What it is
A valley park of roughly 9,000 km2 along the Luangwa River in eastern Zambia. The river swings back and forth across the valley and leaves oxbow lagoons behind it. Ebony groves, open plains and thick riverine bush. Mfuwe airport sits at the main gate.
Why go
Norman Carr started guided walking safaris here in the 1950s and the tradition is intact. You walk in single file behind a guide and an armed scout, cover a few kilometres and learn the small things a vehicle drives past. Leopard density along the river is exceptional, and night drives, permitted here unlike in most national parks, are how you see them hunting.
When to go
Walking is a dry-season activity, roughly June to October, because grass height and ground conditions rule it out otherwise. September and October give the best game and the worst heat. Most bush camps close from around November to May, while a few lodges stay open through the green season and switch to boats. Check what your specific camp offers in your specific month before you pay a deposit.
Most people stay 4 nights.