With feet in the sand and the meandering Zambezi ahead, guests here would be forgiven for thinking they were on a private island. The exclusivity is palpable from the moment the transfer to Mpala Jena (meaning ‘white impala’) begins, with a speedboat making light work of the river’s rapids in a journey straight out of an espionage film. Sightings of elephants and hippos give a taste of safaris to come in Zambezi National Park, where adventures on foot – including a tour of Victoria Falls and the town – compliment more traditional game drives. It’s back on the water that things are made truly special, though, in the form of a specially-procured Zanzibari dhow cruise at dawn or dusk.
Barefoot luxury is the name of the game back at camp, combining an eco-conscious (and solar-powered) ethos with some of the finer things in life. The result is a marriage of thatch and stone with canopy beds and deep bathtubs in the suites, and delicious local dishes served wherever takes your fancy – from tables in the sand to the wine cellar. Post-safari massages and pool-side cocktails complete the experience, making downtime simple yet very effective.
Lounge area
Sundowners
Suite
Dhow cruise
Private dinner
Restaurant
Bar and outdoor lounge
Dining area
Suite deck
With an impressive riverside location, the Zambezi Crescent Collection’s pioneer lodge, Victoria Falls River Lodge was the first privately owned lodge in the Zambezi National Park.
Matetsi Victoria Falls, comprising Matetsi River Lodge and Matetsi River House lies on the banks of the Zambezi River upstream from the spectacular Victoria Falls.
Re-emerging onto the safari scene with a luxurious new look worthy of its prestigious status, the pioneering Xigera has not only outdone itself, but changed the game for luxury lodges.
