Royal Zambezi Lodge Adventure Fishing & Game Viewing Trip

Trip Summary

Trip Introduction

Royal Zambezi Lodge is situated only five minutes drive away from the Lower Zambezi National Park, and in a Game Management Area (GMA) which is home to huge herds of elephant and buffalo, and offers frequent and reliable lion and leopard sightings. The qualified guides have over 50 years of experience guiding in the Lower Zambezi Valley. The river is an ideal place to view both wildlife and birdlife - the riverine ecosystem hosts spectacular birdlife. Clients can opt for open vehicle drives, night drives, walking safaris or boat trips for game-viewing or photographic safaris.

The Lower Zambezi National Park covers an area of 4092 square km. Most of the game however is concentrated along the valley floor due to the escarpment along the northern end acting as a physical barrier to most of the park’s animal species. The park is home to large herds of elephant and healthy populations of lion, leopard, side-striped jackal, hyena, hippo, buffalo, zebra, waterbuck, and many other antelope. Less common but a very special treat are the African wild dog and aardvark.

The Fishing

The Lower Zambezi offers one of the finest fresh water angling experiences in the world. Although it is a year-round activity, the best time to catch tiger fish is between September and March.

Expert resident guides lead fishing excursions on new, fully-fitted aluminium boats. For guests who are new to fishing or fly-fishing, our guides provide expert instruction and assistance. Rods, tackle and flies are provided although enthusiasts may bring their own gear. All fishing is on a catch and release basis.

Fishing with lures, bait and flies is the norm here but guests can also catch tigers fish and other species with cutbait. Small fish called ‘Chessa’ or ‘Bulldogs’ are found in abundance on the banks of the river and will be prepared for use on board. Sharptooth Barbel and Vundu Catfish are caught with heavier tackle, cutbait and also using a local soap called Chik as a bait.

The Accommodation

Royal Zambezi Lodge, an intimate family-owned property, is situated on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River on the edge of the unique Lower Zambezi National Park, directly opposite Mana Pools, Zimbabwe. The design of Royal Zambezi Lodge allows nature and the environment to play a leading role in ensuring the relaxed pace and magical experience enjoyed by guests.

Royal Zambezi Lodge is an ideal place to stay when combining a visit to Victoria Falls. It works perfectly for a family safari vacation or fishing trip, yet also as the romantic setting for honeymoon couples. The lodge offers the ultimate in comfort & luxury, with unrivalled game viewing accompanied by professional guides, a luxury spa and world-class lure and fly fishing.

With a classic design of thatched roofs and an open plan reception, dining and lounge area, the Royal Zambezi also offers a relaxing environment for anglers with a touch of luxury. The open veranda gives shade from the midday sun and the hardwood deck terrace extends over the shallow banks of the Lower Zambezi River. In the evenings, guests can gather at the Sausage Tree Bar for drinks before dinner is served, bragging and story-telling about the day’s activities or simply relaxing and taking in the sounds of being in the middle of the National Park. The Zambian lions can often be heard calling the Zimbabwean lions across the river!

Each suite is equipped with all necessary amenities and free wi-fi is available from your rooms. There is very little or no mobile phone coverage, even if you are on roaming. There is a swimming pool on the main deck, but if you really wanted to splash out – the Presidential Suites have their own private pools and day beds. Enjoy a delicious breakfast overlooking the Lower Zambezi River, where our team of expert chefs will prepare dishes to order or simply whizz up a healthy smoothie.

Lunch need not interrupt a good day’s fishing or game drives. With the option of a gourmet picnic lunch or a full outdoor buffet in the National Park, complete with white linen tableware, the concept of outdoor dining takes on a new dimension.

Dinner is served at private tables under the stars, or by a roaring fire on a cooler night. Alternatively guests may relax in their rooms and have dinner brought to them on their private deck. To celebrate special occasions, guests may enjoy drinks by a camp fire and a candlelit dinner on a deserted island on the Zambezi.

The Royal Zambezi has a Bush Spa which has been inspired by the natural beauty surrounding the lodge and is Zambia’s first and only bush spa. Its minimalist design exudes an air of complete balance, peace and tranquillity offering you the ultimate refuge to restore the mind, body and spirit. An attentive team of qualified therapists are on hand to provide a wide variety of massages, facials and a host of other therapeutic and beauty skin care treatments. Many of these use local indigenous ingredients from the African bush further emphasising its beauty and enchantment.

The spa is positioned around the central courtyard where the inviting aroma of burning scented candles fill the air from the two treatment rooms. You are also invited to use the cooling plunge pool and outdoor Jacuzzi with its breathtaking vista across the river – the perfect way to while away those lazy afternoons. There is also the beautifully appointed lounge area where you can sip fresh juices accompanied by the remarkable sights and sounds of the resident flora and fauna.

Travel Plan