Elephants at Savute Watering HoleCredit: Erika HobartThe lodge overlooks a watering hole frequented by various animals, the elephants come and go throughout the day - they feel like lodge residents.
Okavango GinCredit: Erka Hobartlocally sourced botanicals, pure Okavango water and an age old distillation technique crafted out in Nature. Crafted to celebrate the sunset, it's the perfect choice for "sundowners".
Fire PitStorytelling by the fire fit
ImpalaCredit: Erika HobartBeautiful female impala
Lodge interiorCredit: Erika HobartA languorous afternoon spent reading, playing board games and taking in the scene. It's picturesque.
Unleash your spirit of adventure at Savute Elephant Lodge, A Belmond Safari, Botswana.
Evoking the feel of a timeless explorers’ lodge, our sustainably designed oasis immerses you in the untamed wilderness of Botswana’s Savute region. Relax in visually calming spaces, filled with rich textures, earthy colours and furniture crafted by local artisans. Watch elephants, hyenas and leopards drink at the watering hole from our viewing hide. Relax by the serene pool and enjoy African-inspired treatments in the beautiful Spa tent or gather round inviting firepits to share stories with new friends. After the afternoon’s game drive, an enchanting Boma dining experience awaits by the campfire.
Rooms
Facilities
Activities and Services
Restaurants
Luxury tented room
All tented rooms are housed on raised wooden platforms, offering spectacular panoramic views, shaded by a traditional African thatch roof. The expansive private decks are furnished with a huge daybed as well as two comfortable armchairs and a side table - perfect for viewing wildlife, an afternoon nap or for enjoying a dinner in complete privacy.
The interiors are luxuriously appointed with en suite bathrooms and a large outdoor shower, in commune with nature. The four-poster bed as well as a lounging sofa, are outward facing with uninterrupted views onto passing wildlife.
Property Facilities
Bar, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Library, Pool, Restaurant, Spa, TV Room
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, En-Suite, Fan, Hair Dryer, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mini Bar, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee
Services
Credit Card
It’s dark outside as a cup of steaming coffee and a freshly-baked pastry is brought to your tent. The first rays of sun are sneaking over the horizon as you set out with your guide. As the light intensifies, the scent of wild sage perfumes the air.
Early morning and late afternoon game drives take you out and among Africa’s largest populations of elephants. Big cats are on the prowl, from leopards to lions. Depending on the season you will also experience the great migrations such as zebra and antelope. Rare sightings might include the endangered wild dog, rock-climbing klipspringers and the elegant roan antelope.
Equally atmospheric and exciting are evening drives, as the shadows lengthen and the sky turns red. Animals and birds emerge from their siesta, and suddenly the bush is alive with sights and sounds.
Game viewing vehicles sit up to only 6 guests, allowing all on board to enjoy the wildlife from a window seat.
Head to our new viewing hide to enjoy a front-row seat of the action as elephants, hyenas and leopards gather at the watering hole for their daily drink.
It is a fascinating time to spot birds at Savute as the intermittent Savute Channel, dry for 30 years, is flowing past the camp again. With it has come a host of new bird species. Dry land birds such as bustards and secretary birds have suddenly been joined by more aquatic varieties. Simply sit out on your terrace and watch the show, especially at dawn and sunset, as they come to splash and drink right in front of your eyes.
Keen birders should also take note of the seasons. At certain times of year you may encounter annual migrations such as flocks of carmine bee-eaters on the move. Some ride on the backs of kori bustards—an amazing sight.
Out in the bush, where rocks rear up among stony hills you will find a collection of paintings that take your breath away. These works by Bushmen are thought to be more than 1,500 years old—beautiful images of elephant, giraffe, sable and eland antelope. Normally these types of painting might be found hidden in caves, but here, unusually, they are out in the wide, open landscape. No-one knows what materials the bushmen used, but the paint is thought to be a mixture of snake venom, blood and plant juices.
After viewing these paintings, continue to the amazing baobab grove—a cathedral-like cluster of 13 giant trees that rival the Bushmen’s paintings in age. Stand among these towering columns at sunset, as the evening light bathes them in a russet glow and wonder at this ancient land.
The open skies around Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge make it the perfect place to experience the vast, dark dome of the African night sky. “A jewel box” is how one of our guides describes it, and certainly it is a wealth of riches from the Milky Way to Orion and Venus. Discover how Bushmen used the stars to locate the true south. And, using a powerful telescope, gaze on constellations that visitors from the northern hemisphere may never have seen before, including the Southern Cross.
Gather around the campfire in this circular log hut and exchange your day’s adventures, much as local villagers do in similar buildings throughout Botswana. Flames flicker and lamps glow as drinks are served; a choir sings traditional songs and invites you to a buffet of African specialities.
Then take a comfortable seat and listen as camp guides recount tales of the bush. Musicians strike up traditional songs and the evening often ends with everyone on their feet, dancing to rhythms handed down through generations.
Discover our luxurious new spa tent, inspired by the elephants grazing on the nearby marula trees and traditional African healing practices. In a quiet spot at the edge of the lodge, surrounded by luxuriant bushveld, we invite you to put time on hold and lose yourself in a sense-soothing journey.
Enjoy a relaxed meal overlooking the stunning Savute channel in our raised restaurant.
Throughout the day you will have the opportunity to relax is in the quiet atmosphere of the lounge taking in the remote landscape.
Restaurant times: Early breakfast (served around 6am) Light snacks, tea and coffee on morning activity Midday meal is served between 10h30-13h30 Afternoon tea (served around 4pm) Drinks and snacks on afternoon activity Dinner (served around 8pm)
A dining experience second to none in a traditional Boma, best translated as a traditional meeting place, where senior tribe/community members would get together for the "Kgotla" or meeting. Typically traditional food dishes would be served during or after these get-togethers in the Boma.
The Boma had two entrances, one more hidden than the other to ensure the safe passage of tribe elders or the chief should any threat arise. The Boma offers spectacular vistas of the African night skies, through the silhouettes of Camel Thorn trees and Acacia nigrescens, which have been incorporated into the design.
Dining in the Savute Boma will, without a doubt, bring you closer to nature within the heart of a true bush environment.
Your Stay
2 Nights
Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities
All Local Brands (Spirits, Wine and Beers) Included
Fast Facts
5 Star
Safari Lodge
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 12
Special Interests: Adventure, Big 5, Birding, Flora, Gourmet, History & Culture, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife
Eagle Island Lodge, A Belmond Safari, Botswana | Okavango Delta
16 Nov 2023 - 18 Nov 2023
Rim flow private plunge poolCredit: Mark Williams
Exterior viewCredit: Mark Williams
View from the spacious roomsCredit: Mark Williams
Bedroom interiorCredit: Mark WilliamsFeaturing a twin or king size bed, mosquito net and reading lights
Bathroom InteriorsCredit: Mark WilliamsFeaturing a double basin, indoor and outdoor shower, oversized bath and a walk-in cupboard
Exterior view of a tented roomCredit: Mark WilliamsFeaturing an extended deck
Exterior of main buildingCredit: Mark WilliamsWith an elephant making his welcome appearance
Restaurant interiorCredit: Mark WilliamsEnjoy your breakfast, lunch and dinner overlooking the Detla
Relaxation areaCredit: Mark Williams
Breakfast setupCredit: Mark Williams
Pizza ovenCredit: Mark Williams
Private diningCredit: Mark Williams
Aerial view of the lodgeCredit: Mark Williams
Aerial viewCredit: Mark Williams
Fish Eagle BarCredit: Mark WilliamsOverlooking the Okavango Delta
Mokoro excursionCredit: Heiko Von Fintel
Mokoro Canoe SafariCredit: Heiko von FintelThis traditional dugout canoe takes you gliding over shallow, clear waters past brilliant water lilies and papyrus grasses to areas inaccessible by boat.
Walking SafarisCredit: Mark Williams
Helicopter SafarisCredit: Mark Williams
Picnic by a Baobab treeCredit: Mark Williams
Bush drivesCredit: Mark Williams(Achievable during dry season)
Lodge InteriorCredit: Erika HobartGrab a game of chess or backgammon in the lounge as the sun sets.
Setting up for Afternoon TeaCredit: Erika HobartAfternoon Tea - teh perfect snack time.
Eagle Island Lodge, A Belmond Safari, Botswana, is the ultimate Okavango Delta water- experience-focused safari lodge.
The lodge is decorated to reflect an explorer’s base. Design highlights in the twelve spacious Deluxe Tented Rooms include oversized beds with views of the delta, large outdoor decks with a vista, private plunge pools, indoor & outdoor showers, a reading nook and walk-in wardrobes.
Public areas include a stylish dining area with a pizza oven, a lounge area with an artisan-style bar, a library, a campfire area and the Fish Eagle Bar which is located directly on the water.
The lodge offers a variety of water-focused safari activities including motorboat safaris, barge cruises, mokoro safaris (a local canoe), fishing, as well as walking safaris and the ultimate air safari experience by helicopter. Water activities are seasonal and depend on water-levels at the lodge.
Rooms
Facilities
Activities and Services
Restaurants
Deluxe Tented Room (s)
Each of the lodge's 12 rooms are 82 square meters in size and boasts its own plunge pool and outdoor deck. Offering contemporary luxury, every detail has been carefully thought-out.
The centerpiece is an over-sized bed with views onto the Delta. Each room features a luxurious bathroom with a large bathtub, double vanity unit and a walk-in wardrobe, as well as a walled outdoor shower with a window looking onto the Delta.
Facilities include:
Private outdoor rim flow plunge pool and viewing deck. Air conditioning Mini-bar In-room safe Hair dryer 10v/220v plugs for electric razors Indoor and outdoor shower Dressing gowns and slippers Hairdryer Tea and coffee making facilities Reading/relaxation nook
Property Facilities
Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Library, Pool, Private Vehicle Available, Restaurant, TV Room
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Hair Dryer, 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, Smoking Rooms, Tea / Coffee
Services
Credit Card
Here you experience the remoteness of the Okavango Delta and get a bird's eye view of the inaccessible lakes and islands.
Your pilot’s voice is coming through on the headset. “Look to the right where a herd of buffalos is crossing the river. We’re going down for a close-up view.” Next, you’re soaring up again. “We’re heading to a higher altitude. See the formation of the channels and the way in which the water and land mass has evolved over centuries.”
Helicopter flights over Botswana are one of life’s big adventures. Hunting has rarely been done from above and therefore animals are unperturbed by aircraft. Surprisingly, you may hover just a few feet over great herds of zebra as they continue to graze, completely unconcerned.
Even more exciting, you may be able to touch down on an island far away from human habitation and stand in a spot that has not been touched by the modern world. A speed boat may appear bearing coffee or a celebratory glass of sparkling wine: sip at leisure as you gaze on lush, riverine scenery—one of the world’s last great wildernesses.
(Additional rates apply)
We are thrilled to introduce the first helicopter and horseback safari combination in Botswana at the Belmond Eagle Island Lodge.
Combining an aerial safari by private helicopter with a horse-ride through one of the world’s last true remaining wildernesses, the excursion offers a new way to explore the UNESCO world heritage site and its magnificent inhabitants.
This traditional dugout canoe takes you gliding over shallow, clear waters past brilliant water lilies and papyrus grasses to areas inaccessible by boat.
On a walking safari through the Delta you are totally enveloped in nature. You spot amazing things close-up: an insect, animal tracks, big game droppings, swarming termite mounds. These small, unexpected aspects of life often make the biggest impression. If a game drive is like reading a book: a walking safari is like actually becoming a character in that book.
Many people come to Belmond Eagle Island Lodge purely to experience its huge variety of birds. The 400 land and aquatic species drawn to the watery Okavango Delta make for unrivalled bird viewing.
Belmond Eagle Island Lodge is positioned close to Xaxaba village. On request you may visit the village and you may be invited into a private home to experience aspects of their way of life. This is no tourist attraction, but a community of people who have adapted ancient traditions to modern times.
Motorboat safaris up the Delta takes to closer to nature and far of areas not acceptable by foot or vehicle.
Take a slow gently cruise down the Delta for sundowners, you might just see a Fish Eagle taking flight or pods of hippos in the distance through an African sunset.
Morning and afternoon game drives are available in open land cruisers. Night game drives with spotlights and stargazing presentations are also available after dinner. As the lodge is located on a private concession, vehicles are allowed to drive before and after sunset, as well as off road.
Enjoy superb cuisine under cover or in the open air surrounded by nature and wildlife.
Our chefs will also happily prepare picnics for you to take on a game drive.
Game drives often start early. You will be woken with a light breakfast to enjoy in your tent before setting off on your drive.
Restaurant times: Early breakfast (served around 6am) Light snacks, tea and coffee on morning activity Midday meal served between 10h30-13h30 Afternoon tea (served around 4pm) Drinks and snacks on afternoon activity Dinner (served around 8pm)
With incredible views cross the Okavango Delta and delicious food to match, the dining experience at Belmond Eagle Island Lodge is one to remember.
Choose an elegant candle-lit dinner on the private outdoor deck (additional rates apply).
There is no better place to experience the sunset over the Okavango Delta than from the Fish-Eagle Bar.
Open-air and covered bar and lounge areas with a dedicated viewing deck provide the best of both worlds - a complete view of the Delta coupled with the cool relaxation of this safari hideaway.
Your Stay
2 Nights
Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities
All Local Brands (Spirits, Wine and Beers) Included
Fast Facts
5 Star
Safari Lodge
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 12
Special Interests: Adventure, Big 5, Birding, Fishing, Flora, History & Culture, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife
Matetsi Victoria Falls | Matetsi Private Game Reserve
18 Nov 2023 - 20 Nov 2023
Matetsi River Lodge Suites outdoor livingprivate plunge pool and living spaces
Matetsi River House Private PoolRiver House Pool Zambezi Sunrise
Matetsi River House Bedroom Views
Matetsi River House Outdoor LivingFirebowl, sundowners
Matetsi River House exterioreasy living
Matetsi River House Indoor-Outdoor flowsRiver House lounge
Matetsi River Lodge Suites Zambezi views
Matetsi River Lodge Sumptuous Suites
Matetsi River Lodge Sundown on the deck
Matetsi River Lodge Suite Exteriorprivate dining
Matetsi River Lodge Suites exterior & trees
Matetsi Victoria Falls lap poolpool, safari shop, fitness room
Matetsi Victoria Falls camp aerial viewcamp on the Zambezi
Matetsi Victoria Falls Entrance'boats hang like windchimes'
Matetsi Victoria Falls Sundown Pool Loungers
Vic Falls Aerial to Matetsi curve
Zambezi basin Vic Falls Aerial
Matetsi Private Game Reserve Giraffe, Zebra
Matetsi Private Game Reserve Giraffe Impalas
Matetsi Private Game Reserve Giraffe
Matetsi Private Game Reserve Elephant w Calf
Matetsi Private Game Reserve Elephant and Young
Westcamp Sundown
Eastcamp dawn
Sausage Tree Dining Deck
Copper Bar
Eastcamp lounge
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.
Rooms
Units
Facilities
Activities and Services
Restaurants
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 unit 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
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 Victoria Falls guests enjoy open-space East and West camp bars, bomas 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 options are prepared daily too.
Your Stay
2 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: 22
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Fishing, Flora, Gourmet, History & Culture, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Shopping, Star Gazing, Wildlife, Wine