The luxury camp takes the top distinction in both the Architecture (Living Space, Lodge) and Interior Design (Living Space, Africa) categories. Anantara Kafue was also chosen as a "Jury Pick", exclusively awarded to projects that achieved more than 80 points out of a possible 100, highlighting the jury's favourites among the submissions.
South African design firm, Meg Ralph Spaces, designed the interiors blending contemporary elegance with cultural authenticity by using locally sourced sustainable materials and organic textures. They incorporated earthy tones with mid-century accents all inspired by the flow of the Kafue river and the raw Zambian landscape. The result is a luxurious haven where days unfold within an untouched reserve, inspired by the natural world that surrounds it.
As Anantara Hotels & Resorts unveils its first safari tented camp in Africa this June, this recognition solidifies the property's position as one of the most anticipated and openings in the luxury safari circuit. Suspended above the banks of the Kafue River, one of Zambia's most vital waterways, the luxury camp connects guests directly to Kafue National Park, Zambia's largest and oldest reserve, protected by African Parks. The camp is elevated 3.5 metres to canopy height on rosewood timber platforms, protecting seasonal water flow and allowing wildlife to move unhindered beneath.
"We are all extremely proud of these first awards; they serve as a profound testament to the innovation and hard work poured into this project by our entire team and our design partner," said Laurie Burr, Area General Manager for Anantara Hotels & Resorts in Zambia. "To be honoured on a global stage before we've opened confirms that we are creating something truly exceptional. It's a sign of what's to come as we prepare to set a new benchmark for luxury and ecotourism in Zambia."
The LIV Hospitality Design Awards celebrate outstanding achievements in architectural and interior design that shape the global hospitality industry. The 2025 edition received over 600 submissions from 64 countries, underscoring the diversity and creativity driving contemporary hospitality design. The jury panel, comprising leading architects, designers, hoteliers, and industry experts, meticulously reviewed each entry. The resulting selections reflect a broad spectrum of design excellence — from immersive restaurant environments and cultural narratives to serene resort sanctuaries and innovative spatial concepts rooted in place and purpose.
Opening in June 2026, Anantara Tented Camp Kafue River presents seclusion with just ten villas and three Horizon Terrace Suites amid the treetops. Each space opens towards the river and surrounding bush, where wildlife such as giraffes and elephants roam. Guests experience a seamless connection to the outdoors through sliding glass walls and outdoor living space. Each villa and suite is attended by a dedicated host to curate the stay.
Anantara Kafue is located in Kafue National Park in Zambia. The nearest town is Lusaka which can be reached by road or short flight; Lusaka International Airport is a four-hour drive, and charter flights are available from Livingstone Airport or Lusaka. For more information, please visit https://www.anantara.com/en/kafue-river-tented-camp.
For enquiries and bookings, please contact +27 10 003 8979 oremail [email protected]
