Uyaphi.com
African Safaris and Tours
Best Baths In Zambia
Zambia's Best Safari Baths – Open-Air Tubs And River-Facing Soaks From Livingstone To Luangwa
Too many safari lodges hide the bath behind walls, with a small window onto the wilderness you have travelled so far to see. The lodges and camps in this collection do the opposite. Where a suite is private enough, the tub goes outside – on a deck above the Zambezi or under the stars on the Kafue River – and where it stays indoors, it is placed so the setting comes in with you.
Picture it: a hot bath after the afternoon game drive, a glass of something cold within reach, hippos grunting in the river below and the evening chorus of birds settling into the trees. Few half-hours on safari are better spent.
We have been choosing Zambian lodges for safari travellers since 1999, and the bath is one of the things we look at. Every property below earns its place for the bath itself, and each one can be built into a Zambia safari itinerary. For the wider choice of camps and areas, see our Zambia safari lodges.
Baths With A View In Zambia
Chinzombo Safari Camp
Rates form part of a safari itinerary
Chinzombo's open-fronted villas stand on a private concession on the banks of the Luangwa River, just across the water from South Luangwa National Park. Each has an open-plan bathroom with a free-standing tub big enough for two, and a deck with its own plunge pool – so when you come back from the afternoon drive, the only decision left is a hot soak or a cool dip.
Chongwe River House
Rates form part of a safari itinerary
Chongwe River House is a four-bedroom private house on the Chongwe River at the western boundary of Lower Zambezi National Park, taken by one party at a time with its own chef, guide, vehicle and boat. Its bathtubs are moulded into the frame of the house itself, set within the bedrooms beside carved wooden basins and waterfall showers – a bath that feels part of the architecture, not an afterthought.
Mukambi Safari Lodge
Rates form part of a safari itinerary
Mukambi Safari Lodge stands on the bank of the Kafue River, and its luxury tents each come with a private outdoor bath. Run the water after dinner and soak beneath the night sky with the sounds of the river all around – or use the spacious indoor shower if the evening turns cool. Ask for a luxury tent: the lodge's chalets and villa are set up differently.
Old Mondoro
Rates form part of a safari itinerary
Old Mondoro, Chiawa Camp's small sister camp deeper inside Lower Zambezi National Park, has just a handful of reed-and-canvas chalets. Each has an outdoor bath and shower looking out over the Zambezi, so your soak comes with the river in front of you and whatever wildlife happens to be moving along the bank.
Royal Chundu Zambezi River Lodge
Rates form part of a safari itinerary
Royal Chundu sits on a private stretch of the Zambezi upstream of Victoria Falls. Picture a freestanding tub on a candlelit deck above the river, the water turning orange and pink as the sun sets – one of the loveliest bath settings on the river.
Royal Zambezi Lodge
Rates form part of a safari itinerary
Royal Zambezi Lodge sits in the Chiawa Game Management Area just outside Lower Zambezi National Park, with more than 3 km of Zambezi River frontage and Mana Pools across the water. Its rooms, each a little different in style, come with large bathtubs, a mix of indoor and outdoor showers, and a plunge pool in front or to the side – bath or pool is the hardest decision of the midday break.
Sindabezi Island Camp
Rates form part of a safari itinerary
Sindabezi Island Camp has a small island in the Zambezi to itself, upstream of Victoria Falls, reached by boat and run off-grid on solar power. Two of its thatched chalets – the Honeymoon Chalet and Chalet 1 – have a claw-foot tub looking out over the river. If a bath with a Zambezi view is the point, those are the chalets to ask for.
Thorntree River Lodge
Rates form part of a safari itinerary
Thorntree River Lodge stands inside Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, upstream of Victoria Falls, and its suites are built for time in the water. Each has a deep bath with views outside, a large walk-in shower with glass doors to a second, outdoor shower, and a private deck with a plunge pool overlooking the Zambezi.
Tongabezi Lodge
Rates form part of a safari itinerary
Tongabezi sits on the Zambezi upstream of Victoria Falls, and the bath to ask for here is in the Honeymoon House: an open-air tub under the stars with the river lapping just below, and an indoor shower for everyday use. Sink into a bubble bath with a glass of something chilled and watch the Zambezi slide past.
Best Baths In Zambia: Frequently Asked Questions
Where in Zambia are the lodges with the best baths?
They are spread across four areas. Along the Zambezi upstream of Victoria Falls are Sindabezi Island Camp, Thorntree River Lodge and Tongabezi; in the Lower Zambezi, Old Mondoro, Chongwe River House and Royal Zambezi Lodge; Mukambi Safari Lodge stands on the Kafue River; and Chinzombo faces South Luangwa National Park across the Luangwa River.
Which Zambian safari lodges have outdoor baths?
Mukambi Safari Lodge in the Kafue, Old Mondoro in the Lower Zambezi and Tongabezi near Livingstone all have baths in the open air. Mukambi's luxury tents each come with a private outdoor bath, Old Mondoro's chalets have an outdoor bath and shower overlooking the Zambezi, and Tongabezi's Honeymoon House has an open-air tub above the river.
Are all the baths in this collection outdoors?
No – several of the baths in this collection are indoors, placed to make the most of the setting. Chinzombo's villas have a free-standing tub big enough for two in an open-plan bathroom, Thorntree River Lodge's suites have a deep bath with views outside, and at Chongwe River House the tubs are moulded into the frame of the house.
What is it like to take a bath on safari?
It is one of the quietest pleasures of a safari: a hot soak after the afternoon activity, with the river or the bush right in front of you. From an outdoor tub you hear hippos, frogs and night birds, and wildlife may wander past. Camps are unfenced, so follow the staff's advice once it is dark.
How did Uyaphi choose the baths in this collection?
We chose them for the bath itself, not the lodge's wider reputation. Each property earns its place with an open-air tub, an outdoor bath under the stars or a bath set up to take in the river or the bush, and each fits into a Zambia safari itinerary. We have been matching travellers with Zambian lodges since 1999.
Can I ask for a room with a bath when I book?
Yes – tell us the bath matters and we will request a room that has one. Room types differ within the same lodge: at Sindabezi Island Camp only the Honeymoon Chalet and Chalet 1 have a claw-foot tub facing the Zambezi, and at Mukambi the outdoor baths come with the luxury tents rather than the chalets.
Map of Lodges in and around Zambia
Zambia Travel Topics
10 Must See Attractions in Livingstone
Located in the heart of Africa, Livingstone is a beacon of adventure and culture. Here, the mighty Zambezi River plunges into the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, creating a world of wonder and excitement for travellers. Our latest blog post, "10 Must-See Attractions in Livingstone," guides you through this breathtaking region, showcasing the very best experiences it has to offer. This guide takes you to a place where nature's beauty meets vibrant cultures and thrilling adventures. Whether you're drawn to the wild or inspired by local traditions, Livingstone is the perfect backdrop for your African dreams. Join us as we explore the top 10 attractions that make Livingstone a destination full of discovery and wonder.
The Perfect Zambia Honeymoon Safari
Embark on a journey where the wild heart of Africa meets your newlywed bliss. Our latest blog, "The Perfect Zambia Honeymoon Safari," explores one of the world's most secluded and stunning safari destinations. With untouched landscapes and incredible wildlife, Zambia is the perfect place for couples to create unforgettable memories of adventure, romance, and natural beauty. In this post, we delve into the heart of Zambia's majestic wilderness to uncover why it's the perfect destination for couples seeking an unforgettable journey. From the gentle flow of the Zambezi River to the thunderous spray of Victoria Falls and the remote bush where stars light up the night sky, Zambia sets the stage for an epic romance.
5 Best Lodges in Livingstone
Embarking on a journey to discover the heart of Zambia, our latest blog series dives into the enchanting city of Livingstone, a gateway to the majestic Victoria Falls and a hub for adventurers seeking the thrill of Africa's wilderness. In this series, we meticulously explore the "5 Best Lodges in Livingstone," offering you a guide to unparalleled comfort amidst nature's splendour. Each lodge in Livingstone has been selected based on its unique charm, exceptional service, and proximity to Livingstone's captivating attractions, ensuring your stay is nothing short of extraordinary. From family-friendly accommodations to romantic hideaways, our guide is your first step towards planning an unforgettable getaway in Livingstone.
10 Reasons To Visit Livingstone
Nestled on the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia, Livingstone is a treasure trove of natural beauty, adrenaline-pumping adventures, and rich cultural experiences that beckon travellers from around the globe. It's not just a destination; it's the gateway to exploring the majestic Victoria Falls, known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya or "The Smoke That Thunders." This awe-inspiring wonder of the world serves as the perfect backdrop for what promises to be an unforgettable journey. As you delve into our latest blog, "10 Reasons to Visit Livingstone," prepare to be captivated by a land where nature's power is matched only by its beauty, and every experience is steeped in wonder.
10 Best Lodges in Zambia
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Africa as we unveil the 10 best lodges in Zambia, each offering a perfect blend of opulence and adventure. Known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife, Zambia is home to some of the world's most exquisite safari lodges. From the majestic Victoria Falls to the serene Zambezi River, each lodge provides a unique gateway to Zambia's natural wonders. Picture yourself waking up to the sounds of the wild, enjoying world-class amenities, and engaging in thrilling activities like game drives, walking safaris and canoeing safaris.
10 Reasons to Visit the Luangwa National Park
If you're dreaming of an unforgettable safari adventure, look no further than Zambia's stunning South Luangwa National Park. Known for its incredible wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and unique safari experiences, this Zambian gem offers something for everyone. From walking safaris to birdwatching, here are 10 compelling reasons to visit Luangwa National Park and immerse yourself in the heart of Africa's wilderness. Whether you're an avid wildlife enthusiast, a photography buff, or simply looking for an unforgettable safari, Luangwa National Park has something to offer for everyone.
Zambia Travel Bucket List
Are you dreaming of an unforgettable adventure in Africa? Look no further than Zambia! This travel bucket list covers the top must-see destinations and experiences, from the majestic Victoria Falls to thrilling safaris and vibrant cultural festivals. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie, a wildlife enthusiast, or a culture lover, Zambia offers a diverse array of activities and sights that cater to every type of traveller. Get ready to explore vast landscapes, immerse yourself in local traditions, and enjoy unique wildlife encounters that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
Devil's Pool Victoria Falls
Nestled precariously at the very lip of the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, the Devil's Pool is an absolutely phenomenal natural wonder. Carved out over millennia by the mighty Zambezi River, this extraordinary geological formation is, without a doubt, one of nature's most thrilling creations. Imagine swimming to the edge of the world's largest waterfall! With only a natural rock lip between you and a 100-meter drop, the sensation is breathtaking. The roar of countless tons of water thundering over the falls just meters away is an unforgettable, almost dizzying experience. Witnessing such raw power up close is a privilege.