North Luangwa National Park is a protected area in Zambia, located in the northern part of the Luangwa River valley. It was first established as a game reserve in 1938 and later became a national park in 1972. Today, it covers an area of 4,636 square kilometers.

Like South Luangwa National Park, its eastern border is the Luangwa River. To the west, the park extends along part of the Muchinga Escarpment. The Mwaleshi River flows from east to west through the center of the park. The area south of the river is a strict wilderness zone where human activity is not allowed. Compared to the more well-known South Luangwa National Park, North Luangwa has generally received less investment and attention.

Biodiversity

The park is home to many birds and mammals, including Cookson's wildebeest, Crawshay's zebra, and various antelopes and bird species. In 2003, black rhinoceroses were brought back to the park. Since 2005, the park, along with South Luangwa National Park, has been part of a Lion Conservation Unit.

A study of the park's fungi was done during the rainy season of 1994-1995, focusing on areas near rivers and miombo woodlands. The study found 126 types of fungi from 33 families. Most of these fungi are types called basidiomycetes, such as brackets, mushrooms, puffballs, and toadstools, with special attention given to those that help miombo trees grow. The total number of fungal species in the park is likely much greater than what was recorded.

Buffer zones

The National Parks in the Luangwa Valley are connected by and surrounded by several large game reserves. These reserves are supposed to form wildlife corridors and buffer zones. To the north and east of the Musalangu Game Management Area is the North Luangwa National Park. To the south, the Munyamadzi Game Management Area connects to the South Luangwa National Park and Luambe National Park.