Dulini River | Sabi Sand Nature Reserve
Set above the perennial waters of the Sand River, Dulini River’s understated décor and subtle African aesthetic, infused with the tones and textures of the riverine setting, combine to create an effortlessly stylish safari escape. Beneath the boughs of mature riverine forest, boardwalks meander to reach the six chic suites, each boasting a wide private terrace and offering unforgettable wilderness that will leave you feeling enchanted and longing for more.
The serenity of the setting is reflected in elemental tones and textures of six magnificent suites, which emerge from the banks of the river. With cantilevered decks boasting heated plunge pools, relaxation in Nature’s peace is a given.
From walls of dry-packed stone to striking chandeliers of hand-carved wooden branches, throughout the lodge organic textures and tones reflect the palette of panoramic views enjoyed from the elevated deck overlooking the Sand River. In the lounge a crackling fire keeps the winter’s chill at bay, while the multi-level dining area offers both a vibrant communal space and a memorable venue for intimate private dinners.
Your Stay
3 Nights
Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities
All Local Brands (Spirits, Wine and Beers) Included
Fast Facts
5 Star
Lodge
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 6
Special Interests: Adventure, Big 5, Birding, Flora, Golf, Gourmet, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife, Wine
Suite
Set above the perennial waters of the Sand River, Dulini River’s understated décor and subtle African aesthetic, infused with the tones and textures of the riverine setting, combine to create an effortlessly stylish safari escape in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve. Beneath the boughs of mature riverine forest, boardwalks meander to reach the six chic suites, each boasting a wide private terrace and offering unforgettable wilderness that will leave you feeling enchanted and longing for more. The serenity of the setting is reflected in elemental tones and textures of six magnificent suites, which emerge from the banks of the river. With cantilevered decks boasting heated plunge pools, relaxation in Nature’s peace is a given.
From walls of dry-packed stone to striking chandeliers of hand-carved wooden branches, throughout the lodge organic textures and tones reflect the palette of panoramic views enjoyed from the elevated deck overlooking the Sand River. In the lounge a crackling fire keeps the winter’s chill at bay, while the multi-level dining area offers both a vibrant communal space and a memorable venue for intimate private dinners.
The six suites at Dulini River enjoy an unforgettable setting on the banks of the perennial Sand River, a magnet for big game and birdlife throughout the year. The expansive outdoor decks, complete with heated plunge pool and outdoor shower, allow guests to watch wildlife from the comfort of their suite, while indoors, the double-volume suites are open-plan and airy, flowing seamlessly between the dressing area, bedroom and bathroom. The Dulini River suites are decorated in a soothing palette of natural hues and earthy tones, inviting you into a luxurious cocoon, in the midst of this pristine wilderness.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Barbeque Facilities, Battery Charging Facilities, Eco Friendly, Gym, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Library, Meal on Request, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Private Vehicle Available, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Fridge, Hair Dryer, Heater, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mini Bar, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Plunge Pool, Private Pool / Jacuzzi, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Underfloor Heating, Verandah
Services
Airport Shuttle (Available), Babysitting Service, Credit Card, Room Service (24 hours)
With no more than 6 adults per vehicle and in the company of a ranger and tracker team, who will attempt to track your favourite animals. The Sabi Sand Nature Reserve is well known for its leopard sightings and you may well spot one of these elusive cats resting after a successful night hunt. You will stop for refreshments at a scenic spot during your drive.
Dulini's professionally trained guides will ask you about your favourite wildlife and will do their best to ensure that your preferences are met, whether it is tracking a particular species or spending more time enjoying each sighting and getting to know the habits of the animals. They will also tell you about the vegetation of the region and will explain the behaviour of the animals that you come across. In some cases, the guides will be able to identify individual animals and let you know about their history and habits.
All of Dulini's Safari Vehicles are equipped with camera mounts and bean bags for photography, high quality binoculars for each couple, blankets, fleece lined ponchos and have the ability to have a roof mounted if needed.
Guests can enjoy interpretive guided bush walks and spend some time on foot tracking down game. Different types of walking safaris are available and can be catered to each and every single guest. Walking allows you to learn about smaller parts of the safari experience that are often missed while on a vehicle. Tracks, signs, plants, trees and birds just to name a few. Although some guests prefer tracking down some of the bugger game species such as Elephants or Rhino.
Have a short stop during your evening game drive to enjoy a stunning African sunset with a drink, or two, of your preference. there is simply no better way to celebrate the day!
Dulini River has an air-conditioned gym for its guests to enjoy.
Dulini River - Dining
Dining is set up in a number of different locations around the camp, in the bush, boma and river bed.
We vary these experiences based on guest numbers and the weather. We try to surprise guests every night by dining in a different location.
Tongabezi Lodge | Victoria Falls (Zambia)
The luxurious Tongabezi Lodge is situated on the banks of the Zambezi River, just upstream of Victoria Falls. The lodge features a lounge, a bar, two main area swimming pools, and a gym. Meals are served in the large dining room, on an outdoor deck overlooking the river, in the privacy of your room, or floating on the Zambezi River. The five houses and four river cottages are each individually styled and cater for two to five guests. Game drives, bush walks, and boating trips are all-inclusive. Victoria Falls can be viewed in close proximity to the lodge, on a short excursion with your guide.
Your Stay
2 Nights
Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
All Local Brands (Spirits, Wine and Beers) Included
Fast Facts
Lodge
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 11
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Fishing, Flora, Gourmet, History & Culture, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife
Redefining life on the banks of the Zambezi River the River Cottages feature high ceilings, giant bespoke wood and glass windows and doors leading onto expansive sustainable pine decks. The signature African fusion Tongabezi style has been distilled to the best of 'Made in Zambia' in both the interior and outdoor spaces.
We are famous for keeping the romance of travel alive and our Cottages were designed to provide a private haven where your every whim just happens to be attended to by your very own valet.
The Nut House is a haven from the elements. It is entirely enclosed but has light streaming in through every wall. The best art, textiles, and textures have been collected and combined from all around the African continent - from Morocco, Mali, Zambia, and South Africa just to start. This creates a lusciously romantic setting for relaxation, without losing an inch of the incredible river-view.
The palette is easy on the eyes, seamlessly blending the house into Zambia's natural scenery. Folding doors open onto the elevated private garden and infinity plunge pool. Spectacular views over the Zambezi are guaranteed.
At the end of the swimming pool, a hidden path winds along the cliff face to our secluded Tree House. Set against the basalt rock bed, amongst the branches of a riverine Ebony tree, this house spreads out over a sustainable pine deck that guarantees incredible views of the Zambezi River.
The king size bed has a large, canopied mosquito net with air conditioning and the extensive space can also be used for private dining and lounging. The bathroom’s crowning glory is a perfectly positioned claw footed bath and from the Anatolian carpets to the Asian chests and West African artwork the Tree House invokes exotic day dreams.
All the inclusive Tongabezi activities are available... but this house is so much part of the surroundings that you can experience the beauty and majesty of Zambia without setting a foot outside.
The Bird House features an open-air claw footed bath and a private terrace for dining under the stars. Guests can go canoeing on the river, join game drives, bush walks and enjoy sunset boat trips. Luxury camps such as Tongabezi provide a perfect base to explore Victoria Falls and the stunning African bush surrounding it.
Built with the perfect view, indulgence and privacy in mind the Honeymoon House is the original blueprint for luxury Tongabezi accommodation. The private balcony overlooks the river, providing a perfect setting for a secluded candlelit dinner beneath the stars. Alternatively, you can choose to dine with our other guests on one of the river decks.
The Dog House personifies the Tonga ethos of exclusivity, romance and luxury with a twist of quirkiness. Located at the very end of the elevated garden path, this private haven sits on three large wooden decks over the Zambezi river. Recently extensively refurbished, the house remains magnificently proportioned and now has two beautiful bedrooms to accommodate small groups and families. The sprawling space includes a central designated chill zone with an infinity pool, extended deck, large lounge and cozy dining room. Whether you manage to venture out to enjoy the inclusive activities, dabble in serious adventure – or simply elect to order the massages in - the brand new Dog House is so much more than a beautiful, African Fusion style accommodation choice... it is the experience of a life time.
The result of a number of years of energy, imagination and many conversations with top travel specialists and our guests, the Garden House perfectly fills the family travel niche at Tongabezi. Set back from the river, seclusion and shelter are a happy swop for the sweeping Zambezi views that can still be enjoyed from any of the decks of the main lodge. It is a very private, very safe space where all the members of the family can spread out a little and indulge in an exclusive dining room, large lounge, two en-suite bedrooms and of course run around the garden and cool off in the private plunge pool. Tongabezi is proud of our crazily indulgent reputation and the Garden House is no compromise: Whether you are a wide eyed bush baby or parents who believe romance should always be a priority.
Tangala House
Tangala House is a luxurious family home on the banks of the Zambezi River, close to Tongabezi it lies 15km upstream of Victoria Falls. The house has four bedrooms, three with en-suite bathrooms, and a 12m private swimming pool. Stylishly designed and furnished, it has featured in House and Garden magazine in the UK and comes with a vehicle and boat, chef, waiters and private guide all courtesy of Tongabezi.
Ideal for a Zambia family safari, Tangala House sleeps up to 8 and has a children’s playroom and a spacious kitchen-dining room. The rooms are enclosed, with large glass fitted windows to keep out the insects and allow guests to enjoy magnificent views across the Zambezi. Over 145 species of birds have been spotted from the kitchen window and elephant herds can often be seen drinking on the opposite bank.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Activity Desk, Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Gym, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Private Vehicle Available, Restaurant, Secure Parking, TV Room
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Fireplace, Fridge, Hair Dryer, Heater, Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mini Bar, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Services
Airport Shuttle (Available), Babysitting Service, Chauffer Service, Credit Card, Foreign Exchange, Room Service, Room Service (24 hours), Travel Desk
Can you imagine a dining experience more private than having the entire Zambezi River to yourself whilst your food is paddled out to you, one course at a time?
The sampan dinner or early morning breakfast is available throughout the year, apart from during the highest river levels, which are usually from March to June.
A boat cruise at sunset or sunrise is a superb way to relax and enjoy the immersive beauty of the Zambezi, whilst keeping an eye out for wildlife on the river banks.
See one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World with a trip to Victoria Falls on the Zambian side
This is the only wildlife park in the area that provides refuge to white rhinos, which are closely protected by anti-poaching units. While on your game drive, keep an eye out for giraffe, buffalo, waterbuck, impala, wildebeest, zebra and diverse bird life.
Enjoy a short cycle to meet the friendly people from the Simonga village
All guests are invited to visit, engage with, and learn from the Tongabezi Trust School’s 280 bright, talented students, all of who receive free education and nutritious meals at Tujatane. In fact, if you are only going to do one happy thing during your stay at Tongabezi, we’d suggest it is a tour of this school.
The Maramba and Mukuni markets are visited daily by hundreds of people from Livingstone and surrounding areas. They come to buy everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to chitenge, the bright patterned fabric characteristic of Southern and East African fashion. One of our team will be there to guide you through the marketplace and will be there to help you with buying from vendors if you need.
A place to learn about Zambia's culture and natural heritage.
Safaris can be quite sedentary, so we like to give our guests spaces where they can get moving and keep their energy levels high for their daily adventures.
This is one of our signature Tongabezi experiences, and for guests who haven't spent much time researching us online, we keep the Sandbar as a marvellous surprise. Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of watching two sunsets -- above and within the water -- with sand in your toes and a drink in your hand.
Sit in the shallows of the Tongabezi Rock Pool with a cocktail in hand and the Zambezi River flowing before you, or spend some quality sunshine time by the Tongabezi Lap Pool a little further back from the river.
The Zambezi River, around Victoria Falls, is an excellent spot for both pole and fly fishing. There are over 75 species of freshwater fish in these warm, nutrient-rich waters, although it is usually one specific species that draws fishermen here – the tiger. Revered for their power and fierce set of teeth, landing a tiger fish is no easy task, even for a seasoned angler. Even an unsuccessful fishing outing on the Zambezi is still enjoyable if just for the beautiful scenery and tranquility.
Come and explore some of our 1,200 hectares of sweet veld, which is rapidly becoming a fully sustainable, organic community-run farm. You can personally compare our sustainable farming techniques with nearby traditional farming methods.
The Dining Room
We have an Air-Conditioned raised Dining Room with spectacular river views
Zambezi Queen by Mantis | Kasane
A FLOATING BOUTIQUE HOTEL IN A CLASS OF HER OWN
Moving along the banks of the great Chobe River, Zambezi Queen is a 5-star, 42-metre long luxury houseboat offering unparalleled sophistication in one of the most remote locations on the planet. Best of all, as a guest on the vessel, you can enjoy a truly unique and adventurous river safari holiday while still being surrounded by complete comfort and elegance.
Each of the 14 suites on Zambezi Queen features air-conditioning and your own private balcony, where you can enjoy unobstructed views of the Chobe River and African landscape beyond. Wake up to the sight of an elephant drinking from the river, or watch a fish eagle take flight – all from the comfort of your own luxurious bed.
Unlike a land-based lodge, Zambezi Queen navigates roughly 25km of the Chobe River, allowing you to explore different vantage points and enjoy unparalleled game viewing. The banks of the Chobe National Park boast one of the densest populations of elephant on the African continent - estimated at approximately 120 000. The Park is also home to a large number of buffalo, leopard and lion, along with a variety of antelope and abundant birdlife.
Your Stay
2 Nights
Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
All Local Brands (Spirits, Wine and Beers) Included
Fast Facts
5 Star
Houseboat
Spoken Languages: Afrikaans, English
No. Rooms: 14
Special Interests: Adventure, Big 5, Birding, Fishing, Flora, Gourmet, History & Culture, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife, Wine
From the moment you step on-board the Zambezi Queen, it becomes apparent that no expense was spared in creating one of the world’s most unique river safari experiences. Equipped with 14 tasteful and luxurious suites - ten Suites and four Luxury Suites, all suites come with en-suite bathrooms (shower only) and full length sliding shutters for both privacy and protection from the sun.
Hairdryers, toiletries, gowns and slippers are provided for your comfort, while electronic safes in each room are ideal for storing your valuables. All suites accommodate two adults, and two of the larger suites can take a maximum of three adults. Suites can be configured with either one double or two single beds.
While both types of suites let you relax in a luxurious setting, our Luxury Suites are slightly bigger, and have larger balconies that house two deckchairs and a table. Our Luxury Suites also feature both side and front sliding doors for a truly panoramic view of your surroundings.
Two of the Suites are triple rooms with an extra bed and can accommodate up to three adults each.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Meal on Request, Mobile Connectivity, Pool
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Hair Dryer, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee
Services
Airport Shuttle (Complimentary), Credit Card
Staying on board the Zambezi Queen is like being on a permanent game viewing vehicle, but with a much higher comfort factor. Situated in the heart of the Chobe region with access to river frontage of the Chobe National Park, we also offer water-based game drives by tender boat, allowing you to experience the enormous diversity and concentration of wildlife up even closer.
Game viewing on the Chobe River is at its most exceptional from March to November when the weather is drier and the animals are more mobile as they search for food and water. Summer and spring also offer unique opportunities though, as you watch the landscape burst into life after the first rains of the season. Catch sight of huge herds of elephant as they swim across the water, as well as buffalo, lion, crocodile, lechwe, puku, giraffe, zebra, sable, kudu and the occasional leopard as they gather to quench their thirst at watering holes. Besides animal life, you’ll also see a huge variety of birdlife and plant life as you listen to the sounds of a hippo grunting and breathe in the sweet smell of African grass.
The Chobe is known as a photographer's paradise and for good reason. The soft early morning light and the sunsets at dusk, combined with striking animal behaviour, make for dramatic and unusual photo opportunities. Before your game viewing excursion, remember to apply sunscreen and wear a hat, as temperatures can reach over 40 degrees centigrade. You should also bring along a jacket for the chillier temperatures in the early mornings and evenings.
Enjoy the ultimate in game viewing safari decadence as you sip on a drink and cruise along the river in one of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet.
No trip to the Chobe is complete without trying your hand at a fishing safari where if you’re lucky, you may even catch a tiger fish. One of the greatest fighting fish in the world, the tiger fish is the most sought after prize of these waters and is known for its ferocious spirit. It's not all about tiger fish though. You may also hook one of the many bream species, African pike, tilapia, catfish or upper Zambezi yellowfish as you explore over 100 kms of the Chobe and Zambezi rivers, as well as the winding Kasai Channel and thrilling Chobe and Mambova rapids.
We offer both conventional equipment as well as flyfishing equipment for our fishing safaris, because we know that the area is renowned worldwide for its flyfishing. We supply rods, flies, lures, lines, leaders and reels and all equipment is included in our rate.
Because of our unique location, we offer excellent fishing safaris all year round – from the annual floods starting in March to the feeding frenzies in the winter months. Our highly knowledgeable guides, the tackle and bait we supply as well as well stocked cooler boxes make fishing in Africa an experience to remember. Land an eight pounder or more and earn bragging rights for years to come, as you enjoy a fishing trip that's second to none.
With over 450 species, a mix of terrains and a dramatic African backdrop, the Chobe River is the perfect setting for a highly rewarding birdwatching safari. Birding season starts in September, when the first migrants arrive, boosting the bird population sometimes by 20% compared to the winter months. From December through to March birdlife on the Chobe is extremely busy and the colourful breeding plumage on display is an extraordinary sight.
Experienced birders and even eager amateurs will delight in spotting distinct birds such as African skimmers, rock pratincoles and the African finfoot, either through their binoculars or with the naked eye. Having access to your own knowledgeable guide and tender boat lets you spend many hours on your birding safari also viewing cattle egrets, fish eagles, open-billed storks, lesser-striped swallows, pied kingfishers and the striking carmine bee-eater. The slow drift of the tender boat means that you won’t disturb the peaceful silence and can also get up close to the birds and observe their fascinating behaviour.
Sit patiently and absorb the beauty around you and soon you’ll be rewarded with a unique sighting that you’ll want to photograph. Because you’ll have access to the Chobe National Park and the Caprivi wetlands, you’ll get exposure to a wide variety of species you may have never seen before. The distinct sounds of the call of an African fish eagle mingling with the grunt of hippos will stay with you long after your Chobe River birdwatching safari is over.
Uninterrupted access to wild animals. Absolute silence. Golden light. The Chobe River is an unforgettable photographic safari destination, and one of the wildlife photographers’ hotspots in Africa. To help you capture that perfect moment, our custom-designed photographic safari boats are available on request and cater for 6 clients in individual photographic seats. The boat contains custom-designed swivel chairs that give you greater stability and 360-degree views for a wider range of subject matter. Every seat is equipped with a mounting for resting SLR cameras of all types and you’ll get your own experienced safari guide who’ll help you find that perfect shot.
Bring your own photographic equipment as we don’t supply this - the optimal lens to bring is an 80 - 400mm zoom. Because this is a water-based safari, you'll be able to take unique shots in a safe environment, being able to view the animals in the Chobe National Park surrounded by that magical golden light Africa is renowned for. Tea and coffee will be offered in the morning during the winter months and soft drinks, local beers and wines will be served in the afternoon. Light snacks are also served during your excursion, providing you with a photographic experience that's also about pure comfort.
Departure times are early morning and late afternoon and the safari takes three hours. Please let us know at the time of booking your holiday if you’d like to use our customised photographic safari boat. Capture your stay with breathtaking photos of the unique African landscape and the wild animals that surround you.
One of the best ways to learn more about a country is to experience its culture. A village tour while on board the Zambezi Queen will take you by tender boat to a local Namibian village called Ijambwe, situated on the floodplains of the East Caprivi. Meet village elders and locals and gain a greater understanding of how the inhabitants of this 100-year old village live, including their daily challenges and traditions.
Wear a large sun hat and apply sun lotion, bring a bottle of water with you and wear comfortable shoes. You’ll start by taking a slow, non-strenuous but sandy stroll through the village as you snap a few photographs and meet the Headman of the village as well as his children. The men of the village either fish to provide meals for their families, while the women and younger children perform the chores and produce handmade crafts. Pick up a woven basket, beaded jewellery or a carved wooden animal as a memento from your trip – sales of these crafts empower village inhabitants by helping them earn a living. If you want to give the children of the village gifts, bring along school stationery, books or clothing – all will be highly appreciated. Finally, enjoy a display of traditional dancing and singing at the end and join in the fun!
Dining
Take a seat at your own private table and enjoy panoramic views of the wildlife during breakfast and lunch. Come evening time, settle in and enjoy an African themed dinner on one night of your stay, trying out traditional local food such as moroho and pap. On this particular evening the staff sing and dance and you're encouraged to join in the festivities! Special dietary requirements can be catered for, but we ask that you specify this when you book - our remote location means that we need a bit of time to source ingredients that may be out of the ordinary. Unfortunately this also means that we’re not able to cater for Halaal and Kosher guests.