Frank’s All-Time Favourite Safari

Night’s 5 & 6: Thorntree River Lodge

Thorntree River Lodge is set in Zambia’s Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park, just a short distance from the famous Victoria Falls. The lodge has drawn inspiration from local customs and culture to create a modern and contemporary design with tented roof structures to maintain the feel of authentic Africa. Take advantage of a combination of wildlife, culture and adrenalin activities on offer in the area. Eight suites and two family suites are situated along the edge of the mighty Zambezi River. Each unit has its own indoor and outdoor bathrooms, as well as a luxurious private plunge pool.

The lodge offers a tranquil base from which to explore a plethora of awe-inspiring activities, all within easy access of the lodge in Livingstone Zambia.  Showcasing incredible river panoramas from its unique vantage, the shared areas are fluid hubs of relaxation; the lounge flows seamlessly into the dining area, and the library hosts WIFI connectivity. The communal deck is set on the edge of the stunning riverside and is home to a sunken boma area and an infinity pool. There is also a gym and spa which promote a sense of holistic wellbeing at Thorntree River Lodge.

Thorntree River Lodge offers daily excursions to the Zambian side (and Zimbabwean side – in the dry season) side of The Victoria Falls, private river cruises, cultural visits, fishing expeditions, canoeing, rhino tracking and game drives, all included in your stay. Additionally, you can book external activities such as guided rainforest walks, bungee jumping and helicopter flips over ‘The Smoke that Thunders’.

Night's 7 to 11: Tusk & Mane

Tusk & Mane consists of one base (Tafara Springs) and two fly camps (Kutali & Chula) which are situated in different habitats to give you the full Lower Zambezi experience. The camps are simple with old style luxury camping, under the stars and around the campfire. The key is the difference between both Kutali & Chula Camp in terms of atmosphere and location. The magic lies in the combination.

Each camp consists of only 4 tents (stand-up height) which will have single comfortable beds with top quality linen provided (can be joined to form doubles on request), en-suite bathrooms with hot hanging bucket showers, flushing toilets and a washbasin with a mirror.

The canvas can be left open at night (spectacular views) but can also be dropped down if it is cold or for privacy reasons. These are raised during the day to allow for good airflow if it’s hot as well as the fact that you are able to view the Zambezi from your bed.

Two activities are offered per day and can be organised at the time according to guests’ preferences. Game drives in open-topped 4WD land cruisers are a fantastic way to see the park, a walking safari with a quality, qualified guide and armed Wildlife Police Officer is a MUST DO here. On the water, there are boat trips to explore the Zambezi, getting up close to relaxing hippos and crocodiles sunning on the banks and an impressive array of birds. It’s also perfect for photographing elephants up-close feeding on the edge, swimming or crossing the Zambezi.

The more intrepid might prefer to take to the waters in a canoe and float silently down gorgeous channels, passed Elephants eating under the winterthorns and birdlife galore including Pels fishing owl if lady luck is with you. Anglers won’t want to miss the opportunity to seek out the aggressive tigerfish or the powerful vundu. All fishing here is on a catch-and-release basis to keep our waters and fish populations in prime condition.