Kafunta River Lodge

Game drives from Kafunta River Lodge cross the Luangwa River by private pontoon during the peak dry months, placing vehicles in prime wildlife ground within minutes. The lodge sits on the floodplain south of Mfuwe gate, run by owners who have lived in the valley for twenty-seven years. Ten rooms occupy thatched chalets and two suites; all face the open plain where giraffe, elephant, and waterfowl pass daily. Eight standard chalets hold twin beds, en-suite showers, ceiling fans, and verandas. Two luxury suites add mezzanine sleeping lofts, stand-alone baths, and upstairs decks. A bar and dining deck wraps a wild mango tree, set under thatch in the traditional form. An infinity pool overlooks the floodplain; beside it a hot tub fills from a natural spring on the property, holding a constant thirty-eight degrees. Morning drives depart at sunrise for four hours, pausing for tea. Afternoon drives stop for sundowners then continue as night drives under spotlight. Walking safaris run three to four hours over rugged ground with qualified guides and armed scouts. A photographic hide beneath the dining deck frames the lagoon where fish eagles and saddle-billed storks work the shallows. You can hear hippos from the main deck after dark. The Sunset House — a three-bedroom tented villa with private pool, butler, chef, and guide — opened in late 2023 for families and small groups. A wellness spa offers massage and body treatments between morning and afternoon activities.