ZAMBIA’S KING LEWANIKA LODGE PREPARES TO REOPEN UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT

The year 2025 marks a significant chapter for Zambia’s Liuwa Plain National Park, as the iconic King Lewanika Lodge prepares to reopen under the expert management of Ker & Downey Zambia. This reopening promises an unparalleled blend of adventure and luxury, offering guests an exclusive opportunity to immerse themselves in one of Africa’s most pristine wilderness areas.

Ker & Downey Zambia, a subsidiary of Ker & Downey Botswana, recently expressed its enthusiasm for this new venture. They were “thrilled to announce its appointment as the new operator for the marketing and management of the prestigious King Lewanika Lodge, nestled in the heart of the breathtaking Liuwa Plain National Park.” This appointment signals a renewed commitment to showcasing the unique beauty and biodiversity of this remarkable landscape.

The park itself is a testament to collaborative conservation efforts, managed by African Parks in partnership with Zambia’s Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW) and the Barotse Royal Establishment. This partnership underscores the shared dedication to preserving this vital ecosystem for generations to come.

King Lewanika Lodge is renowned for its commitment to providing an exclusive and luxurious safari experience. The lodge’s setting within Liuwa Plain National Park guarantees an unparalleled wilderness encounter. The park’s vast, open grasslands provide a dramatic backdrop for a rich tapestry of wildlife.

Notably, Liuwa Plain is home to the second-largest wildebeest migration in Africa, a spectacle that draws visitors from around the globe. The park also boasts a growing predator population, contributing to a healthy and dynamic ecosystem. Furthermore, Liuwa Plain is recognized for its extraordinarily diverse range of birdlife, holding significant global importance for avian conservation.

Ker & Downey Zambia brings to this venture a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to both conservation and community engagement. With over five decades of successful operation within Botswana’s Okavango Delta and the Kalahari Desert, Ker & Downey has established a strong reputation for excellence in the safari industry. This extensive experience will ensure that guests at King Lewanika Lodge enjoy insightful wilderness experiences, filled with rich wildlife encounters, in this epic and wild frontier.

Glenn Evans, the Group’s Business Development Manager, emphasized the company’s dedication to preserving the legacy of this remarkable destination. “We are honoured to take on the stewardship of King Lewanika Lodge and to continue the legacy of this extraordinary destination,” he stated. He further outlined the company’s vision: “Our aim is to enhance the appeal of this seldom visited wilderness gem to travellers and in doing so, contribute to the conservation of the area and its wildlife, for the immediate and future benefit of local communities and the people of Zambia.”

The partnership between The Barotse Royal Establishment, The Department of National Parks and Wildlife, African Parks, and Ker & Downey Zambia highlights a shared commitment to conservation, sustainability, and the promotion of Zambia’s natural heritage. This collaborative approach is essential for ensuring the long-term protection of Liuwa Plain and its unique biodiversity.

Deon Joubert, Park Manager, Liuwa Plain National Park, expressed his enthusiasm for the new partnership. “We are thrilled to partner with like-minded operators such as Ker & Downey Zambia and believe that their reach will further support tourism efforts in Liuwa Plain National Park – an icon of conservation history,” he said. He also highlighted the positive impact of such collaborations on local communities: “It is partnerships such as these that contribute to local conservation economies through employment and revenue generated through tourism, while simultaneously nurturing an appreciation of the importance of this landscape.”

While anticipation builds for the reopening, specific details regarding the lodge’s opening date and access will be announced in due course. The reopening of King Lewanika Lodge under Ker & Downey Zambia’s management promises a revitalized experience, blending luxury with a deep appreciation for the wild heart of Liuwa Plain.

From Destination Zw Issue 15