Golden Africa Safaris: Anthropological Specialist

Boasting the mobility of an entire fully-equipped camp on wheels, this intimate camping method is an excellent way for a private group to enjoy an exclusive camp, with furnished tents, en-suite bathrooms, a private chef, camp staff, vehicles for guests' sole use and of course, a private guide. At breakfast around the fire, the sounds of the previous night and the tracks of the various animals that may have passed through the camp can be used as clues in planning the day’s exploration of the surrounding bush; and by night the day’s sightings can be recollected with a drink by the fire under the starry African sky. Lunch in the mess tent and three-course dinners under the stars are both served by experienced and friendly camp staff. A complimentary fully-stocked bar is on offer and there are always cold drinks, tea, coffee and drinking water available throughout the day. All tents have a fully enclosed en-suite bathroom at the back with a bucket shower. All tents comprise of high-quality bed linen, three different sizes of towels, bedside chests, large canvas wardrobe, LED lights, drinking water, mosquito repellent and washbasins.

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Credit: GoldenAfricaSafaris

Credit: GoldenAfricaSafaris

Credit: GoldenAfricaSafaris

Credit: GoldenAfricaSafaris

Credit: GoldenAfricaSafaris

Credit: GoldenAfricaSafaris

Credit: GoldenAfricaSafaris

Credit: GoldenAfricaSafaris

Credit: GoldenAfricaSafaris

Credit: GoldenAfricaSafaris

Credit: GoldenAfricaSafaris

Credit: GoldenAfricaSafaris

Credit: GoldenAfricaSafaris

Credit: GoldenAfricaSafaris

Credit: GoldenAfricaSafaris

Credit: GoldenAfricaSafaris

Credit: GoldenAfricaSafaris

Credit: GoldenAfricaSafaris

Credit: GoldenAfricaSafaris

Credit: GoldenAfricaSafaris

Credit: GoldenAfricaSafaris

Credit: GoldenAfricaSafaris

Credit: GoldenAfricaSafaris

Credit: GoldenAfricaSafaris

Mapula Lodge is situated in a massive concession of over 220,000 acres within the northern reaches of the Okavango Delta and is rich in wildlife such as lion, leopard, cheetah, buffalo, elephant and various bird life. The lodge occupies an enviable position on a large, treed island at the edge of seasonal floodplains along the upper reaches of the Selinda Spillway, then river the connects the Okavango Delta to the Linyanti.

All 9 canvas & thatch cottages (6 twin tents, 2 double & 1 family tent) have recently been completely refurbished, along with the newly added swimming pool.

Hot air ballooning and scenic helicopter flights can be arranged at an additional cost.

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Mapula Lodge Main area

Mapula Lodge Double cottage interior

Mapula Lodge Activity - Mokoro

Mapula Lodge Activity - Game drive

Mapula Lodge Swimming pool

Mapula Lodge Double Room Mapula Lodge Twin Room Mapula Lodge Family Suite Mapula Lodge Guide Room

There are 2 double thatched cottages with 1 x king sized wrought iron bed, indoor and out door seating area, on a private deck. Overhead fan, charging station as well as an indoor and private outdoor shower

Please note that the king bed can not be split

Max: 2 adults
Children 6 and older are welcome

Each of the 6 twin thatched cottages include 2 x 3/4 wrought iron beds, indoor and out door seating area on a private deck. Overhead fan, charging station as well as an indoor and private outdoor shower

Please note that these can not be converted

Max: 2 adults
Children 6 and older are welcome

The family tent is made up of one tent (55sqm) with 1 x queen size wrought iron bed, with a indoor as well as an outdoor shower, small lounge area and on the opposite side 2 x 3/4 beds with a private indoor shower. There are overhead fans above the beds, charging stations as well as a deck with a private seating area

*There is a partition that drops down to separate the double side of the tent to the twin side

Max: 2 adults and 2 children
Children 6 and older are welcome

Guide accommodation only, no guests will be accommodated in guide rooms.

Property Facilities

Bar, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Pool, Private Vehicle (Available), Restaurant

Room Facilities

Balcony / Deck, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Lounge Area, Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Shower, Verandah

Activities on Site

Bird Watching, Catch-and-release Fishing, Game Drives, Game Viewing, High Tea, Mokoro Excursion, Night Drives, Safaris

Golden Africa Safaris offers a luxury roving camp that provides an excellent way for a group to experience a private and intimate safari, away from the crowds. Sleeping in large fully equipped Meru tents that have enclosed en-suite bathrooms with flushing loos, a private chef, camp staff and vehicles for your sole use and of course, your own private guide.

Khwai is an area that always conjures up something magical for everyone who visits. From riverine woodland to open savannah, from mopane scrub to leadwood thickets, there is an immense diversity of flora and fauna to be found in Khwai. With this diversity of habitat, comes a huge variety and abundance of wildlife. When not out exploring, we’ll relax in the comfort of our private camp watching what wildlife visits the tributary of the Mbudi river for a drink. With the ability to operate our own timetable you will experience one of the finest safaris on offer in one of the most bespoke and sustainable ways.

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Wonderful sightings can be had in the Khwai area Credit: Golden Africa Safaris Time spent on a game-drive watching a pack of wild dog resting during the day

3 course dinner awaits with wine pairing, on returning from an epic safari Credit: Golden Africa Safaris 3 course dinner in a wild setting.

Relax for a few hours on siesta Credit: Golden Africa Safaris Siesta time in the bush

Luxury ensuite Meru tents Credit: Golden Africa Safaris Large ensuite Meru tents which can be doubles or twins

Exterior luxury guest tents part of the roving camp Credit: Golden Africa Safaris The small intimate camp takes a max of 12 guests

Excellent wildlife sightings Credit: Golden Africa Safaris Golden Africa take you up close to the most spectacular wildlife

Luxury Super King Meru tent Luxury Twin Meru tent

Every detail has been thought of in our beautifully furnished 30ft meru tents. These can be arranged as doubles (one super king bed) or as twins (two single ¾ beds). Single and triple rooms can be arranged on request. Your luxury canvas tent includes:

Large steel frame ¾ twin or super king double beds
400 thread-count cotton percale linen
Choice of firm or soft mattress
Locally designed interiors
Fully enclosed internal shower with wooden duck board
En suite flushing toilet
Internal copper washbasins with luxury amenities.
Bath sheet & towel, hand towel, face cloth and cotton dressing gown
Canvas wardrobe and hanging space
Kikoi (traditional cotton cloth worn on the body)
Sisal carpet, Persian kilims and rugs
Drinking water, Insect repellent, tissue box and emergency fog horn are provided
Solar lighting throughout
Laundry service

Every detail has been thought of in our beautifully furnished 30ft meru tents. These can be arranged as doubles (one super king bed) or as twins (two single ¾ beds). Single and triple rooms can be arranged on request. Your luxury canvas tent includes:

Large steel frame ¾ twin or super king double beds
400 thread-count cotton percale linen
Choice of firm or soft mattress
Locally designed interiors
Fully enclosed internal shower with wooden duck board
En suite flushing toilet
Internal copper washbasins with luxury amenities.
Bath sheet & towel, hand towel, face cloth and cotton dressing gown
Canvas wardrobe and hanging space
Kikoi (traditional cotton cloth worn on the body)
Sisal carpet, Persian kilims and rugs
Drinking water, Insect repellent, tissue box and emergency fog horn are provided
Solar lighting throughout
Laundry service

Property Facilities

Barbeque Facilities, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Library, Private Vehicle (Available)

Room Facilities

Dressing Gowns, En-Suite, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Pure Cotton Linen, Shower, Tea / Coffee

Activities on Site

Bird Watching, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Helicopter Scenic Flights, High Tea, Night Drives, Safaris, Walks (Guided)

Thorntree River Lodge is situated along the picturesque banks of Zambia’s Zambezi River, nestled within Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park. This setting seamlessly merges the tranquil ambiance of the Zambezi with the awe-inspiring majesty of Victoria Falls. Here, indulge in an exquisite retreat while also enjoying authentic safari experiences and unforgettable wildlife encounters.

Embark on game drives, river cruises, cultural visits, fishing expeditions, canoeing trips, and rhino tracking walks. Enjoy private excursions to both the Zambian and the Zimbabwean side of Victoria Falls. For those eager to explore from above, opt for a helicopter ride over the Falls; it’s guaranteed to take your breath away.

Drawing architectural inspiration from local cultures and contemporary influences, Thorntree River Lodge’s shared areas are fluid hubs of relaxation. The lounge flows into the elegant dining room, both areas enjoying incredible panoramas of the river. The communal deck on the Zambezi's edge is home to the Acacia firepit and a stunning infinity pool. Nestled within the grounds is the wellness spa and fully equipped gym, perfect for rejuvenating the body and mind.

Whether embarking on a thrilling helicopter ride over Victoria Falls or simply relaxing in the comfort of your suite, Thorntree River Lodge promises an opulent stay amidst Africa's breathtaking beauty. Indulge in the wildly luxurious.

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• Activities and Services

Thorntree River Lodge, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Zambia Credit: African Bush Camps Bedroom

Thorntree River Lodge, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Zambia Credit: African Bush Camps Romantic moment during sundowners

Thorntree River Lodge, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Zambia Credit: African Bush Camps Private lounge area in the room

Thorntree River Lodge, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Zambia Credit: African Bush Camps Private lounge pool in the room

Thorntree River Lodge, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Zambia Credit: African Bush Camps Rhino Trekking

Thorntree River Lodge, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Zambia Credit: African Bush Camps Canoe on the Zambezi

Thorntree River Lodge, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Zambia Credit: African Bush Camps Main pool

Thorntree River Lodge, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Zambia Credit: African Bush Camps Thorntree River Lodge from the Zambezi

Thorntree River Lodge, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Zambia Credit: African Bush Camps Welcome to Thorntree River Lodge

Thorntree River Lodge, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Zambia Credit: African Bush Camps Main pool

Thorntree River Lodge, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Zambia Credit: African Bush Camps Dinner on the deck

Thorntree River Lodge, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Zambia Credit: African Bush Camps Romantic moment during sundowners

Thorntree River Lodge, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Zambia Credit: African Bush Camps Cook at the outdoor lounge area

Thorntree River Lodge, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Zambia Credit: African Bush Camps Indoor main area

Thorntree River Lodge, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Zambia Credit: African Bush Camps Spa

Thorntree River Lodge, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Zambia Credit: African Bush Camps Souvenir shop

Thorntree River Lodge, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Zambia Credit: African Bush Camps Bedroom

Thorntree River Lodge, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Zambia Credit: African Bush Camps Bedroom

Thorntree River Lodge, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Zambia Credit: African Bush Camps Bathroom

Thorntree River Lodge, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Zambia Credit: African Bush Camps Bathroom

Thorntree River Lodge, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Zambia Credit: African Bush Camps Bathroom

Thorntree River Lodge, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Zambia Credit: African Bush Camps Private outdoor table in the room

Thorntree River Lodge, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Zambia Credit: African Bush Camps Zambezi River

Thorntree River Lodge, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Zambia Credit: African Bush Camps Private lounge area in the room

Thorntree River Lodge, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Zambia Credit: African Bush Camps Private pool in the room

Thorntree River Lodge, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Zambia Credit: African Bush Camps Canoe on the Zambezi

Thorntree River Lodge, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Zambia Credit: African Bush Camps Activity on the Zambezi

Thorntree River Lodge, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Zambia Credit: African Bush Camps Rhino trekking

Thorntree River Lodge, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Zambia Credit: African Bush Camps Rhino Trekking

Thorntree River Lodge, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Zambia Credit: African Bush Camps Fishing

Thorntree River Lodge, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Zambia Credit: African Bush Camps Fishing

Thorntree River Lodge, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Zambia Credit: African Bush Camps Victoria Falls from helicopter

Thorntree River Lodge, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Zambia Credit: African Bush Camps Sunset cruise on the Zambezi

Thorntree River Lodge, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Zambia Credit: African Bush Camps Two interleading suites

Thorntree River Lodge Credit: African Bush Camps Brown Hooded Kingfisher

Thorntree River Lodge Credit: African Bush Camps Burchell's Coucal

Thorntree River Lodge Credit: African Bush Camps Swift

Thorntree River Lodge Credit: African Bush Camps Giant Kingfisher

Thorntree River Lodge Credit: African Bush Camps White Fronted Bee-eater

Thorntree River Lodge Outside bedroom suite

Thorntree River Lodge Outdoor deck

Luxury Room Luxury Family Unit

Each unit will have its own indoor and outdoor bathrooms, as well as a luxurious private plunge pool.

Thorntree comprises of 2 Luxury Family Units with inter-leading walkways between the parents and children’s rooms which are both en-suite. Each unit will have its own indoor and outdoor bathrooms, as well as a luxurious private plunge pool.

Luxury Suite Family Suite

Each suite at Thorntree River Lodge is complete with a private plunge pool, a viewing deck, a luxurious bathtub, an outdoor and indoor shower, and a fully stocked bar cart. From your private deck, admire the majestic Zambezi River and watch as the waters entwine with the lush riverbanks to create a private encounter with an iconic river.

Each suite at Thorntree River Lodge is complete with a private plunge pool, a viewing deck, a luxurious bathtub, an outdoor and indoor shower, and a fully stocked bar cart. From your private deck, admire the majestic Zambezi River and watch as the waters entwine with the lush riverbanks to create a private encounter with an iconic river.

Family Suites made up of two tented rooms with a conjoined walkway.

Property Facilities

24-hour Security, Activity Desk, Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Gym, Internet Access (Complimentary), Kiddies Club, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Library, Pool, Private Vehicle (Available), Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa, TV Room

Room Facilities

Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath, Dressing Gowns, En-Suite, Fan, Hair Dryer, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Plunge Pool, Private Pool / Jacuzzi, Safe, Sala, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah

Available Services

Airport Shuttle (Complimentary)

Activities on Site

Bird Watching, Boating, Canoeing, Catch-and-release Fishing, Fishing, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Massages, Rhino Tracking

Activities Nearby

Adrenaline Activities, Bird Watching, Boating, Canoeing, Child Friendly Activities, Cultural Tours, Fishing, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Helicopter Scenic Flights, Historical Tours, Museums, Natural History Tours, Rhino Tracking, River Cruises, Safaris, Scenic Flights

Game Drives Visit to Victoria Falls Helicopter ride over Victoria Falls Canoeing Sunset river cruise Fishing Visit to Livingstone Museum Rhino Experience in Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park Cultural Village Visit Birding The Ngwana Club

Explore Zambi in an open 4x4 vehicle, driven by your safari guide. Encounter the region's wildlife during early morning and late afternoon drives – the times of day when animals are most active. Learn about the wildlife, their tracks, and the surrounding plants from your expert guide as you experience close-up encounters. On your game drives, enjoy morning coffee, snacks, and evening sundowners set against the beautiful backdrop of a savanna sunset.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Victoria Falls is one of the most iconic waterfalls in the world, let alone Africa. Stand in awe as you soak in the majesty of the Falls - otherwise known as ‘the Smoke that Thunders’ - as you watch this breathtaking natural wonder cascade into the Zambezi River, forming part of the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Experience a safari from new heights with a scenic helicopter ride - an extraordinary way to observe wildlife and explore the rich landscapes of Victoria Falls. This breathtaking adventure promises a fresh perspective on the African wild as you spot herds of animals and hidden waterways that are often missed from the ground.

The Lower Zambezi River is the perfect setting for an adventurous canoeing safari. Paddle through the shimmering waters of the Zambezi River and take in the scenery of Mosi-Oa-Tunya 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, among others.

A sunset cruise down the iconic Zambezi River offers incredible wildlife sightings in the most tranquil setting. The calm waters mirror the spectacular sunset, creating a beautiful backdrop as you enjoy sundowners and spot elephants, birds, and other amazing wildlife in their natural habitat.

Cast your line into the crystal-clear waters of the Zambezi River to experience the thrill of a catch. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a simply a beginner eager to learn the basics, the Zambezi River offers a wonderful fishing adventure. Relax, sit back, and enjoy the serenity of nature, surrounded by the majestic beauty of this iconic African river.

The excellent Livingstone Museum is divided into five sections covering archaeology, history, ethnography, natural history and art, and is highlighted by Tonga ritual artefacts, a life-sized model African village, a collection of David Livingstone memorabilia and historic maps dating back to 1690.

Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is home to the extremely rare and endangered white rhino who are under 24-hour protection by the rangers. At Thorntree River Lodge you’ll get the unique opportunity to see these incredible animals up close on a short walking safari.

The African Bush Camps Foundation works with the local communities with the goal of community upliftment through tourism by creating long-lasting positive impact. In Livingstone, we have partnered with the Maunga Community and together have identified two focus areas; building a much needed clinic building and providing scholarships to children who are in need and show potential in the classroom. Spend half a day visiting this community during your stay at Thorntree River Lodge and see the impact of the Foundations work.

Bird lovers will find plenty to enjoy in the area’s rich diversity of avian life, with chances to spot incredible species like the African fish eagle and Gannets, Spotted thick-knee. Listen for the distinctive call of the African skimmer or try to capture a photo of the elusive Verreaux’s eagle-owl. Whether you're admiring their beauty or simply soaking in their songs, African birdlife is a marvel to behold.

"Ngwana," the Setswana word for “explorer,” is the name of our young adventurer program at Thorntree River Lodge. The Ngwana Club offers a variety of safari adventures for children of all ages, including nature walks, cooking classes, traditional storytelling, and arts and crafts. Children’s safari activities are tailored to each family's unique needs and preferences, considering ages and any special interests or requests.