At approximately 90 square meters, each one of our nine rooms is significantly larger than your traditional hotel bedroom – making way for sumptuous sprung beds dressed in crisp white sheets and feather pillows that say, ‘ahhh’ – a stylish oversized workspace, large flat screen TV, enormous cozy sofa, sunken bath, drench shower and his and her sinks.
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Your Stay
1 Night
Bed and Breakfast
Fast Facts
Hotel
Kafunta River Lodge | South Luangwa National Park, Zambia
Kafunta River Lodge is owned and operated by Anke & Ron Cowan who have made the Luangwa Valley their home for the past 20 years. The 10-room lodge is located on the floodplains of the Luangwa River, away from the busier area near the park's Mfuwe gate. During the peak season the lodge accesses the national park via its own pontoon. Central to the lodge is a spacious bar and dining area. Built around a semi-evergreen wild mango tree and thatched in the traditional style, it offers superb panoramic views over the Luangwa River and the South Luangwa National Park. Great game viewing and bird watching from the lodge is guaranteed. Adjacent to the bar is a refreshing infinity pool and the only natural hot spring tub in the Luangwa Valley. This unique hot tub is fed from a source on Kafunta’s grounds, offering a constant temperature of 38 degrees. Here you can enjoy pure relaxation while being presented with magnificent views over the flood plains and the Luangwa River. Activities on offer include game drives (morning, afternoon and night), bush walks, village & cultural tours as well as a wellness spa.
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Rooms
Units
Facilities
Activities and Services
Restaurants
Kafunta Safaris Game Drive ChildCredit: Izla PhotographyLearning about wildlife
South Luangwa ElephantsCredit: Izla PhotographyFamily of elephants strolling by
South Luangwa LeopardCredit: Izla PhotographyLeopard resting
Kafunta Safaris Game DriveCredit: Izla PhotographyWatching Lions
Kafunta Safaris Game DriveCredit: Izla PhotographySouth Luangwa Scenery
Kafunta Safari Game DriveCredit: Izla PhotographyTea break on morning safari
Kafunta River Lodge Main DeckCredit: Izla PhotographyView from the main deck
Kafunta River Lodge FireplaceCredit: Izla PhotographyFireplace overlooking the floodplains
Kafunta River LodgeCredit: Izla PhotographySpa
Kafunta River Lodge FloodplainsCredit: Izla PhotographyView from the lodge
Kafunta River Lodge Pool Credit: Izla PhotographyPool with a view
Kafunta Safaris Dining ExperienceCredit: Izla PhotographyBrunch at Kafunta
Kafunta River Lodge - Fireplace & LoungeCredit: Kafunta SafarisSuperb fireplace and deck overlooking the floodplains
Kafunta River LodgeCredit: Kafunta SafarisView of the lodge from the floodplains
Kafunta River Lodge - the main areaCredit: Kafunta SafarisKafunta River Lodge - view of the dining decks
Kafunta River Lodge - The lodgeCredit: Kafunta SafarisKafunta River Lodge - the lodge and water plains seen from above
Kafunta River Lodge - arrivalCredit: Kafunta SafarisKafunta River Lodge - front circle
Kafunta River Lodge - From the plainsCredit: Kafunta SafarisKafunta River Lodge seen from the plains in front
Kafunta River Lodge - Standard chaletCredit: Kafunta SafarisKafunta River Lodge - view of one of the standard chalets, from the outside
Kafunta River Lodge - Standard chaletCredit: Kafunta SafarisKafunta River Lodge - view ofstandard chalets, from the outside
Kafunta River Lodge - Standard chaletCredit: Kafunta SafarisKafunta River Lodge - view of one of the standard chalets and the fig tree
Kafunta River Lodge - Luxury suiteCredit: Kafunta SafarisKafunta River Lodge - Outside view of a luxury suite
Kafunta River Lodge - the main areaCredit: Kafunta SafarisKafunta River Lodge - view of the pool and lounge decks overlooking the plains
Kafunta River Lodge - Pool & Natural Hot TubCredit: Kafunta SafarisKafunta River Lodge - Infinity pool near the lounge
Kafunta River Lodge - Pool & Natural Hot TubCredit: Kafunta SafarisKafunta River Lodge - natural hot spring made as a hot tub
Kafunta River Lodge - SpaCredit: Kafunta SafarisKafunta River Lodge - Spa
Kafunta River Lodge - Luxury SuiteCredit: Kafunta SafarisKafunta River Lodge - Luxury suite main sleeping area and deck
Kafunta River Lodge - Luxury SuiteCredit: Kafunta SafarisKafunta River Lodge - Luxury suite main sleeping area and passage to bathroom
Kafunta River Lodge - Luxury SuiteCredit: Kafunta SafarisKafunta River Lodge - Luxury suite main sleeping and sitting area
Kafunta River Lodge - Luxury SuiteCredit: Kafunta SafarisKafunta River Lodge - upstair mezzanine which can be converted in a sleeping area
Kafunta River Lodge - Luxury SuiteCredit: Kafunta SafarisKafunta River Lodge - Upper deck of the luxury suite
Kafunta River Lodge - Luxury SuiteCredit: Kafunta SafarisKafunta River Lodge - bathroom in a luxury suite
Kafunta River Lodge - Luxury SuiteCredit: Kafunta SafarisKafunta River Lodge - bathroom in a luxury suite
Kafunta River Lodge - Standard chaletCredit: Kafunta SafarisKafunta River Lodge - standard chalet with private viewing deck
Kafunta River Lodge - Standard chaletCredit: Kafunta SafarisKafunta River Lodge - spacious standard chalet
Kafunta River Lodge - Standard chaletCredit: Kafunta SafarisKafunta River Lodge - standard chalet with private viewing deck
Kafunta River Lodge - Standard chaletCredit: Kafunta SafarisKafunta River Lodge - standard chalet with private viewing deck
Kafunta River Lodge - Standard chaletCredit: Kafunta SafarisKafunta River Lodge - en-suite bathroom in a standard chalet
Kafunta River Lodge - LoungeCredit: Kafunta SafarisKafunta River Lodge - Relaxing lounge
Kafunta River Lodge - Inside diningCredit: Kafunta SafarisKafunta River Lodge - Inside dining area, lunch area
Kafunta River Lodge - Lounge deckCredit: Kafunta SafarisKafunta River Lodge - Lounge deck overlooking the plains
Kafunta River Lodge - LoungeCredit: Kafunta SafarisKafunta River Lodge - relaxing lounge
Kafunta River Lodge - Bar areaCredit: Kafunta SafarisKafunta River Lodge - bar between the lounge and the pool area
Kafunta River Lodge - Lounge deckCredit: Kafunta SafarisKafunta River Lodge - Extensive and multilevel lounge deck overlooking the plains
Kafunta Dining on the DeckCredit: Kafunta SafarisFine dining is served on the main deck with a four-course dinner
The Sunset HouseCredit: Kafunta SafarisThe aerial view
The Sunset HouseCredit: Kafunta SafarisSunset House decks
The Sunset HouseCredit: Kafunta SafarisSunset House bedroom
The Sunset HouseCredit: Kafunta SafarisPool, deck and view of the flood plains
The Sunset HouseCredit: Kafunta SafarisEagle Room
The Sunset HouseCredit: Kafunta SafarisEagle Room with the day bed
The Sunset HouseCredit: Kafunta SafarisEagle Room dual showers
The Sunset House LayoutCredit: Kafunta Safaris
The lodge features 8 standard chalets. The chalets consist of a twin-bedded bedroom with ensuite bathroom, minibar fridge, ceiling fan and private verandah overlooking the floodplains.
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
The lodge features two luxury suites, set further away from the main dining area. The suites offer a double bed on the ground floor and the possibility to make 2 extra single beds on the upstairs mezzanine. The suites have a large bathroom with shower and separate stand alone bath. There is a viewing deck as well as an upstair deck both overlooking the floodplains.
The suites come with a small supplement, and can accommodate a family of up to 4 people.
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Kafunta River Lodge has a satellite bush camp called Island Bush Camp, located further south, on the banks of the Luangwa River. Check Island Bush Camp for complete information.
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Kafunta Safaris' newest camp, Three Rivers Camp, opened in 2017, features 5 sophisticated tents with individual sleep out decks. Check Three Rivers Camp for complete information.
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
The Sunset House
Opened in late 2023, The Sunset House at Kafunta River Lodge is a 3-bedroom canvas-roofed safari house with a private pool and private services (butter, chef, safari guide). The unit is split into a two-bedroom tent with a large dining area and outdoor lounge. Each bedroom is en-suite and completed with a sitting area. The second tent is adjacent to the central unit and features the third en-suite bedroom with a sitting area. The villa has spacious multi-level decks, an infinity pool, lounging chairs, and a fireplace.
Each bedroom has a king-size bed and an additional 3/4 double day bed which can be turned into an additional bed. The unit can therefore accommodate up to 9 people.
It is perfect for a multi-generation family or a group of friends travelling together and seeking more privacy. The view towards the floodplains of the Luangwa is magnificent.
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Property Facilities
Accept Credit Cards, Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Children Friendly, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service, Mobile Connectivity, Outdoor Pool / Pool Deck, Parking, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa, Vegetarian, Wheelchair Access
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Driver's cabin, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, Family Safari Tent, Fan, Fridge, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mini Bar, Mosquito Nets, Mosquito Netting, Private Lounge / Sitting Area, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah, Wheelchair Friendly
Bird Watching, Fine Dining, Game Drives, Game Viewing Hide, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Massages, Night Drives, Safaris, Walks (Guided)
Activities Nearby
Bird Watching, Child Friendly Activities, Cultural Tours, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, General Sightseeing, Safaris
Twice daily guests have the option to join the game drives into South Luangwa National Park. Safari vehicles are equipped with a shade roof and have 3 rows with a maximum of 6 guests per vehicle. During the peak season (April to October) game drives access the park directly at Kafunta's pontoon.
The afternoon game drive stops for sundowners and continue into a night drive using spotlights, to find smaller nocturnal animals or predators on the hunt.
South Luangwa is the birthplace of walking safaris. Bush walks bring another dimension to a safari, focusing on smaller things, birds and flora while observing animals in the distance. Bush walks are not strenuous, but can take place over rugged terrain, lasting usually 3 to 4 hours.
Qualified walking guides and escort scout are a must. Unfortunately children under the age of 12 are not authorised to participate.
The hide is set up right under the dining deck and is facing the floodplains and lagoon where many waterbirds including fish eagles and saddle-billed storks are often seen, along with elephants and giraffes.
Kafunta Safaris highly recommend a visit to the village of Mfuwe where Project Luangwa has a visitor center where one can learn about the many projects benefiting local education and communities, there is also a café and a craftshop . It is also possible to organise a side trip to the Mulberry Mongoose jewellery workshop and to the iconic Tribal Textiles factory and shop and its Artisan market. In Central Mfuwe there is also the Conservation South Luangwa visitor center to learn more about conservation efforts.
Great for younger visitors is the Chipembele Wildlife Educational Center only 20 minutes away from Kafunta River Lodge.
Kafunta River Lodge features a small intimate spa with an array of relaxing treatments performed by an on-site therapist. Enjoying the infinity pool, the natural hot tub and booking a massage at the spa are a perfect way to spend the midday hours between game viewing activities. There is also a small gym with a selection of equipment and treadmills/bikes.
Kafunta River Lodge
Kafunta serves a light breakfast before the morning activity, or cooked breakfast for those staying in camp, followed by a buffet lunch later in the day. Dinner is a four-course affair served on the main deck with direct view of the flood plains!
Dining is generally hosted but private tables can be arranged as well. Kafunta caters for special diets.
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Credit: Kafunta Safaris
Your Stay
3 Nights
Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
Fast Facts
4 Star
Lodge
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 13
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Flora, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife
Pumulani Lodge | Cape Maclear
Pumulani is situated on the westside of the Nankumba Peninsula in the South end of Lake Malawi. The beauty of this lake is indescribable. The beautiful sparkling colours shimmering over the water, the clear blue skies and the panoramic vistas truly make you feel like you are in paradise. David Livingstone named Lake Malawi ‘Lake of Stars’ for good reason. According to experts this lake is home to more native fish species than any other lake in the world.
The ten villas are situated in such a way that they blend in completely with the natural surroundings and the cooling grass roofs reflect the African sun.
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Rooms
Units
Facilities
Activities and Services
Pumulani LodgeCredit: Robin Pope SafarisPumulani Lodge
Pumulani LodgeCredit: Robin Pope SafarisPumulani Lodge
Pumulani LodgeCredit: Robin Pope SafarisPumulani Lodge
Pumulani LodgeCredit: Robin Pope SafarisPumulani Lodge
Pumulani LodgeCredit: Robin Pope SafarisPumulani Lodge
Pumulani LodgeCredit: Robin Pope SafarisPumulani Lodge
Pumulani LodgeCredit: Robin Pope SafarisPumulani Lodge
Pumulani LodgeCredit: Robin Pope SafarisPumulani Lodge
Pumulani LodgeCredit: Robin Pope SafarisPumulani Lodge
Pumulani LodgeCredit: Robin Pope SafarisPumulani Lodge
Pumulani LodgeCredit: Robin Pope SafarisPumulani Lodge
Pumulani LodgeCredit: Robin Pope SafarisPumulani Lodge
Pumulani LodgeCredit: Robin Pope SafarisPumulani Lodge
Pumulani LodgeCredit: Robin Pope SafarisPumulani Lodge
Pumulani LodgeCredit: Robin Pope SafarisPumulani Lodge
Pumulani LodgeCredit: Robin Pope SafarisPumulani Lodge
Pumulani LodgeCredit: Robin Pope SafarisPumulani Lodge
Pumulani LodgeCredit: Robin Pope SafarisPumulani Lodge
Pumulani LodgeCredit: Robin Pope SafarisPumulani Lodge
Pumulani LodgeCredit: Robin Pope SafarisPumulani Lodge
Pumulani LodgeCredit: Robin Pope SafarisPumulani Lodge
Pumulani Credit: Robin Pope SafarisLake Malawi
PumulaniCredit: Robin Pope SafarisMain area
PumulaniCredit: Robin Pope SafarisMain pool
PumulaniCredit: Robin Pope SafarisStandard villa
PumulaniCredit: Robin Pope SafarisKayaking on Lake Malawi
Pumulani Credit: Robin Pope SafarisLake Malawi
PumulaniCredit: Robin Pope SafarisState of the art star gazer
PumulaniCredit: Robin Pope SafarisLake Malawi
PumulaniCredit: Robin Pope SafarisMain pool
PumulaniCredit: Robin Pope SafarisCampfire
PumulaniCredit: Robin Pope SafarisLake Malawi
PumulaniCredit: Robin Pope SafarisLake Malawi
PumulaniCredit: Robin Pope SafarisLake Malawi
PumulaniCredit: Robin Pope SafarisLake Malawi
PumulaniCredit: Robin Pope Safaris Lake Malawi
PumulaniCredit: Robin Pope SafarisLake Malawi
PumulaniCredit: Robin Pope SafarisLake Malawi
PumulaniCredit: Robin Pope SafarisLake Malawi
5 villas have bush views.
Another 5 villas have uninterrupted views across Lake Malawi.
The family villa is the closest to the beach and all activities are easily organised from this point. Just off the master bedroom is a twin room with a large spacious bathroom with double basins, showers and a bath. The sitting area has plenty of space for the whole family to relax.
Large spacious ensuite rooms. Each has a lounge area as well as a verandah. Also each has a kitchenette with tea and coffee making facilities along with a minibar.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Library, Meal on Request, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath, Detached Private Bathroom, Dressing Gowns, En-Suite, Fan, Fridge, Hair Dryer, Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mini Bar, Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah