Adventure

Wildebeest Migration Liuwa Plains

What is this safari about?

Liuwa Plain is situated on the upper Zambezi floodplains of Western Zambia. Each year when seasonal floods transform the flat grasslands into a wetland paradise, the area becomes home to the second largest wildebeest migration in Africa. It is a spectacle which sees between 40,000 and 50,000 individuals migrate within the broader Liuwa system, moving between the numerous pans following seasonal burns and flooding.

At the start of the rainy season (around November) the Zambezi floods from the north and the wildebeest move south to higher ground creating a magnificent migration with literally ten’s of thousands moving along the plains – a sight to behold! They are joined by herds of zebra, tsessebe and lechwe, and predators such as wild dog, hyena, cheetah and lion.

The area incorporating Liuwa Plain has a long and rich history. One of the earliest protected areas in Africa, Liuwa Plain was proclaimed a game reserve by the King of the Lozi people in the early 1880’s. Since 2003, the Park has been managed by African Parks through a public-private partnership with the Zambian Government and the Barotse Royal Establishment.

A new lodge King Lewanika is located on the upper Munde stream, a site chosen for its sweeping vistas and complete wildlife immersion. The accommodation comprises six luxury villas including a two bedroomed family villa, with the capacity to accommodate a total of 15 guests. This will be the only lodge inside the Park and makes for a very special experience during the migration.

Who can go?

  •  Great for couples, families and small groups.
  • Ideal for those interested in remote and special wildlife encounters.
  • Birder and photographer heaven!

Why is this special?

  • Witness the second biggest wildebeest migration in Africa!
  • View unique predator behavior – hyenas hunting in packs of up to 50.
  • Rare bird watching with 334 species.
  • Fabulous photographic opportunities.
  • Stay at the only lodge inside the Park.
  • Great conservation history and community participation
  • Wild and seriously remote…

Where is this?

Bound by the Luambimba and Luanginga Rivers, Liuwa is characterised by its spectacular flat landscape with wide-open spaces. Its seasonally flooded Zambezi floodplain is dotted with slightly elevated wooded islands.

Historically used as a royal hunting ground, people today still live inside the Park, a legacy that dates back to the late 19th century when the Barotse King, Lubosi Lewanika, proclaimed it a protected area and appointed his people as the custodians of the reserve and its wildlife – including the famous Liuwa lions, hyenas and cheetahs.

What should I expect to pay?

Rates at King Lewanika start from USD 1300 per night per person sharing. Or USD$2500 for a 4 night mobile safari.

What Extensions do you recommend?

A stay at Liuwa can be combined (through a package deal) with a few nights at the camps in South Luangwa, creating a great Zambian wildlife experience. Add to that a stay at Victoria Falls and its pretty much as good as it gets!

SAFARI FRANK’s Botswana or Namibia components also work well with a Zambia connection.

 

Photo’s by Will Burrard-Lucas

Places to stay

Related Accommodation

Ready for an adventure? Lets Talk!

Contact SAFARI FRANK to get started on your safari of a lifetime!