MATETSI WATER LODGE
Victoria Falls,Zimbabwe

Introduction

Matetsi Water Lodge is situated 40 kilometres upstream from the magnificent Victoria Falls in the largest private wildlife concession in the country. Matetsi offers a first class river experience in addition to spectacular game viewing and bird watching. The lodge offers exclusive safari accommodation as well as breathtaking views over the Zambezi River, the perfect hide-away for a honeymoon or private retreat. Matetsi has something for everyone, from romantic sunset cruises to exciting activities for the more adventurous guests at the nearby Victoria Falls.

Lodge Description

Matetsi Water Lodge consists of three camps, West Water, North Water and East Water, all set on the riverbank under a canopy of lush, riverine trees. Each camp consists of six private suites with teak doors that open to plunge pools and decks with magnificent river views. The layout of each camp ensures privacy and intimacy. Open sided, thatched guest areas consist of an elegant dining and sitting area with a large fireplace. All suites have air-conditioning, en-suite bathrooms, indoor and outdoor showers as well as private plunge pools.

Activities

The Zambezi River is home to a variety of plants and wildlife. The river is bordered by riverine woodland with impressive sausage, leadwood and waterberry trees. Seasonal floodplains and marshes attract abundant waterfowl.
Big herds of elephant and buffalo can be seen along the Zambezi River during the dry season (May to October). Stately sable and rare roan antelope favour the fringes of woodlands. Lion, leopard and spotted hyena are most often encountered on night drives. Matetsi is one of very few areas in Zimbabwe where night game drives are permitted. Endangered African wild dog occasionally set up dens during the winter months. Large rafts of hippo and Cape clawless otter are at home in the Zambezi River. Fruit bats and lesser bushbabies are active after dark. There are 366 bird species recorded at Matetsi. African fish eagle patrol the Zambezi River, where African finfoot and rock pratincole also breed. Large numbers of ducks, geese, storks and herons visit seasonal marshes. Pel’s fishing owl and flamboyant Schalow’s turaco inhabit riparian forest and wooded islands. The Kori bustard (the world’s heaviest flying bird) is commonly seen in open woodland. White-breasted cuckooshrike, racket-tailed roller, Bradfield’s hornbill and Arnot’s chat are typical of tall woodland.