Africa is home to some of the world’s most iconic safari destinations, each offering its own unique experiences. While the Serengeti in Tanzania and Kruger National Park in South Africa are often at the top of travelers’ lists, South Luangwa National Park in Zambia remains one of the best-kept secrets in the safari world. So, what sets South Luangwa apart from these more well-known reserves?

Here’s why a safari in South Luangwa is a completely different adventure.

Unlike the Serengeti and Kruger, where crowds can sometimes take away from the sense of solitude, South Luangwa offers an uncrowded, raw wilderness experience. While some areas closer to the park gate can be busier, our camps are situated further into the park, where fewer vehicles venture. This allows for a quieter, more exclusive safari, with game drives often enjoyed in complete solitude—just you, the wildlife, and the wilderness.

South Luangwa is renowned for its high density of leopards, earning it the title of the “Valley of the Leopard.” While leopards can be elusive in many parks, they are frequently spotted here, sometimes even during the day. Additionally, the park is home to strong populations of lions and African wild dogs, making it a top destination for those hoping to witness predators in action.

Each safari destination has its own signature species, and South Luangwa is no different. While the Serengeti is famous for its Great Migration and Kruger boasts the Big Five, South Luangwa is home to endemic species like the Crawshay’s zebra and the striking Thornicroft’s giraffe, which are not found in either of the other parks. The park also boasts impressive elephant herds, hippos, and over 400 bird species.

South Luangwa undergoes dramatic seasonal changes that create unique safari experiences. The dry season (May to October) is when wildlife congregates around the shrinking rivers and lagoons, making for spectacular game viewing. However, the emerald season (November to April) transforms the park into a lush paradise with vibrant landscapes, migratory birds, and the chance to see newborn animals. Unlike Kruger, which has extensive tarred roads, and the Serengeti’s vast plains, South Luangwa’s shifting landscapes create an ever-changing safari adventure.

While the Serengeti and Kruger have large lodges catering to high numbers of tourists, South Luangwa is known for its small, owner-run camps. Our camps, run by the Shenton family, are built with this in mind—offering a personal safari experience with expert guides who know the area inside out. They’re designed to blend into the environment, keeping things simple, comfortable, and focused on what really matters: the wildlife and the experience.

If you’re looking for a classic Big Five safari with easy access, Kruger might be the best fit. If witnessing the Great Migration is your dream, the Serengeti is hard to beat. But if you’re after an off-the-beaten-path adventure, with exclusive wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and the thrill of a walking safari, then South Luangwa is the place to be.