A new chapter in African luxury travel is set to unfold in June 2026 with the opening of Carmines River Lodge, a boutique safari property in Zambia’s South Luangwa Valley.
Represented globally by Travel Promoters, and with PR led by Sussex-based specialist Umlingo, the lodge is already generating buzz as one of the region’s most anticipated openings.
Named after the Carmine Bee Eater, whose vibrant colonies nest along the Luangwa Wafwa directly opposite the lodge, Carmines River Lodge is rooted in its extraordinary setting. Located on a private 54-acre island between two rivers, it offers rare proximity to both South Luangwa National Park and Nsefu Game Reserve—part of the famed “Valley of the Leopards.” Guests are just a ten-minute pontoon ride from the park gates, with year-round sightings of elephants, big cats, wild dogs, and over 450 bird species.
The lodge will host just 12 guests (up to 18 with additional beds) across three elevated two-bedroom villas, each designed for privacy and immersion. Suspended among ancient ebony trees, the villas feature freestanding baths, indoor–outdoor infinity showers, and private plunge pools overlooking the Msandile River. One villa is fully accessible, with lift access and level pathways.
Each villa comes with a dedicated host and private safari guide, plus exclusive use of a custom-built game vehicle. Paying homage to the region’s birdlife, the villas and vehicles are named Owl, Hamerkop, and Kingfisher. Safari experiences include walking safaris, “red light” night drives to observe nocturnal predators, and stargazing expeditions under Zambia’s vast skies.
For business travellers seeking meaningful downtime or incentive planners curating high-impact retreats, the lodge offers a compelling mix of luxury, purpose, and privacy. The main lodge area features a Boma fire pit, indoor-outdoor dining, wine room, boutique, and bar, while wellness amenities include a gym and in-room spa treatments. A Canon photographic studio/media room doubles as an educational space for guests and visiting conservationists.
Behind the scenes, a halal kitchen, pastry kitchen, and greenhouse support a farm-to-table culinary ethos, with operations powered entirely by solar energy. A full water filtration plant and biodegradable amenities reflect the lodge’s commitment to sustainability.
Access is via a 70-minute flight from Lusaka to Mfuwe, followed by a scenic 50-minute road transfer. Carmines River Lodge is more than a safari destination—it’s a blueprint for thoughtful, immersive travel in one of Africa’s most wildlife-rich regions.