Exploring South Luangwa and the Lower Zambezi
First Stop at South Luangwa
I arrived in Mfuwe, Zambia on November 2 to 105-degree temperatures and warm smiles at my safari lodge, just inside the South Luangwa NP’s main gate. The air was dry, and the distant calls of birds and wildlife immediately made me feel alive in this wild landscape. Over the first week, the bush teemed with life — elephants lumbering through the trees, hippos lounging in the river, antelope grazing quietly in the golden light, and lions resting in the shade to keep cool. Lower river levels were noticeable throughout the park, creating quiet sandbanks and revealing the contours of the landscape.
On one unforgettable afternoon, I spotted a leopard sleeping on the branch of a sausage tree, perfectly camouflaged in the shade. I was also fortunate to see the iconic Thornicroft giraffes silhouetted against the sky, along with remarkable birdlife, including Pel’s Fishing Owl and the striking Purple-crested Lourie.
Lower Zambezi
During the second week, I traveled to the Lower Zambezi NP, where the landscape shifted to wide, shimmering rivers and lush floodplains. The air was humid and alive with the calls of fish eagles and the buzz of insects, while hippos and crocodiles shared the waterways, and elephants wandered along the riverbanks.
Back to South Luangwa
Returning to South Luangwa National Park, I witnessed a dramatic seasonal transformation. What a special treat it was to witness Zambia’s seasonal shift firsthand. I watched the landscape transform in just a matter of days — moving from soft, sun-bleached tones to a vibrant, living green. Sudden rains breathed life into the parched land, rivers swelled, and the bush seemed to pulse with renewed energy. It was a powerful reminder of how quickly the land renews itself and how alive this place truly is. Each day became a new adventure, revealing the incredible resilience and beauty of Zambia’s wilderness.
South Luangwa Low River Levels vs High River Levels - 1 week apart
Final Thoughts
Reflecting on the entire journey, I feel profoundly grateful to have experienced such raw, unspoiled beauty — from the dry, sun-soaked start to the lush, rain-kissed landscapes. Zambia’s wilderness left me with a lasting sense of awe, wonder, and connection to the rhythms of nature that I will carry with me long after I leave.
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