Overview
The mighty Zambezi
The beautiful Thorntree River Lodge sits gracefully on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River, just a short distance from the famous Victoria Falls. This is a perfect spot to explore the surrounding Zambian wilderness.
There are 12 tented luxury suites that blend into the tranquil riverside setting drawing inspiration from local African culture. Each unit is fitted with indoor and outdoor bathrooms, private plunge pools, and sweeping Zambian views.
Here you can unwind after a day of activities by relaxing in the pool. In the evening enjoy a refreshing sundowner drink while watching an exquisite African sunset, spend your nights around the crackling fire within the sunken boma before enjoying the African inspired fine-dining experience.
Facts
At a glance
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12 Tented luxury suites
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Infinity pool
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Spa
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Library
Experiences
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![Victoria falls]()
Visit Victoria Falls
The lodge is just a short distance from the falls. It is a must see when in the area. Head out and enjoy the splendor and magnitude of one of the seven natural wonders of the world.
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![Guide leading a walking safari near Thorntree River Lodge, Zambia.]()
Game drives
Game drives are what get you up in the morning in the African Bush. They are a great way to explore the land and experience its marvelous wildlife in a safe and exciting way.
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![Thorntree River Lodge Livingston Zambia sunset]()
Sunset cruises
A cruise down Zambia's glorious Zambezi river at sunset offers wonderful African wildlife sightings encapsulating the essence of Africa
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![Rhino]()
Rhino Experiences
Mosi-oa-Yunya National Park is home to the extremely rare and endangered white rhino who are under constant protection by the rangers.
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![Canoe]()
Canoe Safari
Accompanied by an expert river guide, enjoy a safari from a canoe. Take a relaxed paddle down the river and experience Africa through a different perspective.
Community & Culture
The African Bush Camps Foundation works with the local communities with the goal of community upliftment through tourism by creating long-lasting positive impact. In Livingstone, the lodge has partnered with the Maunga Community and together have identified two focus areas; building a much needed clinic building and providing scholarships to children who are in need and show potential in the classroom. Moreover, details of the suite interiors and furnishings are sustainably designed and produced by local craftsmen and merchants, which is one of the many examples of how Thorntree is empowering the local communities.
Footprint
What sets Thorntree River Lodge apart is its environmentally-conscious design, thoughtfully inspired from local customs and cultures. A key requirement Thorntree’s management had when building the lodge was to not only minimize the camp’s footprint on the environment, but to also effortlessly blend it within the surrounding landscape to maintain the feel of an authentic Africa. By fitting the tents with insulated paneling maintains a constant temperature, regardless of the weather conditions. Also, taking into account the location of the lodge on the fragile banks of the Zambezi River, lightweight rigid walls, pre-fabricated bathroom pods and compact fabric elements were used to limit the pressure put on the soil.
Conservation
African Bush Camps, owners of Thorntree River Lodge, run the African Bush Camps Foundation whose aim it is to, by working with rural villages in wildlife areas, develop sustainable conservation programmes and improve the quality of life for those living in the communities.
A conservation-focused ethos introduces rhino-tracking as one of the primary activities on offer at Thorntree, all in a bid to create breath-taking experiences with these great animals and to educate and spread awareness on the plight of the rhino population.
Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
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Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
What makes us different
Why Niarra
Niarra Travel is a forward-thinking travel company headquartered in London born out of a passion to do things differently.
In Swahili, a Bantu language spoken by millions in Eastern, Central and Southern Africa, the name Niara means "with utmost purpose" and our team are united by a passion for exploration and a belief that the right kind of travel can make the world a better place.
Our Travel Researchers are here to create incredible trips with a positive impact for you.
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Unforgettable experiences
Creating your trip is entirely collaborative and our Travel Researchers are here for every step.
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Positive impact
Curated sustainable experiences and accommodation that maximize the benefits to local people and place.
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Fairness and transparency
An open, competitive pricing structure that ensures more money goes to where it's needed in the destination.
