North Luangwa National Park, Zambia: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for North Luangwa National Park, Zambia? If you're planning to go to North Luangwa National Park, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

  1. When to go to North Luangwa National Park
  2. Important essentials for North Luangwa National Park
  3. Activities for North Luangwa National Park
  4. North Luangwa National Park in January: weather and what to pack
  5. North Luangwa National Park in February: weather and what to pack
  6. North Luangwa National Park in March: weather and what to pack
  7. North Luangwa National Park in April: weather and what to pack
  8. North Luangwa National Park in May: weather and what to pack
  9. North Luangwa National Park in June: weather and what to pack
  10. North Luangwa National Park in July: weather and what to pack
  11. North Luangwa National Park in August: weather and what to pack
  12. North Luangwa National Park in September: weather and what to pack
  13. North Luangwa National Park in October: weather and what to pack
  14. North Luangwa National Park in November: weather and what to pack
  15. North Luangwa National Park in December: weather and what to pack

When to go to North Luangwa National Park, Zambia

Based on the climate and weather in North Luangwa National Park, Zambia, the best time to go is September. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for North Luangwa National Park, Zambia

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in North Luangwa National Park, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for North Luangwa National Park, Zambia by month

January

January in this region is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zambia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in North Luangwa National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Be careful to pick the right kind. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

February

If you go to North Luangwa National Park in February, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zambia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in North Luangwa National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. It's important that you pick the correct kind. Most adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

March

If you are traveling to North Luangwa National Park in March, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zambia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in North Luangwa National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Make sure to find the right type. Many adapters available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

April

April is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zambia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in North Luangwa National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Check that you choose the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

May

If you are traveling to North Luangwa National Park in May, you will notice that it very dry with almost no rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zambia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in North Luangwa National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Take care to choose the necessary kind. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

June

June very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zambia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in North Luangwa National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Check that you get the right type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

July

July for North Luangwa National Park very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zambia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in North Luangwa National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Be sure to choose the correct type. Most adapters available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

August

August in this region very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zambia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in North Luangwa National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Take care to find the correct type. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

September

Traveling to North Luangwa National Park in September, you will notice that it very dry with almost no rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zambia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in North Luangwa National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Check that you choose the right kind. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

October

October here dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zambia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in North Luangwa National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Be careful to find the correct type. Most adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

November

If you go to North Luangwa National Park in November, you will notice that it is warm. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zambia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in North Luangwa National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Be sure to pick the correct kind. Most adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

December

If you go to North Luangwa National Park in December, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Expect it to rain most days. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zambia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in North Luangwa National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Be sure to choose the right type. The majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

What to do in North Luangwa National Park, Zambia

North Luangwa National Park is a national park located in the northern region of Zambia, with the Luangwa River bordering it from the east while the Muchinga escarpment forms the western boundary. This natural wonder covers an area of over 4,600 square kilometers and is home to various wildlife species, including giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, hyenas, hippos, crocodiles, warthogs, and over 400 bird species. Although it is lesser-known than other national parks in Zambia such as South Luangwa, North Luangwa is a popular destination for those looking for an authentic African wildlife experience. Highlighted below are the top tourist attractions within North Luangwa National Park.

Walking Safaris

Walking safaris are the main attraction in North Luangwa, with experienced guides taking tourists on foot through the wilderness to encounter the wildlife up close. Being on foot provides an altogether different experience compared to being on a game drive vehicle, allowing tourists to feel more connected to nature, with the incredible sights, smells, and sounds of the wilds present at every step.

Buffalo and Elephant Herds

North Luangwa is known for its huge buffalo and elephant herds, and this is one of the main reasons tourists flock to this national park. Buffalo herds can consist of over 100 individuals, which is an impressive sight in itself. Besides the buffalo, there are over 2500 elephants in the park, making it one of the best places to witness these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.

Hippo Pools

The Luangwa River that snakes through North Luangwa has several deep pools inhabited by hippos. These hippos make for an incredible spectacle while on a boat safari along the river. They often swim near the boats and offer incredible photo opportunities, especially during the early mornings or late afternoons.

Pristine Wilderness

North Luangwa National Park is one of the wildest and untamed national parks in the region, thanks in part to its remote location. The park is less developed than other tourist destinations, resulting in more untouched wilds, providing a truly natural experience. With its rolling grasslands, numerous rivers, and towering baobabs, it is a stunning landscape not be missed.

Sunset and Sunrise

There is something outstanding about the sunsets and sunrises in North Luangwa National Park. For visitors coming to the park, these are moments that should not be missed as they are awe-inspiring. With a horizon stretching to infinity, it provides the perfect backdrop for some of the most amazing images both in the morning and evening.

In summary, North Luangwa National Park in Zambia is a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts, who are looking for an authentic and raw African experience. From its wilderness trails to riverbank sunsets, here lies an unforgettable wildlife experience. These highlights are just the tip of the iceberg, and the park has a lot more to offer all year round. Therefore, any tourist looking for adventure and wildlife should add North Luangwa National park to their bucket list.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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