Set along the banks of the mighty Zambezi River, Zambezi Grande continues to deliver magic to its guests, blending luxury, adventure, and the untamed beauty of the Lower Zambezi. As the 2024 season draws to a close, it’s time to reflect on the unforgettable moments that have defined this year.
A Global Gathering
This year, Zambezi Grande welcomed visitors from over 35 countries, each drawn by the call of Africa’s wild heart. Guests from all corners of the globe shared the lodge’s intimate connection to the river, wildlife, and the unique charm of the region. Among these adventures came life-changing milestones: anniversaries, birthdays and four marriage proposals were celebrated at the lodge, with the Zambezi River’s golden sunsets providing the perfect backdrop for saying “yes.”
Recognition in Condé Nast Travellers Readers' Choice Awards
To be recognised by the prestigious Condé Nast Traveler is always an honour, and this year, Zambezi Grande achieved #9 in Top Resorts and Safari Camps in West and Central Africa in their annual Readers’ Choice Awards. We are immensely proud of this accolade, which showcases our team’s commitment to excellence and our passion for creating soul-stirring moments for every kind of traveller.
Record-Breaking Catches
The Lower Zambezi is famed for its incredible fishing opportunities, and 2024 delivered record-breaking moments for anglers. A massive 24-pound tigerfish—a true river legend—was reeled in, delighting seasoned fishermen and first-time casters alike. Adding to the thrill, the biggest vundu of the season weighed in at an impressive 42 pounds, showcasing the Zambezi’s unmatched biodiversity and the patience required to master its waters.
Wildlife Encounters
The safari season was alive with extraordinary sightings, and 2024 will forever be remembered as the “Year of the Lion.” Numerous lion cubs were spotted alongside plenty of lion pride action in both the Game Management Area and the park, including a dramatic scene where lions were seen feasting on an unusual porcupine kill, showcasing nature’s unpredictability.
Highlights also included surreal moments when a leopard found itself trapped in a tree, surrounded by wild dogs below. Speaking of wild dogs, both packs of wild dogs that inhabit the region welcomed new puppies this year, with one pack having 13 and the other 11, totalling over 30 dogs in one pack and 20 in the other.
Towards the end of the season, Zambezi Grande’s own watering hole became a hotspot for wild dog activity, offering guests the rare chance to see these predators up close. And as always, the elephants took centre stage, wandering serenely through the lodge, giving guests a front-row seat to these majestic animals.
It’s been incredible to see some of Africa’s most iconic species thriving this season which comes as a direct result of the conservation efforts of Conservation Lower Zambezi, a powerhouse dedicated to protecting and sustaining the region’s rich biodiversity and natural resources.
Gastronomic Adventures in the Wild
Our guest experiences are what set us apart, and this year was no different. From immersive bush and island dinners to delightful park lunches, two of our standout experiences truly shone:
A four-course dining experience on an island in the middle of the Zambezi River, where guests indulged in exceptional food paired with fine wines, all while surrounded by the rhythmic sounds of the water and ambience of the nighttime bush.
For early risers, breakfast beneath the park’s oldest baobab tree provided a serene start to the day. The sprawling roots and ancient presence of this magnificent tree serves as a powerful reminder of the timelessness of the African wilderness.
Zambezi Grande’s 2024 season wasn’t just a collection of events—it was a symphony of nature, luxury, and human connection. As the lodge looks forward to 2025, we invite new and returning guests to journey with us to experience the wild wonders of the Lower Zambezi.
