrill of spotting a leopard in the dense foliage or a herd of elephants emerging from the trees is unparalleled.

Image credit: Marlon Dutoit

Why Visit in May?

Abundant Birdlife: With over 400 species, May is a birdwatcher’s dream.
Lush Scenery: The landscape is still green, offering breathtaking photographic opportunities.
Exclusive Safari Experience: With fewer visitors, your safari feels more intimate and personalized.

Image credit: Robin Lee

June marks the transition as the bush begins to dry out, and the animals start congregating around the rivers and waterholes. The grass is shorter, making it easier to spot the iconic big cats of South Luangwa, including leopards and lions. The cooler temperatures make for comfortable game drives, and the early morning mists add a touch of magic to the landscape.

Image credit: George Turner

Image credit: George Turner

Image credit: George Turner

Why Visit in June?

• Great Wildlife Viewing: Shorter grass means easier sightings of big cats and other wildlife.
• Perfect Weather: Enjoy cool mornings and evenings with warm afternoons.
• Atmospheric Photography: Capture the ethereal beauty of the misty mornings.

Image credit: Gail Edwardson

By July, the dry season is in full swing, and the Luangwa River becomes the lifeline for the park’s wildlife. Large herds of buffalo and elephant are drawn to the water, and predators are never far behind. The thinning vegetation and drying waterholes create perfect conditions for game viewing. This is also an ideal time to experience one of our renowned walking safaris, where you can explore the bush on foot and connect with nature in an intimate and exhilarating way.

Why Visit in July?

• The Last of the Fishing Parties: Watering holes and oxbow lakes are home to large fishing parties of cranes, storks, hamerkops and more.
• Walking Safaris: Engage in the ultimate safari experience by exploring on foot.
• Comfortable Temperatures: Warm days and cool nights provide ideal conditions for outdoor activities.

August is prime time for safari-goers. The game drives are packed with action as predators take advantage of the scarcity of water, leading to dramatic encounters that will leave you on the edge of your seat. The clear skies and dry conditions make this month perfect for stargazing, while the bush is alive with the sounds of nocturnal creatures as you relax in camp.

Image credit: Marlon Dutoit

Why Visit in August?

• Action-Packed Safaris: High chances of witnessing predator-prey interactions.
• Stargazing Opportunities: Enjoy clear skies and a brilliant display of the Milky Way.
• Nocturnal Wildlife: Experience the sounds and sights of the bush at night.

As September arrives, the heat intensifies, and the animals are drawn even closer to the remaining water sources. This month is known for its exceptional predator sightings, as lions, leopards, and wild dogs take advantage of the weakened prey. The vibrant carmine bee-eaters also arrive, nesting along the riverbanks and adding a splash of color to the dramatic landscape. The concentration of wildlife offers unparalleled photographic opportunities.

Image credit: Matt Armstrong

Why Visit in September?

• Prime Predator Sightings: High chances of seeing lions, leopards, and wild dogs.
• Photographer’s Paradise: Capture stunning images of wildlife against the dramatic, dry landscape.
• Carmine Bee-Eaters: Witness these striking birds as they nest along the riverbanks.

Image credit: Dave Richards

Image credit: Robin Lee

October offers an exceptional safari experience as wildlife gathers around the dwindling water sources, making for spectacular game viewing. While the temperatures can be high, they bring heightened wildlife activity and frequent sightings of big cats and large herbivores. For those ready for a thrilling adventure, October is a month of remarkable opportunities in the wild.

Image credit: Noelle van Muiden

Image credit: Noelle van Muiden

Image credit: Noelle van Muiden

Why Visit in October?

• Incredible Wildlife Concentration: The shrinking water sources draw all animals to the river.
• Dramatic Encounters: Witness nature at its rawest as predators and prey gather around the last remaining waterholes.
• A Safari of Extremes: Experience the most intense and rewarding safaris of the season.

Image credit: Irène Pluess

No matter when you choose to visit us in South Luangwa, each month from May to October offers something special. From the lush, green beginnings of the season to the intense, wildlife-rich finales, your adventure will be one to remember. Whether you’re a birdwatcher, photographer, or simply a lover of nature, South Luangwa promises an experience that will captivate your heart and soul.