The lodge is located on a quiet stretch of the upper Zambezi River, providing guests an exclusive experience far from the more touristy area close to The Falls, but close enough to get there quickly (20 minutes) by road or boat. The Victoria Falls are one of the natural wonders of the world and a must-see for visitors to Southern Africa. Read more about The Falls below.

The infinity pool and view to the river at Thorntree River lodge.

Thorntree's location within Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park means guests have access to a variety of activities including game drives in open 4x4 vehicles, guided nature walks, rhino tracking on foot, canoeing, boating safaris, sunset cruises, catch-and-release fishing, birding, visits to Livingstone town, and cultural tours and local school visits.

Complementing the activities offered from the lodge, there are also plenty of activities that guests can enjoy (booked separately and at extra cost) closer to The Falls. Some of the most popular activities include white-water rafting, the bungee jump from The Victoria Falls Bridge, helicopter and microlight flights above The Falls, sitting at the edge of the waterfall in 'Devil's Pool, canopy tours, the gorge swing, kayaking, and more.

Main area lounge at Thorntree River Lodge.

Thorntree River Lodge offers 10 luxurious and spacious guest suites, two of which are two-bedroom units (two suites connected by an adjoining walkway and sharing an indoor lounge and the outdoor deck space. The double units are ideal for a family or two couples traveling together.

All the the suites overtook the Zambezi River and have a private deck with lounge seating and a plunge pool for cooling off during the midday hours. The suites feature fully-plumbed facilities with an indoor shower, outdoor shower, bathtub, and flush toilet.

Guest suite bedroom and view at Thorntree River Lodge.

The main lodge consists of several structures arranged around open-air living spaces. The indoor spaces are air-conditioned and include a dining room, lounge with fireplace, bar area, library with wi-fi and satellite tv, and a wine storage.

The outdoor space includes a large deck, which is used for outdoor dining, relaxing, and enjoying the view onto the Zambezi River, where wildlife is often seen. There is an infinity pool and deck with loungers, as well as a campfire area. The traditional outdoor boma is used for cookouts and al-fresco dinners.

A wooden walkway leads down to the floating jetty on the river. The circular jetty is also used for private dinners and as a campfire area for cocktails. Boating safaris and sunset cruises also depart from the jetty on the camp's private motorboat. Other features in the main guest area include a traditional 'boma' for outdoor dining, a full-service spa, a safari boutique shop, and a gym with weights and cardio equipment

Campfire area and view to the Zambezi River at Thorntree River Lodge.

Thorntree River Lodge is owned and operated by African Bush Camps (ABC), a company founded by a professional African safari guide, who has a passion for protecting remote spaces and the wildlife that lives there.

African Bush Camps operates safari camps in Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Zambia. The ABC camps are fully sustainable, with minimal impact on the environment. The African Bush Camps Foundation runs local projects that empower the local communities wherever they operate safari camps. The company's aim is to conserve and preserve wildlife and natural areas in Southern Africa.

About The Victoria Falls

The legendary waterfall named for Queen Elizabeth and known locally as 'Mosi-oa'Tunya' (which means 'The Smoke that Thunders' in the Lozi language) is one of the great wonders of the natural world and one of Southern Africa's most visited attractions. Besides touring the waterfall (which is an amazing experience at either high water or low water), there are myriad adventure activities that can be enjoyed both above The Falls and in the gorges below.

The Victoria Falls are created by water in the Zambezi River, which originates far to the north in northern Zambia. Around 20 000 years ago, the river was redirected to its current course and it began cutting into fissures in the volcanic, basalt rock in this area and causing huge chunks of rock to crack off. Over time, deep gorges were created and The Falls have progressively moved upriver to the west, with a total of six individual gorges existing today. Collectively the gorges below The Falls are known as the Batoka Gorge.

Landscape around The Falls drying up near the end of high water.

At 5 604 feet (1 708 meters) wide and 354 feet (108 meters) high, the Victoria Falls forms the largest single curtain of falling water in the world, measuring 1.5 times the width of Niagara Falls and twice as high. In terms of combined height and width, only Brazil's Iguazu Falls is comparable.

The border between Zimbabwe and Zambia runs through the middle of the Zambezi River, both upstream and downstream of The Falls, so the river and waterfall are shared by both countries. In order to view both sides of The Falls, visitors must have a visa for both countries.

Visitors planning to visit The Falls can choose from a multitude of accommodations on both the Zambian side and Zimbabwean side. The Victoria Falls Bridge, which was completed in 1905 and spans 2nd Gorge just below The Falls, connects the two countries via roadway and rail. The Falls can be viewed from either country (regardless of which side is used for accommodation) and many visitors obtain visas to allow viewing from both sides.

The small town of Victoria Falls (on the Zimbabwe side) was long the preferred base for visitors coming to The Falls, while Livingstone town in Zambia was largely overlooked. However, due to Zimbabwe's political tension and instability over the past 20-30 years, a good portion of the tourism has shifted to the Zambian side and today, guests stay about equally on both sides.

Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park

Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park covers 27 square miles (70 sq kms) and is divided into two sections: the wildlife section in the northwest between Livingstone town and the Zambezi River above The Falls, and the section beginning at The Falls and extending downstream to Songwe Gorge. There are separate gates for each section.

The park is home to elephant, buffalo, white rhino, giraffe, buffalo, zebra, blue wildebeest, bushbuck, and greater kudu. Birding in the park is very good, with over 250 species recorded. Hippos and crocodile are abundant along the river banks.

Rhino tracking experience at Thorntree River Lodge in Mosi-oa-Tunya NP.

Activities at The Falls

The Victoria Falls region has become known as The Adventure Capital of Southern Africa and this is for very good reason: there are seemingly endless activities beyond just seeing the waterfall. Some of the most popular activities are discussed below.

White-water rafting
White-water rafting is perhaps the most popular of all the 'adrenaline' activities offered at The Falls. The gorges below The Victoria Falls offer some of the most spectacular rapids and scenery of any river in the world and rafting here is renowned amongst enthusiasts. The rapids here are mostly Class IV and V, but no prior experience is required as the rafts are steered by experienced guides.

During low water (usually August thru late December), rafting trips cover a long stretch of the river. The rapids at this time of year are at their most spectacular, with lots of white water, exposed rocks, high waves and pronounced troughs. This is the most desirable time to experience rafting on the Zambezi.

Rafting is also offered during high water (generally February to July), but the trips are shorter, starting just below Rapid #9 on both sides of the river. Rapid #9 is always a walk-around/portage, as it is too dangerous even during low water. Although high water rafting may seem less dramatic, as there is much less white water, it is actually much more dangerous due to the vicious undercurrents and whirlpools. When the water becomes very high (usually March thru May), all rafting is postponed.

More Adrenaline Activities
One of the most popular activities at The Falls is the hair-raising bungee jump off The Victoria Falls Bridge, where jumpers leap off a platform and free-fall 364 feet (111 meters) into the gorge with the Zambezi River water below. For thrill seekers, this is certainly one of the most intense activities at The Falls. Tandem jumps are also offered. Jumpers are winched back up after the jump.

During the rainy season (Nov-May), there are interruptions in this activity, as the cords have to be dry.

From mid-August to late December (October/November is best), the low water levels at The Falls allow daring visitors to take part in a guided adrenaline activity, by swimming a short distance from Livingstone Island to the 'Devil's Pool'. Devil's Pool is a natural pool of water created by a depression in a rock wall along the lip of The Falls that limits the water flow enough for people to sit safely within. This amazing infinity pool is located right at the precipice of The Falls and one can peer over the edge and down the long drop into the gorge below.

For those wishing to see The Falls from above, there are several ways to get bird's-eye views. These flights are commonly called the 'Flight of Angels', after the famous quote by the explorer David Livingstone. Options include helicopter, microlight, and light fixed-wing aircraft.

Additional popular activities include canoeing on the upper Zambezi River, abseiling, canopy tours, gorge swinging, river boarding, kayaking, zip lining, the flying fox, jet boating, the bridge slide, and the bridge walk.

ROOMS INCLUDES & EXCLUDES CHILDREN FACILITIES ACTIVITIES

Accommodation

10 guest accommodations in total comprising:

8 luxurious, one-bedroom suites, each with two three-quarter beds and a spacious outdoor deck with a private plunge pool and lounge seating. The beds can be converted to a double bed on request.
2 luxurious, two-bedroom suites. Each bedroom has its own fully-plumbed facilities, including an indoor shower, outdoor shower, bathtub, double-basin vanity, and flush toilet. The bedrooms are adjoined by a a central entrance leading to a shared lounge. A shared outdoor deck with a plunge pool overlooks the river.

All of the guest suites feature air conditioning and fully-plumbed, en-suite facilities that include an indoor shower, outdoor shower, double-basin vanity, and a flush toilet.

The guest suites are constructed atop slightly-elevated, wooden platforms, each with superb views to the Zambezi River only a few steps away. Sand footpaths connect the suites to the main lodge area.

Guest suite interior at Thorntree River Lodge.

The guest suites are constructed from wood and canvas, with floor-to-ceiling, glass-paneled doors with mesh sliders as well to allow in fresh air. The sliding doors open onto the river-facing, private deck and plunge pool. Full-length curtains can be closed for privacy.

The décor in the suites is a mix of contemporary and traditional African, with locally-sourced furnishings.

Other items and features in the guest suites include:

Air conditioning.
Mosquito netting over the beds.
Couch and daybed.
Clothes storage / wardrobe.
Writing desk and chair.
Ceiling fan.
Outdoor veranda/deck with private plunge pool.
Mini-bar with fridge.
Coffee/tea station.
Electronic safe for storing valuables.
Hairdryer.
Wi-Fi available in the main guest area.
Multi-plug charging station.
Personal amenities, including laundry basket, robe and slippers, liquid soap, body wash, shampoo and conditioner, insect repellent, insect spray, room spray, vanity kit with cotton-tip swabs and cotton wool pads, shower cap, and umbrella.

Thorntree River Lodge can accommodate a maximum of 24 guests in total: 4 guests in each of the 2 double-suites and 2 guests in each of the 8 standard suites.

Includes & Excludes

Includes:

All meals and local beverages including wines, spirits and liqueurs, but excluding premium imported brands and Champagne.
Twice-daily safari activities including game drives in open game-viewing vehicles, nature walks, catch-and-release fishing, canoeing, boating safaris, sunset cruises, rhino tracking on foot, and other scheduled camp activities (all accompanied by experienced guides).
Note that during the green season (Nov-Apr), activities may be limited to water-based activities on the Zambezi River (depending on road conditions).
Laundry services are provided on a daily basis (weather permitting, items will be returned on the same day). Laundry is dried by the sun and on most days any laundry placed out in the morning will be returned by the evening.
Livingstone Airport road transfers
Kasane Airport road transfers when coming from or going to another ABC Botswana camp.
Victoria Falls Airport road transfers when coming from or going to another ABC Zimbabwe camp.
Tourism Levy & VAT.

Excludes:

Premium imported beverages and Champagne.
Cigars.
Any applicable wildlife fee, park fee, reserve fee, concession fee, other land-use fee.

Single Supplement
A single supplement will apply for any room booked by a single traveler; please ask us for pricing.

Children

Children of any age are accommodated at Thorntree River Lodge.

Children under 16 years of age are charged a child rate and must share with an adult/s in the same suite.
Children aged 16 years and older will pay applicable adult rates and can be accommodated in a separate tent or sharing with a parent.
Families with children will be accommodated in the same vehicle as other guests for game drives. Private vehicles are an option (subject to availability and at additional cost).
Walking and canoeing activities are available to guests aged 16 years and above.
Ngwana Club is a family-friendly program that offers kids of all ages a variety of safari-related activities.
Young children must be supervised by their parents, as the camp is not fenced and is located in an area with wild animals.

Facilities

Thorntree River Lodge is located on the northern bank of the Zambezi River and within the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. The lodge and its guest suites offer superb views onto the river and easy access to the Victoria Falls, which are just 9 miles downstream.

The outdoor space includes a large deck, which is used for outdoor dining and relaxing. There is a deluxe campfire area with lounge seating for enjoying drinks and sharing stories. The entire deck offers views onto the Zambezi River, where wildlife is often seen. There is an infinity pool and deck with loungers, as well as a campfire area. The traditional outdoor boma is used for cookouts and al-fresco dinners.

Other features in the main guest area include a traditional 'boma' for outdoor dining, a full-service spa, a safari boutique shop, and a gym with weights and cardio equipment.

Like the guest suites, the main guests areas are furnished in a mix of contemporary and traditional African style, using locally-sourced materials and artwork.

A generator provides electricity to the camp.

Main guest area facilities include:

Multiple indoor (air-conditioned) and outdoor spaces with lounges, dining areas, and a bar.
An outdoor viewing deck with lounge seating and space for dining.
Swimming pool and sundeck.
Gym.
Full-service spa.
Floating jetty used for private dining, campfires, and boat launching.
Traditional boma for outdoor dining.
Campfire areas with lounge seating.
Wine storage.
Satellite TV and WiFi available in the library.
Guest toilets in the main area.
Safari shop with items for purchase.

Activities

Activities included in the rate:

Morning and afternoon game drives (in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park) in 4x4 Land Cruisers.
Guided tour of the magnificent Victoria Falls on the Zambian side.
Canoeing on the Zambezi River (age restricted).
Birding.
Catch-and-release fishing.
Boating safaris and sunset cruises on the Zambezi River.
Rhino tracking with the Zambian Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW), getting up close and personal with these endangered animals.
Guided tour of Livingstone town and the Livingstone Museum (a 20-minute drive from camp).

Optional activities at additional cost:
There are a range of other activities available at an extra cost, including, but not limited to:

White-water rafting.
Scenic helicopter and microlight flights above The Falls.
Bungee jumping.
Abseiling.
Canopy tours.
Gorge swinging.
River boarding.
Kayaking.
Zip-lining.
The flying fox.
Jet boating.
The bridge slide.
The bridge walk.
Cultural visits to one of the nearby villages are respectful and insightful ways of learning about and interacting with the people and culture of this part of Zambia.

Example of a typical day:

Early morning wake-up call. Morning wake-up and activity times vary according to the seasons and activities on offer.
Light breakfast before departing on the morning activity.
Return to the lodge for a meal and rest period.
Meet for afternoon tea and snacks (savory and sweet choices) before departing on the activity.
Return to camp - freshen up or meet for drinks, followed by dinner.
Enjoy a nightcap or discussion around the fire before retiring.

Great Good Fair Poor

When to Visit

Most tourists that come to stay in either Livingston (on the Zambia side of the Victoria Falls) or in Victoria Falls town (on the Zimbabwea side) come primarily to see the The Falls.

Timing your visit may be something to consider, as the experience one has when viewing the Victoria Falls is markedly different during high water versus at low water.

Thorntree River Lodge is open year-round.

Water Levels at The Falls
The volume of water traveling over the Victoria Falls changes from a mere trickle (during low water season) to a thunderous torrent of rushing water (at high water season) so great that it causes spray to rise from the gorge below high into the sky above the top of the waterfall.

High Water Season

Rainfall in the catchment of the upper Zambezi River (upper meaning above the Victoria Falls and all the way north into Zambia) occurs between November and April. Much of this catchment is hundreds of miles north of Livingstone, so the high water levels at The Falls are typically between February and May, with the peak months being March and April.

Note that the timing and amount of rainfall varies year to year and is never completely predictable. Beginning in May, the water flow over The Falls gradually decreases until December, when the local rainfall begins to raise the river again.

Touring The Victoria Falls at high water means that actually seeing The Falls is nearly impossible due to the tremendous amount of spray created when the torrential flow of water crashes into First Gorge below The Falls. The spray is forced upward and rises 1 300 to 2 600 feet (400-800 meters) above the lip of the waterfall and can be seen from 30 miles (48 kms) away. The incredible sound of the crashing water and the massive spray is what gave Victoria Falls its local name of 'Mosi-oa-Tunya', which means 'The Smoke that Thunders'.

The walking trail on the Zambian side of the waterfall follows a footpath right along the cliff of the gorge opposite the Eastern Cataract falls and during high water, the incessant spray means it will be very wet. The rising spray falls back as a steady but gentle rain and rain gear is highly recommended, as well as waterproof coverings for your electronic gear, including cameras and phones.

A great way top see The Falls at high water is to take a helicopter or microlight flight above!

Low Water Season

The volume of water over the Victoria Falls begins to recede beginning in April and usually reaches its lowest level during October and November. At this time, most of the main channels that flow over The Falls are just trickles of slow moving water and some sections, particularly the Eastern Cataract near the Zambian bank may even stop flowing completely.

While touring The Falls is certainly less dramatic at low water, this is also a great time to visit The Falls, as you get a true appreciation of the geology of the gorges and can actually see clearly compared to a visit during high water, when the spray obscures much of detail at The Falls.

Walking out onto the rocks above The Falls (with a guide only) is possible at this time and the popular "Devil's Pool" activity is only offered at low water (read more on the Livingstone page here).

White-water rafting below The Falls is at its best during low water, with incredible rapids, large wave action and deep troughs.

Climate

Dry Season / Winter
The dry winter season occurs from May through October and there is little to no rain at this time. Daytime temps are warm to hot, but the nights are cool and comfortable.

The local rains abate during April and May, but the landscape remains green and lush with rainwater still around in places. May temps average 80-84°F (27-29°C) with overnight temps falling to 50-54°F (10-11°C).

June and July bring dropping temps and these are the coolest months of the year, with no rainfall. Daytime temps average 77-81°F (25-27°C) and nights are chilly at 43-47°F (6-8°C). Morning activities can be chilly, so bring a fleece and a beanie.

August and September are dry and experience a warming trend. Daytime temps reach 88-93°F (31-34°C) and overnights are a comfortable 46-59°F (8-15°C).

October is very warm to hot and very dry. Daytime temps average 95-99°F (35-37°C) but can get even hotter on some days. Morning are the best time to be out, when temps are a more comfortable 62-66°F (17-19°C). Early rainfall often begins late in October, which brings a welcome relief.

Rainy Season / Summer
The rainy months are November through April. Rain often falls as afternoon thunderstorms and the days remain warm and humid. All-day rains are uncommon and most days experience some sunshine.

November brings the early rains (sometimes late October) and this is a welcome relief after the long dry winter. Daytime temps are very warm, averaging 86-90°F (30-32°C) with high humidity and the nights only drop to 66-70°F (19-21°C) . Afternoon rains are common.

December through mid-March experience the highest rainfall, with rain occurring on most days, but almost never being an all-day affair. Daytime temps average 84-88°F (29-31°C) with overnights dropping to 65-68°F (18-20°C).

April is a very nice month in terms of weather, with rainfall uncommon and moderate temps. The landscape is verdant after the long rainy season. Daytime temps average 85-86°F (29-30°C).

Wildlife Viewing

Game viewing in the wildlife section of Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park (the northwest portion) is not heavily influenced by seasonality, other than the rains. Its small size and containment (fenced except along the river) mean that the antelopes and other general game are always there. Elephants move in and out, crossing the river between Zimbabwe and Zambia.