The tapestry of luxury safari lodges is constantly evolving, but the rebirth of the Thorntree River Lodge, a jewel in the crown of African Bush Camps (ABC), is an evocative rendition of contemporary African elegance. Opened in May 2017, this revamped sanctuary has seamlessly weaved modern design with deep-rooted African aesthetics, painting a picture of sophisticated tranquility on the banks of the mighty Zambezi.
Awarded: Silver
Location
Anchored within Zambia’s treasured Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, Thorntree River Lodge commands a riveting riverside location. Merely 12km upstream from the world-renowned Victoria Falls, it serves as a serene base from which the cascading waters can be explored. The proximity to both nature’s marvel and abundant wildlife makes it not just a lodge, but an immersive experience in Africa’s pulsating heart.
ROOMS
Boasting ten opulent suites, including eight doubles or twins and two family-oriented sanctuaries, every accommodation is a testament to thoughtfully curated design. Raised wooden decks are the foundation for rooms where solid walls meet canvas roofs, exuding a tented ambiance. The interiors are an orchestra of light wood, copper, steel, and fabrics in soothing blues and whites. The nuances, such as a teak wood door made from old railway sleepers and the bar fridge stocked with local delights, underscore attention to detail. Beyond the elegance lies functionality, with family units featuring inter-leading passageways for convenience. Fronted with glass, each suite offers a private deck and plunge pool, presenting unhindered vistas of the Zambezi River. The en-suite bathrooms, with their dual showers (one being outdoor) and luxurious baths, cement the rooms’ status as havens of relaxation.
COMMUNAL AREAS
Thorntree’s heart lies in its communal spaces. The main area, crowned by two grand circus-style tents, embraces the environment. Stone walls cradle the rear while frameless glass doors offer panoramic views of the river. The lounge is a mélange of comfort with its diverse seating arrangements, a warm fireplace, and a bar that promises the perfect cappuccino. Adjacently, the dining room beckons with its temperature-controlled wine cellar, showcasing a rich collection behind glass doors. The exterior deck, with its Mediterranean-esque infinity pool, is a symphony of relaxation and views. Furthermore, the U-shaped boma with its cushion-topped solid brick benches surrounds an artistic steel sculptured firepit, setting the scene for unforgettable evening interactions.
ACTIVITIES
A stay at Thorntree is a ticket to a smorgasbord of activities. Within the embrace of Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, guests can venture on game drives, witnessing the rich tapestry of wildlife, or engage in exhilarating rhino trekking. The proximity to Victoria Falls unlocks a plethora of experiences ranging from adrenaline-pumping white-water rafting to the serene sunset cruises on the lodge’s private boats. Cultural aficionados can embark on enlightening local village visits or explore the artifacts at the Livingstone Museum. The lodge’s dedicated commitment to offering a holistic African experience ensures that guests, whether thrill-seekers or serenity-lovers, find their calling.
Fully inclusive
When to go
Find out when is best to visit
- Excellent
- Good
- Poor
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
This is the wettest time of the year, with rain falling most days of the month, although rarely prolonged in nature. Temperatures are a very pleasant, averaging 31°C/89°F midday, while the nights average 20°C/68°F.
The Zambezi River's water levels begin to increase, improving the Victoria Falls spectacle. White water rafting is good at this time of year particularly in the first half of the month.
Like the rest of Zambia, Livingstone has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate.
Generally, the falls are at their most spectacular from February through to July, whilst November marks the falls at their lowest. Even at lowest water levels the Falls are still a sight to behold, the lower water levels also make for ideal white water rafting as well as allow access to the famous Devil’s Pool.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
This is the wettest time of the year, with rain falling most days of the month, although rarely prolonged in nature. Temperatures are a very pleasant, averaging 31°C/89°F midday, while the nights average 20°C/68°F.
The Zambezi River's water levels begin to increase, improving the Victoria Falls spectacle. White water rafting is good at this time of year particularly in the first half of the month.
Like the rest of Zambia, Livingstone has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate.
Generally, the falls are at their most spectacular from February through to July, whilst November marks the falls at their lowest. Even at lowest water levels the Falls are still a sight to behold, the lower water levels also make for ideal white water rafting as well as allow access to the famous Devil’s Pool.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
This is the wettest time of the year, with rain falling most days of the month, although rarely prolonged in nature. Temperatures are a very pleasant, averaging 31°C/89°F midday, while the nights average 20°C/68°F.
The Zambezi River's water levels begin to increase, improving the Victoria Falls spectacle. White water rafting is good at this time of year particularly in the first half of the month.
Like the rest of Zambia, Livingstone has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate.
Generally, the falls are at their most spectacular from February through to July, whilst November marks the falls at their lowest. Even at lowest water levels the Falls are still a sight to behold, the lower water levels also make for ideal white water rafting as well as allow access to the famous Devil’s Pool.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
Temperatures are pleasant, and the rains are beginning to ease. The water level of the Zambezi should be at its peak, showcasing Victoria Falls in all her glory.
Like the rest of Zambia, Livingstone has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate.
Generally, the falls are at their most spectacular from February through to July, whilst November marks the falls at their lowest. Even at lowest water levels the Falls are still a sight to behold, the lower water levels also make for ideal white water rafting as well as allow access to the famous Devil’s Pool.
DRY SEASON
May is the beginning of the dry season, although the landscape will still be many shades of green following the rains. Midday temperatures are average around 28°C/82°F, the mornings can however be surprisingly cool at around 10°C/49°F, so be sure to pack a warm fleece.
Water levels remain high over the Falls.
Like the rest of Zambia, Livingstone has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate.
Generally, the falls are at their most spectacular from February through to July, whilst November marks the falls at their lowest. Even at lowest water levels the Falls are still a sight to behold, the lower water levels also make for ideal white water rafting as well as allow access to the famous Devil’s Pool.
DRY SEASON
Midday temperatures are average around 28°C/82°F, the mornings can, however, be surprisingly cool at around 11°C/52°F, so be sure to pack a warm fleece.
Water levels remain high over the Falls
Like the rest of Zambia, Livingstone has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate.
Generally, the falls are at their most spectacular from February through to July, whilst November marks the falls at their lowest. Even at lowest water levels the Falls are still a sight to behold, the lower water levels also make for ideal white water rafting as well as allow access to the famous Devil’s Pool.
DRY SEASON
Midday temperatures are average around 28°C/82°F, the mornings can, however, be surprisingly cool at around 11°C/52°F, so be sure to pack a warm fleece.
Water levels remain high over the Falls.
Like the rest of Zambia, Livingstone has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate.
Generally, the falls are at their most spectacular from February through to July, whilst November marks the falls at their lowest. Even at lowest water levels the Falls are still a sight to behold, the lower water levels also make for ideal white water rafting as well as allow access to the famous Devil’s Pool.
DRY SEASON
Clear skies still dominate. Midday and night temperatures are a little warmer during these months, averaging 33°C/91°F and 18°C/64°F respectfully.
Water levels begin to drop, making locations such as Devil’s pool more accessible.
Like the rest of Zambia, Livingstone has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate.
Generally, the falls are at their most spectacular from February through to July, whilst November marks the falls at their lowest. Even at lowest water levels the Falls are still a sight to behold, the lower water levels also make for ideal white water rafting as well as allow access to the famous Devil’s Pool.
DRY SEASON
Clear skies still dominate. Midday and night temperatures are a little warmer during these months, averaging 33°C/91°F and 18°C/64°F respectfully.
Water levels begin to drop, making locations such as Devil’s pool more accessible.
Like the rest of Zambia, Livingstone has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate.
Generally, the falls are at their most spectacular from February through to July, whilst November marks the falls at their lowest. Even at lowest water levels the Falls are still a sight to behold, the lower water levels also make for ideal white water rafting as well as allow access to the famous Devil’s Pool.
DRY SEASON
Temperatures continue to rise before the start of the rains, with midday temperatures over 40°C/104°F not uncommon.
Water levels begin to drop, making locations such as Devil’s pool more accessible. Zambezi River rafting is at its best, with exciting rapids and drop-offs
Like the rest of Zambia, Livingstone has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate.
Generally, the falls are at their most spectacular from February through to July, whilst November marks the falls at their lowest. Even at lowest water levels the Falls are still a sight to behold, the lower water levels also make for ideal white water rafting as well as allow access to the famous Devil’s Pool.
WET SEASON
The first rains arrive, usually in the form of sharp afternoon showers. The temperatures still remain very hot, while the humidity adds a level of discomfort.
Water levels begin to drop, making locations such as Devil’s pool more accessible. Zambezi River rafting is at its best, with exciting rapids and drop-offs.
Like the rest of Zambia, Livingstone has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate.
Generally, the falls are at their most spectacular from February through to July, whilst November marks the falls at their lowest. Even at lowest water levels the Falls are still a sight to behold, the lower water levels also make for ideal white water rafting as well as allow access to the famous Devil’s Pool.
WET SEASON
Wettest time of the year, with rain falling most days of the month, although rarely prolonged in nature. Temperatures are a very pleasant, averaging 31°C/89°F midday, while the nights average 20°C/68°F.
Water levels begin to drop, making locations such as Devil’s pool more accessible. Zambezi River rafting is at its best, with exciting rapids and drop-offs.
Like the rest of Zambia, Livingstone has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate.
Generally, the falls are at their most spectacular from February through to July, whilst November marks the falls at their lowest. Even at lowest water levels the Falls are still a sight to behold, the lower water levels also make for ideal white water rafting as well as allow access to the famous Devil’s Pool.
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What People Say
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The personalised service provided was far beyond my expectations. A three week trip visiting four countries in Africa, multiple game reserves, wineries and much, much more was flawless. While a close encounter with a leopard and her cubs…
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We got in touch after hearing about Hide & Seek from a friend. Have to say hats off to Jamie, he was so patient throughout, even through our indecisiveness! Ultimately we ended up with the most incredible holiday of our lives. Thank you again, we will be back!!
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Thank you for arranging our Safari holiday in Kenya and Tanzania for us. It was to celebrate our 40th. Wedding anniversary which was on July 1st. 2018, and through your arrangements, we have had a holiday that we will never forget...
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Thanks so much for a truly unforgettable once in a life time holiday. Hopefully we will be in touch again soon!
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Spot on in terms of itinerary . We not disappointed by any of the suggestions and had the best holiday ever! Thank you!
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Jamie was very helpful throughout the booking process and recommended the perfect holiday. There was nothing we would change having now been out to Tanzania. I would highly recommend Hide & Seek to friends and relatives.
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Jamie was excellent. Once I described what we wanted I knew he would come up with the business. ..and he did!!! 5 stars
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We spoke to numerous travel agents over the period we looked at booking our honeymoon and only hide and seek gave me the confidence I was looking for. Really pleased with our decision.
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Hide and seek dealt with our last minute travel plans extremely well. Obviously, our accommodations shifted as availability diminished but ultimately they came up with a vacation that we will never forget.
