Wild Dogs & Leopards
Four Days Tracking Zambia's Most Coveted Predators
Overview
A focused four-day predator safari in South Luangwa, one of the few places on earth where you can reliably track both the endangered African wild dog and the elusive leopard. With expert guides and a blend of day and night drives, this trip is built around the valley's most thrilling carnivores.
Compact yet immersive, it's ideal as a standalone wildlife escape or as an add-on to Victoria Falls. Stay in characterful riverside camps and let your guide's deep local knowledge put you in the right place at the right time.
Who It's For
For wildlife and photography enthusiasts who want to focus on Africa's most sought-after predators in a short, high-impact safari.
The Beyond Africa Difference
We don't just chase predators. We help you understand why Luangwa is their stronghold.
Wild dog packs, leopard territories, and guides who know which lagoon the dogs denned by this season — this is predator-focused safari at its finest.
Package Highlights
African Wild Dogs
One of the best places to track painted wolves
Leopard Capital
Exceptional leopard density, day and night
Night Drives
Spotlit predator action after dark
Photographic Focus
Open vehicles and guides who work the light
Lion Prides
Resident prides patrol the river
Prolific Birdlife
Carmine bee-eater colonies in season
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Fly into Mfuwe and transfer to camp. Your first afternoon and night drive immediately targets the valley's predators as the bush comes alive after dark.
🏨 Accommodation: Time + Tide Mchenja
🍽️ Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Your Route
Tap a marker to see each stop on your journey.
Featured Lodges & Accommodation
Time + Tide Mchenja
📍 Luangwa Riverfront
Five elegant tented suites under ebony trees — romance and superb predator guiding.
From $980 per person per night
Track + Trail River Camp
📍 Luangwa River
A relaxed camp with an excellent river hide — superb value for a predator-focused trip.
From $640 per person per night
Mfuwe Lodge
📍 Mfuwe Sector
Characterful lodge beside two lagoons with excellent access to leopard territory.
From $520 per person per night
Pricing & Options
All prices per person sharing. Customize any tier to your preferences.
Signature
(~$600/night)
Handpicked luxury lodges, expert guiding and all-inclusive dining
Get QuoteExclusive
(~$717/night)
Premium suites, enhanced privacy and the finest guiding throughout
Get QuoteUltra-Luxury
(~$833/night)
The very best lodges, private vehicle and guide — fully tailor-made
Get QuoteWhat's Included & Excluded
✓ Included
- ✓ All accommodation as specified (or equivalent in chosen tier)
- ✓ All meals as per itinerary and selected beverages
- ✓ Light-aircraft transfers as per itinerary
- ✓ Twice-daily game drives & night drives focused on predators
- ✓ All park, conservation and activity fees as specified
- ✓ Airport meet-and-greet and private transfers
- ✓ Laundry service and Wi-Fi at lodges (where available)
- ✓ 24/7 on-trip concierge support from Private Tours Cape Town
✗ Excluded
- ✗ International flights to/from Africa
- ✗ Travel and medical insurance (mandatory)
- ✗ Visa and entry fees where applicable
- ✗ Premium imported champagne, fine wines and spirits
- ✗ Spa treatments and wellness extras unless specified
- ✗ Gratuities for guides, trackers and lodge staff (guidelines provided)
- ✗ Personal expenses, curios and items of a personal nature
- ✗ Optional activities not specified in the itinerary
Photo Gallery
Best Time to Travel
Best time to travel: June–October (dry season). We tailor lodges and timing to the season for the very finest experience.
Safari Preparation Tips
Essential guidance for your journey
Wild dog packs
South Luangwa holds some of Africa's last wild dog strongholds. Packs of 10–15 hunt in coordinated sprints — it's thrilling to witness.
Leopard sightings
Luangwa's leopard density rivals Sabi Sands. Night drives often reveal them stalking impala along the riverbanks.
Lion pride dynamics
Luangwa lion prides are smaller and more dispersed than Kruger's. Sightings are less frequent but deeply rewarding.
Dry season advantage
June–October concentrates game around water. Predators follow the herds; sightings are at their annual peak.
Walking with predators
Walking safaris mean you'll encounter predator signs (tracks, scat, kills) even if you don't see the animals. It's deeply educational.
Pack for walking
Neutral clothing, broken-in boots, a hat and sunscreen. Lodges provide water bottles; bring your own daypack.
Why Choose This Package
Two Iconic Predators
Few destinations offer reliable wild dog AND leopard tracking in one trip.
Day & Night Drives
Maximise predator sightings around the clock.
Compact & High-Impact
A short safari engineered for big wildlife moments.
Personally Hosted
Curated and supported around the clock by Private Tours Cape Town.
Safaris to Combine with This One
Extend your journey — pair this safari with neighbouring destinations for a multi-country adventure.
South AfricaLeopard Capital Ultimate
Compare Zambia's and South Africa's leopards for a predator-focused Southern Africa journey.
ZimbabweZambezi Safari Experience
Pair Luangwa's predators with Victoria Falls' water wildlife.
TanzaniaSerengeti Plains Adventure
Add Tanzania's plains for cheetahs, lions and the great migration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Experience the Wild Dogs & Leopards?
From $1,800 per person | 4 Days / 3 Nights
⚡ Limited availability for peak season 2026 — book early to secure your dates
