Intro
Tongabezi Lodge is a romantic hideaway on the banks of the Zambezi River just upstream of Victoria Falls. Our friendly team welcomes guests to a selection of houses and cottages, each beautifully styled with furniture and embellishments from all over Africa. Guests can dine beside the river or on their private terrace. Privately owned and run, Tongabezi combines an exclusive ambiance with the legendary warmth and hospitality of the people of Zambia.
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Highlights
Being the frame for all the joys and beauty that Zambia presents. And we love being pioneers of eco-tourism along the shores of the Zambezi river.
Need To Know
The Sampan is very popular so guests should try to pre-book this whenever possible. If you would like to visit Livingstone Island please understand that it is subject to water levels being low enough to operate. During times when the water is plentiful over Victoria Falls it is possible to see a full moon moonbow - plan accordingly.
Safaris
The Mosi-Oa-Tunya Park offers exceptional rhino, buffalo and elephant sightings - should you wish to see cats it is advisable to book a Chobe day trip to increase your chances. The lodge also has over 300 bird species. Tongabezi offers river safaris where guests float along the Zimbabwean side of the Zambezi, offering the chance to see elephants, buck, crocodiles, and even the occasional lion coming down to drink.
Wildlife
Tongabezi sits on the banks of the Zambezi River. Our closest neighbours are the hippos and the crocodiles, but we always have a valet on hand to escort nervous guests to and from their rooms. The Mosi-Oa-Tunya Park offers exceptional rhino, buffalo and elephant sightings - should you wish to see cats it is advisable to book a Chobe day trip to increase your chances. The lodge also has over 300 bird species.
Quick Facts
Property Type
Safari Lodge (less than 20 rooms), Safari House / Villa
Average Price
From US$ 555 to US$ 1065 pppn in 2018.
Child Policy
Tongabezi Houses & Cottages: We are happy to take children of seven and over. Children under 14 pay 50% unless they are in their own room. Roll away beds and extra mosquito nets are available for children sharing with parents. Tongabezi Garden House: Specially designed specifically for families or slightly larger groups travelling together the Garden House has a private enclosed garden, an exclusive plunge pool and two en suite double bedrooms. Children under 14 pay 25% accompanying adults in the Garden House. Sindabezi: We are happy to take children of 14 and over, charged adult rates. If the island is taken privately we are happy to take children of seven and older. In this case children under 14 pay 50% unless they are in their own room. Tangala: Children of any age are accepted at Tangala and two of the staff members are experienced nannies. Please note that there is an unfenced swimming pool. We can arrange a safety fence on request for non-swimmers. Children under 14 are charged 50% of the full board rate
Accommodation
Privately owned and run, Tongabezi combines romance and exclusivity with warm and attentive service. Each house and cottage has its own valet who takes care of guests throughout their stay and act as a private concierge. The houses at Tongabezi all have a unique layout and setting. The Garden House and the Dog House can both accommodate larger groups as both have an extra en-suite bedroom.
Accolades
A Conde Nast Top 20 Hotel of the World 2018; Conde Nast #1 Safari Lodge in Zambia Travelers’ Review; TripAdvisor 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 Certificate of Excellence and #1 Hotel in Livingstone; Travel and Leisure 36th of the 100 Best Hotels in the World 2018; 2018 TripAdvisor Traveller's Choice; 'Adrenaline Junkies’ Winner; Winner of The Safari Award's 'Best Design' and 'Best Family Safari Experience; Winner of 'Most Enchanting Lodge in Zambia' LUX 2016 Awards; Imvelo responsible tourism finalist Travel + Leisure 2012 Global Vision Award for Community Building World Travel Awards 2012 nominee in all categories for Zambia
Season
Our high season runs from 1st of June to the 31st of October and the remainder of the year is the low season. The highs fluctuate between 25 and 35°C throughout the year and the lows between 2° and 5°C. During summer: The months from August - April are warm (high 20°C's) with temperatures reaching their upper limit for the area during October (around 35°C). The rainy season: Victoria Falls is prone to short, spectacular thunderstorms (usually late in the afternoon) and our rainy season generally starts towards the end of November / December and continues until around mid - March, but this does vary from year to year. Temperatures are still warm. An African winter: May - July and into August. Winter is typically cool at night and in the mornings although you can expect it to be lovely and warm during the day. In winter months it is advised that you do bring warm clothes especially for the mornings and evenings.
Region
Africa
Property Type
Safari Lodge (less than 20 rooms) Safari House / Villa
Best Value Safari Property
Amazing property with lots of amenities
Best Ecologically Responsible Safari Property
Engaged in conservation
Best Community Focused Safari Property
They have a school for community kids
Best Family Safari Experience
Family friendly
Beautiful and peaceful place
Most Romantic Safari Property
Beautiful and peaceful place
Best Safari Property Location
Very near to Victoria falls and Livingstone island
Best Community Focused Safari Property
Tongabezi literally has its own school supporting people in the community. They also have a community farm to empower the local community.
LW from Zambia
25-03-2024 @ 6:50am
