By Shanaaz Ziervogel
Explorer Safari Travel Planner Shanaaz shares her experiences at majestic Victoria Falls, the largest sheet of falling water in the world.
Shanaaz stayed at Matetsi Victoria Falls, a sophisticated and comfortable luxury lodge in the most beautiful, wild setting. Here’s her story.
Arriving at Matetsi
On arrival I was welcomed by the Matetsi staff with broad smiles, offers of a wet towel and a lovely home-made lemon drink which was so inviting in the heat. After a lodge briefing by the Camp Manager, I was given a personalised metal water bottle, both a gift and for use throughout my stay. What a lovely touch!
I was escorted to my room by my own personal butler where my luggage had already been placed. A handwritten welcome card was found, next to some treats. These special touches are so delightful. I was mesmerised by the floor-to-ceiling glass doors opening up to the river and my very own private plunge pool. I could not resist and found myself in the pool a minute later! The same view is shared by the gloriously large round bathtub, which is a complete indulgence. Each suite is air-conditioned and fitted with a sumptuous king-size bed, indoor and outdoor rain showers.
The spacious guest areas feature both indoor and outdoor living spaces, with a stunning copper bar, an interactive kitchen, covered al fresco dining areas, as well as a boma (the best for fireside dinners!) Lunch was served on the riverbank; no better way to enjoy a meal with spectacular views, and the sound of absolute peace and tranquillity.
After lunch, I took a short walk through the camp where I found the massage sala, fitness studio, wine cellar, library, and boutique. All this overlooking a luxurious 20m lap pool on the riverbank.
My Safari Experience
This morning, I had a wake-up call with hot coffee waiting for me! I was joined by my personal guide and tracker and we took off to the jetty for our sunrise river cruise. The boat cruise experience is offered all year round. The water levels of the Zambezi River do rise and fall annually, and the routes are being adjusted accordingly.
I got to experience the river with its lush islands, while craggy shelves of rock in the shallows gurgled and created foamy rapids. There was always movement, whether in the dense fringes of forest that lined the riverbanks, or on the wide floodplains where the animals sunned themselves. I could hear the deep chuckle and grunt of hippos and the quiet splash that signals the stealthy approach of a crocodile.
As we floated gently back to the current, I pulled out my binoculars for a close look at the thriving birdlife in and around the river and heard the awe-inspiring call of the African fish eagle.
Every meal at Matetsi is a culinary experience, which is part of your overall stay. During my time here I enjoyed the menus that were prepared daily. Plus, a special cake was made for me in celebration of my birthday! Such a treat.
If you are looking for traditional safari Lodge, Matetsi isn’t the place for you. What you will experience is a sophisticated take on safari interiors and all the comforts of an urban lifestyle in a truly wild setting. My recommendation is to do all the Victoria Falls activities before you head out to the reserve so that you can completely relax while you are here.
Getting There and Logistics
There are two daily flights into Victoria Falls, operating through British Airways and South African Airways from Johannesburg and Cape Town (COVI9-19 restrictions may apply).
It is less than a scenic 45 minute drive from Victoria Falls Town to Matetsi Victoria Falls. The lodge has also unveiled its very own private airstrip, which complements its existing private heli-pad. There is also a new exclusive-use concept available which allows guests to safari in their own bubbles.