Explore Zambia’s Liuwa Plain National Park

Zambia often flies under the radar when it comes to African safaris, but it’s a hidden gem for travelers seeking authentic, crowd-free wildlife experiences. 

From South Luangwa’s rich game to the stunning Lower Zambezi, Zambia has diverse landscapes to explore. Among these, Liuwa Plain National Park stands out as an untouched treasure. The park opened earlier than usual in 2024 due to drier conditions, and remains a must-visit if you are looking for unique, intimate, and off the beaten path safaris. 

Early Opening of Liuwa Plain in 2024

Liuwa Plain National Park started the safari season earlier than expected in 2024 to expand the zambia safari timeframe for the year. Due to a drop in summer rains, the park opened on March 1, 2024, months ahead of its usual fall season in the Southern Hemisphere. The dry conditions have made the floodplains accessible earlier, giving wildlife enthusiasts a unique chance to explore Zambia’s untamed wilderness ahead of schedule. Liuwa Plain, located in Zambia’s Western Province near the Angolan border, is remote and less frequented, making it a prime location for those who want an off-the-beaten-path safari.

Wildlife and the Second-Largest Wildebeest Migration

Liuwa Plain is home to Africa’s second-largest wildebeest migration, a spectacular event that rivals the more famous Serengeti migration. Over 43,000 blue wildebeest roam the plains, and you can witness this incredible sight without the massive crowds typical in other parts of Africa. 

It’s not just about wildebeest—Liuwa supports a range of wildlife, including cheetahs, lions, hyenas, and the lightning-fast tsessebe, the world’s fastest antelope. Conservation efforts have restored the park’s predator population, including the story of Lady Liuwa, a lioness who survived alone for nine years. Thanks to ongoing protection, her legacy lives on with thriving lion numbers today.

The Unique Ecosystem of Wetlands, Floodplains, and Birdlife

The landscape in Liuwa Plain shifts dramatically with the seasons. Its seasonal floods create wetlands, grasslands, and woodlands, making it a biodiversity hotspot. This ecosystem is great for mammal sightings and it’s also a paradise for birdwatchers. 

Over 334 bird species have been recorded in the park, including the rare wattled crane. Bird lovers can also spot large groups of crowned cranes among the park’s vast open spaces. Liuwa’s unique environment also ties into local culture, as seen in the Kuomboka Festival, when the Lozi King moves to higher ground as the floods rise.

How to Get to Liuwa Plains and Where to Stay

Getting to Liuwa Plain is all part of the adventure. The park is remote, but you can reach it by road via the M9 from Lusaka to Mongu, passing through Kafue National Park. For a more exclusive journey, private charter flights can land at Liuwa’s airstrip, but there are no commercial flights. Once there, King Lewanika Lodge, the only permanent accommodation offering a luxury safari in Liuwa Plains. The lodge gives you an intimate experience with a handful of luxury villas, ensuring a tranquil stay amid the vast plains.

When to Visit Liuwa Plain National Park and What to Expect

While March 2024 offered a rare early start, the best time to visit Liuwa Plain is usually November, after the first rains. This is when the wildebeest migration hits its peak, and wildlife activity is at its most exciting. Beyond the migration, you can enjoy day and night game drives, walking safaris, and, when the floodwaters are high, even seasonal canoeing safaris. The park has a range of ways to experience its beauty, ensuring that each visit feels tailored to your interests and adventures

Why Choose an Africa Safari in Zambia?

A Zambian safari delivers an unmatched level of wilderness and authenticity. Whether it’s the Liuwa Plains’ quiet beauty, the dramatic escarpments of the Lower Zambezi, or the predator-rich regions of South Luangwa, Zambia hosts a variety of wildlife encounters and diverse landscapes. With fewer tourists compared to hotspots like Kenya or Tanzania, Zambia is perfect for those looking for a more personal connection with nature.

Get Your Zambia Safari Started

Zambia’s Liuwa Plain National Park offers a rare chance to experience Africa’s wildlife without the usual crowds. The early opening in 2024 is a unique opportunity to explore one of the continent’s hidden treasures. Whether you’re there for the wildebeest migration, to track big cats, or to enjoy the park’s stunning birdlife, Liuwa Plain will give you an African safari adventure unlike anywhere else on the continent. Make Zambia your next safari destination with your Africa Safari Wishlist to experience the untamed beauty of one of Africa’s most untouched wilderness areas.