Kaingu Lodge

The thatched main area is sensitively constructed from natural materials in a traditional Zambian style, with rough timber beams and hand-carved furniture. It's set back from the river on a raised platform, and whilst it's simple, there's still room for a comfortable lounge, dining room and bar, and even a small curio shop. A timber walkway leads out onto a circular deck, beautifully situated beneath the trees and overlooking the water – a superb spot for dinner and an evening nightcap by the campfire.

There are only six tents at Kaingu, all spaced out along the riverbank amongst the trees, with thatched canopies to keep the interiors cool during the sweltering summer months. Spacious and comfortable, the tents have a classic, safari-style with double or twin beds beneath drapes of mosquito net, solid wooden furniture, and colourful rugs on the polished floors. There’s also a family chalet with two en-suite bedrooms, a mini private lounge, and a deck overlooking the river.

The river is the main attraction here, with a series of deep channels, tumbling rapids and quiet backwaters flowing around boulder-strewn islands. Boat cruises, canoeing and fishing trips are offered, and hippos, crocodiles and elephant are frequently seen, as well as a veritable aviary of birds. Game drives and walking safaris take place in the Kafue National Park, ten minutes away by boat. Kaingu is involved in a number of community upliftment schemes, and trips to see the ongoing projects are insightful and informative.