Matamanene Camp: Our full report

Liuwa Plain National Park only sees a handful of visitors each year. Although this is certainly a bonus for people searching for a true wilderness area, it does mean that there are few accommodation options in the park, and the only camp open for visitors in 2016 is Matamanene Camp. Originally a researchers camp, Matamanene was transformed in early 2015 into a comfortable and stylish camp for eight guests.

The camp is built around one of the small tree islands that mark the plains, and for much of the year the camp retains its function of providing accommodation for African Parks rangers and researchers from the Luiwa Plains Carnivore Project.

Built in 2016, the camp is currently being operated by Norman Carr Safaris, who provided the property with a soft facelift, with new mattresses and linen, and an upgrade for the main lounge area. However the original purpose of the camp is well reflected in its basic nature. The tents aren't excessively luxurious, but they have all you need to keep you comfortable during your stay, including en-suite toilets and showers.

From May to June, and November to December, Norman Carr Safaris will be operating four- and five-night set departure trips using Matamenene as a base while construction is finished on their new luxury property Mambeti, where trips will be based from 2017 onwards. During April and November Robin Pope Safaris will also be utilising Matamanene for their set departure trips guided by Robin Pope himself.

Our view

Matamanene is a simple and isolated camp with few bells and whistles, but the draw of Liuwa Plain has always been the vast emptiness, the unique feeling of isolation, and the stunning birdlife. Matamanene offers an opportunity to visit this wonderful national park in 2016. At the end of 2016 the camp will revert back to a researchers camp, and the Norman Carr trips will instead visit Mambeti, a new permanent camp being constructed in the park, due for opening early 2017.

Geographics

Location: Liuwa Plain National Park, Zambia

Ideal length of stay: 4 or 5 night set departures

Directions: Chartered flights with Norman Carr Safaris will fly from Lusaka into the outpost town of Kalabo, where there is a small airfield and a mission station with a hospital. You will then be driven the 2-3 hours to Liuwa.

Accessible by: Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis: Full Board

Dining style: Group Meals

Dining locations: Indoor and Outdoor Dining

Drinks included: Yes - all house wines, beers, soft drinks and water are included. Champagnes and special imported spirits, if available, will be charged as extra. If you have special or unusual drinks requirements, you're strongly advised to discuss these with us well in advance.

Children

Notes: This camp isn't suitable for children under 12 years old.

Infrastructure

Power supply: Generator

TV & radio: None - you're in a very remote location here!

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended: Yes

Medical care: Closest doctor is probably in the mission station at Kalabo - 3 hours' very bumpy drive from Liuwa.

Dangerous animals: High Risk

Extras

Disabled access: Not Possible

Laundry facilities: Full Laundry Service - Included

The information on this page is our report, of what we saw, felt and experienced personally on our visits.
See Info from the owner for the standard information written by the owner about this property.