The River Club

Location
Zambezi River, Zambia

The River Club is one of Africa’s most coveted accommodations. Set along the shores of the Zambezi River, just over 10 miles from famous Victoria Falls, this Edwardian-style house with manicured lawns and 10 guest chalets offers a bridge between the Western world and the wonders of Africa.

Each chalet is elevated above the riverbank and is comprised of a comfortable bedroom and sitting area and an en-suite bathroom with clawfoot tub. One side of each chalet is completely open to the river, allowing uninterrupted views of the flowing Zambezi and the hippos and crocodiles that inhabit it. The main area of the lodge maintains a comfortably homey feel, with an inviting lounge, dining room, library and wide veranda. Most meals are served in the shade of the trees and within view of the River Club’s lush gardens, though indoor dining is also an option. A croquet court, pool, deck with hammocks and lounge chairs, and a wellness center welcome guests to relax after a long flight or a day spent exploring the environs around Livingstone.

Activities available to River Club guests include sunset cruises and visits to Victoria Falls, Simonga Village, local markets and Livingstone town, steeped in history dating back to the early 1900s. The David Livingstone Museum is another interesting attraction, housing many of the explorer’s personal possessions and memoirs. For the adventure seekers, high adrenaline activities such as whitewater rafting, bungee jumping, abseiling and helicopter flights over the falls are also available at an additional cost. Guests interested in wildlife may enjoy a game drive in nearby Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, home to an abundance of game including buffalo, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, impala and elephant. The bird life in the area is also rewarding, with common sightings of several rare species such as the Schalow’s turaco, African finfoot, half-collared kingfisher, African skimmer, rock pratincole and collared palm-thrush. Fishing is also possible, with tiger fish and bream the most common catches.