Part 2 in an amazing journey that covers Livingstone the Lower Zambezi National Park ending it all off with a South Luangwa safari.
Tongabezi Lodge is a privately owned and run lodge located in the most amazing and tranquil setting further upstream on the Zambian side of the Victoria Falls.
Accommodation consists of a selection of houses and cottages, each beautifully furnished using local materials. An added touch is that guests can choose to dine beside the river or on their private terrace.
You can choose to just relax or make the most of the many activities that will keep you busy for several days. Inclusive activities are sunrise and sunset boating, a guided walking tour of the Zambian side of the Falls, fishing, a game drive in Mosi-oa-Tunya Game Park, guided museum tours, a visit to the colourful markets and Simonga village. For the romantics out there, a must is the private candlelit dinner which you can enjoy whilst floating under the stars on the Zambezi.
Watch out for those hippos! We were warned not to venture outside alone after dark because of the resident hippos, which had slipped my mind until I heard the scuffling in the bushes right next to my chalet. It seems I was located at their favourite sundowner hole! Tregger, my valet, eventually came to my rescue so I could enjoy my delicious dinner.
One of the highlights of my stay at Tongabezi Lodge was the Livingstone Island Excursion, where you are given the opportunity to swim on the edge of the Victoria Falls (Zambian side). This is definitely "bucket-list" material and something everyone should try and do at least once in their lifetime.
After signing what seemed like our lives' away - there is an indemnity form you are required to sign, but at the end of the day if you listen to your expert guides you will be fine - we were taken on a short boat ride from the Royal Livingstone Hotel to the banks just near Devil's Pool. You are guided across the river, which involved a short burst of a swim to the rocks, where you then have to jump into this tiny pool - Devil's Pool - which sends all the adrenaline soaring through your body.
You are only allowed about 15 minutes in the pool before you return to the shore and sit down for a delicious eggs benedict brunch!
Sindabezi Island Camp is Tongabezi's sister camp - is located on a private island about a 20-minute boat ride from Tongabezi. Accommodation consists of five open-sided thatched cottages offering uninterrupted views across the flood plains of the Zambezi, and into the nearby National Park.
In the late afternoon after our arrival, we enjoyed a very relaxing sundowner boat cruise before returning to our alfresco dining experience under the stars!
Sindabezi is the ideal getaway for small groups or families travelling together, but also very popular with Honeymooners and couples alike. Sindabezi offers such a relaxing setting, making it the perfect destination for those looking for a quiet getaway. Very popular - and highly suggested - is combining Sindabezi with a stay at Tongabezi Lodge.
Before we left Victoria Falls and made our way into the Lower Zambezi, we were taken on a visit to the Tongabezi Trust School, which was set up by Vanessa Parker (the wife of Ben Parker, who owns Tongabezi) previously a volunteer teacher in Livingstone.
The school opened on the 1st May 1996 and provides education to the Tongabezi staff children, as well as children from the local community, in an area where educational funding and materials are scarce. The school has also recently attained charity status and is completely funded by donations, is currently supporting over 160 students. I highly recommend popping into the school for a visit, which Tongabezi Lodge will gladly help arrange.
The Tongabezi Experience, a stay at one of Africa's most loved safari experiences.
Gorges Lodge
Gorges Lodge and Little Gorges lodge are built on top 200-metre high cliffs above the Zambezi River below, offering guests a more idyllic and peaceful experience away from the busyness surrounding the Falls and the town.
One of the betters safari lodges for those looking for a bit more of a safari experience.
Matetsi Victoria Falls
Nestled in the stunning landscape of Zimbabwe, Matetsi Victoria Falls combines luxury and adventure. This exclusive safari lodge on the Zambezi River invites guests to enjoy nature while experiencing exceptional comfort and personalized service.
With an impressive backdrop of diverse wildlife and stunning scenery, Matetsi Victoria Falls is the perfect retreat for those seeking to explore the wonders of the region, all while enjoying the finest in hospitality and amenities.
Sindabezi Island Camp
Sindabezi Island Camp, nestled on the Zambezi River near Victoria Falls, is a secluded haven. Being the sole bush camp in the vicinity, it provides a serene setting for an authentic African adventure. Guests at Sindabezi can relish the vistas of the Zambezi floodplain and the wildlife in the neighbouring National Park.
The journey to Sindabezi is a picturesque boat trip or a guided canoe excursion along the Zambezi, offering glimpses of wildlife along Zimbabwe's riverbanks. The attentive staff ensure that your comfort and requirements are catered to during your entire stay.
Mukwa River Lodge
Mukwa River Lodge, located near Victoria Falls, offers luxury bush chic accommodation with a blend of local and international flavours. Enjoy a prime location opposite Zambezi National Park, adrenaline activities, child-friendly programs, and sustainable practices.
Experience 5-star service, exquisite dining, and wildlife sightings from your private deck. Just a short drive from Livingstone Town and Victoria Falls, it's an ideal base to explore the area.
David Livingstone Safari Lodge
The David Livingstone Safari Lodge, situated on the Zambezi River, envelops guests in natural luxury. With Victoria Falls as its backdrop, the hotel offers an intimate connection to nature. Lush greenery surrounds the lodge, allowing guests to fully embrace the beauty of Africa.
Accommodation at The David Livingstone ranges from opulent river-view rooms to exclusive treetop suites. Each room combines modern amenities with traditional African design, ensuring a comfortable and stylish stay for all guests.
Tongabezi Lodge
Tongabezi Lodge, the first Zambezi River lodge on the Zambian side of Victoria Falls, was founded in 1990 by Ben Parker and the late Will Ruck-Keene. It is a privately owned and run retreat, focusing on exclusivity and romance, with the warmth and hospitality of the Zambian people.
Days at Tongabezi have no fixed schedule and can be tailored to your preferences. Relax or enjoy various activities. Each house and cottage has a dedicated valet providing personalized service. The Treehouse cottage bathroom is renowned as one of the world's top five bathrooms.
PheZulu Guest Lodge
Nestled in the heart of Victoria Falls, PheZulu Guest Lodge combines elegance with the thrill of African wildlife. This luxurious retreat offers spacious, tastefully designed accommodations and breathtaking views of the surrounding natural beauty.
Perfectly situated for adventurers and nature lovers alike, the Guest Lodge provides seamless access to world-class safari experiences and the iconic Victoria Falls, ensuring an unforgettable getaway filled with comfort and discovery.
Old Drift Lodge
Nestled in the heart of Zambezi National Park, Old Drift Lodge offers guests an enchanting escape into the wild. With breathtaking views of the Zambezi River, this luxury lodge combines comfort with authentic African safari experiences.
Each spacious tented suite is a perfect sanctuary for relaxation after a day of adventure. Whether soaking in the outdoor bath under the stars or joining guided wildlife activities, Old Drift Lodge offers an unforgettable experience amid nature's beauty.