Tongabezi Lodge is a unique luxury lodge on the banks of the Zambezi River. It is perfectly located. Whether you choose to enjoy the myriad of activities on offer at Victoria Falls. Or; simply relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings and the spectacular views over the river.
Tongabezi has been voted as one of the top hotels in the world. It is one of the most romantic destinations; plus a fantastic family holiday lodge.
Pamper yourself and your family at this luxurious lodge on the banks of the Zambezi River, in Livingstone. On the Zambian side of the Victoria Falls. One of the seven natural wonders of the world, Mosi Oy Tunya or “the smoke that thunders”.
Ideal for groups; guests at Tongabezi Lodge can combine with Sindabezi Island; its sister camp to accommodate all group sizes.
The true aesthetic of every Tongabezi space is the underlying philosophy that nothing is too much trouble. Private dining in a neverending choice of venues. From a quirky picnic on an authentic dhow to an indulgent lazy breakfast in bed. Or your very own Sampan floating on the Zambezi river, illuminated by the Milky Way and paraffin lamps. With every course delivered by canoe.
Tongabezi is so closely knitted with the local community. It is impossible to visit here without understanding the positive impact your presence has on this corner of Africa. You will be touched by the genuine joy and strength of the Zambian people. From the Tujatane children to the staff spearheading community projects.
Skip to Tongabezi Lodge Rates and special offers
Accommodation at Tongabezi Lodge
Tongabezi offers 5 x River Cottages and 4 x houses for couples. These are Bird House, Tree House, Honeymoon House, and Nut House. Understated but refined with a strong sense of the exciting spirit of Africa. Architecturally unique cottages and houses on the banks of the Zambezi offer romantic seclusion and superb views. They all have King Size beds and luxury bathrooms. It is a haven in which you can relax while being spoilt with sophisticated service and attention to detail.
In addition, there are 3 x houses that are ideal for families & friends traveling together (exclusive use). These are Dog House, Garden House, and Tangala.
River Cottages
Tongabezi Lodge River Cottages are along the riverbank with stunning views. The 5 x River Cottages have high ceilings, giant bespoke wood, and glass windows and doors. Leading onto expansive sustainable pine decks. The signature African fusion Tongabezi style has been distilled to the best of ‘Made in Zambia’. In both the interior and outdoor spaces.
Tongabezi is famous for keeping the romance of travel alive. Therefore, all the River Cottages provide a private haven. Where your every whim just happens to be attended to by your very own valet. The valet invariably becomes an indispensable source of information.
Tongabezi Honeymoon House
A boho-chic retreat with all the indulgence and privacy needed to celebrate romance. The Honeymoon House is the original blueprint for laidback luxury Tongabezi accommodation.
Blue and white textiles combine with wooden furnishings and a thatched roof. To create an intimate space in which to unwind together. The private wooden deck with a private plunge pool and dining area overlooks the river; making for unforgettable alfresco living.
The en-suite bathroom has an indoor shower and an open-air bathtub. That is made utterly unforgettable by the canopy of stars above. And the Zambezi lapping gently below.
Tongabezi Bird House
he Bird House is an intimate and secluded retreat. Perched on a large, suspended deck on a cliff overlooking the Zambezi River. That celebrates the romance of the wilderness. The Bird House features a king four-poster bed, draped in mosquito netting. There is a small indoor lounge. With wooden and glass folding doors opening onto a private terrace and a private plunge pool.
Unwind outdoors beside the river from the claw-footed, open-air bathtub. Covered in bubbles and with a cool, tall drink in hand as the sun sets over the Zambezi. Dine privately by the warm glow of lanterns, before sitting back to stargaze under the constellations of the Southern Hemisphere.
Tongabezi Tree House
The secluded Tree House offers effortless immersion into its riverfront surroundings. It sits against the basalt rock bed. With a sustainable pine deck entwined amid the branches of three ebony trees. Truly secluded and generously proportioned it is the ultimate private retreat. This is the only open-fronted thatched house. Paying homage to the original architectural design that made Tongabezi a style maker.
A hidden path winds away from the main lodge and along the cliff face to the Tongabezi Tree House. The Tree House enchants the imagination and invokes colorful daydreams with its Anatolian carpets, Asian chests, and West African artwork.
Stunning views of the Zambezi River roll out from every part of this airy, open-plan space. The king bed is enveloped in a large, canopied mosquito net. Sharing this extensive space with areas for dining and lounging.
The bathroom’s crowning glory is the claw-footed bath. Complemented by riverfront views and the sounds of nature.
Tongabezi Nut House
A sanctuary hidden away within the natural riverine scenery, the Tongabezi Nut House is entirely enclosed. With light streaming in through every wall to create a warm glow throughout.
A soft color palette flows throughout this intimate space, which is open-plan and divided into two levels. The four-poster bed sits covered in mosquito netting on the top level. With steps down into an indoor lounge, dining area, and separate en-suite bathroom. There is plenty of space for an extra bed for a child too.
Wooden and glass folding doors open onto the elevated private garden. And a private infinity plunge pool that overlooks the Zambezi River.
Tongabezi Dog House
The Dog House occupies its own private world at the edge of the Tongabezi garden. Elevated walkways connect the three separate decks that make up your immense Dog House home with the rest of Tongabezi.
The house is made up of two bedrooms with a central indoor and outdoor lounge. There is also a private infinity plunge pool, dining area, and bar. The mighty Zambezi River flows beneath the sustainable pine decking during high water. As the house is raised off the ground to guarantee spectacular views from each window, sofa, bed, and bath.
The Dog House is ideal for families with younger children. But also multi-generational families. Or; two couples traveling together that love travel and appreciate being together in nature. But who also want a little space for privacy. The entire house can be booked by one couple too.
The Dog House also has a private guide, boat, and vehicle.
Tongabezi Garden House
Set back from the Zambezi River, the Garden House is fully walled; making it ideal for families with younger children.
This is a secluded home is for people that appreciate privacy and space. Allowing all members of the group to spread out a little within a safe environment. Rich, earthy-toned textiles and wooden furnishings create inviting shared spaces in the dining room and lounge. As well as the private bedrooms, both fully en-suite.
Stepping outdoors, a large, covered lounge opens out onto your own garden and a private plunge pool.
Tangala House – Exclusive family safari
Tangala Private House is a luxurious family home on the banks of the Zambezi River. It lies close to the main Tongabezi Lodge. While still being secluded enough to ensure a private and safe environment for your family holiday. Tangala has 4 x bedrooms. 3 with en-suite bathrooms and raised king-sized beds. Along with a lovely children’s playroom. Stylishly designed and furnished, the house has been featured in House and Garden in the UK. It comes with a vehicle and boat, a chef, waiters, and a private guide.
Tangala House sleeps up to eight people. It has a spacious open-plan kitchen and dining room. To suit the comings and goings of all family members. Over 145 species of birds have been spotted from the kitchen window. And herds of elephants can often be seen drinking on the opposite bank. The rooms are enclosed, with large glass-fitted windows. This keeps out the insects and allows guests to enjoy magnificent views across the Zambezi. The living room leads onto a ‘snuggery’ with satellite TV, video, Hi-Fi, and a fireplace.
An open-thatch veranda easily seats 10 and steps lead out onto the garden that has private river frontage. The 12-meter swimming pool has a shallow area with bench seating for the little ones. The terrace has an eight-seat railway sleeper picnic table. Tangala also has its own well-equipped gym. With large glass windows for you to enjoy the peaceful river view while working out.
As Tangala Private House is used intermittently by the owners of Tongabezi; it is available to book over the Christmas and Easter Holidays. As well as in June, July, and August. Other dates throughout the year are available on request. Tangala is the home of two gorgeous and people-friendly dogs, Luna and Tafika.
Activities at Tongabezi Lodge
There is no set itinerary at Tongabezi Lodge. So you are free to do as much; or as little as you wish. Besides the pool and on-site gym; there is a wide range of activities on offer during your stay at Tongabezi.
Activities in Tongabezi Lodge grounds
A Visit To Tujatane – Tongabezi Trust School
Tongabezi is located in an area with scarce educational funding and limited academic recourses. Therefore in May 1996, Tujatane was started to help provide primary education to the children of the Tongabezi staff. This initiative has proven a huge success and now has over 280 students. It is made up of classrooms, an art room, a music room and amphitheater, sports grounds, a library, and a canteen.
Tujatane also supports over 60 children who have moved on to secondary schools; all over Zambia. And many Tujatane alumni are at universities and colleges all over the world.
Simonga Village Tour
Visit Tongabezi’s nearest traditional village, where a local villager will act as your guide. A unique opportunity for the village to share their way of life. You will be able to interact and converse with the locals and find out more about their traditional village lifestyle. The tour will last 45 minutes to an hour.
Tongabezi Stretch
Traveling invariably results in sitting a bit TOO long! Fancy a jog? Beautiful bush tracks await! Have a chat with the lodge manager or guide so they can point you in the right direction. They’ll also give you a quick safety briefing regarding any animals that COULD be in the area. It’s also good for them to know your planned route (safety first). At Tongabezi we also have a private gym and an incredible personal trainer. Yoga is also available.
We suggest choosing early morning to move and avoid the heat.
Sunrise Cruise
Explore the Zambezi river just before the sun rises and see how Africa wakes up. This is a fantastic way to see numerous wildlife and birdlife.
Departs at 5.45 am in summer and 6.15 am in winter
Sunset Cruise + Sandbar
Cruise up and down on the 4th largest river in Africa. While watching the hippos play in the water and the Kingfishers diving for their afternoon snack. Stop at a nearby island and experience the African sunset with an ice-cold beverage in your hand. Don’t forget to take your camera as the sunset colors will stun you.
Departs at 5.30 pm in summer and 4.30 pm in winter.
Fishing Cruises
Nothing beats the feeling of pulling a tiger fish out of the Zambezi. There are numerous species of fish to be found in the river. You have the opportunity to catch any of them. This is yet another opportunity to see the hippos, countless birdlife, and other wildlife while being on the river.
Departs at 8.30 am and 2.30 pm
Community Art Centre
Visit our Art center and Textile studio to see incredible Zambian crafts in the making. An exciting addition to the Tujatane curriculum the center offers training and craft-making including clay work, beading, painting, and weaving.
Organic Garden Tour
The Tongabezi tennis courts have been transformed into a veggie and herb garden. With an array of herbs, citrus fruits, seasonal tropical fruits; as well as vegetables and salads. The groundsmen use suitable kitchen waste; such as tea bags, coffee, and ash and recycle it into usable compost.
One of the groundsmen and your valet will show you around. The tour duration is all up to you and how long you would like to look around…
Island Picnic Lunch
Take a riveting boat ride to an island and enjoy a 3-course menu in the bush surrounded by the Zambezi. You will have the opportunity of seeing elephants, hippos, impalas, and different birdlife. Your valet and boat guide will be on hand if you have any questions.
Departs every day from 1 pm depending on the weather
Cycling & Mtb
The ranges that you can cycle go from 5km to 100km, short or long. The guides know some great on and off-road tracks. The border is your limit!
Routes from 30 minutes to 2 hours are available.
Tongabezi Lodge Included Activities with a drive into Livingstone
Please note that all park and museum entrance fees are extra. There are complimentary scheduled transfers twice a day from Tongabezi.
Visit Victoria Falls
Stroll along the Zambian edge of Victoria Falls, one of the 7 natural wonders of the world. Surrounded by rainforests, looking down into the gouge at the rainbows that the falls create. While at the falls, the guides can lead you down to the famous boiling pot (but forget the walk-up). Once completing the tour of Victoria Falls you can visit either the Livingstone veggie market or craft market.
Museums In Livingstone
There are 3 different museums to visit. The Livingstone, The Railway, and the Field Museum. The Livingstone is located in the center of town with artifacts from the stone age to David Livingstone’s personal effects. The Railway Museum is located just out of town; en route to the falls. It is a perfect stop for those train enthusiasts. The Field Museum is next to the falls.
Livingstone Markets
The local Livingstone markets have been running since the dawn of shopping. It is the epicenter of life for the people who call Livingstone home. The place they gather to wheel and deal and catch up on the local news. A visit will take care of all your worries about what to bring home from Africa. While you immerse yourself in the real hustle and bustle of our Livingstone life.
Along with the complimentary activities; you can choose from a host of non-inclusive activities. Our favorite is the Livingstone Island Tour. Which includes a swim in Devil’s or Angel’s Pool. depending on the Zambezi water levels! For more details, visit our Victoria Falls Day Tours page.
Livingstone / Victoria Falls Family Fun
Seasons / Best time to visit Tongabezi Lodge in Livingstone
Tongabezi is open all year and has the following seasons:
SUMMER: From August until April. October is the hottest month. Rains start around the end of November and last until around the middle of March. Temperatures however remain warm.
WINTER: From May until August. The evenings & mornings will be cool, warm clothing is recommended although the days are still warm.
*A minimum of 3 x adults or 2 x adults and 2 x children on a 3-night stay or more is required.
Children from 5 to 12 pay 50% of the adult rate when sharing with 2 x adults. Children 0 – 4 years stay for free.
A 40% single supplement all year
Tongabezi rates include
Tongabezi Lodge Accommodation Special Offers
Wings & Wheels Incentive
Book a minimum of 4 nights at any one lodge. Or a combination of Green Safaris Lodges*. And we will include all flights and transfers from the nearest international airport. These are either Lusaka, or Livingstone in Zambia. Or, Lilongwe in Malawi.
*Green Safaris Properties are:
Kaya Mawa (Lake Malawi),
Ila Safari Lodge (Kafue National Park),
Chisa Busanga Camp (Busanga Flood Plains in the North of the Kafue National Park),
Tongabezi Lodge or Sindabezi Island (Livingstone),
Shawa Luangwa Camp (South Luangwa National Park).
Valid for all of 2024.
Royal Chundu (Livingstone)
Royal Chundu has 2 lodges – River Lodge and Island Lodge. Situated on the Zambezi River with an abundance of activities around Victoria Falls
Sindabezi Island (Livingstone)
Sindabezi Island is a private island accommodation paradise; upstream from Victoria Falls and close to Livingstone, Zambia
Sanctuary Sussi and Chuma (Livingstone)
Sanctuary Sussi and Chuma is a luxurious lodge with heavenly tree houses to stay in. On the Zambezi River, in the Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park
The Royal Livingstone Hotel (Livingstone)
The Royal Livingstone Hotel is a 5-star colonial gem on the banks of the Zambezi River and walking distance to Victoria Falls in Zambia
Tongabezi Lodge (Livingstone)
Tongabezi Lodge and Tangala House are 12kms upstream of Victoria Falls, romantic and luxury accommodation for honeymooners and families or for an extra special occasion
The River Club (Livingstone)
The River Club is a boutique, owner-run luxury lodge on the Zambezi River; just outside Livingstone and the mighty Victoria Falls. Kosher kitchens are available too.
Livingstone Zambia
