Victoria Falls River Lodge Zimbabwe
Victoria Falls River Lodge
Zambezi National Park, Kandahar Region, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
www.victoriafallsriverlodge.com
HOTEL INFORMATION
Group
Zambezi Crescent Collection
Shareholders
Privately owned
Date of Creation
Opened our doors April 2012
Hotel General Manager
General Manager, Roddy Meiring, was born, raised and educated in Harare, Zimbabwe and has vast experience in hospitality management in Zimbabwe and Mozambique.
Roddy’s hospitality career started at Meikles Hotel (Harare) at the age of 17. He furthered his training through The Cape Grace Hotel in Cape Town and gained further exposure within South Africa, Botswana, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Tanzania until deciding to return to his home country in 2016.
Specialising in both larger and boutique hotels – all focused on the luxury traveller – Roddy’s hands-on management approach has enjoyed a successful track record of developing top quality products and services.
Hotel Positioning
Hotel positioning: 5-star Luxury Safari Lodge
Luxury brand: Virtuoso, Traveller Made
Development Strategy
• April 2012 – Victoria Falls River Lodge opens – 7 x Luxury Tents (incl. 3 x Luxury Family Tents).
• 2013-2015 – 5 x Luxury Tents (incl. 2 more Luxury Family Tents) added. Each room upgraded to include a private plunge pool
• 2015 – Riverside Bar
• 2016 – TOA Spa
• August 2017 – 3 x Island Treehouse Suites on the private Kandahar Island
o 2 x Treehouse Suites (incl. 1 x Starbed Treehouse) followed shortly thereafter
• January 2018 – Zambezi Crescent Preschool opens its doors
• 2018 – Fitness Centre
• Mid-April 2019 – final Island Treehouse Suite built (Starbed)
• Late April 2019 – Riverside Restaurant
Victoria Falls River Lodge
History & Story
Zimbabwe, a land-locked country in Southern Africa, is bordered by South Africa, Botswana, Zambia and Mozambique. It has 16 official languages, with English, Shona, and Ndebele most commonly used.
Since the 11th century, present-day Zimbabwe has been the site of several organised states and kingdoms as well as a major route for migration and trade.
The Falls became an increasingly popular attraction during British colonial rule, with the town of Victoria Falls becoming the main tourist centre. Visitor numbers to Victoria Falls increased steadily over the decades with 300 000 people visiting the Falls annually by the 1990’s. By that time, Victoria Falls was an established adventure holiday destination, a trend that continued to grow during the early 2000’s.
Set upon the banks of the mighty Zambezi River, Zambezi Crescent’s Victoria Falls River Lodge is the first privately owned lodge to be built in the Zambezi National Park (Zimbabwe). Over and above its spectacular location, luxurious accommodations and personalised service – the Team at this pioneer Lodge also have big hearts.
Through various contributions, collaborating with non-profit organizations, in-kind gifts and employee volunteerism; Victoria Falls River Lodge is committed to bringing positive, lasting change to our community and the environment.
In January 2018 an ambitious plan to build a preschool for children in the Early Childhood Development phase, aged 3 to 5 years old, came into fruition when the school officially opened its doors. Today the Zambezi Crescent Preschool provides free schooling to all pre-schoolers living in the Zambezi National Park’s Staff Village.
The Victoria Falls Anti-Poaching Unit (VFAPU) – a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of local wildlife and natural resources – protects the wildlife and natural habitat from poacher pressure (subsistence and commercial). VFAPU also rescues and rehabilitates animals injured by human interference.
Victoria Falls River Lodge contributes towards VFAPU’s fundraising efforts, regularly donates to VFAPU’s conservation efforts and offers resources to aid VFAPU rangers during rescue and rehabilitation operations.
Renovation Date
UPCOMING REVAMP
Location: Victoria Falls River Lodge, Zambezi National Park (mainland)
Category: Main building (incl. reception, lounge, dining and kitchen areas)
Details: Predominantly re-thatching of roof
Date: December 2019
Location: Victoria Falls River Lodge, Zambezi National Park (mainland)
Room Category: Luxury Tented Suites
Room Type: Luxury Tents & Luxury Family Tents
Details: Interiors upgrade
Date: ongoing (availability permitting) estimated completion December 2019
Designer: Jena Gradwell
Date of added extensions
RECENT ADDITIONS
Location: Victoria Falls River Lodge, Kandahar Island
Room Category: Island Treehouse Suite
Room Type: Starbed Treehouse
Room Number: 6
Date completed: April 2019
Designer: Jena Gradwell
Location: Victoria Falls River Lodge, Zambezi National Park (mainland)
Category: Alternative Dining Area
Name: Riverside Restaurant
Capacity: 30
Date completed: April 2019
Designer: Jena Gradwell
Main Strengths, Special Touch
On the bank of one of the world’s longest rivers, Victoria Falls River Lodge is the ultimate antidote to the chaos of civilization.
Nestled within the Zambezi National Park’s vibrant landscape, the relaxed atmosphere of the Lodge’s, family-friendly, Luxury Tented Suites perfectly complements the natural surroundings. 13 premium, partially wooded tented rooms (including 5 Luxury Family Tents) not only enjoy spectacular river views but each is also equipped with all the modern conveniences one would come to expect from top class lodgings. Onsite facilities include a well-equipped Fitness Centre, Africology affiliated Toa Spa, sparkling rim-flow Infinity swimming pool and a choice of voluminous, open-flow public areas – each offering a cool respite from the African sun and beckon invitingly to those wishing to relax and recharge after a satisfying day of being out and about.
Resting between Zambia and Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls River Lodge’s Island Treehouse Suites appear suspended among the treetops on the private Kandahar Island. Accessible only by boat, the 6 discreet stilted timber and glass structures (including 2 double-storey Starbed Treehouses, complete with rooftop sitting area and signature Starbed) are perfectly at home in the pristine Island setting and offer guests (aged 16 years and older) the ultimate in luxury and exclusivity.
A celebration of serenity, space and the gentle light which streams through the leafy canopy, the Island Treehouse Suites offer a fresh and contemporary interpretation of the classic safari lodge and combine a tropical island feel with an immersive bush getaway.
Whether through walls of glass, from elevated walkways or sun-dappled open-air areas, the surrounding landscape and wildlife can be admired and enjoyed from almost any angle. Personal butler services, incredible bird and wildlife viewing, fine dining and a significant variety of recreation opportunities assure a truly unforgettable experience.
Location
The ancient, and truly spectacular, Victoria Falls – or Mosi-oa-Tunya (Tokaleya Tonga: The Smoke that Thunders) – was first made known to the outside world in 1855 by Scottish explorer extraordinaire, Dr David Livingstone. Located on the Zambezi River between the countries of Zambia and Zimbabwe, the magnificent waterfall – renamed by Dr Livingstone after the British Monarch, Queen Victoria – is believed to be the largest in the world in terms of the volume of water that flows over the lip of its mighty gorge.
Just a few kilometres upstream from the Victoria Falls, positioned within Zimbabwe’s Zambezi National Park – a 56 000ha (138 350 acre) game reserve; the fully inclusive Victoria Falls River Lodge is ideally located to explore the famous landmark and surrounds. Perfectly located, a mere stone’s throw from all that Victoria Falls has to offer, the Lodge is also blissfully removed from the hustle and bustle and effortlessly blends the definitive African Safari Experience with one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World – the iconic spray ever visible in the near distance.
An impressive array of onsite activity and relaxation options (including morning/afternoon Game Drives and/or River Cruises, a guided Tour of the Falls, fishing opportunities, guided bush walks, an on-site Fitness Centre and Africology affiliated Toa Spa and a boutique gift shop – for bespoke curios and mementos) awaits. Whilst easy access to the historic town of Victoria Falls offers visitors a veritable smorgasbord of shopping and leisure activity possibilities.
Victoria Falls River Lodge is designed around an array of experiences, suited to both the arduous adventurer and the quiet explorer within each of us.
Key sites/activities in the area
Popular Third-Party Activities (Note: several are seasonal)
• White water rafting
• Livingston Island Tour aka Devils Pool
• Helicopter flights over the Falls
• Historical Bridge Tours
• Upper Zambezi Canoeing
• Chobe Full Day Trip (Botswana)
• Local Markets & Curio Shopping
• High-wire activities – incl. Ziplining, Flying Fox, Canopy Tours
• Lunar Rainbow Tour
• Bridge activities – incl. Bungee, Bridge Swing, Bridge Slide
Fun Facts
• First privately-owned Luxury Safari Lodge to be established in the Zambezi National Park, Zimbabwe
• Zambezi National Park – the closest game park to the Victoria Falls
• 13 x Luxury Tented Suites – canvas under thatch – nestle on banks of Zambezi River
• 6 x Island Treehouse Suites – predominantly timber and glass structures – are elevated among the treetops of the private Kandahar Island
• ‘Blue Ribbon’ designed kitchen
• Lodge transfers by boat
• Wood-fired pizza oven – for gourmet pizzas and breads
• Riverside Restaurant – for an live cooking experience with buffet style meals with a traditional African flare
• Elevated game viewing platform, with 360o views through the treetops, overlooking a private waterhole
• Africology affiliated Toa Spa
• Onsite Fitness Centre
• Zambezi Crescent Preschool
Children’s Corner
LUXURY TENTS & LUXURY FAMILY TENTS
All ages welcomed at Luxury Tented Suites.
Sharing children discount available – subject to number of guests sharing a tent and the age(s) of the sharing child(ren)
Luxury Family Tents can accommodate up to 3 children – under the age of 18 years (sharing with adults) – in a smaller room adjoining the main bedroom area. This alcove is separated from the main area by a curtain and contains a bunk bed and one single bed. The bathroom is open plan and shared.
Children accommodated in their own tent will be charged the full adult rate (i.e. the first two occupants of a tent (regardless of age) shall be charged the full adult sharing rate where after the age appropriate discounted sharing child rate(s) shall apply where applicable.
Camp cots are available with prior arrangement and each accommodates a maximum of one child. Child minding services are available at an additional cost and are conducted by lodge staff
The accommodation rate includes the Little Livingstone’s Children’s Program – developed specifically with our younger guests in mind. The Program offers age appropriate Game Drive (sole use vehicles may also be arranged – T’s & C’s apply) and Bush Walk options. An assortment of books and board games – offering indoor entertainment options for when Mom and Dad take a siesta – are also available.
ISLAND TREEHOUSE SUITES
No persons younger than 16 years shall be accommodated the Island Treehouse Suites.
Each Island Treehouse Suite accommodates a maximum of 2 sharing guests. Children accommodated in their own Treehouse will be charged the full adult rate (i.e. the first two occupants of a room (regardless of age) shall be charged the full adult sharing rate).
NB: Children are the responsibility of their parents/guardians. Plunge pools are neither cordoned off nor manned by lifesavers / staff.
HOTEL FEATURES
Accommodation
Room Category: 13 x Luxury Tented Suites (i.e. Luxury Tents & Luxury Family Tents)
Room Type: Luxury Tent
Qty: 8
Size: 110 m2
Views: River
Sleep Configuration: Twin/California King
Room Type: Luxury Family Tent
Qty: 5
Size: 119 m2
Views: River
Sleep Configuration: Twin/California King – has adjoining children’s room with a single bed and a bunk bed
Amenities: Luxury Tented Suites (i.e. both Luxury Tents & Luxury Family Tents)
• Nestled on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River and positioned 40-60m apart
• Exclusive viewing decks, each with private plunge pool, overlooking the legendary Zambezi River
• Spacious bedroom and sitting area
• Open-plan, en-suite bathroom with freestanding bathtub, twin vanities and indoor & outdoor showers
• Separate W/C
• Air-conditioning and ceiling fans
• Mosquito nets and repellent in every room
• Mini Bar
• Tea/Coffee making facilities
• Hair dryer
• Electronic laptop safe
• International adaptors
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• Robes and slippers
Room Category: 6 x Island Treehouse Suites (i.e. Island Treehouses & Starbed Treehouses)
Room Type: Island Treehouse
Qty: 4
Size: 95 m2
Views: River
Sleep Configuration: Twin/California King
Room Type: Starbed Treehouse (double-storey)
Qty: 2
Size: 100 m2
Views: River
Sleep Configuration: Twin/California King – has additional Starbed and sitting area on rooftop
Amenities: Island Treehouse Suites (i.e. both Island Treehouses & Starbed Treehouses)
• Elevated among the treetops of the private Kandahar Island
• Connect to main areas via raised walkways
• Exclusive private decks, each with plunge pool, overlooking the legendary Zambezi River
• Elegantly appointed bedroom and sitting area
– Starbed Treehouses boast an open-air rooftop sitting area and signature Starbed – with which it shares a name
• Open-plan, en-suite bathroom with freestanding bathtub, spacious vanity area and rain shower
– Starbed Treehouses feature twin vanities and twin rain showers
• Private W/C
• Climate control air-conditioning
• Mosquito nets and repellent
• Mini Bar
• Nespresso coffee machine /Tea making facilities
• Hair dryer
• Electronic laptop safe
• International plugs & adaptors
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• Robes and slippers
• Number of rooms, (keys) in all: 19
(i.e. 13 x Luxury Tented Suites and 6 x Island Treehouse Suites)
Restaurants & Bars
At Victoria Falls River Lodge, no effort is spared to provide a fine dining experience bursting with local flavours and using only the freshest produce and herbs.
The Victoria Falls River Lodge kitchen, custom designed by Bruce Bromberg (American Celebrity Chef from ‘Blue Ribbon’ fame), produces menus catering to all tastes, including a variety of traditional dishes by our expert Zimbabwean Chefs.
The lodge layout also lends itself to various dining venue options. This not only affords the onsite Team the opportunities to capitalised on best meal settings, e.g. for specific times of day, but also enables them to optimally cater to guests’ preferences (e.g. special occasions, family groups, retirees, corporates, and honeymooners etc.). Private dinners are also available with prior arrangement.
The creation of the memorable meals, at the various restaurant and/bar options located on the ‘mainland’, falls to the talented kitchen team lead by our highly skilled Head Chef, Lloyd and his right-hand man, Msizi. The scrumptious spreads – enjoyed by guests staying on the Island – are passionately presented by Chefs Leo and & Prince.
Menus are typically a la carte for breakfasts, with set menu options for lunches and dinners. The newly built Riverside Restaurant offers guests a new, fresh and interactive take on mealtimes – with live cooking and a more buffet-style service.
A choice wine list, boasting a unique and comprehensive collection of fine South African wines, offers guests numerous options that will complement any menu. Truly… the only thing to rival our food is the view!
• Main Dining Area
– All inclusive (barring Superior and Premium/Imported Brand Beverages & Cocktails)
• Riverside Restaurant
– All inclusive (barring Superior and Premium/Imported Brand Beverages & Cocktails) – and alternative dining area/experience
• Riverside Bar
– All inclusive (barring Superior and Premium/Imported Brand Beverages & Cocktails) – and alternative dining area/experience
• Dining Area (The Island)
– All inclusive (barring Premium/Imported Brand Beverages)
• Sunset Bar (The Island)
– All inclusive (barring Premium/Imported Brand Beverages) – and alternative dining area/experience
Wellness
• Toa Spa
Set upon a raised deck, overlooking the iconic Zambezi River, and utilizing the world-renowned, all-natural Africology range; the aim of Toa Spa is to always ensure that the body and biology are treated in harmony whilst enjoying a truly authentic African offering. Stimulated by the natural environment surrounding the spa itself, treatments incorporate ancient African ingredients and healing-touch methods, passed down through generations, for the ultimate spa indulgence. Several exclusive African-inspired spa treatments are offered along with all the familiar favourites you would expect from a luxury spa.
• Rim-flow infinity swimming pool
The perfect spot for a few short lengths to up the heart-rate, an energetic family game of Marco-Polo, or to simply curl up on a one of the comfy pool loungers and unwind with a favourite book.
• Fitness Centre
Ideal for the fitness conscious traveller who likes to look after his or her physical well-being – even when on a holiday break in Africa. Situated close to the magnificent rim-flow pool – with equipment such as a rower, treadmill, stationary bikes, dumbbells, yoga mats and more – we consider it to be the gym with the best view in Africa!
• Private Plunge Pools
In addition to the host of luxury amenities available in all 13 Luxury Tented Suites and 6 Island Treehouse Suites respectively, each also extends out onto a private deck with its own plunge pool and boasts uninterrupted panoramas of the Zambezi River and surrounds.
Corporate & Celebration Events
Although conferencing/events are not a key focus at Victoria Falls River Lodge, basic equipment such as whiteboards, flip charts, notepads and pens etc. can be arranged with prior notice if needed. Should specific additional décor be required – over and above what is available onsite, the Lodge will be happy to assist by referring guests to local event organisers/suppliers, but that it will be up to the guests themselves to liaise with such organisers/suppliers from thereon in.
With regards to seating and layout options, the Riverside Bar is able to seat up to 10 delegates/guests, boardroom style, around the spectacular yellow wood table. A few additional, loose, seats could also be randomly arranged in this area if necessary but it should be noted that – owing to its immense weight – the yellow wood table cannot be removed from the venue.
The Riverside Restaurant too could be set up in a boardroom or banqueting style meeting/event utilising the existing dining tables and chairs or in a more informal, cinema style. Subject to the preferred seating configuration approximately 30 delegates could be seated in this venue.
Kindly note that both venues should be considered ‘open to the elements’ in that they are open sided in order to maximise the views of the river, sunrise/sunsets and surrounds. Consequently, light – especially during daytime conferencing – is always a factor to consider. Neither venue therefore lends itself to conferences/events requiring intricate audio-visual equipment.
It should also be noted that large events (e.g. weddings / large conferences) will only be considered if sole use of the Lodge is booked and that, owing to our location within a National Park, several T’s & C’s will apply.
(unless sole use of the lodge is arranged)
Extra Notable Features
• Twice daily game drives & river cruises on specialist luxury pontoons allowing enhanced close-up encounters
• Fishing from both the river bank and guided ‘on river’ fishing activities/safaris. Basic fishing tackle provided (excl. fly fishing equipment)
• Guided Tour of the Falls (excl. Rainforest Entry Fee)
• Information and activity booking facility
• Boutique gift shop with local arts, crafts and bespoke souvenirs
• Spacious open plan lounge areas
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• Breath-taking game and bird viewing in camp from each secluded luxury tent/treehouse (camp is unfenced)
• Elevated game viewing platform, with 360o views through the treetops, overlooking a private waterhole
• A ‘chauffeured’ golf cart is available – to ferry guests back to the Luxury Tented Suites at night
• Raised boardwalks interconnect Island Treehouse Suites with main areas
• Personal Butler Services (Island Treehouse Suites)
Hotel and restaurant Awards
2018 & 2019
• Winner of a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence 2019
• Winner of a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence 2018
• Third Place Safari Awards Best Family Experience 2018
2016 & 2017
- Winner of a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence 2017
- Winner of a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence 2016
2015 & 2014
• Winner of a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence 2015
• Winner of Safari Awards Best Family Experience 2015
• Winner of a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence 2014
Number of employees
84