Thorntree River Lodge

Just 20 kilometres upstream from Victoria Falls in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park sits Thorntree River Lodge, on the banks of the Zambezi. The 12 tented suites feel like an extension of the river, each with a private deck and plunge pool right at the water’s edge. Inside, natural wood and soft grey and blue tones mirror the water, while the wraparound floor-to-ceiling windows can be folded right back to make the Zambezi your fourth wall.

If you can tear yourself away from your secluded slice of the Zambezi, the lodge runs dozens of complimentary activities including trips to both the Zambia and Zimbabwe sides of Victoria Falls, safari drives, guided rhino walks, local market visits, village trips and canoe expeditions to name just a few. But our favourite is the sunset river cruise. With a cool drink in hand, drift down the Zambezi to a chorus of hippos chortling, birds singing overhead and monkeys chattering in the trees.

Around the site, other facilities include a main pool, spa, lounge and shop. All meals are included in your stay and served alfresco. The dining deck extends over the water with a firepit – the prize spot to relax in after dark swapping tales of your safari adventures.