Oh how we love a bush adventure. A gripping week or two of gallivanting the lesser-beaten tracks of Africa. Especially when the tracks aren’t retraceable. Just meandering ripples of memories floating down the Zambezi River.
At least that’s what happens here, at Mukwa River Lodge. Twenty minutes upstream from the thundering, almighty Victoria Falls. Discreetly settled on the banks beneath the palm, the mopane and the teak trees. This lodge in Zambia offers a different kind of safari – one that’s shaped by water, stillness, and a deep sense of place. Where, the rhythm is slower, more attuned to the quiet movements of the river, and the surrounding wilderness.
Rather than game drives, guests are invited into an experience defined by its proximity to the river. Watching it shift and flow with the romance of the Southern African light that smothers the Livingstone landscape. Witnessing the Goliath herons, the fish eagles and the kingfishers dart through the reeds. Observing the majesty of the natural world in all of its raw and rugged beauty.
Mukwa River Lodge has a conscious relationship with its wild environment. The owners haling from architectural and culinary backgrounds, there are two cooking spaces – a kosher kitchen in addition to the main kitchen – and the living, dining and reclining spaces of the lodge are intimate, elegant, and grounded in its environment. It reflects a commitment not only to sustainability, but to the local community, too. Working closely with local partners and ensuring its presence is both respectful and regenerative.
A large heated lap pool, long spacious decks, a bar and wine cellar with plenty of open fireplaces. A gym, spa and treatment room. Blooming vegetable and herb gardens with chicken coops for the farm-life ambience. A beautiful boma from which to watch the stars, and listen to the nightjars. In each of the suites there’s a private deck with its own little plunge pool. All of the mandatory features that bring the safari seduction to its signature status. Magnificent views, sheer luxury accommodation essentials, deep bathtubs and vibrant, refined furnishings.
Luxury flows like the river
All of the activities are tailored to your holiday wish lists, with an element of surprise in every detail. This is not your standard safari. Some mornings will involve a hearty breakfast on the river, with the chef in tow. A secret set-up on the banks of a secluded spot (hippos and crocs not invited).
High tea on the banana boat as you watch the elephant wade through the water. Beautiful boma dinners or gathered around the long tables at the lodge. The team like to “Mukwafy” your experience of Zambia. Adding the “Mukwa Magic” to every element of your stay. Something that will solidify your love for the African wilderness, and be at the core of your yearning to return as often as possible.
Written by Colleen Ogilvie