About South Luangwa

World's Most Celebrated Safari Destination

South Luangwa National Park in Zambia is one of Africa’s most remarkable and celebrated safari destinations, known for its unspoiled landscapes and incredible wildlife diversity. Located in the heart of the Luangwa Valley, this pristine wilderness is home to over 60 species of mammals, including lions, leopards, elephants, hippos, and the endemic Thornicroft’s giraffe, as well as more than 400 species of birds. Every visit to South Luangwa promises an unforgettable safari experience surrounded by the sights and sounds of the African bush.

Nestled along the scenic Luangwa River, Thornicroft Lodge offers the perfect gateway to explore the breathtaking beauty of South Luangwa Zambia. Our guests enjoy professional safari expeditions and educational tours led by expert local guides who share their deep knowledge and passion for this extraordinary region.

From thrilling game drives to immersive walking safaris, every adventure is crafted to highlight the best of South Luangwa National Park—its wildlife, habitats, and rich ecosystems. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a returning safari enthusiast, Thornicroft Lodge invites you to experience the magic, wonder, and authenticity of South Luangwa Zambia, where every moment creates a memory that lasts a lifetime.

Walking in the Wild

Step into the heart of the African bush on a guided walking safari in South Luangwa, a place renowned for its exceptional guides who carry decades of local knowledge and passion. Since Norman Carr pioneered walking safaris in the 1950s, the park has remained one of the few places in Africa offering this thrilling and intimate experience.

Each safari is unique, letting you walk the same paths as Africa’s giants while discovering subtle wonders—animal tracks, delicate flora, and intricate herd patterns—expertly revealed by your guide. Whether you choose a gentle stroll or an adventurous multi-day trek, walking safaris offer not just unforgettable wildlife encounters, but also rich storytelling around a crackling campfire beneath the endless, star-studded African sky.

The Valley Of The Cats

South Luangwa National Park, famously known as the Valley of the Cats, is celebrated for its extraordinary density of big cats, making it a top destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Its rich ecosystems, plentiful prey, and varied landscapes create an ideal habitat for leopards, lions, and cheetahs. The park is especially renowned for exceptional leopard sightings, often even during daylight—something rare elsewhere in Africa.

Lions flourish here in large, powerful prides, while the presence of cheetahs, though fewer, enhances its reputation as a stronghold for apex predators. This concentration of big cats offers thrilling safari encounters, showcasing dramatic predator-prey interactions and the raw beauty of nature. South Luangwa truly lives up to its name as the Valley of the Cats.

A Birdwatchers Dream

South Luangwa is a birdwatcher’s paradise, offering one of Africa’s most rewarding birding experiences with over 400 recorded species. During the dry season, the shrinking waters of the Luangwa River attract an incredible array of water birds, including yellow-billed storks, pelicans, saddle-billed storks, goliath herons, and crowned cranes, creating a dazzling display of color and movement.

Beyond the riverbanks, the park’s varied habitats—woodlands, grasslands, and lagoons—host species like lilian’s lovebirds, martial eagles, and vibrant carmine bee-eaters. From witnessing fish eagles soaring over the river to hearing the dawn chorus in the mopane forests, every moment is enchanting. For bird lovers, South Luangwa offers unforgettable encounters, making it not just a destination, but a true dream come alive.

Promoting Local Community Development

In recent years, local community development has become a key priority alongside conservation efforts, and Thornicroft Lodge plays an active role in this mission. A portion of every guest’s stay is dedicated to impactful local initiatives, ensuring each visit leaves a positive and lasting contribution. By staying at Thornicroft, guests not only experience the beauty of South Luangwa but also support the well-being and sustainability of surrounding communities.

One of Thornicroft’s main projects focuses on providing clean, safe drinking water to communities across Zambia’s Eastern Region, addressing a vital need for health and well-being. Through these efforts, Thornicroft helps local communities thrive while preserving Zambia’s natural heritage for future generations, blending conservation with meaningful social support.

Your Experience

Game Drives

Walking Safari

Guided Bicycle Safari

Birding & Photographic Safaris

Family Safari

Musanga Wellness Spa

Kids Play Area

Activities at Camp

African Village Tour

A Journey Worth Taking

Your safari journey begins with a seamless connection to Mfuwe Airport—the gateway to the Luangwa Valley—followed by a short scenic transfer to Thornicroft Lodge.

Travel Options

– From Lusaka (LUN): A direct flight of approximately 1 hour 10 minutes to Mfuwe with Proflight Zambia, followed by a brief road transfer.
– From Livingstone (LVI): Connect via Lusaka to Mfuwe, with a combined flying time of about 3 hours 5 minutes including the stopover.
– From Ndola (NLA): Travel via Lusaka to Mfuwe with a total flight time of around 2 hours 35 minutes.
– From Lilongwe (LLW): Enjoy a convenient regional flight from Lilongwe to Mfuwe with Nyasa Air, offering a smooth cross-border connection directly into the heart of South Luangwa National Park.