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WHAT CLIENTS SAY...

"Overall we were delighted with our stay here. Location is fabulous (the website hardly does the Zambezi views justice), the riverside rooms are utterly charming, and the food is TOP class. Staff are lovely - Mr Brown was a brilliant safari guide (man knows his trees 🌳), spa treatments were great, and we enjoyed the quirky emu roaming the grounds (we named her Sheila).
Definitely some room for improvement (especially re. dietary requirements), but we had a fantastic time, and would enthusiastically recommend it to anyone.
Some A* Karen-ing going on in these reviews. 1 star is just spiteful nonsense. Also yeah dude, you’re staying on a game reserve in Zambia - there’s gonna be some snakes knocking about 🙄. (We didn’t see any, I should add!)"

- Tim P., Via Google Reviews

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OUR STORY

Once upon a time, nestled in the heart of the majestic Kariba Gorge, where the mighty Zambezi River winds its way through a land of breathtaking beauty, there existed a place where magic and nature converged—Mukalya Private Game Reserve. This enchanted sanctuary has been carefully woven into the fabric of time, where ancient stories linger in the air and every corner whispers of wonder.

 

Born 16 years ago as a humble family retreat, Mukalya quickly grew into a place where nature, culture, and wellness intertwined. Its name, chosen with love, honors the legacy of the Mukuni family, the keepers of ancient traditions and protectors of the land. Here, guests are invited to experience a timeless journey—a passage through nature’s heart, where every moment feels like stepping into a dream.

 

The reserve is a realm of wild beauty, strategically positioned on the banks of the Zambezi River 25km after the manbuilt Kariba Dam, surrounded by a vast national park. Imagine gazing upon endless vistas of rugged gorges, towering dam walls, and tranquil lake waters, all teeming with wildlife, each with a tale to tell.

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At Mukalya, the accommodation is more than mere rooms—they are enchanted chambers named after the great tribes of Zambia, each designed to reflect the rich history and deep culture of its people. As you rest in these serene sanctuaries, you’ll find yourself immersed in the stories of ancient customs, beliefs, and folklore, shared by the welcoming guardians of the reserve. And should you wish to travel further into the heart of the land, a short journey will lead you to Namomba Village, a hidden gem perched at the mouth of the gorge, where village life unfolds like a beautiful storybook.

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On guided safaris, expert rangers will lead you on magical journeys through the reserve, where the land’s rich history and vibrant wildlife come to life in the most extraordinary ways. Each encounter feels like a chapter unfolding before your very eyes, a moment frozen in time.

 

But the enchantment of Mukalya does not end with the safari. The reserve is also a sanctuary for the soul. Its wellness offerings draw on the timeless wisdom of Africa, offering you a chance to rediscover yourself through peaceful meditation, and nature walks that will lead you deep into the heart of the wild. As night falls, the sky above is a canvas of stars, inviting you to lose yourself in the wonders of the universe.

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The essence of this special place is infused with the founders’ deep cultural roots, creating a rich, immersive experience that will stay with you long after you leave.

 

Sustainability and conservation are at the heart of Mukalya, where every visitor plays a part in protecting the land and supporting the local community. From thrilling tiger fishing adventures to hearing the captivating legend of Nyami Nyami, the river god who was separated from his wife when the dam wall was raised, there are countless tales to be told and experiences to be had. Each day is a new chapter in the story of this enchanted place, where nature and culture live in perfect harmony.

 

So, step into the story of Mukalya Private Game Reserve, where time stands still, and the magic of Africa is yours to discover. Here, in this enchanted land, nature, culture, and wellness come together in an unforgettable journey that will leave you with memories that last a lifetime.

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THE LODGE & ACCOMMODATION

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Mukalya is a sanctuary where nature and culture weave together like an ancient tapestry. With space for just 18 guests, this intimate retreat invites you into a world of luxury, serenity, and timeless beauty. 

 

As you enter, the lodge greets you with the spirit of Zambia’s rich heritage—its walls adorned with art and crafts from the country’s diverse tribes. Every corner tells a story, from the hand-carved wooden features to the woven textiles that honor the land's royal traditions. The central living and dining area, with sweeping views of the Zambezi, offers a place of peace, where the rhythms of nature and the whispers of the past fill the air.

 

Each of our 9 rooms is a tribute to Zambia’s nine great tribes, a place where ancient royalty and tribal customs come to life. Step into chambers fit for kings and queens, where every detail—woven baskets, carved wood, and sacred artifacts—connects you with the stories of Zambia’s people. Here, beneath a sky full of stars, you are transported to another time, surrounded by the wisdom and magic of Africa.

 

With its intimate design, tranquil pool, and seamless connection to the wild, Mukalya is more than just a lodge—it’s a living fairy tale, where nature, culture, and luxury come together in perfect harmony.

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9 ROOMS & SUITES