Zambia is the rustic and untamed epicentre of adventure activities, mesmerising landscapes and rugged bushveld. It’s a friendly country renown for being the gateway to Victoria Falls, one of Africa’s must-see destinations. Zambia is a diamond in the rough, often overlooked by tourists in favour of alternate southern Africa destinations. Zambia is not to be underestimated – it is the heartbeat of Africa; a country well-deserving of its place of the tourist map. There’s the bold and vibrant capital of Livingstone; and a landscape home to 17 waterfalls, 19 national parks, rivers teeming and brimming with life, and 5 massive lakes.
With a country so rich in natural resources, we’re not surprised that Zambia is paradise for lovers of the outdoors. The main tourist attraction in Zambia is Victoria Falls, the world’s largest series of cascading waterfalls serving as the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. There are 3 Victoria Falls Lodges in Zambia that we deem worthy of exploring, each offering a sense of wilderness peace in Africa’s lush safari utopia.
Comfortable : Taita Falcon
Taita Falcon is Zambia’s best kept secret, but it’s gaining in popularity – and for good reason. Taita is located in a prime spot and should certainly be the destination of choice for those seeking a simple lodge in an exquisite destination. The lodge literally hangs over the mighty Zambezi River while simultaneously overlooking the Batoka Gorge, and is the ultimate wilderness retreat. The lodge is built in such a way that most areas are designed to take advantage of the awe-inspiring natural views.
In terms of accommodation options, there are 7 individually decorated, en-suite chalets. Each chalet is built from natural materials, ensuring that nothing intrudes on the environment. Natural stone, reeds and local items were used to build the chalets; while colour inspiration was taken from the outdoors.
There are numerous activities and things to do in and around the lodge. Indigenous forests provide the perfect place for peaceful forest walks and exploratory bird watching activities. The open-air bar is the quintessential place to indulge in a few sundowners, Zambia style !
Premier : Tongabezi Lodge
Tongabezi Lodge is actually an award-winning, ultra-luxurious safari lodge situated eye-level with the powerful Zambezi River, right on the banks. Tongabezi is perfect for honeymooners and romantics – we’re not surprised that it was nominated as Conde Nasts Traveller’s Gold List 2018. Each cottage has plenty of wide open spaces and private terraces designed to take in the views.
Tongabezi has 6 private houses, and 5 river cottages, each accommodating two – five guests each. Houses and cottages come with a private valet service, which means your entire stay is dictated by your wants and needs. Two of our favourite cottages are the Bird House and the Dog House. The Bird house features a classic ball-and-claw open bathtub which adds to the essence of luxury of the place; and the Dog House is located on an elevated area with adjoining decks. The best thing about the Dog House is that the Zambezi River flows under the Dog House when the water’s rise.
External activities include game drives, bush walks and boating trips on the Zambezi River. The spectacular Victoria Falls can be viewed either by boat or private aircraft.
Luxury : Islands of Siankaba
Heavy khaki canvas and expensive teak suites resting upon raised wooden platforms offer a unique accommodation option on the Zambezi River. The Islands of Siankaba are sprawled across two private islands in the middle of the Zambezi. You don’t wilder than this location!
Winding wooden walkways join the islands, and there are spectacular views from every corner of the Siankaba Islands. Each of the tented suites in this five star retreat lies tucked away in lush emerald riverine vegetation, giving the impression of being a natural forest hideaway. Private balconies provide the perfect place to soak up the tranquil atmosphere of waterfront accommodation, offering a unique vantage point to sit and bird watch. There are actually over 400 species of bird fluttering around the Zambezi River area, making it a go-to destination for birders. Look out for the African darters and the iconic African fish eagle!
Each suite comes complete with massive bath tubs, and an array of designer bathroom amenities. For romantic guests seeking out something next level in terms of romance, then the Honeymoon suite comes highly recommended. This suite is set apart from the rest of the chalets, and a romantic starlit dinner on the deck is always something that easily be arranged.
