Zambia Unleashes a New Era of High-End Wilderness Travel With Anantara in Kafue

Zambia enters a new era of luxury wilderness travel as Anantara opens its first African safari retreat in the wild heart of Kafue National Park. Anantara has entered Africa’s safari market with the opening of Anantara Tented Camp Kafue River, a 13-key property developed over three years and unveiled during the brand’s 25th anniversary year. The camp combines luxury accommodation, conservation-led wildlife experiences, riverfront wellness and low-impact design in one of Africa’s largest protected wilderness areas, giving travellers a more private and immersive way to discover Zambia’s remarkable safari landscape.

Set on the banks of the Kafue River, the camp has been created for travellers seeking privacy, nature and a slower style of safari. Its structures are elevated above the landscape, helping protect wildlife corridors while giving guests uninterrupted views across the river and surrounding bush.

Kafue National Park Enters a New Conservation Chapter

Kafue National Park covers around 22,480 square kilometres, making it Zambia’s largest national park and one of the biggest protected areas in Africa.

The park has been undergoing a major restoration programme since 2022 through a partnership between the Government of Zambia and African Parks. Work has focused on stronger security, infrastructure improvements and better fire management to support the recovery of wildlife populations.

Important milestones have included the reintroduction of Kafue lechwe in 2024 and a major wildlife translocation in 2025 that returned wildebeest and zebra to parts of the park.

Guests at the camp can explore this recovering wilderness on twice-daily game drives led by experienced Zambian guides. River safaris, bush picnics and catch-and-release fishing provide additional ways to experience the landscape.

The region supports elephants, hippos, antelope, large predators and more than 500 bird species, while its relatively low visitor numbers make it attractive to travellers looking for a quieter safari.

Elevated Design Reduces Impact on Wildlife

The camp stands around 3.5 metres above ground level on timber and rosewood platforms. This elevated design allows animals to move more freely beneath the structures.

The architecture uses dark canvas, natural timber, handcrafted finishes and colours inspired by the surrounding landscape. Mature marula and jackalberry trees have been incorporated into the layout rather than removed.

The property also runs largely on solar power, uses on-site water purification and aims to reduce single-use plastics.

Horizon Terrace Suites Offer a Dramatic Safari View

Among the camp’s most distinctive features are three Horizon Terrace Suites, each measuring around 110 square metres.

Positioned approximately 14.3 metres above the ground, the suites provide sweeping views across the river and wilderness. Guests reach them by glass elevator.

Each suite includes an open-air upper deck with a star bed for overnight sleepouts beneath the sky. A lower terrace provides additional outdoor living space, private barbecue facilities and room for spa treatments.

The camp also includes nine Pool and Bush Villas, each around 115 square metres, with heated plunge pools and private massage rooms.

The largest accommodation is the 400-square-metre Presidential Villa, featuring a swimming pool, extensive deck space, a dedicated massage area and exclusive boat access.

Floating Dining Brings Guests Onto the River

Dining is closely linked to the natural setting.

One of the most unusual experiences is a floating wooden pontoon positioned directly on the Kafue River. Reached by boat, it accommodates up to four guests for breakfast, afternoon tea, wine tasting and private dinners.

The low position of the platform gives diners close views of the water and riverbanks, where hippos and crocodiles may be seen.

Elsewhere, Luzuba Harvestry serves modern cuisine beneath a canopy of trees, while Twalumba Bar & Lounge offers afternoon tea, cocktails and relaxed fireside evenings.

Wellness Becomes Part of the Safari Experience

Wellness is a central part of the camp rather than an additional service.

Each suite and villa contains its own massage area, while steam showers allow guests to continue spa experiences in private.

A floating Technogym fitness platform is anchored on the river and includes sliding doors that open directly towards the landscape. An outdoor deck can be used for yoga, stretching and relaxation.

Spa treatments include massages, couples’ rituals and locally inspired therapies. Birdwatching, stargazing, swimming and quiet time by the river further support the property’s slower approach to safari travel.

Green Season Adds Another Dimension

From December to March, Kafue enters its Green Season.

Rain transforms the landscape, vegetation becomes denser and migratory birds arrive in greater numbers. The season also brings fewer visitors and dramatic photographic conditions.

For travellers seeking a quieter and more atmospheric safari, this period provides an alternative to the more traditional dry-season experience.

Access and Rates

Guests can reach the camp by private charter flight from Lusaka or Livingstone to Chunga airstrip.

The property is also approximately a four-hour drive from Lusaka International Airport, with private transfers available.

Lead-in rates start from around USD 6,300 per room per night, based on two guests sharing.

The rate includes full board, premium beverages, twice-daily game drives, personalised butler service and one 90-minute spa treatment per person during the stay.

With its combination of elevated accommodation, conservation-led wildlife experiences, floating dining and river-based wellness, Anantara Tented Camp Kafue River brings a new luxury safari proposition to Zambia and strengthens Kafue National Park’s position as an emerging high-end wilderness destination.