Anantara opens luxury safari camp in Zambia’s Kafue National Park - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

Anantara Hotels & Resorts has opened its first safari property in Africa, introducing an exclusive tented camp on the banks of the Kafue River in Zambia. The Anantara Tented Camp Kafue River offers just 13 suites and villas within Kafue National Park, combining luxury accommodation with guided wildlife experiences and an extensive wellness programme. Developed over three years, the property represents a new addition to Zambia’s high-end safari tourism sector.

The opening coincides with Anantara’s 25th anniversary and marks the brand’s expansion into African safari hospitality. The camp has been designed to minimise its impact on the surrounding environment, with elevated structures that preserve wildlife movement beneath the accommodation. Solar power, on-site water purification and the reduced use of single-use plastics form part of its operational approach.

Located within Zambia’s largest national park, the retreat provides access to an extensive wilderness covering approximately 22,480 square kilometres. The surrounding landscape supports elephants, hippos, large predators, antelope and more than 500 bird species. Guests can explore the region through twice-daily game drives, river safaris and other activities led by experienced Zambian guides.

Safari tourism supports wildlife restoration

The opening comes as Kafue National Park undergoes a major conservation programme coordinated by African Parks in partnership with the Zambian government.

Since 2022, the initiative has focused on strengthening wildlife protection, improving infrastructure and introducing more effective fire management. These measures are intended to restore ecosystems and support the recovery of wildlife populations across the park.

Conservation activities have included the reintroduction of Kafue lechwe antelope in 2024 and a major wildlife translocation programme in 2025, which brought wildebeest and zebras into areas where their populations had declined.

For visitors, these developments provide an opportunity to experience a protected landscape undergoing ecological restoration.

The camp’s safari programme includes morning and afternoon game drives, allowing guests to observe wildlife across different habitats and at different times of day.

Boat excursions on the Kafue River offer another perspective, particularly for observing hippos, crocodiles and birdlife along the riverbanks. Bush picnics and catch-and-release fishing are also available.

Elevated villas overlook the Kafue River

The accommodation has been designed by Meg Ralph Spaces, combining contemporary architecture with materials and colours inspired by the surrounding landscape.

The camp's most distinctive accommodation consists of three Horizon Terrace Suites, each measuring 110 square metres. Positioned 14.3 metres above the ground, they are accessed by glass elevators and provide extensive views across the river and surrounding wilderness.

Each suite features two outdoor levels, including an upper deck with a bed for sleeping beneath the stars. A private terrace on the lower level provides additional space for relaxation, dining and wellness treatments.

Nine Pool and Bush Villas offer 115 square metres of accommodation and stand 3.5 metres above the ground on timber platforms. Each includes a heated plunge pool overlooking the river and a private indoor massage room.

The largest accommodation option is the 400-square-metre Presidential Villa, featuring a spacious deck, private pool facilities, dedicated massage space and exclusive boat access.

The elevated construction is intended to maintain wildlife corridors beneath the buildings while providing guests with uninterrupted views of the landscape.

Floating dining and private wellness experiences

Wellness plays a central role in the property's concept, with treatments available directly in guests' suites and villas.

Each accommodation unit includes a private massage room, allowing guests to enjoy spa treatments without visiting a separate wellness facility. The programme includes signature massages, couples' treatments and therapies incorporating local traditions.

A floating fitness platform equipped with Technogym facilities provides an unusual setting for exercise on the river. Sliding doors open towards the surrounding landscape, while an outdoor deck is available for yoga.

Dining is similarly designed around the natural environment.

One of the property's signature experiences takes place on a floating wooden pontoon accommodating up to four guests. Accessible by boat, the platform offers private breakfasts, afternoon tea and sunset wine tastings close to the water.

Additional dining venues include Luzuba Harvestry, which serves contemporary cuisine beneath the trees, and Twalumba Bar & Lounge, where guests can enjoy drinks and informal gatherings after their safari activities.

Meals are included in the accommodation arrangements, with dining times and locations adapted to individual preferences.

Opening rates start at USD 6,289

The camp is targeting the international luxury safari market, with an opening offer starting at USD 6,289 per room per night for two guests sharing a suite.

The package includes full-board accommodation, premium beverages, two guided game drives per day, personalised butler service and one 90-minute spa treatment per guest during the stay.

The property is accessible by private charter flights from Livingstone or Lusaka to Chunga airstrip. Road transfers are also available, with the journey from Lusaka International Airport taking approximately four hours.

Anantara is additionally promoting travel during Zambia's green season, which extends from December to March. During this period, vegetation becomes more abundant, migratory birds arrive and the landscape offers different wildlife observation and photography opportunities.

With its limited accommodation capacity, conservation-focused activities and extensive private wellness facilities, Anantara Tented Camp Kafue River introduces a new luxury safari product to Zambia.

The opening also expands the range of accommodation available within Kafue National Park as conservation initiatives seek to strengthen the protected area's ecological and tourism potential.

Image Credit: © AI generated illustration with material courtesy of Minor Hotels