South Luangwa National Park sits in the Luangwa Valley in eastern Zambia, and the gateway is the small town of Mfuwe, where we are based. Here is how to get to South Luangwa by air or by road, whether you are starting in Lusaka or in Lilongwe, Malawi.
Fly: Lusaka to Mfuwe
The quickest way to reach South Luangwa is a domestic flight from Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka to Mfuwe Airport (MFU). Proflight Zambia operates the route, with up to three flights a day, and the flight takes about 1 hour 10 minutes. Most international visitors connect in Lusaka on the same day.
Mfuwe Airport is just outside the park. Your lodge or our team will meet you at arrivals and drive you to camp, often with your first game viewing on the way. Transfer times depend on where you are staying.
Fly: Lilongwe to Mfuwe
If you are combining Zambia with Malawi, there are also flights between Lilongwe and Mfuwe. Ask us for current schedules when you plan your dates, as they change by season.
Drive: Lusaka to South Luangwa
The road trip is about 700 km and usually takes around 9 to 10 hours. Follow the Great East Road (T4) east from Lusaka to Chipata, then turn north on the tarred road to Mfuwe. Most self-drivers break the journey with a night on the way, and you should aim to arrive in daylight.
Drive: Lilongwe to South Luangwa
From Lilongwe it is about 320 km to Mfuwe, roughly 5 hours 30 minutes of driving plus time at the Mchinji/Mwami border crossing into Zambia. From the border, continue through Chipata and north to Mfuwe. This is a popular route for travellers combining a Zambia safari with Lake Malawi.
Road transfers with Chimbwete Trails
Every safari we plan includes road transfers to and from Mfuwe Airport. If you would rather not drive yourself from Lusaka or Lilongwe, ask us about road transfer options when you book.
Tips for travelling to South Luangwa
Check luggage limits on domestic flights before you pack; soft bags are best.
Carry antimalarials, sun protection and a warm layer for early morning drives.
Plan your dates around the season: see our guide to the best time to visit South Luangwa.
Let us plan the journey
Tell us where you are flying in from and we will put together flights, transfers and lodges that work. We are now booking 2027 safaris. Request your safari dates.
