Lolelunga Private Reserve Opens as a New Beacon for Rewilding and Responsible Safari Tourism in Zambia

Lolelunga Private Reserve has officially opened its doors to guests, marking a major milestone in one of Zambia’s most ambitious and inspiring conservation success stories. Located in the Kasempa District, just 30 kilometres north-west of Kafue National Park, the reserve stretches across 30,000 hectares with 13 kilometres of pristine Lunga River frontage, offering guests the rare opportunity to experience a safari that directly supports active ecosystem restoration.

Lolelunga is a living, breathing rewilding project. Every guest who visits becomes part of a long-term commitment to restoring a once-devastated landscape into a thriving, self-sustaining wilderness. Since the project began four years ago, wildlife numbers have grown from fewer than 100 animals to over 4,500 head of game, a remarkable achievement driven by patience, science-led conservation and deep community involvement.

From Degradation to Renewal

Historically, this vast tract of wilderness was inhabited by hunter-gatherer communities and later impacted by commercial logging and fishing enterprises. Over time, these pressures severely degraded both the land and the Lunga River ecosystem.

Jennifer Beattie, Director of Sales & Marketing for the Zambia Luxury Lodge Collection, explains: “The owners started with a dream, which became a vision, that led to extensive research, great excitement and a deep commitment to overcome every hurdle and make their dream a reality.”

The rewilding strategy followed a fundamental ecological principle: rebuild from the bottom up. The first step was the creation of a dedicated anti-poaching unit. Former poachers, skilled in tracking and with intimate knowledge of the land, were trained and employed as wildlife protectors. It’s about transforming livelihoods while strengthening conservation outcomes.

Reintroducing Life, One Species at a Time

Following extensive ecological research to determine which species historically roamed the area, the reintroduction of prey species began. Herds of puku, red lechwe, sitatunga, eland, kudu, zebra, sable and roan antelope were carefully released and allowed to establish strong, breeding populations before predators were reintroduced.

Five cheetah, genetically suited to the area, have since been successfully reintroduced. With Zambia’s cheetah population estimated at fewer than 100 individuals, this programme plays a vital role in strengthening national conservation efforts. A similar initiative focused on increasing Zambia’s rhino population is expected to commence soon, with the planned arrival of critically endangered black rhino anticipated in December. This will position Lolelunga as Zambia’s first fully fenced, private Big Five reserve.

Game Management Manager Louw Hanekom explains: “Predators are only introduced once prey populations are well established. The successful return of cheetah here will contribute meaningfully to the long-term survival of the species in Zambia.”

The Lifeline of the Lunga River

The Lunga River forms the reserve’s eastern boundary and is its ecological lifeline. This clear-water river supports an extraordinary range of biodiversity, from fish and birdlife to hippos and otters. While surrounding communities retain commercial fishing rights elsewhere along the river, the 13-kilometre stretch within the reserve is fully protected, creating a vital breeding refuge for aquatic life and safeguarding the river’s long-term health.

Elephant herds from neighbouring protected areas regularly cross the river into Lolelunga, and one herd of approximately 35 elephants now appears to have permanently settled, recognising the reserve as a safe and secure sanctuary.

Community at the Heart of Conservation

Community partnership is central to Lolelunga’s operational philosophy. A dedicated community department works closely with local leaders, government organisations and surrounding chiefdoms, focusing primarily on health and education initiatives. To date, Lolelunga’s community programmes have positively impacted more than 16,000 people.

Achievements include the construction and furnishing of two secondary schools, the installation of 86 boreholes to provide clean drinking water, the building of hammer mills to support maize production, and the delivery of quarterly medical supplies to local clinics. Local residents are also trained to maintain infrastructure, ensuring long-term sustainability and local ownership.

“What we’re seeing is more than just success; it’s a living example of how conservation, community and ecotourism can truly thrive together,” concludes Beattie.

A Boutique Safari Experience with Purpose

Lolelunga offers an intimate safari experience, accommodating just 14 guests in a selection of king rooms, junior suites and a family suite. Facilities include a fully equipped gym, swimming pool, spa and multiple dining areas, making it ideal for couples, families and small groups seeking meaningful luxury.

Fully fenced and naturally protected by the Lunga River along one boundary, Lolelunga provides a safe, ethical and transformational safari environment where guests are not only spectators but active contributors to Zambia’s conservation future.