The Bangweulu Wetlands is one of the world’s greatest wetland systems. It’s also incredibly unique as it’s completely community-owned and protected. Bangweulu means “where the water meets the sky” which is the perfect description for this incredible area which comprises Lake Bangweulu, the Bangweulu Flats and the Bangweulu Swamps.
You’ll find this extraordinary wetland in north-eastern Zambia, and our Zambia travel packages include a stay at the iconic Shoebill Island Camp located on the wetlands with a front-row seat to roaming wildlife and breathtaking bird watching – including the beautiful Shoebill. Bangweulu has been classified as an “Important Bird Area” by BirdLife International and “Wetlands of International Importance” by the RAMSAR Convention.
They’ve also introduced various breeding programs for the beloved yet endangered shoebill species. Our Bangweulu Wetlands Safaris offer a visit to the Shoebill Guardian Program with an opportunity (seasonal) to visit their nests, too!
There has been an incredible amount of development in the area. Since Bangweulu became a protected environment, poaching has been contained and the fish stocks have drastically increased. This attracted a kaleidoscope of birdlife, so this is your go-to destination if you’re an avid or even amateur bird watcher.
Wildlife to spot at the Bangweulu Wetlands
The black lechwe is a unique antelope species that can be found in the floodplains of Zambia’s Bangweulu Wetlands. What makes them truly remarkable is their ability to adapt to the wetland environment. Unlike other antelopes, black lechwe are not known for their speed, but rather their prowess as swimmers. They are often spotted grazing in the deep waters of the wetlands, utilising their swimming skills to their advantage. Their physical adaptations for the wetlands are also noteworthy. Black lechwe have specialised hooves that allow them to navigate through swampy lands with ease, and their coats are covered with a grease-like layer that acts as waterproofing, keeping them dry in the marshy terrain. These unique adaptations make the black lechwe a well-adapted and fascinating species that thrives in the challenging and dynamic ecosystem of the Bangweulu wetlands.
The changes in ownership also saw the return of the cheetah, and you’d be lucky to spot one from our guided, mokoro (or canoe) safaris as only seven have been successfully reintroduced to assist with restoring the landscape.
You’ll also interact with the local villagers who have obtained the right to live off the land in a sustainable way. You might pass them by on one of your walking safaris or on the water during our guided mokoro safaris! Take a peek at our packages for more information like the best time to visit, or any other info. We can’t wait to meet you!
