Tongabezi has been taken over by Green Safaris. Their ethos is to deliver an environmentally friendly safari, with a strong focus on community development as well. BUT at the same time ensuring that their clients have a fantastic time on safari.
As the lodge has been added to over the years, it is not as cohesive in design as other newer lodges. But apart from this relatively minor gripe, I loved it.
I loved the great sense of space at Tongabezi with lush, serene gardens adding to the sense of privacy as well.
Accommodation
It offers a great choice of accommodation from Cottages to Houses.
The cottages have been considerably upgraded and I would be happy to use them. No private pool but all have river frontage and there are two pools to choose from.
Most of the Houses are now enclosed (except Tree House), Treehouse is very romantic, and I love the openness. It has an air-con, but given the open-air concept, doesn’t really combat the heat of Oct/Nov. The rest are also super stylish each with their own pool and glorious river views.
Families have a choice of the Garden Family House – only option with no river view. But it is fully enclosed by a wall, with its own pool. However note that the two bedrooms are not inter-leading so not ideal for very small kids
Or Dog House (sleeps 4) – with two very stylish suites sharing a sitting room. This could also used by two couples as well, but naturally more expensive.
Tongabezi (and Green Safaris) has a very clear community upliftment footprint. This is centred around their amazing school trust which is able to sponsor children not only through school but also university if they have the grades, both in South Africa and in Europe. I do recommend the school visit as it is very uplifting.
Practical Comments
- Tongabezi does airside VIP Meet and Greets at Livingstone airport
- 30-35 mins drive to Vic Falls
- Front pool is close to the river, great for a quick dip before lunch
- Main pool is behind the gardens, with a pool deck and a fully equipped gym close by
Included Activities:
- Livingstone Island tour
- Visit to the Tongabezi School (VERY inspiring)
- Sunrise and sunset river cruises, perhaps by E-Dhow, which was a game-changer for me!
- Picnic lunch on a private island
- Guided tour of the Victoria Falls (but the $20 pp park fee is payable by guests)
- Guided tour of Simonga Village on foot or by bike
- Fishing – Not good in early season as water too high and too murky. Late season is better as lower and clearer
- Visit to Livingstone Museum and/or the markets ($5 museum fee is extra)
