Thorntree River Lodge

Thorntree River Lodge

Thorntree River Lodge

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Thorntree River Lodge boasts a stunning location on the banks of the Zambezi River. Set in the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, it's only 12 km (7.5 miles) from Livingstone and Victoria Falls. The property occupies a peaceful spot with river views, and there always seem to be large flocks of quelea flying overhead. 

The main area of the lodge is crafted out of wood, reed and stone, with little touches of personality popping up everywhere you look. The view of the river draws you through the expansive dining and lounge area. Furnishings are contemporary and create an ambience that's similar to that of a small boutique lodge. Glass sliding doors can provide shelter from adverse weather, but can also be thrown open to reveal the enormous deck during the hotter months. Outside is a split-level infinity pool and a floating deck complete with fire pit. There's also a small gym and spa.

You'll stay in one of just eight free-standing suites, or there are two family units with interconnecting bedrooms. All are set along the riverbank, surrounding by riverine trees and aquatic wildlife. 

Our rating: Deluxe

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Rooms

There are eight luxurious, free-standing suites as well as two family units that each have two interconnecting bedrooms. Spaced along the banks of the Zambezi, the suites are shaded by trees and you can often spot aquatic birdlife from your deck. Inside, the suites are light, airy and spacious, benefiting from air conditioning, a well stocked minibar and comfy day bed. Through the glass sliding doors you'll find your own plunge pool, outdoor seating, and a private outdoor shower.

Location

The lodge is situated within the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, within easy reach of Livingstone town and the mighty Victoria Falls. The entire lodge is built on the banks of the river, giving you views of the Zambezi wherever you choose to spend time. 

Food and drink

Meals are set up in a variety of locations around the lodge, giving you a different experience each time. Breakfast is an informal occasion, served around the camp fire. A two-course lunch is laid out under the shade of the open-sided dining tent, while private dinners can be arranged on the floating deck, in the dining room or on the private deck of your room.

Families

Children of all ages are welcome at Thorntree River Lodge. The two family suites each have two bedrooms which can sleep a family of up to five people.

Facilities and activities

Although the primary reason for staying in this area is a visit to Victoria Falls, Thorntree offers plenty of other distractions. Sunset river cruises depart each evening, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy the scenery of the river while looking out for wildlife. Experienced guides can take you on a game drive through the national park or lead a walking safari in search of the endangered white rhino.Alternatively, take a fishing trip, visit a local village or explore the Livingstone Museum. The lodge also has a small spa offering various treatments and massages.

Our opinion

A modern lodge but with traditional touches, we think Thorntree is the ideal place to do as much or as little as you want, with a huge range of activities on offer as well as spa treatments and riverside spaces in which to relax.

Victoria Falls tour ideas

Nearby accommodation

Nearby places

Places & hotels on the map

    Alternative places to stay nearby

    Where possible, we like to offer a range of accommodation for each stop of your trip, chosen by our specialists as some of their favorite places to stay. To help you make the right choice, we give each property a rating based on its facilities and service, but we also look for hotels with distinct character or a location that can’t be bettered.

    • The pool

      Avani Victoria Falls Resort

      Medium

      The Avani Victoria Falls Resort is only a ten minute walk from the Victoria Falls. The resort is quite large with over 200 rooms that are simple but comfortable, arranged around a large lawn and extensive swimming pool.

    • Royal Chundu River Lodge, Livingstone & The Victoria Falls

      Royal Chundu River Lodge

      Deluxe

      Royal Chundu Zambezi River Lodge has a private and secluded setting approximately one hour upstream from the Victoria Falls, away from the hustle and bustle of Livingstone.

    • Royal Livingstone Hotel, Livingstone & The Victoria Falls

      Royal Livingstone Hotel

      Deluxe

      The elegant Royal Livingstone Hotel is one of the closest accommodation options to the Victoria Falls, offering unlimited access to this natural wonder. Wildlife lovers will also enjoy watching zebra grazing in the grounds and can explore the nearby Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Wildlife Park.

    • Sindabezi Island Lodge, Livingstone & The Victoria Falls

      Sindabezi Island Lodge

      First Class

      This is one of our favorite places to stay in the Livingstone area. Right in the middle of the river you are totally away from it all. It's an exciting place to stay as you're surrounded by wildlife, listening to the Zambezi flowing down toward the Victoria Falls.

    • Tree-house, Sussi Lodge

      Sussi Lodge

      Deluxe

      Sussi Lodge has a lovely location above the Zambezi. The rooms are very luxurious and stylish and we warmly recommend it. There are ten thatched and brick tree-houses, built into the living canopy of giant ebony trees lining the bank.

    • Toka Leya,Livingstone & The Victoria Falls

      Toka Leya

      First Class

      This is a beautifully designed property in a great spot right in the national park, only a short drive from the Victoria Falls. The relaxed and flexible atmosphere means that is a great place to chill out before or after a safari.

    • The Dog House, Tongabezi, Livingstone & The Victoria Falls

      Tongabezi

      Deluxe

      With its setting right on the banks of the Zambezi River, Tongabezi is a peaceful retreat from which to explore Victoria Falls and the surrounding area. Its spacious cottages and houses offer privacy and comfort for families and couples alike, and the service is superb.

    • Waterberry Zambezi Lodge , Livingstone & The Victoria Falls

      Waterberry Zambezi Lodge

      Medium

      Situated on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River within lush grounds, Waterberry Lodge is an excellent mid-range option just a 30-minute drive from Livingstone and the spectacular Victoria Falls.

    Experiences while staying here

    The following activities are designed to give you the most authentic experiences of the area where you’re staying. We work with local guides, who use their knowledge and often a resident’s eye to show you the main sights and more out-of-the-way attractions. Our specialists can also suggest outdoor pursuits and activities, such as cooking classes, that will introduce you to the traditions of the area’s inhabitants.

    • Livingstone Island Excursion
      Victoria Falls bridge from the 'Boiling Pot'

      Livingstone Island Excursion

      Livingstone Island Excursion

      You are taken by boat to the island on the edge of Victoria Falls and taken on a brief history tour before swimming across a channel, crossing a rocky outcrop and jumping into a rock pool.

      View details
    • Sunset Cruise on the Zambezi
      Sunset on the Lower Zambezi

      Sunset Cruise on the Zambezi

      Sunset Cruise on the Zambezi

      The cruises are shaded and gently make their way upstream toward the National Park, usually accompanied by a brief talk about the river and its wildlife by your skipper.

      View details
    • Victoria Falls Helicopter Flight
      Helicopter flight over the Falls

      Victoria Falls Helicopter Flight

      Victoria Falls Helicopter Flight

      Flying lower than a conventional aircraft, you will fly a complete circuit over the Falls in both directions, giving you spectacular views of the Falls.

      View details