About Kafunta River Lodge
The well-established Kafunta River Lodge lies just outside the South Luangwa National Park, beside a large ...
... floodplain and watering hole, with the Luangwa River beyond. It's about 9km from the main road that stretches from Mfuwe Airport to the main bridge into South Luangwa National Park, so though it is close to the park gate, because it has its own crossing points into the park, guests have relatively quick access for their activities.
Kafunta is an affordable, friendly lodge, with dedicated staff, many of whom have been there a long time. The food is good, the guiding excellent and the location very attractive. Its recent upgrade has also smartened the main areas and rooms quite significantly. Though it's larger, and in a potentially busier area, we think it's a great option combining good guiding and food with value for money.
Our view
Kafunta is an affordable, friendly lodge, with dedicated staff, many of whom have been there a long time. The food is good, the guiding excellent and the location very attractive. Its recent upgrade has also smartened the main areas and rooms quite significantly. Though it's larger, and in a potentially busier area, we think it's a great option combining good guiding and food with value for money.
Zambia expert
Accommodation
10 chalets, 1 house
Children
Best for 7+
Open
April - December
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Cultural excursion
Guided walking safari
Night drive
Traveller reviews of Kafunta River Lodge
45 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
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View gallerySafaris visiting Kafunta River Lodge
Just ideas, we'll always tailor-make a trip for you
Nile Monitor Safari
6 days • 2 locations • 1 country
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT
Great-value South Luangwa safari to two sister camps: a classic safari camp for 4WD safaris by day and night and its simpler sibling: a remote, seasonal bushcamp for expert-guided walking safaris.
Visiting South Luangwa
US$4,800 - US$4,800 per person
Kafunta River Lodge: Our full report
The well-established Kafunta River Lodge lies just outside the South Luangwa National Park, beside a large ...
... floodplain and watering hole, with the Luangwa River beyond. It's about 9km from the main road that stretches from Mfuwe Airport to the main bridge into South Luangwa National Park, so though it is close to the park gate, because it has its own crossing points into the park, guests have relatively quick access for their activities.
One of the few remaining owner-run camps in South Luangwa, Kafunta was established by Ron and Anke Cowan, who came to the area in 1990 as part of a long trip through Africa. The Cowans were captivated by South Luangwa and decided to settle here. With the help of a dedicated team – many of whom are still with them – they opened Kafunta River Lodge to its first guests in 1998.
We have visited Kafunta a number of times over the years, and have watched it go from strength to strength. Now it is a smart camp, with good food and service, and a very reasonable price tag.
Kafunta's central area is impressively built around a wild mango tree overlooking the floodplain to the river beyond. Reclaimed tree trunks hold up the huge thatched roof and natural tones are used throughout. The effect is a pleasant safari feel: not too fancy, but stylish in its simplicity.
One half of this structure houses a bar-lounge, with high wooden stools propped up at the bar and a fridge stocked with soft and alcoholic drinks. The other side is where meals are taken, when it is too hot (or cold!) to be outside. There's lots of space at the front, too, furnished with armchairs and tables, while adjacent is a small swimming pool. A particularly quirky feature is a natural hot tub supplied by water from a local hot spring.
Extending out over the floodplain, a vast multi-level wooden deck makes a lovely spot for breakfast or for dining out under the stars, weather permitting. Rather more unexpected, however, is Kafunta's hide, secreted beneath the deck and overlooking the plain, which is floodlit at night. There's a second viewing deck, too, high up in a tree looking across to the river, a perfect spot for watching wildlife during the day or – on request – for a private meal. And if you're just after some rest and relaxation, the camp has its own spa, a simple rondavel where massages are on offer.
Like the main area, Kafunta's ten chalets overlook the lagoon.
- Eight standard chalets are constructed of wood, with thatched roofs and interiors of stone and wood. Each is set on stilts about a metre off the ground.
These chalets have cool grey stone walls, highly polished stone floors and paned windows set into each of the walls, letting in plenty of natural light. At the front of each chalet is a large pair of double metal doors that look like a spider's web; covered in mesh, they allow a breeze to pass through while helping to keep insects at bay. The doors lead out to a private veranda with views across the floodplains.
Each chalet is furnished with two three-quarter beds under a large walk-in mosquito net that incorporates a ceiling fan. The rooms also have bucket armchairs and built-in wardrobe space. Minibar/fridges and coffee makers, powered by mains electricity, are standard.
Built on to the corner of each chalet is an en-suite bathroom painted in the same cool colours, with moulded stone walls separating out a shower with hot and cold water, twin washbasins and a flushing toilet. Toiletries are provided, and a bright laundry bag hanging from a wooden peg adds a dash of colour. - Two 'deluxe', or family chalets, although decorated and furnished in a similar way to the standard chalets, are constructed of stone on two levels, and are much more spacious. The bathrooms are also much larger and include a free-standing bath. From the bedroom, stairs lead up to a viewing platform on a veranda nestled in the roof. With a couple of day beds here, it's a pleasant place to spend the afternoon watching wildlife on the valley floor. And should you wish to spend the night up here (it's also perfect for families), the beds can be covered by mosquito nets, too.
- Opened in late 2023, Kafunta’s ‘Sunset House’ is its newest addition. Though we’ve yet to see the final house, it was in final stages during our last visit to the camp and the plans looked great - with three large en-suite bedrooms and a swimming pool, it will be perfect for families or groups of friends.
The majority of game drives from Kafunta take place in the Mfuwe area of the park, which has fantastic wildlife – especially in the drier months from June to October. On a previous October visit we were lucky enough to see two separate packs of wild dog, and in October 2023 soe brilliant lion sightings as well as some of the more usual elephants, buffalo and plenty of puku. That said, there are a number of camps in this area, so good sightings can get slightly busy with other vehicles. If you are keen for a more exclusive safari experience as well you could combine Kafunta with its remote sister camps, Island Bush Camp, which has more of a focus on walking safaris, or Three Rivers Camp, both in the southern part of the park.
Geographics
- Location
- South Luangwa National Park, Zambia
- Ideal length of stay
- We'd recommend a stay of two to four nights at Kafunta, before moving either north or south to some of the more remote sections of the South Luangwa. Kafunta combines well with its sister camps in the southern area of the park, Island Bush Camp and Three Rivers Camp.
- Directions
- South Luangwa is an hour's flight from Lusaka and Kafunta River Lodge is about a 45-minute drive from the airport through the bustling villages of the Mfuwe area.
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board & Activities
- Food quality
- The food at Kafunta on our last visit in October 2023 was very good and certainly of good restaurant standard. The menus were imaginative, tasty and very well presented, and dietary requirements can be accommodated. Children's meals can be prepared on request.
Breakfast is a buffet of fruits, cereals, fresh bread and pastries, with tea, coffee and a cooked breakfast served to your table.
Lunch at Kafunta is usually served as a buffet. We enjoyed a chicken curry and rice, vegetable spring rolls, a variety of cold salads and freshly baked bread.
The lodge serves a set three course dinner. We were served vegetable soup as a starter followed by the main course, a very tender beef fillet served with rice and green beans. Dessert was a very light and tasty chocolate mousse. - Dining style
- Mixture of group dining and individual tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- Kafunta can offer room service but this needs to be pre-arranged, as there are no phones in the chalets.
- Drinks included
- Most drinks are included, apart from Champagne and specially imported wines and spirits.
The borehole water at Kafunta is considered safe to drink, as it comes from a deep well 60m below ground, but there is bottled water and filtered drinking water available as well.
Children
- Attitude towards children
- There are no specific age limits for the lodge, but children under 7 are allowed only at the manager’s discretion. Park rules state that children under the age of 12 are not permitted to go on walking safaris.
- Property’s age restrictions
- There are no specific age restrictions at Kafunta, but children under 7 are allowed only at the manager’s discretion.
- Special activities & services
- Families staying at Kafunta are allocated their own vehicle so as not to disturb other guests. The camp is very flexible on mealtimes and can prepare children's meals, too.
- Equipment
- Kafunta has baby cots and high chairs.
- Generally recommended for children
- We would recommend Kafunta for families, due to its laid-back nature, nice pool area and relaxed team.
- Notes
- Kafunta is not fenced with big game often wandering through. Children must be supervised by a parent or guardian at all times.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Kafunta River Lodge
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Kafunta River Lodge have kindly recorded their wildlife sightings and shared them with us. The results are below. Click an animal to see more, and here to see more on our methodology.
100% success
100% success
100% success
100% success
100% success
95% success
90% success
85% success
20% success
13% success
12% success
5% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
Communications
- Power supply notes
- The power at Kafunta is on all the time, with a back-up generator in case of power outages. There are charging points in the chalets and there is a converter for different plugs that guests may borrow.
- Communications
- Kafunta has WiFi in the reception/shop area for guests to use. The cellphone signal is good all around the camp.
- TV & radio
- No.
- Water supply
- Borehole
- Water supply notes
- The showers and handbasins are plumbed in with hot and cold water, and each chalet has a flushing toilet.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- For medical issues, Kafunta uses the doctor based in the Mfuwe area, which is just a few kilometres down the road. There is a first-aid kit on site, and all the guides are trained in first aid. For emergencies Kafunta has links to a flying doctor service.
- Dangerous animals
- High Risk
- Security measures
- Kafunta has guards on the property as well as ZAWA (Zambian Wildlife Authority) scouts.
- Fire safety
- Kafunta has fire extinguishers in all the lodge’s chalets and main areas, and they conduct regular fire training for staff.
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Cultural excursion
Guided walking safari
Night drive
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Laundry facilities
- A full laundry service is available. Clothes are machine washed and line dried.
- Money
- There are safes in the chalets. Kafunta cannot offer any kind of currency exchange.
- Accepted payment on location
- Kafunta accepts Visa and Mastercard, but they pass on a small percentage surcharge. They cannot take Amex. Cash payments may be made in Zambian kwacha or US dollars.
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Kafunta River Lodge's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Kafunta River Lodge.
Excursions from Kafunta River Lodge
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Kafunta River Lodge. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.
Kawaza Village Visit
Two to three hours
Just outside Zambia's South Luangwa National Park lies a normal, working rural African village which is open and welcoming to visitors to the Luangwa valley. There is nothing artificial or contrived about Kawaza Village, and it offers a rare opportunity to experience and appreciate Kunda culture, and meet local Zambians.
More about Kawaza Village Visit
Tribal Textiles Tour
One - two hours
Visit the Tribal Textiles workshop, where hand-painted textiles are produced by more than a hundred local people. The workshop is close to Mfuwe Airport, so is ideally placed for a stop en route to/from the South Luangwa. With products ranging from cushion covers to bags and T-shirts, it's a great place for souvenir shopping while at the same time supporting the local community.
More about Tribal Textiles TourOther lodges in South Luangwa National Park
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When to go to South Luangwa National Park
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Kafunta River Lodge in South Luangwa National Park
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
South Luangwa National Park in January
January marks the height of the wet season in South Luangwa. Expect frequent downpours, often lasting a few hours, with intermittent sunny periods. The mercury regularly climbs above 30°C, accompanied by high humidity. The park's landscape is verdant and lush, with crystal-clear air.
However, the abundance of water causes most larger animals to disperse, and the thick vegetation can hinder game viewing. Walking safaris are largely impractical during this time. Migratory birds, many in breeding plumage, boost the area's avian diversity. Most lodges close and the few that remain open offer their lowest rates. Only the central network of all-weather roads is reliably passable for 4WD safaris. Low numbers of visitors ensuring a tranquil park experience for those who do visit.
- Wet season peak, frequent showers
- Most lodges and all bush-camps are closed
- Lush vegetation, ideal for photography
- Large wildlife is scattered, can be challenging to spot
- Few tourists, budget-friendly rates
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in January
South Luangwa National Park in February
February continues the ‘green season’ trend in South Luangwa National Park, with impressive thunderstorms delivering short bursts of rain most days, punctuated by clear skies. The park remains awash with water, affecting wildlife distribution and lodge operations.
Dense vegetation limits game viewing opportunities on safari and walking safaris aren’t usually possible. However, the swollen Luangwa River allows for unique boating experiences unavailable during drier months. Despite challenging conditions, patient visitors may be rewarded with sightings of animals caring for their young. The handful of operational lodges maintain low rates, and the park sees few visitors during this period.
- Continued wet season, regular downpours
- All bush-camps and most lodges are closed
- Verdant scenery, photogenic landscapes
- Game viewing challenging due to thick foliage
- Low visitor numbers, economical pricing
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in February
South Luangwa National Park in March
March signals the tail end of South Luangwa's rainy season, with heavy showers still frequent. Water levels peak, so driving off the park’s all-weather road network remains challenging. Daytime temperatures consistently exceed 30°C, with rain-induced humidity remaining high.
Most lodges are still closed, and thick vegetation continues to impact game viewing and walking safaris. However, this period can offer exceptional sightings of animals with their offspring, and predator activity often increases. Wild dogs have historically been particularly active in the park during this time. The combination of clear air and increasingly blue skies provides excellent photographic opportunities. Birdwatching remains superb as migratory species prepare for their winter journey.
- Wet season persists, intermittent rain
- Many lodges remain closed
- Abundant greenery, picturesque settings
- Young animals plentiful, but hard to see
- Minimal crowds, cost-effective travel
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in March
South Luangwa National Park in April
April represents a transitional period in South Luangwa National Park as the rains shift from intense downpours to lighter, less frequent showers. The park's scenery remains incredibly green and vibrant, though larger wildlife can be harder to spot on safaris.
Some lodges begin to reopen while seasonal bushcamps remain closed as they prepare for the upcoming dry season. The Luangwa River reaches often its highest level in April, creating a spectacular sight. Despite the challenges, this period can offer unique experiences for those willing to brave the unpredictable conditions – and accept a greatly reduced choice of places to stay.
- Wet season waning, occasional showers
- Some lodges begin reopening
- Landscape still lush, great for photographers
- Wildlife viewing slowly improving
- Few visitors, attractive off-season rates
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in April
South Luangwa National Park in May
May is a lovely month; it typically heralds the start of the dry season in South Luangwa. While occasional showers may occur, most days are clear and sunny. As winter approaches, temperatures begin to drop, with daytime highs around 26°C.
The drying landscape improves access within the park, and most lodges reopen. Some standing water remains, but game viewing noticeably improves as the vegetation thins out. The clear air continues to benefit photographers. Late May is very popular among the Luangwa’s ‘safari regulars’ who seek to capitalise on good weather, improved wildlife sightings, newly-opened camps (including some seasonal bush-camps) and the final weeks of low-season rates at many lodges.
- Dry season onset, clearer skies
- Most lodges and some bush-camps operational
- Vegetation still green, crisp air
- Game viewing conditions improving
- Last month for lower accommodation prices
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in May
South Luangwa National Park in June
June in South Luangwa National Park is characterised by virtually rainless days and abundant sunshine. Humidity levels plummet, and winter's approach brings cooler temperatures, with nighttime lows around 10°C and daytime highs of 25°C.
The landscape remains lush, but the thinning vegetation significantly enhances visibility for game viewing, the conditions are ideal for walking safaris. All the lodges and bushcamps in the park are operational by early June. While some offer shoulder season rates, others are already running with high-season pricing. Wildlife begins to concentrate around water sources, setting the stage for excellent game viewing in the coming months.
- Consistently sunny, cooler nights
- All South Luangwa lodges open
- Wildlife sightings becoming more frequent
- Ideal conditions for walking safaris
- Viewing of the Victoria Falls at its best
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in June
South Luangwa National Park in July
As the dry season progresses in South Luangwa, July sees vegetation and grasses dying back, with water becoming increasingly scarce. Wildlife congregates around remaining water sources, most notably along the Luangwa River, leading to excellent game viewing opportunities.
July marks the heart of winter, with daytime temperatures in the 20s Celsius, whilst nighttime lows can drop to single digits. Early morning and late evening game drives can be particularly chilly, with lodges often providing blankets and hot water bottles. Bring your hats, coats and gloves! Visitor numbers rise significantly, and space at popular small camps can become limited. Nearly all properties now charge their highest rates.
- Warm days, chilly evenings
- Game viewing notably improved
- Excellent visibility for walking safaris
- High season prices for most camps and lodges
- Comfortable daytime temperatures
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in July
South Luangwa National Park in August
August in the national park offers some of the year's best game viewing opportunities. South Luangwa’s vegetation has largely died back, and wildlife clusters around remaining water sources.
Rain is extremely unlikely, with sunny days largely guaranteed, though a haze may sometimes appear on the horizon due to dust and smoke in the air. Nighttime temperatures can dip below 5°C, but daytime highs reach the 20s Celsius. Warm clothing is essential for morning and evening drives. This is one of the most popular months to visit the park for a safari, with lodges and camps charging peak rates and often booking up far in advance.
- Very dry warm days and cold nights
- Prime wildlife viewing near water sources
- Perfect weather for walking safaris
- Peak season means highest prices
- Some haze may affect photography
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in August
South Luangwa National Park in September
September is arguably the very best time to visit South Luangwa National Park. It probably hasn’t rained for many months, humidity is low, and temperatures are just beginning to climb.
Mornings are more comfortable for 4WD safaris, rising to daytime typical highs in the low 30s Celsius. Water scarcity forces the wildlife to congregate around remaining sources, particularly around the Luangwa River, where most of the camps and lodges are situated. There high game densities lead to increased chances of inter-species interactions. It’s peak season for lodges and camps charge which are often fully booked. A little haze may affect long-distance views and photography. The Luangwa River's water levels continue to drop, concentrating hippos and crocodiles life in the remaining stretches.
- Dry and hot, clear skies
- Exceptional month for wildlife observation
- Landscape sometimes hazy due to dust and smoke
- Peak season, lodges often fully booked
- Higher prices for accommodation
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in September
South Luangwa National Park in October
October sees the dry season peak in South Luangwa at its most intense, with the landscape increasing parched. Occasional showers may occur as the promise of rain approaches. Temperatures can soar above 40°C during the day, rarely dropping below 20°C at night.
This heat can be draining, so walking safaris will set off early in the morning to beat the heat and sitting in an open 4WD on safaris can feel like facing a large hair-drier. Heat-haze and smoke may obscure the horizon as the Luangwa River becomes a series of pools, crowded with hippos and crocodiles. Other wildlife cautiously approaches these water sources, leading to thrilling predator-prey interactions. Game viewing is at its absolute best with the best chance of witnessing hunts.
- Optimal wildlife viewing conditions
- Very hot days and nights
- Dusty, hazy atmosphere is challenging for photos
- Some lodges start lowering their rates
- Less crowded than previous months
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in October
South Luangwa National Park in November
November typically witnesses the end of the dry season in South Luangwa. While the onset of rains is unpredictable, temperatures remain consistently high and humidity builds as the wet season approaches.
Early November may still be dry, but spectacular thunderstorms usually arrive, often later in the month, triggering rapid green growth when they do come – and an explosion of life from insects and smaller animals. Everything seems to come to life! When pools of water becomes more readily available away from the Luangwa River the wildlife quickly disperses. Some camps and all the seasonal bush-camps camps close; those that remain open reduce their rates. The rains quickly clear the air of dust and smoke, improving visibility and photographic conditions.
- Unpredictable month: depends on the rains
- Hot and humid – then the set season begins
- Wildlife dispersing as vegetation thickens
- Lower accommodation rates, fewer tourists
- Improved conditions for landscape photography
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in November
South Luangwa National Park in December
December usually marks the first full month of South Luangwa's wet season. Heavy thunderstorms become frequent, interspersed with sunny intervals. Daytime temperatures often exceed 30°C, accompanied by high humidity.
The rainfall transforms the landscape, encouraging lush vegetation growth. It’s a time renewal when insects, birds and smaller wildlife abound. While the larger species of wildlife remains in the park, wildlife viewing becomes more challenging due to the thick greenery and dispersed animal populations. Many lodges and all seasonal bush-camps are now closed as access to the park’s outlying areas becomes difficult. The few lodges that remain open offer lower rates and see few visitors. The rains clear the air, restoring vibrant blue skies and crystal-clear air which delights photographers.
- Rainy season in full swing
- Most lodges closed or offering low rates
- Wildlife harder to spot in thick vegetation
- Few visitors, budget-friendly period
- Lush green scenery, very photogenic landscapes
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in December
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Visit our trip chooser to explore your options and find inspiration for your perfect African adventure
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