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.
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who's been there
Start planning your tailor-made trip by contacting one of our Zambia specialists
- 617-223-4375
- Make an inquiry
Photos of Thorntree River Lodge
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![Thorntree River Lodge, Livingstone & The Victoria Falls]()
1 of 7 Thorntree River Lodge, Livingstone & The Victoria Falls
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![The perfect sundowner spot at Thorntree River Lodge]()
2 of 7 The perfect sundowner spot at Thorntree River Lodge
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![Thorntree River Lodge, Livingstone & The Victoria Falls]()
3 of 7 Thorntree River Lodge, Livingstone & The Victoria Falls
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![Thorntree River Lodge, Livingstone & The Victoria Falls]()
4 of 7 Thorntree River Lodge, Livingstone & The Victoria Falls
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![Thorntree River Lodge, Livingstone & The Victoria Falls]()
5 of 7 Thorntree River Lodge, Livingstone & The Victoria Falls
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![Private plunge pools and a spacious veranda, Thorntree River Lodge]()
6 of 7 Private plunge pools and a spacious veranda, Thorntree River Lodge
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![Bright and airy rooms overlook the river at Thorntree River Lodge]()
7 of 7 Bright and airy rooms overlook the river at Thorntree River Lodge
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.
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 daybed. 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.
Tour ideas in Victoria Falls
Our itineraries are there to spark ideas for how you could include a stay at Thorntree River Lodge as part of your trip. Treat them simply as suggestions, because every aspect of the trip we create for you will be yours to define.
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.
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Nearby places
- The Kafue National Park 175 miles away
- Lusaka 238 miles away
- The Lower Zambezi National Park 311 miles away
- South Luangwa National Park 502 miles away
- Bangweulu Wetlands 527 miles away