SOUTH LUANGWA | ZAMBIA

Nestled in the heart of Zambia’s renowned South Luangwa National Park, Chikunto Safaris offers front-row access to one of Africa’s most spectacular wildlife destinations. Known as the birthplace of the walking safari, South Luangwa boasts an extraordinary concentration of wildlife, from majestic lions and large herds of elephants to endemic species like Thornicroft’s giraffe and Cookson’s wildebeest.

However, what truly sets South Luangwa apart is its reputation as one of the best places in Africa to see leopards. With a high density of these elusive big cats, the park provides exceptional opportunities for sightings, particularly during night drives—an activity uniquely permitted here. The combination of rich woodlands, riverine forests, and open plains creates the perfect habitat for leopards to thrive, offering guests rare chances to observe them hunting, resting in trees, or silently patrolling their territories.

The park’s diverse ecosystems, teeming with wildlife and over 400 bird species, make every safari a thrilling adventure. Game drives, walking safaris, and exclusive night safaris reveal the raw beauty of this untamed wilderness. With its prime location along the Luangwa River, Chikunto Safaris serves as the perfect base for exploring this wildlife-rich paradise, where unforgettable encounters with Africa’s most elusive predator are almost guaranteed.

• 11-19 May 2027 | 8 night/9 days

Chikunto Safaris’ location is uniquely positioned along the banks of the Luangwa River for exceptional wildlife sightings  within the South Luangwa National Park in Zambia.

Chikunto’s boutique, eco-friendly safari camp offers just five luxury Tented Suites, blending intimacy with space and a deep connection to the surrounding African bush.

The central thatched area features a spacious yet discreetly luxurious lounge—perfect for unwinding, discussing the day’s sightings, or enjoying uninterrupted views of the Chikunto waterhole and Luangwa River. A circular open-air deck with a large fire-pit invites guests to gather for pre-dinner drinks or warm up with coffee before an early-morning game drive.

Each suite, accessed via wooden walkways, is elevated on a private deck overlooking the river, designed to balance privacy, comfort, and an authentic safari experience.

11-19 May 2027 | 8 nights/9 days

Day 1 | 11 May – Arrival in Lusaka
– International arrival at Lusaka International Airport
– Hotel shuttle to Protea Hotel Lusaka Airport
– Check-in
– Group dinner
– Overnight

Day 2 | 12 May – Travel to Chikunto, South Luangwa
– Breakfast and check-out
– 10:35 Proflight Zambia flight from Lusaka to Mfuwe
– 11:45 Arrival at Mfuwe Airport
– Road transfer to Chikunto Safaris (approx. 1h30)
– Check-in
– Afternoon game drive
– Dinner

Days 3–7 | 13–17 May – Chikunto, South Luangwa
– Morning game viewing and photography activities
– Return to the lodge for breakfast
– Daily guidance from the CNP Photo Host
– Lunch
– Afternoon game drive into the evening, continuing as a night drive
– Dinner

Day 8 | 18 May – Travel to Lusaka
– Morning game viewing and photography activities
– Breakfast
– Check-out and lunch at Chikunto
– Road transfer to Mfuwe Airport (approx. 1h30)
– 18:20 Proflight Zambia flight to Lusaka
– 19:30 Arrival at Lusaka International Airport
– Hotel shuttle to Protea Hotel Lusaka Airport
– Dinner and overnight

Day 9 | 19 May – International Departure
– Breakfast and check-out
– Transfer to Lusaka International Airport
– International return flight home

• South Luangwa National Park: Known as one of Africa’s premier wildlife sanctuaries, the park boasts an incredible concentration of game, especially around the Luangwa River, which serves as a lifeline for the animals.
• Luangwa River Proximity: Chikunto Safaris is situated along the Luangwa River, a critical water source that attracts a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species. This makes it a prime location for game viewing, especially during the dry season.
• High Predator Density: The park is famous for its high density of predators, including lions, leopards, and wild dogs. Chikunto’s location offers excellent opportunities to see these predators in action, particularly during game drives.
• Unique Species: South Luangwa is home to species not commonly found in other parks, such as Thornicroft’s giraffe, Cookson’s wildebeest, and Crawshay’s zebra, providing unique wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Night Drives: Chikunto Safaris offers night game drives, a distinctive feature of South Luangwa, allowing guests to spot nocturnal animals like civets, genets, and the elusive leopard.
• Seasonal Floodplains: The area features diverse habitats, including seasonal floodplains, mopane forests, and open savannahs. These support a wide variety of wildlife and bird species, making it a rich and dynamic ecosystem for wildlife sightings.

Includes:

• Road transfers as per the itinerary
• One-way economy flight from Lusaka Airport to Mfuwe Airport
• One-way economy flight from Mfuwe Airport to Lusaka Airport
• 2 nights dinner, bed and breakfast accommodation (excl. drinks) at Protea Hotel Lusaka Airport, standard guest room
• 6 nights full board accommodation (incl. selected drinks) at Chikunto Safaris, South Luangwa
• DNPW National Park Fees
• Private game viewing vehicle
• Laundry service
• Dedicated ranger
• Daily guidance from the CNP Safaris Photo Host

Excludes:

• Expenses of a personal nature

• Additional meals and drinks not listed as part of the includes

• Premium drinks at Chikunto Safaris

• Gratuities for staff, guides and photo host

• Medical and travel insurance

• Any visa-related fees, if applicable.