Tongabezi Lodge is a romantic hideaway on the banks of the Zambezi River just upstream of Victoria Falls. Privately owned and run, Tongabezi combines an exclusive ambience with the warmth and hospitality of the people of Zambia. Luxury safari trips are included, both on the river and in the bush. There is no set pattern to days at Tongabezi. Guests can do as much or as little as they wish, with game drives, bush walks and boating trips all included in the price. The majestic Victoria Falls can be viewed either by boat or private aircraft.

The lodge offers a selection of houses and cottages, each beautifully furnished using local materials. The options include five houses, five cottages and a family cottage.

Honeymoon House earned its name because of its perfect romantic location beside the Zambezi River. It was built with indulgence and privacy in mind – there is a private balcony overlooking the river that provides a perfect setting for a secluded candlelit dinner beneath the stars. Alternatively, you can choose to dine with other guests on one of the river decks.

Bird House has sweeping views over the Zambezi River and has an open-air sunken bath and a private terrace for dining under the stars. The Tree House has a split level design that has been cleverly built into the cliff front. Enjoy dinner at eye level with the Fish Eagles on the elevated deck or wander downstairs for a shower that is so close to the river you might spot the Eagle’s dinner swimming around! This house is reached from a stone path that winds along the cliff face.

Truly secluded and generously proportioned it is the ultimate private retreat. Dog House is located at the water’s edge and looks out across the Zambezi. It is an open-fronted house uniquely designed and furnished with local materials. It is dominated by a comfortable king-size bed that comes with down pillows and duvet, and a large, airy mosquito net. Nut House is a haven from the elements and is entirely enclosed with light streaming in through every wall.

Charming glass tiles reflect the sunrise in African patterns onto the wood and stone floors. Folding doors open into the private garden and infinity plunge pool, all offering spectacular views over the Zambezi from the elevated position on the river bank. All of the houses feature a king-size bed, complete with luxurious down pillows and duvet, and a magnificent airy mosquito net so your sleeping comfort is assured. All also benefit from a large open-air sunken bath with stunning views over the river and a spacious deck for private dining.

As well as the open-fronted houses, there are five River Cottages overlooking the banks of the Zambezi. Each has a large double bed or two singles, plus a mosquito net and en-suite bath and shower, along with indoor and outdoor areas where guests can dine under the stars or simply sit and enjoy the ever-changing river views. Because the River Cottages are close-fronted with gauze netting in the windows, we find they are better suited to guests who feel nervous about sleeping “outdoors”, but still wish to listen to the sounds of the bush at night.

Finally, the Garden Cottage is ideal for a family or couple seeking luxury and privacy close to Victoria Falls. The house is hidden behind a private walled garden and set back from the river. Beautifully designed and furnished using local materials, it is fitted with a luxury king-size bed and has a private living room with fireplace, an open-air sunken bath and an additional twin bedroom but it is the only one of the properties without views of the Zambezi.

Activities at Tongabezi include: Sunrise and sunset boat trips on the Zambezi; guided canoeing excursion depending on water levels and hippo activity; lunch on local Island with guided walk; fishing (equipment provided); visit to the Victoria Falls on the Zambian Side; game drive in the Mosi-Oa-Tunya National park (Park fees are extra); walk in the gorge below the Falls; cultural visit to the museum (Museum entrance is $8.00 per person – subject to change); local village visit; mountain bike trail to local village; and a shopping trip on the Zambian side of the Falls.

Contact us for your personal quote...