Kapishya Hot Springs

Kapishya lies on the Shiwa Ng'andu estate about twenty kilometres from the house, where hot water rises through a sand bottom into a pool beside the Mansha river, shaded by raffia palms and fig trees. The water sits at around forty degrees and is sulphur-free, which means it does not smell. A lodge run by the family stands beside it. It is the most comfortable stop on the long drive up the Great North Road and most people who visit Shiwa stay here.

What you actually see

• The spring pool - hot water rising through sand at around forty degrees.
• The raffia palms - the shade over the pool beside the river.
• The Mansha river - the cold water running past the spring.
• The lodge - the family-run accommodation on the bank.

When to go

May to October is dry and comfortable. The rains raise the river and can affect the pool. Nights in June and July are cold, which suits the spring.

Honest expectations

The pool is small and fills quickly when the lodge is busy. Access is a long drive on a rough estate road. There is little else to do here beyond the springs and the estate.

Nearby

Shiwa Ng'andu house is on the same estate, and Chishimba Falls is north.