Matetsi Victoria Falls | Matetsi Private Game Reserve
Inspired by our spectacular location on the mighty Zambezi River in Zimbabwe, Matetsi Victoria Falls combines dramatic architectural design and luxurious interiors with the vibrancy of the Zimbabwean people. The result is an award-winning luxury nature retreat that offers the discerning traveler an unparalleled luxury safari experience.
Just 40 km upstream from the UNESCO World Heritage site of Victoria Falls – while our proximity to the largest waterfall in the world is a coup - it is just one of the many experiences we offer. Set on 15km of private Zambezi river frontage, your arrival at Matetsi Victoria Falls will signal a slow retreat into the senses with exclusive access to 55 000 hectares of Matetsi Private Game Reserve.
This is big sky country – a land of giant baobabs and ancient acacias, red soil and burnished grasslands, and abundant wildlife – all set within a pristine wilderness area that extends for as far as the eye can see. A family-owned property, Matetsi Victoria Falls combines the luxury safari experience with a bucket-list visit to the largest waterfall on earth. But it also offers a uniquely authentic and personal experience that embodies the hope and dynamism of this incredible country and its people.
Your Stay
2 Nights
Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities
Fast Facts
5 Star
Lodge
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 22
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Fishing, Flora, Gourmet, History & Culture, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Shopping, Star Gazing, Wildlife, Wine
Matetsi Victoria Falls
Inspired by our spectacular location on the mighty Zambezi River in Zimbabwe, Matetsi Victoria Falls combines dramatic architectural design and luxurious interiors with the vibrancy of the Zimbabwean people. The result is an award-winning luxury nature retreat that offers the discerning traveler an unparalleled luxury safari experience. Just 40 km upstream from the UNESCO World Heritage site of Victoria Falls – while our proximity to the largest waterfall in the world is a coup - it is just one of the many experiences we offer. Set on 15km of private Zambezi river frontage, your arrival at Matetsi Victoria Falls will signal a slow retreat into the senses with exclusive access to 55 000 hectares of Matetsi Private Game Reserve. This is big sky country – a land of giant baobabs and ancient acacias, red soil and burnished grasslands, and abundant wildlife – all set within a pristine wilderness area that extends for as far as the eye can see. A family-owned property, Matetsi Victoria Falls combines the Big-Five luxury safari experience with a bucket-list visit to the largest waterfall on earth. But it also offers a uniquely authentic and personal experience that embodies the hope and dynamism of this incredible country and its people.
Set on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River with 15km of private river frontage, Matetsi Victoria Falls is located just 40km upstream from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Victoria Falls. Set beneath the thick canopies of a vast riverine forest, River Lodge comprises two intimate river-facing camps consisting of nine suites each, of which two are family suites. Here generosity of space and absolute privacy are a given, with a bold sequence of architectural spaces and contemporary interiors defined by an earthy yet sophisticated mix of textured latte screens, contemporary blonde basketry, warm tactile wood and the lustre of copper.
All suites are air-conditioned and come with sumptuous King-size four-poster beds, generous bathtubs, indoor and outdoor rain showers as well as a private plunge pool and deck. Each suite is perfectly appointed so as to capitalize on the lodge’s 15km’s private river frontage.
Amenities:
•Spacious, air-conditioned suite
•King-sized bed
•Generous en-suite bathroom complete with indoor and outdoor showers
•Private plunge pool and deck
•Use of both indoor and outdoor dining spaces
•Boma dining area for traditional meals
•Use of alfresco lounge areas
•In addition to private plunge pool, use of 20m lap pool that flanks the river
•Use of fitness studio
•Use of massage sala
•Use of library, boardroom and owner’s private wine cellar
•Exclusive shopping boutique
•In-room iPad for guests use
•In-room Bluetooth speakers
•Complimentary laundry service
•Complimentary in-lodge and in-room WiFi
•Luxury Safari Vehicle
Matetsi Victoria Falls is an excellent destination for large family groups travelling together. Laid out as two intimate East and West river-facing camps, each camp comprises nine suites each with two generous family suites per camp.
Offering the same facilities as the River Lodge suites, the River Lodge Family Suites comprise an adult’s suite with an adjoining passageway to a children’s room via a secure courtyard. The adjoining room sleeps two children in twin beds. Each family suite comprises a main suite with a King-Size bed, a generous bathroom with an indoor and outdoor rain shower as well as a private plunge pool and deck. Each suite is perfectly appointed for views of the Zambezi River and set beneath the canopies of a riverine forest on a 15km stretch of private river frontage.
Amenities:
•Spacious, air-conditioned suite
•King-sized bed and twin beds Children’s room connected via passageway
•Generous en-suite bathrooms complete with indoor and outdoor showers
•Private plunge pools and deck
•Set beneath trees with views of the Zambezi River
•Use of both indoor and outdoor dining spaces
•Boma dining area for traditional meals
•Use of alfresco lounge areas
•In addition to private plunge pool, use of 20m lap pool that flanks the river
•Use of fitness studio
•Use of massage sala
•Use of library, boardroom and owner’s private wine cellar
•Exclusive shopping boutique
•In-room iPad for guests use
•In-room Bluetooth speakers
•Complimentary laundry service
•Complimentary in-lodge and in-room WiFi
•Luxury Safari Vehicle
For those in search of the ultimate in seclusion and privacy, there’s River House – an exclusive-use, four-bedroom villa that is ideal for a large group, family or trans-generational group travelling together. River House is equipped with every luxury necessary in the bush from a full kitchen and indoor and outdoor dining areas that lead out to a spacious veranda with a private swimming pool and fire pit bowl. River House also comes with the dedicated services of a private chef, butler, guide as well as a dedicated game drive vehicle.
Amenities:
•4-bedrooms
•Fully kitted kitchen for guests’ sole use
•Open-plan indoor and outdoor dining areas overlooking the river
•Air-conditioning throughout as well as sumptuous mosquito nets over the four-poster beds
•En-suite bathrooms complete with generous baths and indoor and outdoor showers
•Indoor fireplace and outdoor fire bowl
•Sole use of the private pool that overlooks the river
•Dedicated guide, tracker and private safari vehicle for duration of your stay
For those in search of the ultimate in seclusion and privacy, there’s River House – an exclusive-use, four-bedroom villa that is ideal for a large group, family or trans-generational group travelling together. River House is equipped with every luxury necessary in the bush from a full kitchen and indoor and outdoor dining areas that lead out to a spacious veranda with a private swimming pool and fire pit bowl. River House also comes with the dedicated services of a private chef, butler, guide as well as a dedicated game drive vehicle.
Amenities:
•4-bedrooms
•Fully kitted kitchen for guests’ sole use
•Open-plan indoor and outdoor dining areas overlooking the river
•Air-conditioning throughout as well as sumptuous mosquito nets over the four-poster beds
•En-suite bathrooms complete with generous baths and indoor and outdoor showers
•Indoor fireplace and outdoor fire bowl
•Sole use of the private pool that overlooks the river
•Dedicated guide, tracker and private safari vehicle for duration of your stay
Set beneath the thick canopies of a vast riverine forest, River Lodge comprises two intimate river-facing camps consisting of nine suites each, of which two are family suites. Here generosity of space and absolute privacy are a given, with a bold sequence of architectural spaces and contemporary interiors defined by an earthy yet sophisticated mix of textured latte screens, contemporary blonde basketry, warm tactile wood and the lustre of copper.
Matetsi River Lodge is an excellent destination for large family groups travelling together. Laid out as two intimate East and West river-facing camps, each camp comprises nine suites each with two generous family suites per camp.
Offering the same facilities as the River Lodge suites, the River Lodge Family Suites comprise an adult’s suite with an adjoining passageway to a children’s room via a secure courtyard. The adjoining room sleeps two children in twin beds. Each family suite comprises a main suite with a King-Size bed, a generous bathroom with an indoor and outdoor rain shower as well as a private plunge pool and deck. Each suite is perfectly appointed for views of the Zambezi River and set beneath the canopies of a riverine forest on a 15km stretch of private river frontage.
All suites are air-conditioned and come with sumptuous King-size four-poster beds, generous bathtubs, indoor and outdoor rain showers as well as a private plunge pool and deck. Each suite is perfectly appointed so as to capitalize on the lodge’s 15km’s private river frontage.
Amenities:
•Spacious, air-conditioned suite
•King-sized bed
•Generous en-suite bathroom complete with indoor and outdoor showers
•Private plunge pool and deck
•Use of both indoor and outdoor dining spaces
•Boma dining area for traditional meals
•Use of alfresco lounge areas
•In addition to private plunge pool, use of 20m lap pool that flanks the river
•Use of fitness studio
•Use of massage sala
•Use of library, boardroom and owner’s private wine cellar
•Exclusive shopping boutique
•In-room iPad for guests use
•In-room Bluetooth speakers
•Complimentary laundry service
•Complimentary in-lodge and in-room WiFi
•Luxury Safari Vehicle
Property Facilities
Activity Desk, Bar, Barbeque Facilities, Business Centre, Eco Friendly, Gym, Internet Access (Complimentary), Kiddies Club, Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Library, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Private Vehicle Available, Restaurant, Spa, TV Room
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 (Available), 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, Verandah
Services
Airport Shuttle (Available), Airport Shuttle (Complimentary), Babysitting Service, Credit Card, Room Service
Matetsi Private Game Reserve offers the most exclusive game viewing experience in the Victoria Falls area. Here, surrounded by flourishing wilderness, phenomenal highlights include sightings such as massive herds of elephant and buffalo as well as the rare and majestic sable antelope. The reserve is also home to lion, spotted hyena, African wild dog and leopard.
Twice-daily game drives in the privacy of the concession are conducted in custom-fitted, luxury open-air safari vehicles in the early morning and late afternoon, accompanied by a knowledgeable, conservation-minded ranger and a tracker.
Game drives are a seminal safari moment in the bush. Whether you’re heading out at dawn or sunset, prepare to recalibrate your senses to the sounds, sights and spectacles of the bush. It may be that you get up close and personal to a pride of lion as they devour the remnants of their night’s kill or watch in awe as an early morning posse of elephant make their way down to the nearest watering hole amidst a chorus birdsong, grunts and scuffling dust. Chances are you’ll come with us as we track one of Matetsi’s established pack of wild dogs and experience their high-pitched keening as they hit the scent of prey. All this and more awaits you at Matetsi Victoria Falls.
At Matetsi Victoria Falls, you will have the opportunity to experience an exclusive riverboat cruise and canoeing excursion along our private 15 km stretch of the Zambezi River.
Take in the marvels of this spectacular wilderness sanctuary complete with resident hippos, crocodiles and nearly 700 species of fish, not to mention many species of water birds. This is your chance to make the most of some excellent photographic opportunities too, from the vantage point of the water where you will see large herds of elephant, buck, wildebeest (gnu) and buffalo come down to drink.
An interpretive bush walk, led by a professional ranger, is an absolute must for those looking to get even closer to the incredible wilderness of the reserve. This adventure-filled activity allows guests to learn more about the intricacies of the African bush, with the thrilling opportunity to get up-close-and-personal to its inhabitants, from small to large. A walking safari is truly a feast for the senses!
Victoria Falls Area Excursions
Bespoke excursions including helicopter flights, guided cultural tours, adrenaline activities and many more activities are available. All transport arrangements and services are managed and monitored by Matetsi Victoria Falls to maintain premium standards.
Description
•Tour of the Falls*
•Helicoper flights over the Falls
•High Tea overlooking the Falls
•Whitewater rafting
•Bungee jumping
•Gorge swing
•Zipline
•Canopy Tour
•Microlight Flight
•Horseback safaris
•Community excursions
•Curio shopping
*Complimentary scheduled guided tour of Victoria Falls is offered to Matetsi Victoria Falls guests.
External activities can be pre-booked through our reservations office.
Spoil your guests with an unforgettable helicopter flip over the Victoria Falls. The legendary "Flight of Angels" provides spectacular photographic opportunities that also incorporates a spot of game viewing.
Departure is from the Victoria Falls Day Activity Centre and between 08h00 and 18h00.
Guests must be at the Helipad 30 minutes before their booked departure time.
Alternatively guests can experience this activity with a direct helicopter transfer from Matetsi Private Game Reserve.
Guests will have the opportunity to discover the many facets of the magnificent Victoria Falls, the biggest falling curtain of water in the world on this exceptional excursion. They can explore the surrounding rain forest in the company of a guide who is intimately acquainted with the history of the Falls, as well as its flora, fauna, bird and wildlife.
A unique blend of aromatherapy and plant oils chosen specifically by you, combining deep tissue massage techniques to bring relaxation to tired, aching muscles allowing the body and soul to return to perfect equilibrium. Choose from a blend of aromatherapy oils to either destress, hydrate, relax or detox. A full Spa Massage Menu is available for download
In-house activities and amenities
Here, every day is tailored to you, whether you’re seeking adventure or a restorative retreat. At Matetsi Victoria Falls, our superb five-star services are rivalled only by the spectacular natural wonders that surround us. And our highly trained, knowledgeable guides are on hand to accompany you as you explore Matetsi Private Game Reserve’s 55,000 hectares of protected and unspoilt wilderness.
Whatever your preference, be it on foot, game vehicle, boat or helicopter, you will be amazed and rewarded by the abundance and diversity of this wilderness frontier. Ask about our night game drives, canoeing trips, sunset cruises and fishing expeditions on the mighty Zambezi.
For those less energetically inclined, a massage in our outdoor spa or a visit to the owner’s well-stocked private wine cellar where you can view his personal collection of vintage toy train, car and army collections will not disappoint.
Description:
•Zambezi River Boat Cruises
•Morning and evening game drives
•Night game drives
•Full day game drives
•Birdwatching
•Walking safaris
•Amateur fishing
•Professional fishing•
•Children’s activities and childminders*
•Massages•
•Activities at an additional cost
in addition to private dining with a private chef and butler provided, Matetsi River Lodge and River House guests enjoy open-space East and West camp bars, bombs and social dining facilities, as well as the intriguing cellar with an extensive wine list
Our chefs provide a fresh and evolving menu of international cuisine with local fine foods such as Zambezi Bream (fresh-water fish); venison with sadza (white cornmeal) or peanut butter rice, both much-loved staples in the area. Vegetarian and vegan menus are prepared daily too.
Whether you choose to socialise or unwind quietly in the cool and calm of the owner’s private wine cellar, this intriguing and cocooning space is a must visit. For it not only houses the owner’s collection of wines, but also his extensive collection of vintage toy armies, trains and cars that he has collected since he was a child.
Sample our vast array of wines as you take in the distinctive African artefacts and vintage toy collections that make our wine cellar so unique. Choose from a mouth-watering menu of tapas that have been carefully crafted to complement the varietal tastes and nuances of your wine choices – with the tranquil views of the Zambezi River, never more than a few metres away.
Set beneath the thick canopies of a vast riverine forest, Matetsi Victoria Falls is home to River Lodge that comprises two intimate East and West river-facing camps consisting of nine suites each. Each camp has its own communal lodge and bar areas, as well as indoor and outdoor dining areas. The exclusive-use River House Villa sits between the two camps, as does a well-stocked shopping boutique, fitness room, spa, 20m lap pool, library/boardroom and the owner’s private wine cellar.
in addition to private dining with a private chef and butler provided,
Matetsi River Lodge and River House guests enjoy open-space East and West camp bars, bombs and social dining facilities, as well as the intriguing cellar with an extensive wine list.
Our chefs provide a fresh and evolving menu of international cuisine with local fine foods such as Zambezi Bream (fresh-water fish); venison with sadza (white cornmeal) or peanut butter rice, both much-loved staples in the area. Vegetarian and vegan menus are prepared daily too.
Wilderness Linkwasha | Eastern Hwange National Park
Wilderness Linkwasha is a luxurious camp that lies in a private concession in the enormously productive south-eastern corner of Hwange National Park. Situated on the edge of the famed Ngamo Plains, which offers fantastic summer game viewing, the camp looks over a magnificent plain and a pan that is a magnet for game year round, especially in the dry winter months.
The fresh, open and airy design of Wilderness Linkwasha is complemented by an eclectic mix of contemporary interiors. Nine luxurious en-suite tents (eight twins and one family unit) offer incredible views, while the main area – including multi-level decks, a pool area and a winter lounge complete with library – overlooks the prolific waterhole.
INSIDER'S TIP: Enjoy the thrill of getting your feet on the ground on a walking safari in the company of Wilderness Linkwasha’s knowledgeable and highly experienced safari guides.
Your Stay
3 Nights
Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities
Fast Facts
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 9
Special Interests: Birding, Nature, Wildlife
Wilderness Linkwasha's expansive canvas tented accommodations each look out onto the camp's waterhole, and beyond onto a vast plain. Elegant tents, featuring contemporary but timeless décor, nestle under leadwood trees, fronting a waterhole where the wildlife spectacle perpetually amazes and entertains.
One family canvas unit consisting of two rooms (a main bedroom and a living room that can be converted into a second bedroom) each with its own bathroom. On request the main bedroom, with two three quarter beds (can be converted to a king-size bed on request) while the living room/second bedroom can accommodate two beds for children. The main bathroom has a shower and bathtub, while the second bathroom has a shower and single vanity basin.
Property Facilities
Bar, Library, Pool, Private Vehicle Available
Room Facilities
Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Hair Dryer, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mini Bar, Mosquito Nets, Safe, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
With access to two of the best private concessions in Hwange, game drives in open 4x4 vehicles at Wilderness Linkwasha are particularly exciting – taking in herds of plains game, as well as the carnivores that call the area home.
Evening drives can yield many less-frequently-seen species, such as lesser bushbaby, spotted hyaena, pangolin, caracal, porcupine, springhare, scrub hare, Selous mongoose and even honey badger.
Hwange was proclaimed some 80 years ago and has served as a haven for one of the densest concentrations of game in Africa. There is no better way to experience this park than on foot with one of our highly experienced safari guides. There is something remarkable about being so very close to nature … and one couldn’t get much closer than this!
Hide Out In The Wild – There is something incredibly thrilling about being hidden out of sight while animals like elephant go about their day, splashing in the waters and drinking, completely oblivious to your presence. The sunken hide in front of camp, is the ideal place to set up for an afternoon, a secret spot to watch the comings and goings of wildlife. Have your bird books, camera and binoculars ready …
Sleep out on a romantically-lit platform under the crystal clear African skies – an evening of enchantment as you lie safely tucked up in your raised sleep out, covered in a blanket of a billion of stars, dreaming in the ‘middle-of-nowhere’ ...
* Weather permitting and operated subject to the discretion of the Camp Manager.
An authentic village experience takes place in a manner that is respectful to all parties. It is led by one of the local villagers or a Wilderness guide, and often includes a guided tour of the school, meeting the headman or headwoman, as well sharing cultural exchanges with the community.
* The school is closed over the weekend and during school holidays.
African Bush Camps Nyamatusi Camp | Mana Pools National Park
Nyamatusi is African Bush Camps’ third camp in Mana Pools National Park and is located in the Nyamatusi Wilderness area. The park itself exudes a feeling of beauty, an untouched wilderness. Mana Pools offers a diversity of different wildlife and bird species, including the endangered and rare wild dog. The Zambezi River itself is famous for its large concentrations of hippos and crocodiles.
Nyamatusi Camp is situated on the banks of the renowned Zambezi River and is a representation of the surrounding environment. The camp is reminiscent of days gone by and is inspired by nature. Nyamatusi comprises of 6 spacious and well-appointed luxury tents, each with its own private deck and plunge pool, offering remote views overlooking the Zambezi.
Watch the drama of nature play out before your eyes on game drives or thrilling canoeing safaris. Fishing on the Zambezi River (catch and release only) and birding safaris are highlights here. All these activities are included in your stay and led by qualified and passionate guides keen to share their knowledge and love of the bush with you.
Your Stay
3 Nights
Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities
Fast Facts
Luxury Tented Camp
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 6
Special Interests: Adventure, Big 5, Birding, Fishing, Flora, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife
Luxury Tented Suite
Nyamatusi Camp consists of 6 spacious luxury tented suites. Each suite has its own uninterrupted view of the Zambezi River, en suite facilities, indoor and outdoor showers, air conditioning, mini bar, yoga mat and weights, private deck and private plunge pool.
Property Facilities
Activity Desk, Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Library, Pool, Private Vehicle Available
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Dressing Gowns, En-Suite, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mini Bar, Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Plunge Pool, Private Pool / Jacuzzi, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee
Away from the comfort of a safari vehicle, all your senses are suddenly awakened when you are on foot. Our walking guides will accompany you through the bush while teaching you about animal spoor, interesting insects, plants and the geology of the area.
Lead by one of our experienced guides, you’ll see magnificent wildlife indigenous to the area. Your guide will show you the hidden spots best for game viewing and give you an insider’s knowledge. With years of experience our African Bush Camps guides are known for being some of the best in the business.
The Lower Zambezi River is the perfect setting for an adventurous canoeing safari. Paddle along the tranquil waters of the Zambezi River and take in the pristine scenery of Mana Pools National Park from a unique angle. On your canoeing safari you’ll get the chance to see wildlife such as hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and incredible birdlife.
Try your hand at fishing from the banks of the Zambezi River. Fish for tiger, bream (tilapia), vundu, and many other species on a catch and release basis.
Delight in the call of the African skimmer, photograph the Southern carmine bee-eater or the Narina trogon. Or simply sit back and enjoy their beautiful songs.