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Top 6 Best Safari Lodges & Camps Near the Zambezi River

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Introduction: Exploring Safari Lodges Near the Zambezi River

The Zambezi River is one of Africa’s most iconic and breathtaking waterways, stretching over 2,700 kilometers across six countries and forming some of the continent’s most spectacular natural landscapes. Flowing through Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Angola, Namibia, and Botswana, the Zambezi River supports some of Africa’s richest wildlife ecosystems.

For travelers seeking unforgettable African safari experiences, staying at safari lodges and camps near the Zambezi River offers an extraordinary opportunity to combine wildlife viewing, river safaris, fishing adventures, and luxurious accommodation surrounded by pristine wilderness.

This guide highlights the top 6 best safari lodges and camps near the Zambezi River, offering unique safari experiences for luxury travelers, honeymooners, wildlife photographers, and adventure seekers.

Travelers can book customized safari packages to Southern Africa through trusted operators such as Monumental Expeditions and Safaris

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Why Stay at Safari Lodges Along the Zambezi River

Choosing accommodation along the Zambezi River enhances the African safari experience by providing:

✔ Exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities
✔ Boat safaris and canoe excursions
✔ Scenic sunset river cruises
✔ Sport fishing experiences
✔ Remote and exclusive safari settings

The river attracts massive wildlife populations, including elephants, hippos, crocodiles, lions, and rare bird species.

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1. Royal Chundu Luxury Zambezi Lodges – Zambia

Overview

Royal Chundu Luxury Zambezi Lodges is one of Zambia’s most prestigious river safari accommodations. Located upstream from Victoria Falls, this exclusive lodge offers a tranquil and luxurious safari experience.

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Why Royal Chundu Is One of the Best Safari Lodges Near the Zambezi River

Royal Chundu provides two distinct luxury lodge experiences:

• River Lodge – Ideal for families and groups

• Island Lodge – Perfect for romantic getaways and honeymoon safaris

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Safari Experiences at Royal Chundu

Visitors enjoy:

• Sunset river cruises

• Canoe safaris

• Cultural village tours

• Bird watching excursions

• Fishing trips

The lodge offers spectacular views of the Zambezi River and frequent wildlife sightings along the riverbanks.

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2. Matetsi Victoria Falls Lodge – Zimbabwe

Overview

Located within the Matetsi Private Game Reserve, Matetsi Victoria Falls Lodge combines luxury safari experiences with close proximity to the world-famous Victoria Falls.

External reference:
https://matetsivictoriafalls.com/

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Unique Features of Matetsi Victoria Falls Lodge

✔ Private game reserve access
✔ Panoramic Zambezi River views
✔ Luxury riverfront suites
✔ Exclusive wildlife safaris

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Activities Offered

• Game drives in Matetsi Reserve

• River cruises

• Victoria Falls tours

• Bird watching safaris

• Guided nature walks

Matetsi is ideal for travelers wanting both river safari experiences and easy access to Victoria Falls.

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3. Tongabezi Lodge – Zambia

Overview

Tongabezi Lodge is one of the oldest and most iconic safari lodges along the Zambezi River. The lodge is renowned for its romantic setting, personalized service, and breathtaking river views.

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Why Tongabezi Is Popular Among Safari Travelers

Tongabezi offers luxurious river cottages and private houses designed with African architectural styles.

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Activities at Tongabezi Lodge

Guests can enjoy:

• Canoeing safaris

• Fishing expeditions

• Private river cruises

• Victoria Falls tours

• Cultural visits

Tongabezi is especially popular among honeymooners and couples seeking intimate safari experiences.

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4. Chiawa Camp – Lower Zambezi National Park, Zambia

Overview

Located in the Lower Zambezi National Park, Chiawa Camp is one of Zambia’s most awarded safari camps. The camp sits along the Zambezi River and offers exceptional wildlife viewing experiences.

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Wildlife Experiences at Chiawa Camp

The Lower Zambezi region is known for:

✔ Large elephant herds
✔ Predators including lions and leopards
✔ Hippos and crocodiles
✔ Diverse birdlife

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Safari Activities at Chiawa Camp

Visitors can participate in:

• Canoe safaris

• Game drives

• Walking safaris

• River boat cruises

• Tiger fishing adventures

Chiawa Camp is ideal for adventure travelers seeking authentic wilderness experiences.

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5. Sausage Tree Camp – Zambia

Overview

Sausage Tree Camp is a luxurious boutique safari camp located along the Lower Zambezi River. Named after the iconic sausage tree found across Africa, the camp provides exclusive and intimate safari experiences.

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Luxury Features at Sausage Tree Camp

✔ Private plunge pools
✔ River-facing luxury tents
✔ Personalized safari guides
✔ Fine dining experiences

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Safari Activities

Guests enjoy:

• Canoe safaris

• Game drives

• Walking safaris

• Fishing experiences

• Sunset cruises

The camp’s small size ensures privacy and personalized safari experiences.

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6. Anabezi Luxury Tented Camp – Lower Zambezi, Zambia

Overview

Anabezi Luxury Tented Camp is located in the heart of Lower Zambezi National Park and offers a perfect blend of luxury and wilderness.

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Why Choose Anabezi Camp

Anabezi sits in a wildlife-rich area known for year-round animal sightings and exceptional safari experiences.

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Activities at Anabezi Camp

Visitors can enjoy:

• Boat safaris

• Walking safaris

• Game drives

• Bird watching

• Fishing expeditions

The camp provides breathtaking views of floodplains and the Zambezi River.

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Best Time to Visit Safari Lodges Near the Zambezi River

Dry Season (May – October)

✔ Best wildlife viewing opportunities
✔ Animals gather near riverbanks
✔ Comfortable safari weather

Green Season (November – April)

✔ Beautiful landscapes
✔ Excellent bird watching
✔ Fewer tourists

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Wildlife Found Along the Zambezi River

The Zambezi ecosystem supports incredible wildlife diversity, including:

• Elephants

• Hippos

• Nile crocodiles

• Lions

• Leopards

• Buffaloes

• Rare bird species

Visitors staying at river lodges often witness animals visiting water sources, creating unforgettable safari moments.

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Safari Activities to Enjoy Near the Zambezi River

Boat Safaris

Boat cruises provide close wildlife encounters along riverbanks.

Canoe Safaris

One of Africa’s most unique safari experiences, offering silent wildlife viewing.

Sport Fishing

The Zambezi River is famous for tiger fishing and freshwater angling adventures.

Game Drives

Explore surrounding national parks and private reserves.

Walking Safaris

Guided walking tours allow travelers to experience African wilderness up close.

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Travel Tips for Zambezi River Safaris

Pack Essential Safari Gear

• Lightweight safari clothing

• Binoculars

• Camera with zoom lens

• Sunscreen and insect repellent

Book Safari Lodges Early

Luxury river lodges have limited capacity and often sell out months in advance.

Choose Professional Safari Operators

Experienced safari planners improve safety and wildlife viewing success.

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Combining Zambezi Safaris with Other African Adventures

Many travelers combine Zambezi River safaris with:

• Victoria Falls tours

• Botswana Okavango Delta safaris

• South Luangwa wildlife safaris

• Tanzania or Kenya Big Five safaris

• Uganda gorilla trekking safaris

Customized multi-country safari packages are available through Monumental Expeditions and Safaris

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Why Book Your Safari with Monumental Expeditions and Safaris

Monumental Expeditions and Safaris offers expert safari planning services across East and Southern Africa.

Benefits of Booking

✔ Tailor-made safari itineraries
✔ Professional safari guides
✔ Accommodation and transport arrangements
✔ Multi-destination safari packages
✔ Reliable customer support

Start planning your African safari adventure today, here

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Conclusion: Experience the Best Safari Lodges Near the Zambezi River

The Zambezi River is one of Africa’s most remarkable safari destinations, offering extraordinary wildlife encounters, luxury river lodges, and adventure-filled safari experiences. From the exclusive Royal Chundu and Tongabezi lodges near Victoria Falls to wilderness camps like Chiawa, Sausage Tree, and Anabezi in Lower Zambezi National Park, each lodge provides unique and unforgettable safari experiences.

Whether you are seeking a luxury honeymoon safari, wildlife photography adventure, or thrilling canoe safari, the Zambezi River offers something for every traveler.

To plan your dream Zambezi River safari, book your experience with Monumental Expeditions and Safaris