Newly reopened andBeyond Matetsi River Lodge presents refined luxury accommodations after a multimillion-dollar rebuild. Set on a 123,500-acre private wildlife concession along the Zambezi River, the property comprises two camps, each with nine suites, including family configurations. One camp is already welcoming guests, while the second is scheduled to open in September.
The lodge’s design draws on the heritage of the Zambezi, combining natural materials such as wood, stone and copper to create warm, contemporary interiors that honor the river landscape. Beyond the suites, guests can enjoy a modern fitness center, a massage sala, meeting facilities and a 66-foot pool set on the riverbank. For larger groups, an eight-person private villa is available with four bedrooms, a kitchen, two dining areas, a private veranda, its own swimming pool and a fire pit. The villa is staffed exclusively by a personal guide with a private vehicle, a chef and a butler.
Matetsi River Lodge offers a range of wildlife experiences unique to the concession. Expert andBeyond guides lead game drives where guests can expect to see zebras, giraffes, buffalo, elephants, hyenas, lions, cheetahs, leopards and a variety of antelope. These guided drives emphasize responsible wildlife viewing and thoughtful interpretation of the ecosystem.
“Having originally been involved in the conversion of the Matetsi concession from wildlife hunting to photographic safaris, we are very excited to be relaunching Matetsi to the world,” said Joss Kent, CEO of andBeyond. “This well-loved reserve delivers an exceptional guest experience through its stunning riverside location, while also offering seamless access to the world-famous Victoria Falls using our own vehicles and guides. The lodge itself will, without question, set a new standard in Zimbabwe and at Victoria Falls.”
As part of the guest offering, stays of two nights or longer include a complimentary tour of Victoria Falls. The excursion features an interpretive guided walk, time to explore Victoria Falls Park and a traditional high tea at the historic Victoria Falls Hotel, providing a balanced mix of natural wonder and cultural context.
Practical amenities and experiences at the lodge prioritize comfort and authenticity. Accommodation is designed for privacy and relaxation, with thoughtful public spaces that open onto river views. The wellness offerings—a massage sala and fitness center—are complemented by the riverbank pool, creating restful spaces after morning or evening game drives. Dining emphasizes regional flavors and quality ingredients, and private villa guests receive personalized service from a dedicated culinary and hospitality team.
Conservation and community engagement remain central to operations on the Matetsi concession. The transition from hunting to photographic safaris has supported wildlife recovery and sustainable tourism, while local partnerships help ensure that benefits flow to communities near the reserve. Educational interpretation provided on game drives and during the Victoria Falls excursion further supports conservation awareness among visitors.
Matetsi River Lodge aims to combine elevated comfort with authentic safari experiences in a location defined by dramatic river scenery and abundant wildlife. Whether guests seek family-friendly suites, exclusive villa privacy, or guided explorations of Victoria Falls, the property positions itself as a refined base for experiencing Zimbabwe’s natural and cultural highlights.