Originally designed for researchers studying the wildlife and habitat of the Liuwa Plains, Matamanene Camp is – quite literally – the only place to stay if you want to immerse yourself in the true nature of Liuwa Plains National Park. It stands at the heart of the park; a tiny cluster of tents gathered around a small tree island. To say it is remote is a masterful piece of British understatement; it can only be reached by private plane from Lusaka to the outpost town of Kalabo, followed by a two-to-three hour drive through untouched bush.
It’s a journey only a handful of visitors ever make. Yet its destination is ultimately rewarding – especially if your idea of a luxury, tailor-made holiday to Zambia means being uncontactable; free to concentrate on nature.
Matamanene Camp, at a glance
- Genuine bush camp in an isolated setting in the heart of Liuwa Plains National Park
- Three hours’ drive from the nearest outpost
- Originally built for African Parks Rangers and Liuwa Plains Carnivore Project researchers
- Choice of only four tents with canvas roofs and walls
- Spacious and comfortable for a true under-canvas safari experience
- Private safari-style showers
- Electricity by powered generator only
- Hearty camp food served in the lounge and under the sky
For leisure and pleasure
- Main lounge is brick-built with thatched roof
- Freedom from TVs, internet and WiFi, phones and the outside world
- Naturally welcoming staff and expert local guides
- Exploration of the vast plain
- Close up sightings of lion, hyena and wildebeest
- Buffalo now reintroduced
- Large numbers of zebra
- Exceptional birdlife and great drives through the remote habitat
- Unforgettable views of predators in action