Sanctuary Retreats Victoria Falls, Zambia
Victoria Falls, Sanctuary luxury on the mighty Zambezi, Zambia
Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma is built on a dramatic bend of the Zambezi River in the Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park, twelve kilometres upstream from the world-famous Victoria Falls. Inside the park resident Bushbuck find safety around the lodge, while the resident Hippo’s snort and grunt in front of the infinite pool overlooking the Zambezi.
On this Zambia side of the Zambezi River, with Zimbabwe on the other, you have direct access to amazing river cruises, fishing trips and Livingstone Island with the famed ‘Devils Pool’, a daring and incredible plunge in a pool at the edge of the biggest waterfall in the world.
DAY 01 – Zambezi River, overnight Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma
Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma is just a short drive from Livingstone airport and a step away from the world-famous Victoria Falls. The lodge itself is an exclusive haven in the heart of Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park which, in addition to the mighty roar of the Victoria Falls, also boasts a wide variety of game as well as countless opportunities for adventure. Built on two levels on a dramatic bend in the Zambezi, the main lodge is perched in giant ebony trees. Guests can relax in the swimming pool, or enjoy a drink in the elevated bar. The twelve air-conditioned tree houses are connected by wooden walkways and all enjoy superb views over the river. In addition, there are two private houses available. Each has two bedrooms, a dining area and deck with plunge pools, as well as a private chef and house staff.
DAY 02 – Victoria Falls, overnight Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma luxury lodge
The day is at leisure to enjoy some of the many activities on offer, these include a Tour of the Falls, sundowner cruise on the Zambezi, walking safaris, game drives in the National Park and a Village Tour. Livingstone is also known as the adventure capital of Africa offering a variety of adrenalin activities. Imagine taking on the mighty Zambezi River on a white water rafting trip. Did you know the rapids on the Zambezi are officially defined as “Grade 5. The Flight of Angels offers an amazing opportunity to experience a flight in a helicopter and an unrivalled and superior view of the majestic Victoria Falls. Other adventure activities include bungee jumping, micro lighting over the Victoria Falls and swimming at the Devil’s Pool. These activities are an optional extra and can be booked at the lodge.
DAY 03 – Zambezi / Victoria Falls, overnight Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma
Awake to the sounds of the bush as a steaming hot cup of tea or coffee is served on your tent’s deck. This morning you may like to sleep in and enjoy your surrounds, or explore the park on an early morning game drive or river cruise before returning to camp for a refreshing drink and breakfast on the edge of the river. This afternoon you have time to take a refreshing swim in the pool or relax on your private deck with a cool drink and gaze out across the Zambezi and watch as the game lazily congregates in the shade, Elephants may even take a bath in the river right in front of your treehouse to escape the heat.
You could opt to explore the region and tick off some more activities.
DAY 04 – Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma
The morning is at leisure to enjoy the activities on offer and afterwards please meet the lodge representative in the reception area of the lodge for your transfer to Livingstone Airport or on to your next destination. Your transfer times will be advised to you by the lodge managers.
ACTIVITIES IN ZAMBIA
GAME DRIVESΒ
Set off into the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park and be transported back in time to when Livingstone first glimpsed the awe-inspiring “smoke that thunders”. Our expert-led game drives take place in custom-built 4×4 vehicles, designed to reveal the park’s pristine landscape and abundant wildlife. Expect to come across a wealth of species, including elephant, impala, giraffe, buffalo, hippo, crocodile and zebra, as well as a diverse variety of birds. Among the avian treasures are gems such as the elusive Peters Finfoot, a southern African favourite.
A mere stone’s throw from the world-renowned Victoria Falls, Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma offers guests the opportunity to embark on a mesmerising walking tour of this natural wonder. Famously introduced to Europe by explorer David Livingstone, and locally referred to as Mosi-oa-Tunya or “the Smoke that Thunders,” the falls emit a thunderous roar, accompanied by a shimmering cloud of spray as the mile-wide Upper Zambezi cascades 300 feet into the Lower Zambezi.
Witness the ever-changing dance of rainbows forming and dissolving under the warm tropical sun above the waterfall, and lose yourself in a landscape adorned with ebony groves and mopane forests. The latter is a sanctuary for a myriad of bird species, including fish-eating raptors drawn to the bountiful offerings in the river. Please note that the Heritage Fee, which is excluded from the rate, is payable directly by guests at the lodge when participating in the Victoria Falls tour.
MOKORO EXCURSIONSΒ
A walking safari is a unique and exhilarating experience that provides an entirely different perspective on the bush. Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma’s highly trained walking guides, Luckson and Elijah, boast more than 20 years of combined experience and their infectious passion for the wild ensures an unforgettable journey as they share their comprehensive knowledge of local flora and fauna. Accompanied by an armed National Parks ranger, guests embark on leisurely-paced walking safaris lasting approximately two hours. Morning walks depart at 6:30 am, featuring a break complete with tea, coffee and snacks. The afternoon walk commences at 4 pm, culminating in a spectacular sundowner spot where guests are served drinks and canapΓ©s with a magnificent sunset as their backdrop. Please note that the minimum age for participation is 15 years.
A cruise along the majestic Zambezi River offers an enchanting way to spend a few hours before returning to the lodge for a warm shower and a delicious dinner. Sanctuary’s specially designed boats, guided by skilled professionals, navigate through a series of grade 2 rapids before finding the perfect spot to beach for a break and a refreshing sunset cocktail. Invigorating sensations of the Zambezi spray misting your face, paired with the delightful taste of a finely crafted drink, creates an unforgettable sunset cruise experience.
Nakatindi village, just six kilometres from Livingstone and five kilometres from Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma, is home to several projects sponsored by Sanctuary Retreats Philanthropy. These initiatives aim to enhance education, conservation, health and enterprise within the village community and our guests have the unique opportunity to visit these projects and interact with the people who benefit from them. Visits can be arranged to Nakatindi Community School, which provides education to 442 students, and the Chipego Bike Shop, which offers rental bicycles for a leisurely tour around the village. By witnessing these projects first hand, guests will gain a deeper understanding of the community’s way of life and the transformative power of philanthropy in action.
FISHING
Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma’s three boats serve multiple purposes, including fishing excursions. The largest fish caught to date weighed approximately 4.5 kg, demonstrating the thrilling angling opportunities available. Guests who wish to partake in fishing should ideally request and pay for a private boat dedicated to this activity. That said, the lodge strives to accommodate fishing enthusiasts as best as possible. It is important to note that during peak occupancy, all boats are reserved for the popular evening sunset cruise. Each year, the fishing season generally commences on the 1st of March and concludes on the 1st of December. This closure is enforced by the Zambian Wildlife Authority in accordance with local Fisheries’ regulations. During the open season, fishing in the national park adheres to a strict “Catch and Release” policy to ensure environmental sustainability.
WHITE WATER RAFTING
The Zambezi River’s rapids are officially classified as “Grade 5” by the British Canoe Union, providing an exhilarating adventure for thrill-seekers. Guests participating in a half-day white water rafting experience will gather in the lodge’s reception area before transferring to the Zambezi Waterfront. There, they will check in, sign an indemnity form, and receive a briefing. The rafting journey concludes at rapid #10, where a truck stocked with cold drinks and beers will await, ready to transport you back to the Zambezi Waterfront for a well-earned lunch. Expect an assortment of savoury filled bread rolls, fruits, and fruit juice before being shuttled back to the lodge. Water is provided throughout the day. A minimum of four participants is required, and no children under 15 are allowed. Full-day, low-water, and high-water rafting options are also available at an additional cost.
The Flight of Angels presents a remarkable opportunity to soar above the majestic Falls in a helicopter, offering unparalleled views of this natural wonder. While sightings of wildlife cannot be guaranteed, guests frequently spot elephants, buffaloes, rhinos, hippos, crocodiles and giraffes from the air. Participants can choose between a 15 or 30-minute flight, with a minimum of two and a maximum of six adventurers per excursion. The journey begins at the Maramba Aerodrome’s helipad. Please note that this unique experience is available at an additional cost.
Discover the Victoria Falls from the Zimbabwean side with a captivating guided tour. The transfer from the lodge to the entrance of the Falls in Zimbabwe takes about half an hour, depending on border formalities. Your knowledgeable guide will escort you around the Falls, sharing fascinating facts and history along the way. During high water months, when the spray from the Falls is likely to drench visitors, Sanctuary Retreats will provide raincoats. The approximately 1Β½-hour walk (3km) takes you through the rainforest, stopping at various viewing points. Be sure to wear appropriate clothing and shoes for the walk, as well as waterproof protection for your camera equipment. After the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to browse the adjacent open-air markets for unique curios. Please note that this immersive experience is available at an additional cost.
Luxury accommodation across Zambia with
Sanctuary Retreats
Sanctuary Retreats Sussi & Chuma
Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma is built on a dramatic bend of the Zambezi River in the Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park, twelve kilometres upstream from the world-famous Victoria Falls.
Named after Dr. David Livingstone’s faithful friends Sussi and Chuma, the lodge is located in one of the most beautiful parts of the Zambezi amidst Jackalberry trees and Phoenix palms, providing unrivalled views and exclusivity. Accommodation is in twelve Sussi tree-houses, connected by wooden walkways. There are also two private Chuma houses, each with two bedrooms.
WHY WE LOVE SANCTUARY SUSSI & CHUMA
- Located on a quiet bend of the Zambezi River within Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park
- 12 kilometres upstream from Victoria Falls in a remote location away from crowds
- Boutique property catering for individuals, couples and families
- Only lodge in the area able to offer guided walking safaris
- Established philanthropy project at Nakatindi Village
The main lodge, built on two levels, features an elevated bar, lounge, open-air dining area with a unique bird’s-eye view of the river below, a bush boutique and a swimming pool.
Guests can enjoy full English and continental breakfasts, while a snack menu remains available throughout the day. Three course dinners are served each evening where the Γ la carte menu features a range of sensational dishes, with local ingredients used wherever possible.
ABOUT ZAMBIA
Hear the roar of the thundering Victoria Falls, feel the adrenaline while white water rafting down the mighty Zambezi River, or take a leisurely game drive in the leopard country of South Luangwa. This is Zambia, a country rich in natural beauty and wildlife, yet scant in tourists.
Aside from its variety of game, such as lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, and a number of exciting endemic species, Zambia is noted for its rich birdlife and exotic fish. Itβs something of a pilgrimage for fishermen, and for birders, they canβt help but be drawn by the marvellous diversity of bird species. Zambia is the perfect African destination to have an authentic safari experience.
GETTING TO AFICA ONTO ZAMBIA
Getting to South Africa is relatively easy with two main hubs on the continent form where you can get to where ever you need to go.
Zambia is best reached through Johannesburg with direct daily flights operated by South African Airways and British Airways.
Flying from Australia QANTAS has regular and direct flights from Sydney – Johannesburg while South African Airways fly directs to Johannesburg ex Perth to meet connections onto Livingstone in Zambia.
If you prefer to to fly with Emirates or QATAR they have regular flights ex Melbourne and Sydney via Dubai and Doha.
Departing from Europe you will find many direct flights into Nairobi, the main East African hub. Flying from the United States you will find direct flights to Johannesburg from New York and Atlanta, getting to Nairobi will generally take through Europe.
MEMORIES TO LAST A LIFE TIME
With the benefit of digital photography don’t hold back taking pics, you can always delete them. We recommend packing your largest lense, all safari vehicles have padded rest for stable long distance shots.
ZAMBIA
TIPPING
Tipping is not obligatory but general suggestions are as follows:
- US $5-10 per couple per day for a guide
- US $5-10 per couple per day for the camp staff box
PASSPORT & VISA INFORMATION
For most passports, a visa is required. Please check with local authorities for details. Two blank passport pages are required when travelling to Southern Africa. Check the number of days given on arrival at the immigration desk as there are steep fines for overstaying the number of days given. Departure tax is dependent upon which airline you are travelling with.
This information serves as a guide only. Travellers should check for visa requirements pertaining to their citizenship, as entry requirements can vary.
Visas Not Required:
Foreigners from some Commonwealth countries are not required to obtain visas for entering Zambia except in cases where Zambia government has directed otherwise.
Visas Required:
Foreigners from most Commonwealth and European Union countries, as well as the United States, are required to obtain visas for entering Zambia. Please visit http://www.zambiaimmigration.gov.zm for a full list of nationalities which require visas for entry.
TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN
Below are the new South African immigration regulations concerning travelling with children:
- Where parents are travelling with a child, such parents must produce an unabridged birth certificate of the child reflecting the particulars of the parents of the child.
- In the case of one parent travelling with a child, he or she must produce an unabridged birth certificate as well as consent in the form of an affidavit from the other parent registered as a parent on the birth certificate of the child authorising him or her to enter into or depart from the Republic with the child he or she is travelling with.
- A court order granting full parental responsibilities and rights or legal guardianship in respect of the child, if he or she is the parent or legal guardian of the child; or where applicable, a death certificate of the other parent registered as a parent of the child on the birth certificate.
TIME ZONE
GMT + 2 hours.
LANGUAGE
The official language is English, but there are over 70 recognised regional languages including Nyanja and Bemba.
WEATHER
Zambia has three distinct seasons: the dry season (May to August), when temperatures drop at night, but the landscape is green and lush; the hot season (September to November), the best time to see wildlife as flora is sparse; and the wet season (December to April) which is ideal for bird-watching. October is the hottest month, temperatures can reach over 40Β°C.
For more information on Zambia travel please visit http://www.zambiatourism.com/
Dates upon request.
Request Sanctuary Retreats Zambia guide
TREE HOUSE
Tree House rates are per person, per night based on 2 people sharing in USD.
Single supplement, child rates and third adult rates will be quoted upon request.
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7 January – 31 March; 1 November – 20 December from USD$ 1875
1 April – 31 May USD$2160
1 June – 31 October; 21 December – 5 January 2020 USD$2475
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CHUMA HOUSE
Chuma House rates are per person, per night based on 2-3 sharing or 4+ people sharing.
Single supplement, child rates and third adult rates will be quoted upon request.
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Chuma House (2-3 people sharing)
7 January – 31 March; 1 November – 20 December from USD$2760
1 April – 31 May USD$3050
1 June – 31 October; 21 December – 5 January 2020 USD$3430
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Chuma House (4+ people sharing)
7 January – 31 March; 1 November – 20 December from USD$ 2410
1 April – 31 May USD$2700
1 June – 31 October; 21 December – 5 January 2020 USD$3085
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