SOUTH LUANGWA - LAND OF THE LEOPARDS

WITH PHOTOGRAPHER TOM SVENSSON

SOUTH LUANGWA - LAND OF THE LEOPARDS

WITH PHOTOGRAPHER TOM SVENSSON

COUNTRY: Zambia   PHOTO TYPE: Wildlife   LENGTH: 8 days   DATES: October 3-10, 2027   PARTICIPANTS: 8-12

When I arrived in South Luangwa, I was greeted by extraordinary wildlife and almost unbelievable photographic opportunities. On my very first safari, I was fortunate enough to photograph a leopard just a few metres from the jeep—and best of all, we were the only vehicle there, which made it an unbeatable photography and nature experience. We will be staying in a part of the park with very few tourists and therefore very few vehicles. This allows us to position our jeeps carefully to ensure the best possible photographic opportunities. I now look forward to experiencing this magical place together with you. 

Tom Svensson

Join photographer Tom Svensson on a journey to South Luangwa National Park, known from the BBC wildlife documentary The Kingdom, located in the heart of eastern Zambia—where an extraordinary safari experience awaits.

In South Luangwa’s unspoiled wilderness, nature stretches from winding rivers and lush wetlands to dense forests, where the light filters through the treetops in a way that gives the landscape an almost magical atmosphere. The wildlife of South Luangwa is as diverse as its terrain, and the park is home to some of Africa’s most unique and fascinating species.

Among these remarkable inhabitants are Thornicroft’s giraffe, found only in this region, as well as Crawshay’s zebra and Cookson’s wildebeest, both endemic to the Luangwa Valley. The park is also home to Africa’s largest population of leopards, making it an oasis for those who dream of capturing these elusive cats on camera. Wild dogs and lions roam freely here as well, turning the park into a true paradise for nature photographers and wildlife enthusiasts.

When visiting South Luangwa, it is important to stay in the right area. The park is divided into two regions: Mfuwe and Nsefu.
Mfuwe is the more heavily visited area, with many tourists and vehicles, which often leads to crowded sightings and can make it difficult to access the very best photographic opportunities. The area where we will stay throughout our journey is Nsefu. In this more exclusive region, both the number of vehicles and lodges is much lower. This gives us a unique opportunity to experience the wilderness in solitude, without competing with other vehicles. We can take the time to carefully position our jeeps to achieve the best angles and optimal photographic opportunities—whether capturing a leopard moving silently through the forest or a herd of elephants crossing the riverbanks.

With South Luangwa’s rich biodiversity and our stay in Nsefu, you will enjoy memorable encounters with Africa’s wild animals. Each day will bring a new opportunity to discover something unique and unforgettable in this magnificent and protected part of the world, all under the guidance of conservation photographer Tom Svensson.

SOME HIGHLIGHTS OF THE JOURNEY

  • South Luangwa, an exceptional park.

  • One of Africa’s largest populations of leopards.

  • The area is renowned for its high density of big cats.

  • Unspoiled wilderness and extraordinary wildlife.

  • Excellent opportunities to see and photograph wild dogs.

  • Large population of elephants.

  • Thornicroft’s giraffe and Cookson’s wildebeest, found only in this region.

  • Rich birdlife.

  • We stay in Nsefu, meaning very few other vehicles and an even more exclusive experience.

  • Participation of photographer Tom Svensson throughout the entire journey.

  • Personal guidance from Tom Svensson.

  • Feedback on your images during the trip
BOOKING

OUNTRY: Zambia   PHOTO TYPE: Wildlife   LENGTH: 8 days   DATES: October 3-10, 2027   PARTICIPANTS: 8-12

When I arrived in South Luangwa, I was greeted by extraordinary wildlife and almost unbelievable photographic opportunities. On my very first safari, I was fortunate enough to photograph a leopard just a few metres from the jeep—and best of all, we were the only vehicle there, which made it an unbeatable photography and nature experience. We will be staying in a part of the park with very few tourists and therefore very few vehicles. This allows us to position our jeeps carefully to ensure the best possible photographic opportunities. I now look forward to experiencing this magical place together with you. 

Tom Svensson

Join photographer Tom Svensson on a journey to South Luangwa National Park, known from the BBC wildlife documentary The Kingdom, located in the heart of eastern Zambia—where an extraordinary safari experience awaits.

In South Luangwa’s unspoiled wilderness, nature stretches from winding rivers and lush wetlands to dense forests, where the light filters through the treetops in a way that gives the landscape an almost magical atmosphere. The wildlife of South Luangwa is as diverse as its terrain, and the park is home to some of Africa’s most unique and fascinating species.

Among these remarkable inhabitants are Thornicroft’s giraffe, found only in this region, as well as Crawshay’s zebra and Cookson’s wildebeest, both endemic to the Luangwa Valley. The park is also home to Africa’s largest population of leopards, making it an oasis for those who dream of capturing these elusive cats on camera. Wild dogs and lions roam freely here as well, turning the park into a true paradise for nature photographers and wildlife enthusiasts.

When visiting South Luangwa, it is important to stay in the right area. The park is divided into two regions: Mfuwe and Nsefu.
Mfuwe is the more heavily visited area, with many tourists and vehicles, which often leads to crowded sightings and can make it difficult to access the very best photographic opportunities. The area where we will stay throughout our journey is Nsefu. In this more exclusive region, both the number of vehicles and lodges is much lower. This gives us a unique opportunity to experience the wilderness in solitude, without competing with other vehicles. We can take the time to carefully position our jeeps to achieve the best angles and optimal photographic opportunities—whether capturing a leopard moving silently through the forest or a herd of elephants crossing the riverbanks.

With South Luangwa’s rich biodiversity and our stay in Nsefu, you will enjoy memorable encounters with Africa’s wild animals. Each day will bring a new opportunity to discover something unique and unforgettable in this magnificent and protected part of the world, all under the guidance of conservation photographer Tom Svensson.

SOME HIGHLIGHTS OF THE JOURNEY

  • South Luangwa, an exceptional park.

  • One of Africa’s largest populations of leopards.

  • The area is renowned for its high density of big cats.

  • Unspoiled wilderness and extraordinary wildlife.

  • Excellent opportunities to see and photograph wild dogs.

  • Large population of elephants.

  • Thornicroft’s giraffe and Cookson’s wildebeest, found only in this region.

  • Rich birdlife.

  • We stay in Nsefu, meaning very few other vehicles and an even more exclusive experience.

  • Participation of photographer Tom Svensson throughout the entire journey.

  • Personal guidance from Tom Svensson.

  • Feedback on your images during the trip
BOKNING

DESTINATION

DESTINATION

SOUTH LUANGWA

South Luangwa National Park, located in the eastern part of Zambia, is an unforgettable place where the true spirit of the wilderness comes alive. The park covers more than 9,000 square kilometres and offers one of Africa’s most diverse and intense safari experiences.

As you first enter the park, you are met by a mosaic of ecosystems – from the deep, lush forests along the banks of the Luangwa River to the open grasslands stretching beyond the horizon. The river, the lifeblood of the park, winds its way through the landscape and creates a complex network of lagoons and pools, where elephants come to cool off and hippos seem almost to float on the surface.

The wildlife of South Luangwa is exceptional. The park is renowned for its large populations of leopards, often seen moving silently through the shadows of dense mopane woodland. Here you can also witness the majestic hunting behaviour of African lions up close as they roam across the open plains. At dusk, giraffes, zebras and antelopes gather by the watercourses, while the rich birdlife fills the air with colour and sound. More than 400 bird species have been recorded here, from the elegant kingfisher to the impressive African fish eagle.

NSEFU

South Luangwa National Park is divided into two sectors: Mfuwe and Nsefu. Mfuwe is the more commercial area, where most lodges and camps are located, as well as campsites for overland truck travellers. During the high season, this sector can become crowded with safari vehicles.

The Nsefu sector lies further north along the Luangwa River and is far more exclusive, with only a few lodges, one of which is Safari Explorers Camp where we will be staying. This sector is exceptionally rich in wildlife, as both riverbanks are part of the national park. Populations of lions, leopards, and wild dogs are very high here, and we can also encounter herds of thousands of buffalo, impala and puku, elephants crossing the river, and the extraordinarily beautiful Thornicroft’s giraffe.

Här kan du läsa mer om South Luangwa och Nsefu

SOUTH LUANGWA

South Luangwa National Park, located in the eastern part of Zambia, is an unforgettable place where the true spirit of the wilderness comes alive. The park covers more than 9,000 square kilometres and offers one of Africa’s most diverse and intense safari experiences.

As you first enter the park, you are met by a mosaic of ecosystems – from the deep, lush forests along the banks of the Luangwa River to the open grasslands stretching beyond the horizon. The river, the lifeblood of the park, winds its way through the landscape and creates a complex network of lagoons and pools, where elephants come to cool off and hippos seem almost to float on the surface.

The wildlife of South Luangwa is exceptional. The park is renowned for its large populations of leopards, often seen moving silently through the shadows of dense mopane woodland. Here you can also witness the majestic hunting behaviour of African lions up close as they roam across the open plains. At dusk, giraffes, zebras and antelopes gather by the watercourses, while the rich birdlife fills the air with colour and sound. More than 400 bird species have been recorded here, from the elegant kingfisher to the impressive African fish eagle.


NSEFU

South Luangwa National Park is divided into two sectors: Mfuwe and Nsefu. Mfuwe is the more commercial area, where most lodges and camps are located, as well as campsites for overland truck travellers. During the high season, this sector can become crowded with safari vehicles.

The Nsefu sector lies further north along the Luangwa River and is far more exclusive, with only a few lodges, one of which is Safari Explorers Camp where we will be staying. This sector is exceptionally rich in wildlife, as both riverbanks are part of the national park. Populations of lions, leopards, and wild dogs are very high here, and we can also encounter herds of thousands of buffalo, impala and puku, elephants crossing the river, and the extraordinarily beautiful Thornicroft’s giraffe

ITINERARY

ITINERARY

3-10 OCTOBER 2027

Throughout the journey, Tom Svensson will be available at all times to offer photographic advice and tips, as well as support with image editing and constructive image critique. Tom will also give talks and share insights into his personal approach to photography. The exact timing of these sessions will be adapted to the daily photographic activities and what is happening in the park.

During all safaris, Tom will rotate between the vehicles to ensure that you have the opportunity to receive personal guidance from him.

DAY 1 (3/10) – ARRIVAL
Around lunchtime, we will meet at Mfuwe Airport, or at a hotel if you arrive the day before. There you will be welcomed by Tom Svensson, a host from Zoom Photo Tours, and one of our guides, who will take us to Mumbulu where we will stay for five nights. This is a private part of the park, where we will be the only safari vehicles in the entire area.

After check-in and lunch, the first safari of the journey awaits. In the soft evening light, we will have our first opportunity to encounter the rich wildlife that throughout the trip will provide us with outstanding photographic opportunities. After watching the sun set over the African landscape, we return to the lodge for a shared welcome dinner and the chance to talk about the photographic adventure that lies ahead. (L, D)

DAYS 2–8 (4–9/10) – SAFARI IN SOUTH LUANGWA
During the days, we will explore South Luangwa. You will enjoy many unforgettable encounters with wildlife, from lions and elephants to endemic species such as Thornicroft’s giraffe and Cookson’s wildebeest. With the help of Tom’s unique knowledge of big cats and our experienced guides, and with a bit of luck, we may experience not just one but several leopard sightings—since South Luangwa is home to one of Africa’s largest populations of this magnificent cat.

Much of life in the Luangwa Valley revolves around the river that winds through the landscape. Elephants come here to drink, hippos cool off in the water, and lions approach the riverbanks to quench their thirst. The Nsefu area is unique because both sides of the river are within the national park, giving this region exceptionally rich wildlife. Here, populations of lions, leopards, and wild dogs are particularly high. It was also in Nsefu that the BBC filmed the acclaimed documentary The Kingdom, which follows the animals of this extraordinary area.

During our safaris, Tom will rotate between the vehicles, and whether you want to use trees to create interesting compositions and frame your subjects, or photograph an elephant walking across the open plains as a silhouette against the deep red sky at sunrise, he will be there to offer tips and personal guidance.

When we are not out photographing, we will work on our images on our computers and receive editing guidance from Tom. After days filled with unforgettable photographic opportunities, we enjoy dinner before going to bed, surrounded by the sounds and scents of the wilderness.

DAY 8 (10/10) – RETURN HOME
After the final safari of the journey, we will check out and travel to Mfuwe Airport. From there, you will continue your onward journey to Sweden independently in the evening. (B)

PHOTO OF THE JOURNEY
A few weeks after returning home, once you have had time to review your images from the trip, you will have the opportunity to submit your best photos to Tom, who will select the “Photo of the Journey.” The winner will automatically advance to the final of the “Photo of the Year 2027” competition and compete for attractive prizes.

Read more about the itinerary in South Luangwa

Throughout the journey, Tom Svensson will be available at all times to offer photographic advice and tips, as well as support with image editing and constructive image critique. Tom will also give talks and share insights into his personal approach to photography. The exact timing of these sessions will be adapted to the daily photographic activities and what is happening in the park.

During all safaris, Tom will rotate between the vehicles to ensure that you have the opportunity to receive personal guidance from him.

DAY 1 (3/10) ARRIVAL
Around lunchtime, we will meet at Mfuwe Airport, or at a hotel if you arrive the day before. There you will be welcomed by Tom Svensson, a host from Zoom Photo Tours, and one of our guides, who will take us to Mumbulu where we will stay for five nights. This is a private part of the park, where we will be the only safari vehicles in the entire area.

After check-in and lunch, the first safari of the journey awaits. In the soft evening light, we will have our first opportunity to encounter the rich wildlife that throughout the trip will provide us with outstanding photographic opportunities. After watching the sun set over the African landscape, we return to the lodge for a shared welcome dinner and the chance to talk about the photographic adventure that lies ahead. (L, D)

DAYS 2–7 (4–9/10) – SAFARI IN SOUTH LUANGWA
During the days, we will explore South Luangwa. You will enjoy many unforgettable encounters with wildlife, from lions and elephants to endemic species such as Thornicroft’s giraffe and Cookson’s wildebeest. With the help of Tom’s unique knowledge of big cats and our experienced guides, and with a bit of luck, we may experience not just one but several leopard sightings—since South Luangwa is home to one of Africa’s largest populations of this magnificent cat..

Much of life in the Luangwa Valley revolves around the river that winds through the landscape. Elephants come here to drink, hippos cool off in the water, and lions approach the riverbanks to quench their thirst. The Nsefu area is unique because both sides of the river are within the national park, giving this region exceptionally rich wildlife. Here, populations of lions, leopards, and wild dogs are particularly high. It was also in Nsefu that the BBC filmed the acclaimed documentary The Kingdom, which follows the animals of this extraordinary area.

During our safaris, Tom will rotate between the vehicles, and whether you want to use trees to create interesting compositions and frame your subjects, or photograph an elephant walking across the open plains as a silhouette against the deep red sky at sunrise, he will be there to offer tips and personal guidance.

When we are not out photographing, we will work on our images on our computers and receive editing guidance from Tom. After days filled with unforgettable photographic opportunities, we enjoy dinner before going to bed, surrounded by the sounds and scents of the wilderness.

DAY 8 (10/10)
RETURN HOME
After the final safari of the journey, we will check out and travel to Mfuwe Airport. From there, you will continue your onward journey to Sweden independently in the evening. (B)

PHOTO OF THE JOURNEY
A few weeks after returning home, once you have had time to review your images from the trip, you will have the opportunity to submit your best photos to Tom, who will select the “Photo of the Journey.” The winner will automatically advance to the final of the “Photo of the Year 2027” competition and compete for attractive prizes.

 

PHOTOGRAPHER

PHOTOGRAPHER

TOM SVENSSON • Conservation photographer 

Tom Svensson is a world-renowned conservation photographer, born in Denmark, raised in Sweden, and now based in Fjällbacka. Tom’s greatest driving force in life is nature conservation, and as he says: “I don’t do this for myself, but for my children and grandchildren. If we don’t do it for them now, it will be too late for them to do anything themselves.”

Tom’s strength as a photographer lies in creating images that move people and make a difference. Photography is a powerful tool for change, and in this field he is considered one of the world’s leading photographers. Tom is a member of Naturfotograferna/N and is the only Swede ever selected to join IEPA, the International Environmental Photographers Association. He is also part of Canon’s Nordic Ambassador Program and a Global Manfrotto Ambassador.

For more information, visit www.tomsvensson.se

Tom Svensson is a world-renowned conservation photographer. Learn more about him here.

Tom Svensson is a world-renowned conservation photographer, born in Denmark, raised in Sweden, and now based in Fjällbacka. Tom’s greatest driving force in life is nature conservation, and as he says: “I don’t do this for myself, but for my children and grandchildren. If we don’t do it for them now, it will be too late for them to do anything themselves.”

Tom’s strength as a photographer lies in creating images that move people and make a difference. Photography is a powerful tool for change, and in this field he is considered one of the world’s leading photographers. Tom is a member of Naturfotograferna/N and is the only Swede ever selected to join IEPA, the International Environmental Photographers Association. He is also part of Canon’s Nordic Ambassador Program and a Global Manfrotto Ambassador.

For more information, visit www.tomsvensson.se

LODGE

LODGE

SAFARI EXPLORERS CAMP***+

PRICE, FACTS & BOOKING

PRICE, FACTS & BOOKING

PRICE

Approx. price per person: USD 6.300*

* The price is based on 2026 rates with a normal annual increase. The final price will be confirmed after the summer.



Price includes:

  • All transfers according to the program.

  • Accommodation in shared double rooms.

  • Meals according to the program (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner).

  • Activities according to the program.

  • Morning and evening safaris according to the program.

  • Participation of Tom Svensson throughout the entire journey.

  • Local guides in the parks.

  • Park fees.

  • Tips, except for guides.

  • Hotel and other local taxes

Price does not include:

  • Flights to Mfuwe, Zambia.

  • Single room supplement: USD 1.250

  • Personal expenses, such as drinks with meals, phone calls, etc.

  • Tips for the local safari guide, approximately USD 10–15 per day.

  • Cancellation protection and travel insurance. See our website under “Other”.

FLIGHTS 

Flights to Mfuwe, Zambia are arranged independently. You should not arrive later than 12:00 on 3/10, and you should not book your return flight earlier than 16:00 on 10/10.

Considering the long journey and the possibility of flight delays, we recommend arriving one day earlier and staying overnight at a hotel in Mfuwe so that you are rested and ready for the adventure ahead. We have therefore reserved a number of rooms at a hotel. If you wish to arrive the day before, please indicate this when making your booking.

If you would like assistance with booking international flights, we are happy to help. Please contact us by phone at +46 470 466 40 or by email at info@zoomfotoresor.se.

FACTS

Target group: Photographers interested in developing their skills in wildlife and nature photography.

Min/max participants: 8/12.

Other: For more information about Zoom Photo Tours, terms of delivery, etc., please see our website under “Other”.

CAMERA EQUPIMENT

  • Your digital camera.

  • Telephoto lens, preferably up to 500 mm.

  • 70–200 mm lens.

  • Wide-angle lens, e.g. 24–70 mm.

  • A monopod.

  • A computer with Photoshop or Lightroom installed.

  • Extra batteries, chargers, etc.

  • Cleaning equipment.


BOOKING 

Du bokar resan genom att klicka på knappen nedan. Du är även välkommen att ringa oss på telefon +46 70 180 90 99 eller via mail info@zoomphototours.com

BOOKING

Photo: Tom Svensson

NYHETSBREV

Bli först med att höra om nya resor, erbjudanden och reseinspiration från Zoom.

KONTAKTA OSS

E-post: info@zoomfotoresor.se
Telefon: +46 (0)70 180 90 99

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Foto: Hans Strand