Liuwa Plain National Park
Liuwa Plain National Park, a haven of unspoiled African wilderness and protected area, beckons adventurers and nature lovers. Situated in Zambia, this expansive park in the far west merges traditional stewardship with contemporary conservation methods, creating an extraordinary destination for wildlife photography, cultural exploration, many birds migrate and immersive nature experiences.
Highlights
Liuwa Plain National Park
- Experience Africa's second-largest wildebeest migration.
- Marvel at Liuwa Plain's flourishing lion population, showcasing conservation success.
- Discover the park's commitment to local communities with over 95% local employment.
- Engage in cultural exchanges with the Lozi people, deepening your travel experience.
- Explore a birdwatcher's paradise with significant migratory bird breeding grounds.
Unveiling the Rich History and Conservation Triumphs
Liuwa Plain is located within the Barotse Floodplain, bordered by the Luambimba River on the north and the Luanginga River on the south. Steeped in history, Liuwa Plain National Park stands as a testament to wildlife management and community collaboration. The park is filled with large wattled crane, offering a great chance to capture their vibrant birdlife through photography.
Lady Liuwa, the 'Last Lioness' of Liuwa Plain, has sadly passed away on August 9th, 2017, due to natural causes. She was a legendary lioness who resided in Zambia's Liuwa Plain National Park. Her departure occurred just one day prior to World Lion Day.
Spearheaded by African Parks, the Department of National Parks and Wildlife, and the Barotse Royal Establishment, the park's rejuvenation includes the reintroduction of lions, red lechwe predators, zebra, large mammals, eland, wild dogs, Large herds of blue wildebeest, secretary bird, roan antelope, crowned wattled crane, Lichtenstein's hartebeest, white cheeked bee eater and buffalo. Visitors can witness the thriving ecosystem, a symbol of effective and sustainable conservation.
Activities in Liuwa Plain National Park
- Participate in sustainable agriculture with Farmer Field Schools.
- Contribute to local education through scholarship-supported programs.
- Observe nearly 300 bird species in their natural habitat.
- Learn about sustainable living alongside the park's 10,000 residents.
- Immerse yourself in the rich Lozi language, culture, integral to Liuwa Plain's history.
Best Time to Visit
For ideal wildlife spotting, visit from May to August. The rainy season, from November to April, offers a different perspective with lush landscapes and vibrant birdlife. Lozi, the local language, is spoken in the Western Province of Zambia, which happens to be the home of Liuwa Plain National Park. Each late October and November, rising water levels prompt the herds to migrate southeast in search of fresh grazing. Birds are plentiful in Liuwa's plains, especially near the fishing pools. Vegetation dries up, trees shed leaves, and most park pools dry out.