North Luangwa National Park

North Luangwa Map and Geography

Situated in the lush landscapes of Zambia, North Luangwa National Park is renowned for its rugged terrain. The park's geography features a remarkable range in altitude from 569 meters to 1,296 meters above sea level.

The North Luangwa National Park Map is a vital tool for navigating this vast wilderness and highlights key locations such as secluded lodges, tented camps, and essential waterways that meander through the terrain.

Key Geographic Features:

• Limited Access Roads

The park's deliberately minimal road network emphasizes its untouched and pristine condition, making it a prime location for Zambia Tours.

• Diverse Altitudes

The varying elevations contribute to the park's diverse ecosystems, hosting a rich array of wildlife including the exclusive black rhino.

• Strategic Accommodations

Lodges and camps are strategically placed to blend with the environment, offering immersive Zambia Safari experiences.

• Rivers and Water Bodies

The Luangwa River and its tributaries are lifelines of the park and support both the wildlife and the natural beauty that attracts visitors.

This geographic and map overview not only serves as a guide to exploring North Luangwa's unspoiled landscapes but also underscores the park's status as a top Zambia Destination for safari enthusiasts.

North Luangwa National Park Weather and Climate

North Luangwa National Park experiences two main seasons each year: a dry season and a wet season. Understanding these can help you decide when to plan your visit, especially if you're looking forward to North Luangwa Safari Tours.

Dry Season (May to October)

There’s hardly any rain in the dry season, making it a great time to see wildlife gathered around the few remaining water spots. Days are warm but nights can get pretty cool, so bringing something warm to wear is a good idea.

Important points:

• May still has some wet spots, not the best time for visits.
• June and July are cooler, perfect for comfortable safari days and cool nights.
• August and September heat up, with no rain in sight.
• October is when it starts to get hot, and you might see the first raindrops of the season.

Wet Season (November to April)

Expect afternoon showers and the occasional thunderstorm, making everything lush and green in the wet season in North Luangwa. Many camps close due to the rain making travel tricky, and animals are harder to spot as they have plenty of water everywhere.

What to expect:

• November can be very hot, with the rainy season starting to kick in.
• From December to March, it rains quite a bit, but usually not all day, keeping things interesting.
• April is beautifully green and the rains are less frequent, showing off the park in full bloom.
• However, the heavy rains make North Luangwa Safari Tours and travel difficult. This leads to closed camps. That's why visiting during this time isn’t recommended.

So, when is The Best Time to Visit North Luangwa? Definitely during the dry season if you’re looking to enjoy North Luangwa Tours & Safaris. Not only is wildlife viewing at its best, but the weather is more visitor-friendly too. Planning your trip in these months ensures you get the most out of this incredible experience.Top of Form

How to Get to North Luangwa National Park

Getting to North Luangwa National Park is an adventure, given its secluded location. This hidden gem offers a genuine wilderness experience, but reaching it does take some planning. Here's a simpler guide to make your trip smooth:

Starting Point

Your journey likely begins at Lusaka's Kenneth Kaunda International Airport. From there, a domestic flight to Mfuwe International Airport is your gateway to Zambia's natural wonders.

Charter Flights

For a direct route into North Luangwa, consider booking a charter flight to Mwaleshi airstrip. It's the fastest way to surround yourself with the park's untouched beauty.

Self-Drive Adventure

If you love a road trip and have a 4x4, you're in for a treat. You can drive from:

• Mpika: Look for the sign of the Great North Road to Mukungule village, then head to Mano Gate.
• Luambe National Park: Drive along the Luangwa River's east side for beautiful scenery and a peek into rural Zambia.

Because getting there can be tricky, the easiest way to explore North Luangwa is to book Zambia Safari Packages with us.  We take care of all the logistics, from transport to expert-guided tours, so you can fully immerse yourself in the park's wild beauty without any hassle.

Given the remote access, opting for a safari package, ensures you get the most out of your visit to North Luangwa. Our expertise and organization mean you can enjoy the journey and the destination, both memorable and effortless.

North Luangwa Wildlife

North Luangwa National Park is an exceptional destination for a Zambia Safari, known for its serene environment and abundant wildlife. Here's a closer look at the animals you can encounter during your visit:

• Witness large herds of buffaloes, a common and impressive sight within the park.
• Spot the majestic lions, often seen in search of their next meal.
• Despite their shyness, elephants are frequently observed in their natural habitat.
• Celebrate the success of conservation with the sighting of these rare black rhinos, growing in number thanks to reintroduction efforts.
• Cookson’s Wildebeest are unique to the region, offering a special glimpse into Zambia's diverse wildlife.
• Crawshay's Zebra are distinctive for their unique stripes, making them a must-see on your Zambia Safari Tours.
• Hyenas, Zebras, and Warthogs are commonly found throughout the park, these animals add to the rich diversity of animal life in North Luangwa.
• Although more elusive, leopards provide a thrilling viewing experience for the lucky few who spot them.

Visiting between July and October offers the best opportunity for wildlife viewing, as animals gather around water sources, making them easier to spot. North Luangwa National Park promises an authentic Zambia Safari experience, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the untouched beauty and remarkable wildlife diversity of Zambia.

North Luangwa Birdlife

Boasting over 410 species, North Luangwa National Park is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. This park is special because it’s mainly for walking safaris, making bird watching an intimate and rewarding experience. Here, you're stepping into the world of birds on North Luangwa Tours.

Birdwatching Highlights

• The southern carmine bee-eater, with its vibrant colours, nests along the riverbanks, offering a stunning spectacle.
• Unique species like the babbling starling and chestnut-backed sparrow-weaver can be found here, adding to the park's exclusive bird list.
• Grey go-away birds, red-billed buffalo-weaver, and red-billed hornbill are often seen, making any walk a discovery journey.
• The southern ground hornbill is another frequent sight, marking an impressive presence with its size and colour.
• Specials include the African skimmer, Pel’s fishing owl, and the rare Narina trogon among others, making North Luangwa Tours & Safaris a must for bird lovers.

The best birdwatching can be enjoyed during the wet summer months (November to April) when migratory birds visit. However, it’s worth noting that access can be limited during this time due to park closures.

North Luangwa Attractions and Experiences

North Luangwa National Park offers a unique slice of African wilderness, making it a top pick for Things to Do in Zambia. This remote park is famed for its immersive safari experiences, where nature's quiet is only broken by the sounds of wildlife. Here's what makes North Luangwa a must-visit:

• Walking Safaris: Follow the footsteps of explorers with guided walks, experiencing wildlife up close in a truly natural setting.
• Night and Day Vehicle Safaris: Explore the park under the changing light, from the vibrant hues of day to the mysterious shadows of night.
• Mountain Bike Safaris: For the more adventurous, pedal through the landscape for a different perspective on safari.
• Unique Wildlife: Home to rare species like Cookson’s wildebeest and eland, which are less common in other parks.
• Visit Mwaleshi Falls: Day Trips to these majestic falls are the best kind of experience that is offered on
• North Luangwa Tours and Safaris.

The park's strict conservation efforts and limited access ensure a pristine safari environment. It makes access to North Luangwa exclusive which is managed through a select number of safari operators.

This exclusivity guarantees a serene and intimate wildlife experience. With no permanent lodges, visits here are truly special.

Entrance Fees and Rates for North Luangwa National Park

Here's what you need to know about the North Luangwa National Park Entrance Costs if you are heading to the park for a safari experience:

• Adult Entry: It's $20 per day for international visitors, $15 if you're a resident or from a SADC country, and K33.60 for Zambian citizens.
• For Your Car: If you're driving yourself, there's a $25 charge per vehicle each day.
• Kids Go Half Price: Little ones under 5 years old get in for free. Children between 5 and 13 years old pay half price.

These fees help keep the park running and protect its incredible wildlife. When you book a North Luangwa Safari Tour, you're also supporting a place that takes care of Zambia's natural treasures.