Anantara has unveiled Anantara Tented Camp Kafue River, a 13-suite-and-villa property on the banks of the Kafue River in Zambia’s largest national park.
Three years in development, the camp marks the brand’s first safari property in Africa. It combines guided wildlife experiences with in-room spa facilities, river dining and a floating fitness platform.
Rates start at US$6,300 per room, per night, for two people sharing, including full board, premium beverages, twice-daily game drives, personalised butler service and one 90-minute spa treatment per person, per stay.
Elevated Suites and Riverfront Villas
Designed by Meg Ralph Spaces, the camp uses timber platforms to raise accommodation above the ground, with the aim of preserving wildlife corridors. Structures have been built around mature riverine trees, while interiors combine sculpted wood, natural textiles and colours drawn from the surrounding landscape.
The three Horizon Terrace Suites measure 110 square metres each and stand 14.3 metres above ground, reached by a glass lift. Their upper decks have outdoor beds for sleeping beneath the stars, while private terraces include Green Egg barbecues.
Nine Pool and Bush Villas, each measuring 115 square metres, sit on platforms 3.5 metres above ground. Features include heated plunge pools overlooking the river and indoor massage rooms.
The 400-square-metre Presidential Villa adds a large shaded deck, a dedicated massage area and exclusive boat access. Villa hosts arrange meals, activities and treatments around guests’ preferences.
The camp runs on solar power and uses on-site water purification, with measures to limit single-use plastics.
Safari Experiences Linked to Kafue’s Restoration
Zambian guides lead twice-daily game drives through Kafue National Park, where guests can look for elephants, predators and antelope. River safaris, bush picnics and catch-and-release fishing offer alternative ways to explore.
The camp’s conservation-focused experiences have been developed in partnership with African Parks, which has worked with Zambia’s government on the park’s restoration since 2022.
According to the announcement, that work has included improvements to security, infrastructure and fire management, alongside the reintroduction of Kafue lechwe in 2024 and a large wildlife translocation involving wildebeest and zebra in 2025.
Dining and Wellness on the River
A floating dining pontoon accommodates up to four guests, who arrive by boat for experiences including breakfast, afternoon tea and sunset wine tastings.
Other venues include Luzuba Harvestry, serving contemporary dishes beneath the trees, and Twalumba Bar & Lounge, with afternoon tea, cocktails and fireside storytelling.
Wellness facilities include a floating Technogym fitness platform with sliding doors opening towards the river and an outdoor yoga deck. Guests can also use the main swimming pool or arrange Anantara Spa treatments in their accommodation, with steam showers available afterwards.
How to Reach Anantara Kafue
Private charter flights are available from Livingstone or Lusaka to Chunga airstrip. The property is also approximately four hours by road from Lusaka International Airport, with private transfers available.
The camp is promoting stays during the December-to-March green season, when vegetation thickens and migratory birds arrive, offering a different setting for wildlife photography.
