Liuwa Plain National Park

Liuwa Plain National Park is renowned for its vast grasslands and the second-largest wildebeest migration in Africa. It’s located in Zambia’s remote west region on the floodplains of the upper Zambezi Basin. Liuwa receives annual flood waters, creating islands to explore. During a Zambia safari here, you’ll be in awe of the sheer amount of herbivores that traverse the plains with a growing population of predators hot on their tracks.

Must-Visit Area in Liuwa Plain National Park

A hotspot that’s popular among many animal species:

Munde Stream: Sweeping Vista

The Munde Stream is a vital water source in Liuwa Plain National Park that attracts an array of wildlife to its shores, making it an area not to miss when on a Zambia safari. During the rainy season, the stream and surrounding plains often flood, creating the perfect setting for birding. In the dry season, the water recedes, and animals gather around the remaining water sources.

When’s the Best Time to Visit Liuwa Plain National Park?

The onset of the rains in November sees the wildebeest arrive at the park during their migration. This makes the wet season, from November to April, the best time for a wildlife safari in Zambia. However, it’s best to plan your safari for November to mid-December; as the wet season progresses, game-drive tracks worsen. The scenery is also lush, and migratory birds are present. May and June fall in the dry season, and there are still resident animals in the area, making this time a good choice for a Zambia safari too.

Animals Found in Liuwa Plain National Park

Large herds of wildebeests, zebras, and tsessebe cross the national park. Hiding in the grasslands, you may come across reedbucks and oribi. Lions have been reintroduced to Liuwa, and the cheetah population is recovering, so you may see these big cats during your Zambia safari. There’s a strong hyena population, with over 350 of these laughing predators.

The 357 species of birds will keep birders busy during birdwatching safaris. Slaty egrets and whiskered terns come to this park to breed. Other species to keep a lookout for include the black-winged pratincole, wattled crane, and saddle-billed stork.

How to Get to Liuwa Plain National Park

Liuwa’s entry point, Kalabo, is a 10-hour transfer from Lusaka and an eight-hour transfer from Livingstone. Liuwa Plain National Park does have an airstrip inside the park but doesn’t offer any commercial flight services.