Anantara Tented Camp Kafue River combines contemporary design, conservation-led adventures and exceptional wellness in one of Africa’s great wildernesses.
Some safari escapes are about ticking wildlife sightings off a list. Others invite you to slow down and experience the wild differently. Set along the Kafue River in Zambia’s vast Kafue National Park, Anantara Tented Camp Kafue River is an intimate new retreat where elevated design meets untamed nature, with just 13 keys and a focus on conservation, privacy and reconnecting with the outdoors.
Three years in the making, the camp marks Anantara’s first safari property in Africa, opening as the hospitality brand celebrates its 25th anniversary. Here, the soundtrack is the river, the views stretch across untouched wilderness and the pace is entirely your own.
A WILDERNESS RECLAIMING ITS RHYTHM
Covering 22,480 square kilometres, Kafue National Park is one of Africa’s largest and least explored protected wilderness areas. It is also the focus of an ambitious restoration initiative led by African Parks in partnership with the Zambian government. Improved security, infrastructure and conservation efforts are helping wildlife return to areas where it had become increasingly scarce.
Recent milestones include the reintroduction of Kafue lechwe antelope in 2024 and a major wildlife translocation in 2025, bringing wildebeest and zebra back to the park’s grasslands.
Guests can experience this evolving ecosystem on twice-daily game drives with experienced Zambian guides, looking out for elephants, antelope and large predators. River safaris, bush picnics and catch-and-release fishing offer alternative ways to explore, with the park’s expansive landscapes providing a welcome sense of seclusion.
DESIGN THAT RISES ABOVE THE ORDINARY
Forget the traditional safari tent. Anantara Kafue embraces contemporary African design, pairing clean architectural lines with sculpted timber, natural textiles and colours inspired by the landscape. Charcoal and canvas exteriors blend into the bush, while structures are built around mature riverine trees.
Elevated on timber platforms, the camp’s main structures sit 3.5 metres above ground to help protect wildlife corridors. Solar power, on-site water purification and reduced reliance on single-use plastics further reflect its lighter footprint.
The result is a thoughtful balance of comfort and conservation, with the wilderness firmly centre stage.
SLEEPING WITH THE SKY AS YOUR CEILING
The three 110-square-metre Horizon Terrace Suites sit 14.3 metres above ground, accessed by a glass elevator. Upstairs, an open-air deck features a star bed for sleeping beneath the African night sky, while a private terrace below offers uninterrupted river views and a Green Egg barbecue.
Nine 115-square-metre Pool and Bush Villas offer heated plunge pools overlooking the river, spacious interiors and private massage rooms. For the ultimate retreat, the 400-square-metre Presidential Villa features its own pool, shaded deck, exclusive boat access and indoor massage area.
Dedicated villa hosts arrange everything from bespoke meals to spa treatments and safari activities, leaving guests free to set their own pace.
DINING ON THE WATER
At Anantara Kafue, the setting is every bit as memorable as the menu. A wooden pontoon anchored on the river hosts intimate breakfasts, afternoon tea and sunset wine tasting. Accessible by boat and designed for up to four guests, the floating platform features a sunken lounge, with crocodiles and hippos sometimes spotted along the riverbanks.
On land, Luzuba Harvestry serves contemporary classics beneath a canopy of trees, while Twalumba Bar & Lounge welcomes guests back from safari with afternoon tea, signature cocktails and fireside storytelling. Meals are included in the stay, with guests free to choose where and how they dine.
WELLNESS, WITH A WILDERNESS VIEW
Wellness here is less about a packed schedule and more about reconnecting with nature. Birdwatching, stargazing and quiet moments beside the river sit alongside Anantara Spa treatments, including signature massages, couples’ rituals and locally inspired therapies, enjoyed in the privacy of each suite or villa.
The camp also features a floating Technogym fitness platform, with sliding doors opening onto the landscape, an outdoor yoga deck and a wooden swing facing the water. It is an unexpected setting for a workout, but then, this is no ordinary safari lodge.
WHEN TO GO
From December to March, the Green Season brings lush vegetation, abundant water and migratory bird species. Cooler temperatures and fewer visitors make this an appealing time for a quieter safari, while the changing landscape offers excellent photographic opportunities.
Lead-in rates start from US$6,300 per room, per night, based on two people sharing. Rates include full board, premium beverages, twice-daily game drives, personalised butler service and one 90-minute spa treatment per person, per stay. Exclusive opening offers are available for a limited time.
Located within Kafue National Park, the camp can be reached by private charter flight from Livingstone or Lusaka to Chunga airstrip. Road transfers from Lusaka International Airport take approximately four hours.
For travellers seeking an African escape that pairs meaningful conservation with considered design and genuine seclusion, Anantara Tented Camp Kafue River offers a compelling reason to discover Zambia.
For bookings and enquiries: +27 10 003 8979 or cro.jnb@minorhotels.com.
