Hayley Idensohn from Travel Portfolio in Harare was lucky enough to be hosted in September 2020 by Zambezi Cruise & Safaris at Kariba Safari Lodge set on a hill overlooking Lake Kariba. She sent us her comments:-
“I thought the setting was absolutely lovely and I loved the décor.
The entrance area with its pool, lounge area and expansive decks is quite stunning. The views over Lake Kariba are probably amongst the best I have seen anywhere in Zimbabwe . . . in fact anywhere in the world and I have travelled quite a lot.
Where else could you be watching the sun rise or set from an elevated vantage point with panoramic vistas over the vast inland sea of Lake Kariba, where your neighbours are the wildlife and your music is the call of the fish eagle and the grunting of hippos?
Our double suite bedroom and outside verandah was lovely and the bed extremely comfortable. It’s a great idea to have the fan inside the expansive mosquito net canopy. This really works well to keep you cool in the Kariba summer temperatures.
I loved the conference area with its magnificent views. This facility would also be great for functions / dinners / teambuilding etc. In fact the whole lodge lends itself well to group functions catering for up to 34 people.
The staff were super-efficient and attentive - always on hand to take care of every need.
One slight drawback for some guests (particularly the elderly), is that the lodge is set on a steep hill, and as a result is heavily terraced, with the dining deck at the top, the rooms on terraced levels below, and the beach/bar at the bottom of the slope. There’s a lot of stair-climbing involved, which could be a bit of a challenge for some, but with the right clientele the lodge works extremely well.
An alternative option for some guests will be the smaller Crowned Eagle Boutique Hotel – currently nearing completion at the top of the hill just up the road from the Safari Lodge. This too has stunning views and, when it opens, will be a great addition to the Zambezi Cruise & Safaris' stable.
I look forward very much to returning!”