North Luangwa National Park is where (scientist and best-selling author) Delia Owens settled in to research the local wildlife and surroundings. Known as the most remote, real and untouched part of Africa; Delia’s husband is quoted as saying “Here’s where civilization ends,” of North Luangwa. The park is well preserved and practically untouched, which means that you’ll bear witness to the best game viewing opportunities in Zambia, if not in all of Africa.
North Luangwa National Park is technically not open to the public. It also doesn’t have any permanent lodges. This means that camps are rebuilt every year, using natural materials that ensures a low impact footprint and ensures the preservation of the natural ecosystem. There are very few roads in the North, but no game drive vehicles are allowed, so you likely won’t see any other humans for the duration of your stay or during your safari experience. No queues to witness sightings, no radios, no noise and no interruptions.
Wildlife to spot in North Luangwa
African Big 5
North Luangwa is home to all of the Big Five animals. Lions, rhino and elephants tend to be more prominent and frequently observed compared to the other Big Five species in the park. The park is renowned for its thriving black rhino population.
Thornicroft’s Giraffe
These giraffes are subspecies endemic to the Luangwa Valley, including North Luangwa National Park. They are distinguished by their unique coat pattern and are only found in this region.
Cookson’s Wildebeest
Also known as the “Kafue Flats Wildebeest,” this subspecies is found in the Luangwa and Kafue ecosystems, including North Luangwa. They have adapted to the grasslands and floodplains of the region.
Black Lechwe
The black lechwe is a subspecies of the southern lechwe and is found in the Luangwa Valley, including the park. They are adapted to marshy areas and are often seen near water.
Thornicroft’s Sable Antelope
This subspecies of sable antelope is named after the explorer Harry Scott Thornicroft, who first described it. It is found in the woodlands and grasslands of the Luangwa Valley, including North Luangwa.
Chaplin’s Barbet
Among the bird species, Chaplin’s barbet is considered near-endemic to Zambia and is found in the woodlands and miombo forests of the Luangwa Valley, including North Luangwa National Park.
You won’t find a more tranquil or natural environment to experience Africa in its purest form, completely untouched and undisturbed by mankind.
