Liuwa Plain National Park – A Hidden Gem of Zambia’s Wilderness

Liuwa Plain National Park, located in the western region of Zambia, is one of the country’s most pristine and remote wilderness areas. This park, known for its vast grasslands, seasonal wetlands, and diverse wildlife, offers visitors an authentic and tranquil safari experience. Liuwa Plain is renowned for its large herds of wildebeest and the annual wildebeest migration, which rivals that of East Africa’s Serengeti.

The park is also famous for its abundant birdlife, particularly the stunning flocks of flamingos that fill the wetlands. Liuwa Plain offers an extraordinary, off-the-beaten-path safari, perfect for those seeking solitude and the opportunity to experience the wild beauty of Zambia.

Did you know

Liuwa Plain National Park is home to one of the longest-running wildlife conservation projects in Africa. The park has been transformed over the years from a hunting ground to a protected wildlife sanctuary, making it one of the most successful wildlife conservation stories in Zambia.

Location

Liuwa Plain National Park is situated in the western part of Zambia, along the border with Angola. It covers over 3,600 square kilometres of diverse habitats, including vast grasslands, wetlands, and dry savannahs. The park is remote, located approximately 350 kilometres west of the city of Lusaka.

Famous For

Liuwa Plain National Park is famous for its pristine landscapes, abundant wildlife, and the impressive wildebeest migration, which occurs annually between November and December. The park is also renowned for its birdlife, including large populations of flamingos, pelicans, and various migratory species.

Liuwa Plain: Scenic Wildlife Adventure

How to Get There

By Air

The easiest way to reach Liuwa Plain is by flying into the park’s airstrip, with flights available from Lusaka or Lower Zambezi. Flights typically take around 1.5 to 2 hours. Charter services are available through several companies offering private flights into the park.

By Road

Liuwa Plain is accessible by road, though it requires a 4x4 vehicle due to the park’s remote and sometimes challenging terrain. The drive from Lusaka takes approximately 6-8 hours, and visitors will need to navigate some rough roads. It is advisable to travel with a guide or a safari company familiar with the area.

Local Transportation

Once at Liuwa Plain, the park is best explored with guided safari drives, as the park is vast and wildlife can be spread out over large areas. Many lodges and camps within the park offer organized game drives, walking safaris, and boat safaris on the Zambezi River.

Wildlife

Liuwa Plain is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including large herds of wildebeest, zebra, and antelope. The park is also known for its predators, including lions, cheetahs, and wild dogs, which follow the migration of herbivores.

Birdlife

Liuwa Plain is a birdwatcher’s paradise, particularly during the wet season. The park is home to large flocks of flamingos, pelicans, and various migratory waterfowl. Over 300 species of birds have been recorded in the park, making it a great destination for ornithologists.

Best Time to Visit

The Best Time to Visit Liuwa Plain National Park is during the wet season, from November to April, when the park’s wetlands are at their fullest, creating stunning scenery and attracting thousands of migratory birds. This is also the time for the wildebeest migration, when large herds move across the plain, attracting predators

For those interested in a more traditional safari experience with fewer mosquitoes and more dry weather, the dry season (May to October) is ideal for game drives. This period also offers the best chance to see large herds of wildlife near waterholes.

Accommodations

Liuwa Plain National Park offers a selection of lodges and camps for visitors, ranging from basic tented camps to more luxurious safari lodges. The park’s remote location ensures that accommodations are exclusive and often booked well in advance.

Top Activities

Liuwa Plain offers a range of thrilling activities that allow visitors to immerse themselves in its wild beauty. Game drives across the park’s vast landscapes provide opportunities to spot iconic wildlife, including wildebeest, zebra, lions, and cheetahs. A highlight is the annual wildebeest migration, where large herds traverse the plains, drawing predators in tow.

For a more intimate experience, guided walking safaris offer a chance to explore the park up close, learning about its ecosystems, flora, and fauna. Additionally, boat safaris along the Zambezi River reveal stunning birdlife, hippos, and crocodiles, enhancing the adventure.

Pro Tip

Plan your trip during the wet season (November to April) for the best wildlife sightings, including the wildebeest migration and birdwatching. However, make sure to book your accommodations well in advance, as Liuwa Plain is a remote destination and lodging options can fill up quickly during peak seasons.

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