Tongabezi Lodge Review: Zambezi Luxury by Victoria Falls
The Tongabezi Lodge combines luxury with fascinating nature. The lodge is only 15 kilometers away from the famous Victoria Falls and is located on the Sambesi Riverbank.
Recommended by Rosie from Flying Fluskey
The Victoria Falls must appear on most bucket lists. However, did you know that Upstream is a hotel just as worthy of a space?
Tongabezi is perched on the banks of the mighty Zambezi, and from its high vantage point, you take in huge swathes of the river. There is more than enough view for everyone to feel like it belongs exclusively to them.
Raised relaxation areas abound, and the main restaurant has a huge riverside outlook, complete with a fire pit.
Of course, once you have enjoyed the sunset from this spot or on a special romantic cruise, you won’t see the river all that well, but the grants and snort of hippos drift across the river’s moonlit surface.
At Tongabezi, every guest has their own slice of paradise. From treehouse accommodation to riverside decks, there is something to suit everybody. They even have their very own castaway island called Sindabezi.
Each room is a wonderful mix that could be described as rustic chic or homespun elegance. Black and white tiles mix with wooden bathroom units.
Look closer; you will see lovely little handmade details like the curtain tie-backs and artwork. Every room has a huge bed, plump pillows, and mosquito nets to ensure a great night’s sleep.
On check-in, you will be introduced to your valet. These friendly and impeccably polite guys will ensure that every aspect of your trip is perfect.
If you fancy a candlelit bath after dinner, with a bottle of wine or a cider, then your valet will ensure it is ready and steaming for your return. It is a level of luxury that few are used to.
Food is taken very seriously at Tongabezi. Here, there is not a buffet in sight. Instead, every meal is a three-course affair. Fresh ingredients, some from their own market kitchen, are prepared to perfection and in huge quantities.
There is no worry that you will go hungry. The tapas lunch consists of a huge boat of up to ten different dishes for guests to pick at. There is even a huge variety of dining venues as you aren’t confined to the restaurant either.
Fancy a balcony dinner in the clubhouse, a private dinner on the floating sampan, or breakfast on your very own sun deck? These can all be arranged.
Oh, and throughout your whole stay, drinks are included. You will find every top-shelf brand here and a very passable sparkling wine.
You have a lovely choice of activities at Tongabezi. Guests can choose white-knuckle adventures like a dip in the Devil’s Pool. This is only available in the dry season and involves a careful swim in the natural infinity pool that forms at the very edge of Victoria Falls.
There are river cruises and safari drives; they even offer trips to the Chobe National Park. If total relaxation is your plan, some activities won’t send the adrenaline pumping.
The sunset cruise is wonderful. Enjoy drinks of your choice with a beautiful African sunset behind. What an end to the day.
Alternatively, book a private picnic on a sand bar, or you can relax by one of the two pools on the property.
If even that is too much, then you can soak up the view by your villa on the sun deck or in your private plunge pool.
The occasional speedboat carving its white way across the Zambezi’s meander is the only noise to disturb you. Watch them zigzag between the rocks and hippos.
There is no wonder Conte Nast named this one of the top hotels in the world. Its riverside setting, relaxed, friendly staff, and addictive catering make this a completely divine stay.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tongabezi Lodge
What types of accommodation does Tongabezi Lodge offer?
Tongabezi Lodge offers a variety of unique accommodations, including treehouse rooms and riverside deck suites. Every room features a huge bed with plump pillows, handmade decorative details like curtain tie-backs and local artwork, and open-air designs that immerse guests in the natural surroundings. Many rooms include private sun decks and private plunge pools overlooking the Zambezi River.
What is the dining experience like at Tongabezi Lodge?
Dining at Tongabezi Lodge is a gourmet experience with no buffets. Every meal is a three-course affair prepared with fresh ingredients, some from the lodge’s own market kitchen. Tapas lunch features up to ten different dishes. Guests can dine in a variety of unique venues, including the riverside restaurant, a balcony dinner in the clubhouse, a private dinner on the floating sampan, or breakfast on their own private sun deck. All drinks are included throughout the stay, featuring top-shelf brands and sparkling wine.
What activities are available at Tongabezi Lodge?
Tongabezi Lodge offers a wide range of activities for all preferences. Adventure seekers can swim in Devil’s Pool, the natural infinity pool at the very edge of Victoria Falls (available in dry season). The lodge also offers sunset river cruises on the Zambezi, safari drives, trips to Chobe National Park, and private picnics on sand bars. For relaxation, guests can use two on-site pools, private plunge pools, and sun decks overlooking the river.
Does Tongabezi Lodge offer personal service?
Yes, Tongabezi Lodge provides exceptional personalized service. On check-in, every guest is introduced to their own personal valet who takes care of all needs throughout the stay. Valets can arrange candlelit baths with wine after dinner, organize private dining experiences, and ensure every aspect of the stay is tailored to the guest’s preferences. The staff are known for being friendly, relaxed, and impeccably polished.
How far is Tongabezi Lodge from Victoria Falls?
Tongabezi Lodge is located just 15 kilometers upstream from Victoria Falls on the banks of the Zambezi River in Zambia. This proximity makes it an ideal luxury base for visiting one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders while enjoying a tranquil riverside retreat away from the crowds.
What wildlife can you experience at Tongabezi Lodge?
Tongabezi Lodge sits on the banks of the Zambezi River, where guests can hear hippos grunting and snorting across the moonlit river surface at night. The lodge also offers safari drives and trips to nearby Chobe National Park for more extensive wildlife viewing. The natural riverside setting provides an immersive African wilderness experience right from the comfort of the lodge.
Is Tongabezi Lodge suitable for a romantic getaway?
Yes, Tongabezi Lodge is an exceptional choice for a romantic getaway. The lodge offers special romantic sunset cruises on the Zambezi, candlelit baths arranged by personal valets, private dining on a floating sampan, breakfast on private sun decks, and secluded riverside accommodations with plunge pools. The stunning African sunsets and tranquil river setting create an unforgettable romantic atmosphere.
- About the Author
- More info
Tim Kroeger is a luxury wellness travel specialist, endurance athlete, and the creator of The Restorative Index. He is the official brand ambassador for Healthi Life in Bangkok and the inventor of Luxury Bikepacking. He reviews luxury wellness hotels at tim-kroeger.com and publishes adventure travel content at Universal Traveller. Follow him on Instagram.
