KAFUNTA RIVER LODGE

SOUTH LUANGWA

FROM:

USD535.00 - 710.00

FOR WHO?

SOLO/FAMILY/GRPS

STYLE:

4* COMFORTABLE

Kafunta River Lodge is a classic safari lodge that captures the timeless spirit of South Luangwa. Set beneath a magnificent wild mango tree and raised above a broad, wildlife-rich floodplain, the lodge looks out towards the Luangwa River and the distant escarpment beyond. The design is traditional and relaxed, with thatched roofs, open-sided communal areas and wooden decks that blend seamlessly into the surrounding bush. The atmosphere is warm and unpretentious, offering an authentic Zambian safari experience with comfort and excellent views at its heart.

WHY STAY HERE?

✔ CLASSIC THATCHED SAFARI LODGE OVERLOOKING A GAME-RICH FLOODPLAIN NEAR THE LUANGWA RIVER.
✔ SPACIOUS CHALETS WITH PRIVATE VERANDAS OFFERING UNINTERRUPTED WILDLIFE VIEWS.
✔ EXCELLENT GAME DRIVES, NIGHT SAFARIS AND GUIDED WALKING SAFARIS IN SOUTH LUANGWA.
✔ UNIQUE NATURAL HOT TUB FED BY A GEOTHERMAL SPRING, ALONGSIDE AN INFINITY POOL.
✔ EASY ACCESS FROM MFUWE AIRPORT.

THE FULL STORY

Accommodation at Kafunta is provided in spacious thatched chalets built on raised wooden platforms, each positioned to maximise privacy and views over the floodplain. Interiors are elegant yet understated, decorated in a classic African style with natural materials, comfortable beds draped in mosquito nets and en-suite bathrooms. Each room opens onto a private veranda where guests can sit quietly and watch elephants, antelope and birdlife moving through the landscape. A small number of larger luxury suites offer extra space, expansive decks and indulgent bathrooms, while a private house is available for families or groups seeking exclusive use.

The main lodge facilities are designed for both relaxation and wildlife viewing. An infinity swimming pool overlooks the plains, providing a refreshing retreat during the heat of the day, while a natural hot tub fed by a geothermal spring is a unique highlight of the lodge. Guests gather in the open lounge and dining area for meals and drinks, often with animals passing through the view below. A photographic hide at a nearby waterhole allows for close-up wildlife observation, and a small spa offers massage treatments between activities.

Safari experiences at Kafunta focus on showcasing the exceptional game viewing for which South Luangwa is renowned. Morning and afternoon game drives explore the surrounding areas, with night drives offering the chance to see nocturnal species. Guided walking safaris are also available, providing an intimate way to experience the bush on foot. The lodge’s location requires crossing the Luangwa River on a pont and allows access to productive and less crowded areas of the park, and guides are highly experienced, bringing the landscapes, wildlife and ecology vividly to life.

Kafunta River Lodge is located just outside South Luangwa National Park, close to the main Mfuwe area, overlooking a permanent floodplain that attracts wildlife year-round. The lodge is reached by flying into Mfuwe Airport, which is served by scheduled and charter flights from Lusaka. From the airport, the road transfer takes approximately 45 minutes and often doubles as a game drive, with wildlife frequently encountered en route. This easy access, combined with its superb setting, reasonable rates and classic safari style, makes Kafunta River Lodge an excellent base for exploring one of Africa’s finest wildlife destinations.

Kafunta is one of our go to lodges offering a high quality experience and good value for money, we often combine it with their sister camp in South Luangwa, 2,5 hours further south, and also with lodges in the Lower Zambezi and Kafue National Parks.