Amalinda Lodge

Highlights

• Exclusive, privately owned safari lodge located in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Matobo Hills.
• Guides are professional archaeologists whose knowledge of both the natural and historical splendor of the Matobo Hills enhances the whole spiritual ambiance.
• Famous for its healthy population of endangered rhinos, the area is one of the most sought-after destinations in Zimbabwe.

You Should Know

• Children of all ages are welcome.

The Detail

Amalinda Lodge is a unique four-star luxury lodge set in the granite boulders of the Matobo Hills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This exclusive, privately owned, and family-run safari lodge is the premier accommodation in the area.

Tucked away in an ancient Bushman’s shelter, Amalinda Lodge offers a spa, infinity rock pool, library, wine cellar, sunset lounge, show kitchen, and many varied activities. From game drives to rhino trekking, cultural tours, hikes to the renowned San Bushman paintings, and a chance to follow in the footsteps of Cecil John Rhodes at his world-famous tomb known as "View of the World," there is an adventure for everyone.

The accommodation at Amalinda Lodge offers guests uncompromising levels of comfort, style, and elegance. The thatched chalets, all uniquely designed around natural granite boulders, are tastefully decorated with teak and leather furniture, blending traditional African and colonial styles. The substantial beds are draped with mosquito nets, while en-suite bathrooms are carved into the rock face. The chalets feature luxurious seating areas and secluded balconies with magnificent panoramic views. The two expansive suites, the Rhodes Suite and Lobengula Suite, exude a distinctly romantic ambiance, complete with a sumptuous lounge, an entertainment area, and outdoor freestanding bathtubs.

The chalets connect to the main lodge via pathways meandering through boulders, wild fig trees, and paper-bark thorn acacias. Guests can unwind in the comfortable lounge or the impressive bar area, nestled into the rock face beneath a large boulder. A large railway sleeper dining table dominates the dining room. Guests can select wines from the natural cave wine cellar and enjoy their drinks in secluded, elevated seating areas. A tranquil library and a peaceful chess room, located among the treetops, offer further opportunities for relaxation.

Overlooking a waterhole at the base of Amalinda Lodge is a large infinity swimming pool, complete with comfortable deckchairs and a bar. A crackling log fire in the enclosed boma area makes for a perfect spot to stargaze with post-dinner drinks.

A well-equipped spa offers a full range of rejuvenating and relaxing treatments. The thatched health center also includes a fully equipped gym and a sauna.

A Unique Wildlife Experience

A highlight of Amalinda Lodge is tracking black and white rhinos under the guidance of well-trained, professional guides. Elephant-back safaris provide the rare opportunity to traverse the bushveld on the backs of these majestic giants. Morning and evening game drives, conducted in open-sided game viewing vehicles, offer exciting ways to experience the wildlife. The Amalinda Lodge area is also a birdwatcher's haven, with some of the region's rarest birds frequently spotted.

Guests can enjoy horse-riding trails, guided tours of ancient San rock art sites, and visits to Cecil John Rhodes’ gravesite at World’s View. Interaction with local Ndebele villagers provides a cultural experience, and overnight stays at traditional African villages can be arranged.

Wildlife Abundance

The area is home to diverse mammal and bird species, including the highest concentration of leopards and black eagles in the world. The open terrain, coupled with the expertise of experienced guides, makes the Matobo Hills an excellent place to track rhinos on foot. Other animals frequently seen include sable antelope, giraffe, zebra, impala, wildebeest, and ostrich. Rare nocturnal species, such as caracal, porcupine, civet, and genet, are also occasionally sighted.

Over 200 bird species have been recorded in the area, including Verreaux’s eagle, African hawk-eagle, Wahlberg’s eagle, African crowned eagle, Martial eagle, Augur buzzard, Brown snake-eagle, Black-chested snake-eagle, Lanner falcon, and Peregrine falcon. The elusive Mackinder’s eagle-owl breeds in the hills. Smaller species, such as the Boulder chat, mottled swift, Lazy cisticola, and Southern hyliota, also inhabit the area. Yellow-billed oxpeckers can often be seen clearing pests from various mammal species, including rhinos.

Price Includes

• Accommodation, local beverages, all meals, and all activities within the camp.
• National Parks fees, monument fees, all shared transfers within a 20km radius of the camp, as well as airport arrival and departure transfers.
• Laundry services and Wi-Fi.