This tiny game reserve is hidden away in the hinterlands southwest and west of Masasi. With great luck you may see elephants, elands, crocodiles and hippos, though it's more likely you'll return having seen none of these. The main challenge, apart from getting around the reserve, is spotting the animals through the often dense vegetation and dealing with the voracious tsetse flies.
Lukwika-Lumesule is separated from Mozambique’s Niassa Reserve by the Ruvuma River, and animals frequently wade across the border. There are no real roads in the reserve, just overgrown bush paths. It's officially off limits during the July to December hunting season, and unofficially off limits during much of the rest of the year due to the rains. According to reserve officials, late June is officially the best time to visit. Before visiting, it’s essential to stop by the reserve warden’s office in Masasi to get an entry permit.
