Matetsi Water Lodge : Zambezi River : Zimbabwe

Matetsi Water Lodge photo gallery

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Matetsi Water Lodge

Location

Situated just 40 kilometres upstream from the magnificent Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, Matetsi extends over 45 000 hectares (111 200 acres) of pristine African wilderness – the largest private wildlife concession in the country. With 15 kilometres (nine miles) of exclusive Zambezi River frontage, Matetsi offers an unrivalled river experience in addition to spectacular game viewing and birdwatching.

Accommodation and facilities

This luxurious safari lodge is situated along Matetsi’s private Zambezi River frontage, and is renowned for sophisticated accommodation and sweeping views of the river and surrounding African wilderness.

• Three separate, intimate safari camps.
• Each with just six air-conditioned suites.
• En suite bathrooms; indoor and outdoor showers.
• Private plunge pools.
• Breathtaking river views.
• Elegant dining and sitting areas.
• Near the magnificent Victoria Falls.
• African gift shop.

Matetsi Water Lodge’s three romantic camps – West Water, North Water and East Water – are set on the riverbank under a canopy of lush, riverine trees. Each camp comprises six private suites with vast teak doors that swing open to plunge pools and decks with magnificent river views.

The layout of each camp ensures privacy and intimacy in an idyllic setting. Open sided, thatched guest areas consist of an elegant dining and sitting area with large fireplace. Delicious Pan-African cuisine is served on the intimate riverside dining decks or in a surprise setting in Matetsi’s pristine wilderness.

Activities and game viewing

Matetsi’s location in a pristine wilderness area next to the great Zambezi River and its proximity to the Victoria Falls – one of the seven natural wonders of the world and a World Heritage Site – makes it the perfect gateway to a world of African adventure.

Many thrilling activities offered at no additional cost, include:

Twice-daily game-drives

Experienced rangers and trackers will lead you on interpretive game-drives in open 4x4 safari vehicles. Matetsi is one of the very few areas in Zimbabwe where night game-drives are permitted, revealing a host of interesting nocturnal animals.

Interpretive bush walks

Explore Matetsi’s pristine wilderness on foot led by an experienced ranger or expert tracker steeped in knowledge of the local fauna and flora. Interpretive wilderness walks bring you face-to-face with wild Africa at its best. Regretfully, children 16 years and younger cannot participate in bush walks.

Riverboat cruises

Enjoy leisurely morning and/or afternoon riverboat cruises on Matetsi’s private stretch along the mighty Zambezi River, captained by a knowledgeable river guide. Each riverboat seats just 12 guests, and offers the perfect opportunity to spot Matetsi’s incredible birdlife, hippos and elephants while watching a glorious sunrise or sunset.

Canoeing

Guided canoe excursions are an exciting way to experience the Zambezi River and to get up close to elephants drinking from the riverbanks. Five sturdy canoes are able to take a maximum of ten guests.

Other Adventures (at an additional cost)

Situated just 40 kilometres from Matetsi, the magnificent Victoria Falls offer a range of adventures for adrenalin enthusiasts – from heart-pounding white-water rafting to bungi jumping off the bridge spanning the gorge below. You may also walk in the rain forest on the lip of the Falls or enjoy breathtaking views by light aircraft, helicopter or microlight. A complimentary daily shuttle departs Matetsi at 11h00 for Victoria Falls, and returns at 14h00.