south luangwa explorer Photo Safari

Small group - limited to 4 guests: quality time spent with each guest
Abundance of wildlife species- leopards, lions, hippos, African Wild Dog, elephants, buffalo, various antelope, variety of birdlife
Special species unique to the region i.e Thornicroft’s giraffe, Crawshay's zebra and Cookson’s wildebeest
Over 400 bird species listed in the park including the beautiful Lilian's lovebird
Photographic hide experiences
Three different camps in different regions of the park
Accommodation immersed in the wilderness
Variety of habitats - therefore a variety of wildlife & birdlife to photograph

About South Luangwa

South Luangwa National Park is widely regarded as one of the finest wildlife destinations on the continent. Remote, authentic and remarkably wildlife-rich, the park offers an exceptionally pure safari experience with relatively low visitor density and outstanding game viewing throughout the year.

The park is renowned for its high densities of leopard, lion and elephant, as well as large concentrations of plains game and prolific birdlife. The Luangwa River and its network of oxbow lagoons attract wildlife throughout the dry season, creating consistent sightings and superb photographic opportunities, particularly as animals congregate along the water’s edge.

Our itinerary is designed to maximise diversity in both habitat and wildlife encounters, and we will be staying in different sectors of the park throughout the trip. By moving between regions, we gain access to varied landscapes — from open riverine systems to mopane woodland and lagoon areas — broadening both species variety and photographic potential.

In addition to game drives, we will have access to purpose-built photographic hides near water and wildlife pathways. These hides offer unique perspectives and controlled shooting angles, allowing for intimate compositions of elephants, antelope, birds and other species as they approach to drink. This added photographic infrastructure significantly expands creative opportunities and provides a different dimension to the safari experience.

Another crucial factor for us is the quality of guiding. Zambia is home to some of Africa’s most highly trained and respected safari guides, and the camps we use uphold these exceptional standards. Their tracking ability, deep understanding of animal behaviour and positioning skills significantly enhance photographic success while ensuring a safe and seamless experience in the field.

While being surrounded by nature is both thrilling and humbling, you will be exceptionally well cared for by myself and the camp teams. South Luangwa delivers a truly authentic and highly rewarding photographic safari experience.

Our aim on this safari is for you to get many beautiful photographs and to improve your skills as photographer. Photographers of all skill levels are welcome – I will meet you where you are at and be there to answer any questions you may have. We will prioritise light, as this is the essence of photography. This means crisp, early mornings (returning to the lodge once the light is harsh) and making use of warm late afternoon light, returning to the lodge when it is dark. During the heat of the day, you are free to relax, download photos, charge batteries etc. I will be there to assist you with editing your photographs.

All photographers will have a “window seat” in the open game drive vehicle. Please note: We will not be influencing wildlife behaviour (calling, baiting etc) in order to get great photographs, we will merely observe their behaviour and together with our highly experienced local field guide, get you into the best situation and position for the best photo opportunities.

Click on the images below to enlarge and witness the magic of this special little gem…