
Perched on a hilltop with the wilderness of South Luangwa unfolding as far as the eye can see, ten vista suites reinvigorate this private retreat first built for Zambia’s inaugural president.
Somewhat of a surprise given its close proximity to Victoria Falls and Livingstone, Mukwa River Lodge has bagged a much quieter spot on the Zambezi compared to others. It’s a peaceful place to retreat to after the day’s adventures (think tracking, helicopter flights, land and water game viewing), bringing together safari elegance in a nurturing embrace. Six spacious suites create an air of exclusivity, cultivated by plush soft furnishings and creature comforts the likes of cavernous bathtubs, coffee stations for both pod and press lovers, and private gardens. Ask to up the ante further and Mukwa’s answer is the Tanyati Villas – a set of three private villas built to house 10 travellers a stone’s throw away from the main lodge, yet boasting its own dedicated staff (including private chef), cinema, private pool and wine cellar.
Being family-owned, Mukwa’s core skill lies in its ability to make anyone feel like they’re being welcomed home. Wide-smiling staff are dab hands when it comes to diligent yet unfussy service and guides are knowledgeable and accommodating. In the kitchen, wholesome farm-to-table fare comes curtesy of the vegetable garden blended with local ingredients in a contemporary-meets-traditional fusion; crafted by the co-owner and his team who love nothing more than showing off what Zambian cuisine has to offer. And when it comes to a special treat, Mukwa’s own boat hosts private sunset cruises and excursions from Livingstone to Victoria Falls aboard the historic Bushtracks Express train can be arranged.
Perched on a hilltop with the wilderness of South Luangwa unfolding as far as the eye can see, ten vista suites reinvigorate this private retreat first built for Zambia’s inaugural president.
Just eight luxury safari tents mean exclusivity is guaranteed at Puku Ridge Camp; elevated within the valley of the leopards, even the larger-than-life bathtubs are privy to awe-inspiring views.
Meaning ‘the one who shares’ in Soli, this family-owned camp on the banks of the Zambezi River is renowned for knowledgeable guides and a ‘nothing-is-too-much’ service.