North Luangwa National Park
As the name implies, this largely undeveloped 1780-square-mile (4636 km2) park lies north of South Luangwa National Park in the upper Luangwa Valley.
Mark and Delia Owens, coauthors of Eye of the Elephantand Cry of the Kalahari, are conducting wildlife research here and are working to reduce poaching and create an infrastruc¬ture to attract tourists.
The park lies between the 4600-foot- (1400 m) high Muchinga Escarpment on the west and the Luangwa River on the east, with altitudes ranging from 1640-3610 feet (500-1100 m). Vegetation includes miombo woodland, scrubland and riv¬erine forest.
Wildlife includes lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, zebra eland, kudu, Cookson’s wildebeest, impala, bushbuck, hippo and crocodile. Nearly 400 species of birds have been recorded, including bee-eaters, ibises, storks and waterfowl.
Walking is allowed in this seldom-visited park. You will virtually have the park to yourself. In fact, it is doubtful you will encounter any other groups on your visit.
The rainy season is November-March. The best time to visit is July-October.
ACCOMMODATION - CLASS B/C: * Mwaleshi Camp is a rustic bush camp set on the banks of the Mwaleshi River with three chalets with separate facilities. Game viewing is mainly by foot but day and night game drives by vehicle are also offered.
CAMPING: Campsites are available.
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