Matetsi Victoria Falls

This lodge is spectacular. From them stocking the goods to make a Negroni on a river cruise after they realized it was my favorite drink, to the turn down services that were personalized to the care that Yvonne gave us to Maybe being so thoughtful and caring during every service, Johnson who made sure we were well taken care of, Yitai who always greeted us with a smile. One of my most amazing trips, the bedding, the shower, the plunge pool, the facilities. Phenomenal.

I was so impressed by so many things at Matetsi that I started making a list so I didn't forget anything! If I had to choose what stood out the most, I would have to say the genuine care I noticed from all staff for the animals. The conservation work happening at Matetsi is next level and all staff, particularly the guides and trackers are so proud to be apart of it. There were some moments where my heart melted, not from seeing an animal but from seeing and hearing the guides reactions to different situations, like the first spotting of a baby warthog for the season or a kudu walking straight past us having our coffee towards a waterhole where unbeknownst to it, a pack of wild dogs were relaxing after a big feed. Everyday we saw something special and different. The guide and trackers were so knowledgeable. It is 100% due to their experience that we saw a leopard and a lioness and her cub on our trip. There is an abundance of waterholes across the huge 550 sq km reserve which made our safaris very special. I also couldn't help but notice the perfect condition of the Safari vehicles and the roads we drove on. Nice touches like blankets and your own personal water bottle were appreciated. Some people forgot to bring binoculars, so hot tip pack binoculars! Outside of the safaris, everything else was also amazing. The Boma dinners, the food, river cruise, all amazing! The villas on the Zambezi are just spectacular. I really had to think how lucky I was sitting by the Infinity pool, looking out at the Zambezi River and having my own little animal show right there with worthogs, bush bucks, baboons, monkey's and even elephants just casually passing through. Everything is thought of, it is a very professionally run place with what appears to be a great team culture among everyone who works there. There might have been a few tears when I had to say goodbye at the end...I will definitely be back!

This was our second visit to Matetsi and again, our experience was superb. The attention to detail from all the airport pickup to the dropoff was professionally managed with the utmost care and attention. The team members work together as a finely tuned operation. Everyone is friendly, engaging and caring. The game and bird viewing was exceptional. The knowledge and skills of our guide and tracker (Simba and Ishe) was extraordinary. We loved every minute of our stay and can't wait for our next visit.

We loved connecting with the team - Gift has a special talent and so does Nashe - we felt the love from the team and truly appreciated all the little details. The boma night was beautifully prepared. Unexpected wild life was a great plus and congratulations to Matetsi for the wonderful conservation work!

Stunning rustic but elegant lodge. All inclusive with food, safari’s, hikes and sunset cruises- and of course a trip to the Falls. Decor in rooms is beautiful and rooms are large with huge bath and a plunge pool. Staff is warm and helpful. Great animal views.

A magical piece of Africa, with wonderful site beside the Zambezi. The beautiful accommodation is complimented by the cuisine and care of the staff. A superb team. Great game viewing - elephants outstanding. Immerse yourself in nature at its best and be restored. Congratulations Gardiner family on what you have achieved here. Special thanks to Malaka for looking after us and Paul - the best guide in many decades in Africa - for the walk amongst wildlife.