Matetsi Water Lodge (Matetsi Game Reserve – 40 kms outside Victoria Falls)

outside Victoria Falls Bordering the Zambezi River, Matetsi Game Reserve extends over 50,000 hectares in northwestern Zimbabwe, just 40 kilometres west of Victoria Falls and en route to the Kazangula border post in Botswana. Matetsi is the largest private game reserve in Zimbabwe. Matetsi consists of two separate and distinct lodges: Matetsi Water Lodge and Matetsi Safari Camp (closed until further notice). With 15 kilometres of private Zambezi River frontage, Matetsi offers an unrivalled river experience and forms part of a huge wildlife paradise straddling two countries - Botswana and Zimbabwe. There are no fences to prevent animals moving between Chobe National Park and Matetsi. Although estimates vary, it is thought that between 30,000 and 50,000 Elephants live in this region. With its 15 kilometres of private Zambezi River frontage, Matetsi offers an unrivalled river experience. Matetsi Lodges are owned by CC Africa.

Matetsi Water Lodge comprises three separate, exclusive camps with six superior air-conditioned suites each. The vast teak doors of each of the 18 suites - even those of the en suite bathroom - swing open to command sweeping views of the broad river. Indoor and outdoor showers offer refreshing alternatives to a bath. Plunge pools on the private decks, shaded by Mangosteen and Waterberry trees, make for a truly indulgent experience. Guards accompany you to and from your suite at night. Each of the three camps is located on the riverbank under a canopy of sheltering trees. Central guest areas consist of lounge and covered dining areas overlooking the mighty Zambezi. A well-stocked curio shop is found at the main reception. The camp layout ensures privacy and intimacy in an idyllic setting.

At Matetsi, morning and afternoon riverboat cruises and guided canoe excursions are among the many delights that await you. Five canoes are able to take a maximum of ten guests on Matetsi's private river frontage. For bird-watchers, exploring this region is pure magic. Optional activities include a visit to one of the seven natural wonders of the world, the 103-metre Victoria Falls, which are just 40 kilometres away (about a half hour drive). A complimentary daily shuttle is available to guests. A host of adventure activities, from white-water rafting to walks in the rain forest on the lip of the Falls, can be arranged at your own cost.

The ever-changing moods of the Zambezi are a siren's call for today's explorers. You can make your way into Victoria Falls for heart-pounding white-water rafting or gentle boat cruises. There are tours of the Falls and surrounding areas, canoeing in the falls, sky-diving and horse riding. You can listen to a Marimba band and see traditional dancing, or enjoy the breathtaking views of the Victoria Falls ravine by light aircraft, helicopter or microlight. Adrenalin junkies can take the plunge and bungee jump off the bridge spanning the gorge below the Falls.