About South Luangwa
World's Most Celebrated Safari Destination
1. Walking in the Wild
Imagine stepping into the heart of the African bush on a guided walking safari. South Luangwa is renowned for its exceptional guides, many of whom grew up in the region and bring with them decades of knowledge. Since Norman Carr introduced walking safaris in the 1950s, South Luangwa National Park has remained one of the few places in Africa where this exhilarating experience is offered.
Each walking safari is unique, allowing you to walk the same land as Africa’s giants while being serenaded by the sounds of birds, insects, and wildlife. The thrill often lies in the smaller details—animal tracks in the sand, unique flora, and herd patterns—expertly pointed out by your guide. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll lasting a few hours or an immersive multi-day trek, walking safaris offer not just sightings but also stories shared around a crackling campfire.
2. A Birdwatchers Dream
South Luangwa is a birdwatcher’s paradise, offering one of Africa’s most rewarding birding experiences. With over 400 recorded species, the park is a vibrant sanctuary for both avid and casual bird enthusiasts. During the dry season, the receding waters of the Luangwa River create ideal conditions for spotting an incredible variety of water birds. Flocks of yellow-billed storks, graceful pelicans, striking saddle-billed storks, towering goliath herons, and elegant crowned cranes gather along the riverbanks, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of color and movement.
Beyond the waterways, the park’s diverse habitats—woodlands, grasslands, and lagoons—host everything from lilian’s lovebirds to martial eagles and carmine bee-eaters. Whether you’re watching a fish eagle swoop over the river or listening to the dawn chorus in the mopane forest, South Luangwa offers unforgettable encounters at every turn. For bird lovers, it’s not just a destination—it’s a dream come true.
3. Promoting Local Community Development
In recent years, local community development has become increasingly important, with a strong focus on conservation efforts and supporting nearby communities. Thornicroft Lodge actively contributes to this mission by dedicating a portion of every guest’s stay to meaningful causes within the local area, ensuring that each visit leaves a lasting, positive impact. By staying at Thornicroft, guests are not only experiencing the beauty of South Luangwa but also directly supporting the community’s well-being and sustainability.
One of Thornicroft’s primary initiatives is its commitment to providing clean, safe drinking water to communities throughout the Eastern Region of Zambia. This project addresses a critical need, ensuring that local residents have access to essential resources for health and well-being. Through these efforts, Thornicroft is dedicated to fostering both conservation and social support, helping communities thrive and preserving the natural beauty of Zambia for generations to come.