South Luangwa has one of the highest densities of leopard in the world, giving rise to the park’s nickname. This shy predator is most often encountered on night game drives, which take place after dark and also provide a chance to see hyena, mongoose, civet, bush baby and genet. In the daylight, visitors can encounter vast herds of elephant and buffalo, as well as prides of lion. Species rarely spotted elsewhere include Thornicraft’s giraffe, Crawshay’s zebra and puku antelope. Hippos and crocodiles are plentiful in the river. The park’s sheer diversity means it is home to a staggering array of species.