Overview

Tongabezi Lodge by Green Safaris is a luxury boutique lodge situated on the Zambezi River in the Victoria Falls region of Zambia. Known for: its exclusive riverside location with unobstructed views of the Zambezi River, intimate accommodation with only 6 suites ensuring personalized service, and its position as an ideal base for adventure activities including whitewater rafting, canoeing, and walking safaris. Best for: couples seeking romantic riverside experiences, adventure travelers wanting active pursuits combined with luxury, honeymooners, and small group gatherings.

Accommodation & Rooms

Tongabezi Lodge features 6 distinctly designed suites, each offering unique configurations and river-facing positions. The suites are characterized by their open-air designs with natural ventilation, private decks overlooking the Zambezi River, and en-suite bathrooms featuring both indoor and outdoor shower options. Specific room types include standard river suites and premium tree house structures that elevate guests above the riverbank for enhanced wildlife viewing and cooling air circulation. Each suite incorporates natural materials including wood and canvas elements, creating a seamless integration with the surrounding landscape while maintaining luxury comfort standards.

Dining & Cuisine

The lodge operates multiple dining venues including a main dining area, a signature rock pool platform used for casual meals and beverages, and tree house dining structures positioned among the vegetation. Meals feature international cuisine adapted to local ingredients, with a strong emphasis on fresh produce and sustainable sourcing. The lodge accommodates dietary preferences with advance notice, and dining experiences often extend to riverside settings for breakfast, lunch, or dinner with Zambezi River views. Bar service includes premium spirits, wines, and local beverages, with particular attention to sunset service as the sun descends toward the river.

Wildlife & Activities

While Tongabezi Lodge is not positioned within a major game reserve, the Zambezi River itself supports diverse wildlife including hippopotamus, crocodile, elephant, buffalo, and numerous bird species. Guided walking safaris along the riverbank provide opportunities to observe wildlife in their natural habitat under expert guidance. The lodge specializes in adventure activities: whitewater rafting on the Zambezi River (Class III-IV rapids), guided canoeing for wildlife spotting, guided walking safaris with experienced trackers, and sunset river cruises. Night drives can be arranged to observe nocturnal species, and the property's location provides excellent bird watching opportunities, particularly for African fish eagles and other Zambezi-associated species.

Location & How to Get There

Tongabezi Lodge is located approximately 10 kilometers upstream from Victoria Falls town center, positioned on the Zambian side of the Zambezi River. The lodge is situated at approximately 17.9° S latitude and 25.8° E longitude. Access from Victoria Falls International Airport (approximately 25 kilometers away) typically requires a 30-45 minute transfer by road. The lodge can also be accessed via helicopter transfer for guests arriving from other regional destinations. Road transfers from Livingstone are approximately 1 hour. The property is accessible year-round, though water levels and river conditions vary seasonally.

Best Time to Visit

The dry season from May to October offers optimal conditions for adventure activities, with lower water levels making whitewater rafting more predictable and wildlife more concentrated near water sources. June through August represents peak season with cooler temperatures and excellent visibility for walking safaris. November to March constitutes the rainy season when the Zambezi River swells, creating more powerful rapids for advanced rafters and lush vegetation for wildlife viewing. April and May represent shoulder seasons with moderate rainfall and fewer tourists. The Falls themselves are most impressive during the high-water period of April through June when the Zambezi discharge is greatest.

Conservation & Community

Tongabezi Lodge operates under Green Safaris, an operator with demonstrated commitment to sustainable tourism practices. The lodge implements water conservation measures, waste management protocols, and supports local community initiatives in the Victoria Falls region. The property's small size (6 suites) inherently limits environmental impact compared to larger facilities. Staff recruitment prioritizes local employment, and the lodge contributes to conservation efforts protecting the Zambezi River ecosystem and associated wildlife populations.

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