About Place
- "A hidden gem on the edge of the Zambezi floodplains."
- "Gateway to the pristine Liuwa Plain National Park."
- "A serene town offering an authentic slice of rural Zambian life."
Reasons to Visit
- Proximity to Liuwa Plain National Park : Kalabo serves as the primary gateway to Liuwa Plain National Park, a protected area known for its incredible wildlife, including the famous wildebeest migration, hyenas, lions, and diverse bird species. The park's unspoiled wilderness offers a unique safari experience away from the crowds, allowing for intimate wildlife encounters.
- Rich Cultural Heritage : Kalabo is deeply rooted in the Lozi culture, with traditional ceremonies such as the Kuomboka, a royal move by the Litunga (king) of the Lozi people, taking place nearby. Visitors can immerse themselves in local customs, music, and dance, gaining insight into the traditions and lifestyles of the Lozi people.
- Stunning Natural Beauty : The town is surrounded by the stunning Zambezi floodplains and waterways, providing picturesque landscapes and opportunities for fishing, boating, and exploring the waterways. The natural beauty of the region, combined with its tranquil atmosphere, makes it a perfect retreat for nature lovers and those seeking peace and solitude.
Visa
- United States & Canada : Visa on arrival or e-Visa.
- European Union Countries : Visa on arrival or e-Visa.
- Australia & New Zealand : Visa on arrival or e-Visa.
- African Countries : Many can enter visa-free or obtain a visa on arrival, but it varies by country.
- Asia (India, China, Japan, etc.) : Visa on arrival or e-Visa.
- Latin America : Visa on arrival or e-Visa for most countries.
Travel Expenses
- Travel to & from Destination :
- Flights : Lusaka to Kalabo round-trip for two people : $600
- Hotel Cost :
- Average cost per night for a couple : $80
- Total for 3 nights : $240
- Food Cost :
- Average cost per meal per person : $10
- Total for 6 meals for two people : $120
- Activity Cost :
- Liuwa Plain National Park safari : $150
- Cultural tour : $50
- Boat tour : $70
- Near Destination Travel Cost :
- Rental car for local transport : $100
Best Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival in Kalabo Arrive in Kalabo via a domestic flight from Lusaka. Check into your lodge and relax. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk around the town to get a feel of the local environment. For lunch, enjoy a traditional Zambian meal at a local eatery like Mukisa Restaurant, sampling dishes like nshima with grilled fish. Spend the evening by the river, watching the sunset over the Zambezi floodplains. Dinner can be enjoyed back at your lodge, where you can try Zambian beef stew with vegetables.
Day 2 : Liuwa Plain National Park Safari Start your day early with a hearty breakfast at your lodge. Head out for a full-day safari in Liuwa Plain National Park. Experience the wildlife and stunning landscapes, including the wildebeest migration if in season. Pack a picnic lunch provided by your lodge to enjoy in the park. In the evening, return to Kalabo and dine at Maanu Kaatongo, where you can savor local dishes like kapenta (small dried fish) with tomato and onion sauce. Spend the night at your lodge.
Day 3 : Cultural Immersion and Kuomboka Ceremony After breakfast, visit the nearby villages to experience the Lozi culture firsthand. Participate in traditional crafts and learn about local customs. If your visit coincides with the Kuomboka ceremony, witness the grand event. For lunch, visit Kuta Kitchen for a taste of Lozi specialties such as ifisashi (vegetables in peanut sauce). In the evening, take a boat ride on the Zambezi River, enjoying the serene surroundings. Return to your lodge for dinner, trying dishes like chicken in groundnut sauce.
Day 4 : Exploring the Waterways Begin with breakfast at your lodge, then embark on a guided boat tour of the Zambezi floodplains, exploring the waterways and spotting birds and other wildlife. Enjoy a packed lunch during your excursion. In the afternoon, visit the local market to buy handmade crafts and souvenirs. For dinner, dine at Matondo's Corner, where you can try chambo (tilapia) served with cassava or sweet potatoes. Conclude your day with a quiet night by the river, reflecting on your adventures.
Safety Tips
- Always carry identification and a copy of your passport.
- Avoid walking alone at night.
- Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- Stay hydrated and use insect repellent.
- Respect local customs and traditions.
- Use reputable tour guides and transport services.
- Be cautious when using ATMs and handling money.
- Keep emergency contacts handy.
- Ensure your travel insurance covers medical emergencies.
- Stay informed about local news and weather conditions.
Flights
- Airlines : Proflight Zambia, Ethiopian Airlines (connecting flights)
- Duration : Lusaka to Kalabo approximately 1.5 hours
- Cost: Around $300 per person round-trip
Hotels
- Mukisa Lodge : Comfortable rooms with a restaurant.
- Liuwa Camp : For a closer stay to the national park.
- Maanu Kaatongo : Local guesthouse with traditional decor.
- Zambezi Lodge : Riverside views and modern amenities.
- Kalabo Guesthouse : Budget-friendly with essential facilities.
Contacts
- Indian Embassy in Lusaka :
- Phone : +260 211 253159
- Email : cons.lusaka@mea.gov.in
- Emergency Numbers in Zambia :
- Police : 991
- Ambulance : 992
- Firefighters : 993
Country
Closet Airport
- Kalabo Airport
Nearest City
Lusaka
Heritage Sites
Liuwa Plain National Park
Airlines
- Proflight Zambia
Currency
Zambian Kwacha (ZMW)
Languages Spoken
Lozi
English
Real Story
The Establishment of Liuwa Plain National Park : The history of Liuwa Plain National Park is a testament to conservation efforts and the rich natural heritage of the region. In the 19th century, the area that is now Liuwa Plain National Park was designated as a hunting ground for the Lozi kings. Recognizing the area's ecological importance, King Lewanika protected it from excessive hunting.
In 1972, the Zambian government officially declared Liuwa Plain a national park. Despite its protected status, the park faced challenges such as poaching and habitat destruction. In the late 1990s, African Parks, a non-profit conservation organization, partnered with the Zambian government and the Barotse Royal Establishment to manage and rehabilitate the park.
African Parks implemented anti-poaching measures, community engagement programs, and wildlife reintroduction efforts. These initiatives have led to a remarkable recovery of wildlife populations, including the park's famous wildebeest herds. Liuwa Plain is now home to a variety of species, including hyenas, lions, and numerous bird species.
The success of Liuwa Plain National Park demonstrates the power of collaborative conservation efforts. It has become a model for sustainable wildlife management and community involvement, ensuring that the natural and cultural heritage of the region is preserved for future generations.
Cuisine
Kalabo, located in the Western Province of Zambia, offers a rich culinary experience that reflects the region's cultural heritage and natural bounty. The local cuisine is characterized by its use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, simple preparation methods, and flavorful dishes that highlight the traditional food practices of the Lozi people.
Staple Dishes :
- Nshima : The cornerstone of Zambian cuisine, nshima is a thick porridge made from maize (corn) meal. It is typically served with a variety of side dishes, known as relishes, which can include vegetables, meat, or fish. Nshima is eaten by hand and used to scoop up the relishes.
- Kapenta : These small, dried fish are a common source of protein in the region. Kapenta is often fried and served with tomato and onion sauce, making it a popular accompaniment to nshima.
- Chambo : A type of tilapia found in the Zambezi River, chambo is a favorite fish in Kalabo. It can be grilled, fried, or cooked in a stew, often served with nshima or rice.
- Ifisashi : A traditional dish made from green leafy vegetables (like spinach or pumpkin leaves) cooked in a rich peanut (groundnut) sauce. Ifisashi is a delicious and nutritious dish that is commonly enjoyed with nshima.
Culture and History
Kalabo, a town in Western Zambia, is rich in Lozi culture, the dominant ethnic group in the region. The Lozi people are known for their strong sense of identity and unique traditions. The Kuomboka ceremony is a significant cultural event where the Litunga, the king of the Lozi, moves from his palace in the Barotse floodplains to a higher ground to escape flooding. This ceremony, marked by vibrant boat processions, music, and dance, attracts visitors from all over Zambia and beyond.
The Lozi people speak the Lozi language, also known as Silozi, which is widely used in the region alongside English. Their traditional attire often includes brightly colored fabrics and intricate beadwork. The Lozi have a rich oral history, with stories and folklore passed down through generations.
Kalabo’s location near the Zambezi River and the Liuwa Plain National Park adds to its cultural and historical significance. The region's history is closely tied to the migration and settlement patterns of the Lozi people, who have adapted to the unique environmental conditions of the floodplains.