Riverside safari outpost
Unfenced riverfront living brings elephants and hippos into view across the water, setting an unhurried rhythm between day and night drives.
Where it shines
Remarkable
Comprehensive bush adventures including river canoe safaris, tiger fishing, night game drives, and guided walking expeditions.
Notable
Open timber decks, thatched roofs, and natural stone suites built around living riverine woodland trees.
Notable
Expansive tented suites with private plunge pools, extra-length sprung beds, and attentive guided safari hosting.
What they say
One Michelin Key
Michelin
Its fifteen airy suites take full advantage of its unforgettable location, with views from every angle along with expansive decks and patios;
Tucked away
A place apart: the property is the destination.
Bush planes land at the nearby airstrip, placing you minutes from Lower Zambezi National Park and river channels primed for canoeing.
The rooms
Thatched suites feature private plunge pools, freestanding bathtubs, and shaded viewing decks looking directly over the Zambezi River.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
An outdoor infinity pool sits beneath a spreading tree beside the bar deck, looking straight across the Zambezi River.
The spa
Open-air thatched pavilions sit perched above the water, offering massages and skincare made with local botanicals.
At the table
Meals are served along open timber decks overlooking the water, before evenings wind down around the boma fire pit.
How it began
Family-owned since 1997, the retreat spans 200 hectares along the Zambezi, framed by the escarpment and protected wilderness.
Good to know
Stay here
Royal Zambezi Lodge
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Lower Zambezi National Park
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.