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Home/Countries/Zambia/Nature & outdoors/Kapishya Hot Springs

Kapishya Hot Springs

A natural hot spring on the Shiwa Ng'andu estate, with a sand-bottomed pool under trees.

Updated 2 September 2026

WhereMuchinga Province
Nearest cityMpika
Best seasonMay to October
Time to allowHalf a day or overnight
Getting thereOn the Shiwa Ng'andu estate, off the Great North Road north of Mpika
EntryEntry and lodge charged

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's there

  • 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.

What to expect

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.

What to pack for Kapishya Hot Springs

Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.

  • Swimwear - Needed at most public thermal pools; some traditional baths are nude and single-sex. Find on Amazon
  • Quick-dry towel + flip-flops - For wet changing areas and hot poolside stone. Find on Amazon
  • A dry bag or waterproof pouch - Somewhere safe for phone and valuables while you soak. Find on Amazon
  • Water to drink - Hot soaking is dehydrating; sip between dips. Find on Amazon

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All packing kits

Plan your trip

Where to start if Kapishya Hot Springs is going on the list.

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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.

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