Kafue National Park is one of Africa’s largest protected areas. The camp supports the long-term ecological restoration programme being implemented by the Government of Zambia and African Parks.
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| Main Terrace Bar |
Anantara Kafue has access to almost seven metres of river frontage shared with the area’s resident wildlife. It is Zambia’s only lodge elevated at least 3.5 metres above the ground, with timber platforms designed to maintain wildlife movement and provide uninterrupted views of the Kafue River.
The opening coincides with wildlife restoration initiatives across the national park. Hippos, elephants, large predators, antelope and more than 500 bird species are found within the recovering wilderness.
Guest activities will include game drives, river safaris, guided walks and bush picnics. Catch-and-release fishing will also be available as part of the camp’s land- and water-based programme.
The property was designed by Meg Ralph Spaces and has received recognition from the LIV Hospitality Design Awards. Its contemporary design follows a low-impact operational approach.
The camp operates entirely on solar power and uses on-site systems for water purification, bottling and treatment. Single-use plastics have been eliminated from the start of operations. Prefabricated structures were used to preserve all existing trees on the site. In addition, soft red lighting is used at night to reduce disturbance to nocturnal wildlife.
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Presidential Villa Bedroom |
The camp’s three Horizon Terrace Suites are its signature accommodation category. Suspended 14.3 metres above the ground, they are described as the highest suites in Zambia and are accessed by glass elevators. Each Horizon Terrace Suite includes an upper-level star bed and an expansive deck. The camp also has nine Pool and Bush Villas, each featuring a private plunge pool and a dedicated indoor spa room. The 400-square-metre Presidential Villa provides elevated river views, exclusive boat access and a private spa area. Dedicated hosts support all villas with dining, activity and wellness arrangements.
Dining is included within the stay and offers flexible scheduling. A floating pontoon on the Kafue River will host dawn breakfasts, afternoon tea and sunset dinners above the water.
Luzuba Harvestry and Twalumba Bar & Lounge will serve modern Zambian cuisine, afternoon tea and cocktails. The venues will also host fireside gatherings, while Spice Spoons will provide practical Zambian cooking classes.
The wellness programme includes the full range of Anantara Spa treatments, which can be delivered in guest rooms. Private steam sessions will also be available within each suite or villa, a facility described as unique in Zambia. A floating fitness platform equipped by Technogym will be anchored in the river. It will provide private training sessions, yoga and open-air relaxation, alongside nature-based activities including birdwatching and stargazing.
Nico Vivier, Regional Director of Operations and Development for Minor Hotels in Africa, said: “Three years in the making, Anantara Tented Camp Kafue River is a significant step in our expansion across Africa and reflects the shared vision of the Government of Zambia, African Parks and Anantara,” said Nico Vivier, Regional Director of Operations and Development for Minor Hotels in Africa. “Its location within a major conservation landscape allows us to introduce a new standard of low-impact luxury in Zambia while contributing to the long-term restoration of Kafue National Park.”
Anantara Kafue is accessible by private charter flights from Livingstone or Lusaka to Chunga airstrip. Travellers can also reach the camp by a short domestic flight from Livingstone, while Lusaka International Airport is approximately four hours away by road.
