About King Lewanika Lodge
The extreme isolation and wilderness nature of Zambia's Liuwa Plain National Park have always been major ...
... factors in its appeal – but these features have also made the logistics of visiting very challenging. With the opening of King Lewanika Lodge in the heart of the Liuwa Plains, the park's first permanent safari camp, this situation has changed.
Liuwa Plain National Park isn’t for everyone, and for those wanting to tick off regular wildlife sightings, this park may not be for you. However, for those looking for a wilderness experience, with stunning vista and landscapes plus the opportunity for some unique wildlife sightings, King Lewanika is a brilliant base from which to explore Liuwa, a modern and comfortable camp in a truly amazing part of Africa.
Our view
Liuwa Plain National Park isn’t for everyone, and for those wanting to tick off regular wildlife sightings, this park may not be for you. However, for those looking for a wilderness experience, with stunning vista and landscapes plus the opportunity for some unique wildlife sightings, King Lewanika is a brilliant base from which to explore Liuwa, a modern and comfortable camp in a truly amazing part of Africa.
Accommodation
6 tented suites
Children
Best for adults
Open
01 Mar - 31 Dec
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Canoeing
Cultural excursion
Guided walking safari
Night drive
Traveller reviews of King Lewanika Lodge
1 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
Arrived 3 Nov 2021, 4 nights
"King Lewanika Lodge review"
Overall rating: Excellent








Expert Africa's gallery
When we travel we take lots of photos ourselves to give you a real and un-edited view of the safaris. See our 141 pictures of King Lewanika Lodge to get the candid view.
View gallerySafaris visiting King Lewanika Lodge
Just ideas, we'll always tailor-make a trip for you


Puku Safari
11 days • 3 locations • 1 country
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LIVINGSTONE AIRPORT
Discover South Luangwa’s prolific wildlife before exploring the wildly remote pans of Liuwa Plain National Park and relaxing in one of the Livingstone area’s most romantic and exclusive hideaways. A safari of luxury, style and impressive diversity.
Visiting Liuwa Plain, South Luangwa and 1 other area
US$16,630 - US$19,920 per person
King Lewanika Lodge: Our full report
The extreme isolation and wilderness nature of Zambia's Liuwa Plain National Park have always been major ...
... factors in its appeal – but these features have also made the logistics of visiting very challenging. With the opening of King Lewanika Lodge in the heart of the Liuwa Plains, the park's first permanent safari camp, this situation has changed.
King Lewanika Lodge opened in early 2017 and, following several name changes – including Kokomo Camp and Mambeti Camp – the lodge was finally named after King Lewanika, at the request of the king of Barotseland, the Litunga. The most famous paramount chief of the Lozi people, King Lewanika lived around the turn of the 20th century. It was he who, in the 1880s, designated Liuwa Plain as a royal hunting ground – and thus started the protection of this area. Later he petitioned Queen Victoria to make the whole of Barotseland (effectively the western side of present-day Zambia) a British Protectorate. Eventually, in 1902, he journeyed to London, seeking an audience with Edward VII to achieve his aim.
King Lewanika Lodge was designed by leading architects Silvio Rech and Lesley Carstens, who were also responsible for Chinzombo in the South Luangwa, Mombo Camp in Botswana and North Island in the Seychelles. After a short closure, the lodge re-opened under new management in April 2025. Its new sister camps include Shinde Camp and Kanana in Botswana's Okavango Delta, and we have no doubt the same high standard of guiding and service we've experienced here will be on show at King Lewanika. The interior design has been upgraded throughout, giving all of the suites and the expansive main area a brand new lease of life, and we're excited to head back out to the lodge to see this new iteration.
The lodge accommodates up to 15 guests in six tented suites – including a two-bedroom family suite. Each of these luxurious tents is raised on a platform, designed to make the most of the location in the middle of the vast plains. After all, the main draw of Liuwa has always been the great expanse of the park itself. Open-plan and open-fronted, with gauze and canvas sides that can be zipped down, and spaced out along the tree line of a small section of woodland, each suite looks out to the plains to the front of the camp, with the Munde River in the distance.
As you enter through a door to the back of each suite, you’ll find a spacious lounge area with comfortable sofa, facing out to the plains, a desk with a tea and coffee station, and shelving and storage and a hanging area for clothes. To one end of the villa is a large king size bed (or twin beds), again facing towards the plains, with roll-up mosquito nets around. Hurricane lantern style solar lamps sit to the side of each bed, and there’s a small bedside table to the side of the beds with a whistle for attracting attention, torch and emergency horn. To the other end is an open plan bathroom, with a folding screen incorporating a mirror and towel racks to provide a degree of privacy. Canvas walls surround the toilet, and there's both an indoor and oudoor shower.
The family tent is more spacious still, with the lounge area creating a divide between two large open plan bedrooms (one with king size bed, the other with twins), and curtains to separate of this area. both with en-suite shower areas, though there’s no outdoor shower in this villa.
The main area is also expansive, with a thatched roof, and canvas walls that can be pulled down in case of wind or rain. Decking extends out to the front, with comfy chairs, cushions and hammock chairs.
A large, well-stocked bar sits to one end, underneath innovative lightshades either locally woven, or created from fishing baskets.
A large silimba (a traditional Lozi xylophone, made of keys strung along the top of calabash gourds) is found behind the tables, feel free to have a go, otherwise one of the team will happily show you how it’s done. You’ll also find an extensive reference book collection, along with plenty of novels on Zambia, or by Africa authors.
The lodge offers guided walks as well as day and night game drives, with the possibility of boating and canoeing between November/December and March, once the rains arrive and the pans start to fill. With every three-night safari, there's also the chance to enjoy a wilderness sleep-out, following a day of exploration deep into the national park. For those searching for a little R&R, in-room spa treatments and yoga classes are on offer.
Flights into Matamanene depart and arrive twice weekly, and stays at King Lewanika are generally booked on a three- or six-night basis, though if you would prefer an alternative duration private charters are available.
Geographics
- Location
- Liuwa Plain National Park, Zambia
- Ideal length of stay
- The length of stay is largely governed by the flights, so is three nights starting on a Monday or a Friday. Experienced lovers of the wilderness might opt for a six night stay.
- Directions
- There are seasonal flights to and from Lusaka on Mondays and Fridays. These either land at the small airstrip Matamanene, approximately a 15-minute drive from cam. Or, they will land at the outpost town of Kalabo, where there is a small airfield and a mission station with a hospital.
The lodge transfers guests from Kalabo to the lodge via helicopter, taking around 15 minutes. A small but comfortable reception room is available to wait, and cold water, tea or coffee and biscuits are available. - Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board & Activities
- Dining style
- Group Meals
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Special interests
- Luxury
- The only camp in the remote Liuwa Plain National Park, King Lewanika delivers traditional luxury in a remarkable location. Six large, tented villas open up to the vast wilderness around, whilst the real luxury of Liuwa is its exclusivity; so few visitors ever reach this park.
- See ideas for Luxury in Zambia
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Children from the age of six and up are welcome, but the lodge and surrounding environment are better suited to older children and adults.
- Property’s age restrictions
- The lodge only accepts children over the age of six.
- Generally recommended for children
- The lodge and surrounding environment are better suited to older children and adults.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from King Lewanika Lodge
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at King Lewanika Lodge have kindly recorded their wildlife sightings and shared them with us. The results are below. Click an animal to see more, and here to see more on our methodology.

100% success

100% success

100% success

100% success

100% success

0% success

0% success

0% success

0% success

0% success

0% success

0% success

0% success

0% success
Communications
- Communications
- The lodge does have WiFi available in the rooms, but this runs from a satellite, don't expect speedy connections!
- TV & radio
- There are no TVs here, or radio reception.
- Water supply
- Borehole
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- The nearest doctor is in Mongu, which is the best part of a day's drive away. In case of emergency an air evacuation to Lusaka, or even Johannesburg, would be arranged.
- Dangerous animals
- High Risk
- Fire safety
- There is a fire extinguisher in each suite and in the main communal area.
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Canoeing
Cultural excursion
Guided walking safari
Night drive
Extras
- Disabled access
- Not Possible
- Laundry facilities
- A daily laundry service is included.
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King Lewanika Lodge's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of King Lewanika Lodge.
Other lodges in Liuwa Plain National Park
Alternative places to stay in this same area.

Liuwa Plains Mobile Safari
Liuwa Plains Mobile Safaris offer a remote and authentic safari adventure, into the heart Liuwa Plain National Park.
When to go to Liuwa Plain National Park
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit King Lewanika Lodge in Liuwa Plain National Park
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Liuwa Plain National Park in January
Liuwa Plain experiences its wettest period in January, with frequent heavy showers dominating most days. The mercury often soars above 30°C, accompanied by high humidity. The park's landscape transforms into a lush, emerald expanse of rampaging vegetation, with crystal-clear skies between downpours. However, the abundance of water causes wildlife to scatter, making sightings more challenging.
Many areas are inaccessible due to flooding, limiting exploration options. The park sees very few safari visitors, but a serene experience awaits any who can get here as large numbers of migratory birds flock to the area.
- Wet season peak, frequent downpours
- Lush grasslands, ideal for photography
- Wildlife dispersed, challenging to spot
- Access very difficult; lodges closed
- Amazing time for migrant cranes
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in January
Liuwa Plain National Park in February
The wet season in Liuwa Plain continues through February; dramatic thunderstorms punctuate otherwise sunny days. The national park remains awash with water, affecting wildlife distribution and accessibility.
Dense vegetation growth everywhere further complicates game viewing, but intrepid observers will be rewarded with unique sightings. The flooded plains create temporary waterways, offering distinctive boating opportunities in areas usually traversed on foot or by vehicle. Few safari visitors can get here at this time, providing an intimate experience of the park's raw beauty for those who can.
- Continuous rainfall, humid conditions
- Verdant landscapes, photogenic scenery
- Game viewing difficult due to thick vegetation
- Superb bird-watching opportunities
- Limited accommodation options
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in February
Liuwa Plain National Park in March
March marks the final full month of the rainy season in Liuwa Plain. Daily downpours persist, maintaining high water levels throughout the national park. Temperatures consistently exceed 30°C, with humidity levels remaining elevated.
The lush vegetation and difficult access continue to pose challenges for safari-goers, even though the wildlife viewing can be exceptional. Many species rear their young during this period allowing the Liuwa's predators to take advantage of vulnerable prey. As March progresses, clearer skies emerge, offering breathtaking photographic opportunities against vivid backdrops. Birdwatching remains excellent as migratory species prepare to leave on their seasonal journeys.
- Persistent rains, warm temperatures
- Flourishing flora, picturesque vistas
- Abundant newborns but elusive wildlife
- Virtually no visitors make it here
- Accommodation still closed
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in March
Liuwa Plain National Park in April
April heralds a transitional period in the national park: heavy rains give way to lighter, sporadic showers. Liuwa Plain retains its vibrant green hue as conditions for wildlife viewing begin to improve. Areas of the national park start to become less inaccessible as flood waters recede. However, many parts remain difficult to reach.
April offers a unique blend of the wet and dry seasons' characteristics, with the landscape slowly beginning its transformation. Animal behaviour and sightings gradually shift as the wildlife slowly adapts to the changing conditions.
- Rainfall tapering off, occasional showers
- Wildlife viewing slowly starting to improve
- Vibrant greenery, clear skies for photos
- Retains a fresh feeling with many dry days
- Travellers are a rare sight in Liuwa
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in April
Liuwa Plain National Park in May
May typically ushers in the dry season at Liuwa Plain. While occasional showers may still occur, most days are clear with sunny skies. Temperatures begin to drop, with daytime highs averaging around 26°C.
The park's landscape starts to dry out, improving accessibility and enhancing game viewing opportunities. As standing water diminishes, the proliferation of vegetation slows and some begins to die back a little. The air clarity remains excellent, benefiting photographers. Late May can see a small uptick in visitors as favourable conditions set in, though the park remains very quiet by any normal standards.
- Dry season onset, mostly sunny days
- Majority of accommodation options open
- Bush still green and lush, with clear air for photographers
- Wildlife sightings start to improve
- Last month for off-peak pricing
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in May
Liuwa Plain National Park in June
June brings reliably dry conditions to Liuwa Plain, with sunny days becoming the norm. Humidity levels plummet, and temperatures continue to decrease, often dropping to around 10°C at night while reaching 25°C during the day.
The park's vegetation is now thinning out a little, gradually enhancing the visibility of the wildlife. Wild dogs start denning; impalas are rutting. Smaller water sources become scarcer, wildlife sightings around remaining water bodies improve. The cooler temperatures make for comfortable daytime exploration of the park. The changing landscape offers an easier environment for viewing wildlife than the dense greenery of the wet season.
- Clear skies, cooler nights
- Improved visibility for wildlife spotting
- Park is largely accessible; good conditions for safaris
- Safari season starts
- Lodge rates still less than peak season
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in June
Liuwa Plain National Park in July
In July, Liuwa Plain's dry season is in full swing. Vegetation continues to recede, and water sources continue to shrink, leading to excellent wildlife viewing opportunities around those that remain.
Daytime temperatures hover in the 20s Celsius, but nights can become cold, dropping to single digits. Early morning and late evening game drives can be particularly chilly: bring warm layers, gloves and hats!
The national park sees an increase in visitors during this prime viewing season, though Liuwa remains less crowded than most other African parks. The landscape takes on a golden hue as grasses dry out.
- Pleasant days, chilly evenings
- Lovely time in Liuwa: landscape not yet parched
- Prime time for wildlife observation
- Excellent conditions for safaris
- Peak season rates in force
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in July
Liuwa Plain National Park in August
August in Liuwa Plain National Park offers very good game viewing conditions as animals congregate around dwindling water sources. Wild dog dens still active. The chance of rain is minimal, with consistently sunny days. A slight haze may begin to appear on the horizon due to dust and distant bush fires.
Nighttime temperatures are cold, dipping below 5°C, so come prepared; daytime highs reach the mid-20s Celsius. The golden landscape contrasts sharply with the wet season's lush environment. This is a popular month for visitors, attracted by the excellent wildlife sightings and comfortable daytime temperatures.
- Dry climate, warm days, cool nights
- Superb game viewing near water sources
- Optimal for walking safaris
- Puppies venturing out at wild dogs dens
- Peak season, premium rates apply
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in August
Liuwa Plain National Park in September
September is often considered the prime time to visit Liuwa Plain. Rainfall is rare, humidity is low, and temperatures begin to rise, with daytime highs typically in the low 30s Celsius.
Wildlife viewing is excellent as many animals cluster around the few remaining water sources. The wildebeest herds start appearing in the north of the park, and wild dog puppies are now mobile. The landscape is at its driest, providing a striking backdrop for photography, though some haze may affect long-distance views.
Despite being the park’s peak month for visitors, Liuwa Plain still receives relatively few visitors and retains a very exclusive feel.
- Hot days, mild nights, clear skies
- Exceptional month for wildlife encounters
- Landscape hazy due to dust
- Wildebeest starting to congregate in the north
- Wild dogs vacating dens and moving with puppies
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in September
Liuwa Plain National Park in October
October sees Liuwa Plain National Park at its driest and hottest. The landscape is parched, with little ground vegetation remaining. Daytime temperatures frequently soar above 40°C, rarely dropping below 20°C at night. These extreme conditions concentrate wildlife around the few remaining water sources, leading to exceptional game viewing opportunities.
The heat can be challenging for visitors, but visitors are rewarded with larger herds of wildebeest moving south on the plains. A haze often permeates the air, affecting long-distance visibility and photography.
- Parched landscape waiting for the rains
- Increasingly hot days and nights
- Peak wildlife viewing month
- Wildebeest migration heading south
- Hazy conditions may affect photography
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in October
Liuwa Plain National Park in November
November in Liuwa Plain is as unpredictable as the transition from dry to wet season. Temperatures remain high and humidity builds as the month progresses; then everything changes as the first proper rains arrive.
Early November can still offer excellent game viewing, as the spectacular wildebeest migration masses across the park's southern plains. Many animals disperse as the rains strengthen and water becomes more readily available. Visitors numbers plummet; those who can get here witness the dramatic change from brown to green as vegetation explodes.
- Wet season begins, hot and humid
- Wildebeest migration spectacle at peak
- Wildlife disperses as rains arrive
- Palearctic migrant birds here
- Many young animals are born
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in November
Liuwa Plain National Park in December
December usually sees Liuwa Plain in the midst of its wet season. Heavy thunderstorms may be a daily occurrence, interspersed with periods of sunshine. Daytime temperatures often exceed 30°C, accompanied by high humidity. The landscape undergoes a remarkable transformation, turning lush and green.
Game viewing is challenging as areas of the nation park become inaccessible due to flooding. Despite the challenges, the rain washes away dust and haze, revealing stunningly clear skies that provide excellent photographic conditions.
- Rainy season in full flow
- Verdant vegetation and everything feels alive
- Lush scenery, ideal for landscape photos
- Limited wildlife viewing opportunities
- Lodges are closed; very few visitors
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in December

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