Driving to Liuwa National Park in Zambia: A 4×4 Adventure

Route to Liuwa National Park

Leaving Pretoria

Start the journey by heading out of Pretoria on the N1 highway, turning onto the N11, and crossing into Botswana at the Groblersbrug border post. Travellers can arrange third-party insurance ahead of time through Kwa Nokeng Lodge. Once across the border, the route follows the A1 highway via Palapye to Francistown, before joining the A3 towards Nata. An overnight stay at Nata Bird Sanctuary is a convenient stop along the way.

Continuing to Kasane

From Nata, the road continues north along the A33 towards Kasane. To save time and fuel, avoid entering Kasane by taking a left turn onto a sandy, desolate road that leads to the Kasane Forest Reserve. Rejoin the A33 afterwards and head toward Botswana’s Ngoma border post to cross into Namibia.

Across the Caprivi Strip and Into Zambia

The journey continues across Namibia’s Caprivi Strip on a tarred road, leading to Katima Mulilo, where the Wenela border post allows entry into Zambia. This border can be tricky to spot due to thick bush and vegetation, so keep an eye out. Katima Mulilo is the last place for major shopping and refueling before entering Zambia, with more affordable fuel prices available in Namibia.

The M10 Gravel Highway to Liuwa

After crossing into Zambia, the route follows the M10 gravel highway towards Sitoti. Kabula Lodge, located about 60 kilometers from the Wenela border post, is an ideal overnight stop. From here, the journey continues towards the Kalangola ferry, 120 kilometers further north. At this point, travelers have two choices: either take the pontoon to stay on the M10 or take the more challenging western fork of the road.

After reaching Mongu, it’s time to set off towards Kalabo and finally to Liuwa. This segment of the trip involves navigating a series of sandy roads, following a broken causeway, and crossing the Zambezi River by pontoon. Once across, Kalabo lies at the end of the road, where travelers can obtain a map of Liuwa Plain National Park and directions from the park offices.

Where to Stay En Route

1. Nata Bird Sanctuary (Botswana): A rustic camping site at the Nata Pan. Camping costs R70 per person per night.
   • Contact: Tel +267-7154-4342, natavillage.org
2. Kabula Lodge (Zambia): Located on the M10, Kabula Lodge offers camping, chalets, and stunning views of the Zambezi River. Ideal for Tiger Fishing enthusiasts.
   • Contact: Tel +26-0977-771098, kabulalodge.com
3. Mutoya Campsite (Mongu): A great option for an overnight stay before heading to Kalabo.
   • Contact: Tel 021-683-9639, openafrica.org
4. Sioma Camp (Zambia): Situated near the Sioma Falls, this camp offers luxury safari tents, self-catering options, and camping.
   • Contact: Tel +26-0977-771098, siomacamp.com
5. Liuwa Plain National Park: Entry to the park costs US$40, with camping at US$10 per person per day. The park offers four community campsites with basic facilities.
   • Contact: Tel +26-097-961-1975, african-parks.org

Vehicle Requirements

To tackle the rugged terrain, particularly during the rainy season, a reliable 4×4 vehicle is essential. The vehicle should ideally have:

• 4×4 capabilities
• Low-range gearing
• Differential lock (Diff Lock)
• High ground clearance for the sandy stretches

A diesel engine is preferable, as it performs better in wet conditions and helps avoid stalling in deep puddles. A snorkel is advantageous but not mandatory for water crossings.

The Return Journey

While some may take the same route back, more adventurous drivers can opt for the western fork road back to the Kalangola ferry, a choice only for experienced 4×4 enthusiasts. This challenging 192-kilometer section can test both vehicles and relationships, as the journey takes longer than Google Maps might suggest.

For the less adventurous, an easier alternative is to travel back along the M10 to the Wenela border post and cross the Zambezi via the bridge. From here, travelers can continue to Livingstone and drive through Zimbabwe, visiting Victoria Falls and then driving towards Beitbridge before re-entering South Africa.