Kapishya Hot Springs

Kapishya is a natural spring pool on the Shiwa Ng'andu estate in northern Zambia, about 19 km from the brick manor known as Shiwa House. Water at about 40 to 41 C (104 to 106 F) wells up through white sand into a clear pool held by a low wall, then drains into the Mansha River, with tall raffia palms overhead. It is sulphur-free and low in minerals, so there is no smell and no residue on your skin; expect water around knee height.

A small eco-lodge with chalets, a grassy campsite, a restaurant and a separate swimming pool sit beside it, and staying overnight gives you the spring at dawn and after dark. Day visitors pay a fee, recently reported at 180 kwacha; campers paid about 20 USD per person per night. Getting there means leaving the Great North Road near Mpika and driving estate roads, so plan a full day and pair it with a tour of Shiwa House.

Bring a swimsuit and cash in case the card machine is down. The honest downside: it is far from everything, food and drinks are pricey for the region, and staff may charge a full day rate even for a short soak.