Luangwa’s hidden value

On Day 1 of your trip, you will fly out to the Mfuwe sector of the South Luangwa National Park. Here you will stay at Kafunta River Lodge. This property has a lovely location overlooking the Luangwa river! Its main lodge is a traditional thatch-roof structure, containing a comfortable lounge, dining space, and bar. These areas flow out onto a deck, where you can sit and admire views of the river as well as a busy waterhole. Meals are often enjoyed al fresco on the deck, and the lodge also has a fire-pit, an infinity pool, a gym, a spa, and the Luangwa Valley’s only natural hot tub! This tub, created from a geothermal source in the property’s grounds, is ideal for a little relaxation after a day in the South Luangwa. Each of the eight guest chalets is super-comfy too, featuring a private veranda with river views. You can also take in the scenery from the lodge’s hide, underneath the deck – this provides great photo opportunities! Activities on offer include day and night game drives, and walking safaris. The South Luangwa is accessed via a pontoon, or guests can be driven into the park through the main gate at Mfuwe. There’s loads of wildlife to see in this area of Zambia – lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo (four of the Big Five!), in addition to numerous other predators and herbivores and over 450 species of bird.

For the second part of your trip, you will transfer by road to Kafunta Island Bush Camp – this is a 3-hour journey south through the South Luangwa. It too is beautifully positioned on the banks of the Luangwa river amidst a grove of ancient mahogany trees. The communal lodge is similar in style, with lounge, dining space, and bar all under thatch. The views are spectacular here, including not only the river but also the Chindeni hills to the east and the mighty western escarpment of Muchinga. Island Bush Camp has a fire-pit and various lovely outdoor dining areas, and its guest accommodation consists of just five bush chalets, each set on a platform along the river bank. Every chalet is well appointed, with a snug double bed, mosquito nets, paraffin lights, and fabulous open-air en-suite facilities featuring flush toilet, washbasin, and bucket shower. The focus here is walking safari! Guests looking only to game drive should focus on the other Kafunta properties. Concentrations of wildlife around camp are seriously impressive – huge herds of herbivores and plenty of predators too. And don’t forget your binoculars if you’re a keen birder, as there are hundreds of impressive species.

For your final few nights, it’s a short drive to Kafunta Three Rivers. This is the newest camp in the collection and arguably the most luxurious – the perfect place to end your time in the Lungawa! With just five spacious safari tents, Kafunta Three Rivers Camp ensures exclusivity and privacy. Each tent is elegantly furnished, providing a cosy retreat after exhilarating game drives. From the private verandas, guests can take in breathtaking views of the Luangwa River, where elephants, hippos, and crocodiles congregate in astonishing numbers. In common with Kafunta River Lodge, Three Rivers Camp offers a full range of activities, so those wanting to continue with their walking adventure can, whilst others can return to game drives and focus on getting close to big game.