Getting there is an adventure in itself, starting from OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, flying into Lusaka on Airlink, and then hopping onto a ProFlight plane for a short, scenic flight into the Lower Zambezi National Park. The view from above is nothing short of magical, with the Zambezi River snaking through the landscape, teeming with wildlife and natural beauty. There were audible gasps from many of us as we flew over large pods of hippo wallowing in the Zambezi.
But let’s get to the heart of the matter—Lolebezi Lodge. This is where the magic truly happens. Like many lodges, Lolebezi is privately owned, but managed by professional Safari operators, African Bush Camps. Lolebezi’s owner, Shahida, who I’m fortunate to call a friend is an absolute visionary. Shahida, along with the talented team of Jack Alexander, the mastermind architect, and the brilliant interior designers from Fox Browne Creative, has crafted something genuinely special here. I am a huge fan of the Jack Alexander/Fox Browne collaborations, and their projects represent some of Africa’s finest lodges. But here, with an obviously engaged owner, everything is taken to another level.
Every inch of this lodge has been meticulously designed, every detail carefully curated to create a space that feels both luxurious and intimately connected to its surroundings.
As you step into Lolebezi, you're greeted by stunning green marble accents that mirror the meandering Zambezi River. Shahida’s vision was to capture the river’s serenity and majesty from a bird’s-eye view, and she’s nailed it. This attention to detail, this storytelling through design, is what makes Lolebezi so unique.
Let’s talk about the bathrooms for a moment—yes, the bathrooms! Shahida is a fellow makeup enthusiast and she insisted on spacious, angular vanities that are as functional as they are elegant. I know I obsess about safari travel being ideally suited to women, but it’s the little touches like these that make luxury safari truly a woman’s best vacation.
Wandering through the lodge, you’ll find winterthorn tree pods subtly integrated into the design, a central theme that inspired the design team from the beginning. These are not just decorative; they tell a story, inviting you to explore and discover more with each step.
Don’t forget to look up! The jacaranda discs on the bed nets are a beautiful nod to Zambia’s vibrant jacaranda trees, adding a touch of nature to your most luxurious surroundings. And then there are the copper accents, symbolizing Zambia’s rich mineral resources—a thoughtful detail that grounds you in the country’s history and wealth. This is layered story telling at every turn, and I’m so here for it.
One of my favorite spots at Lolebezi is the outdoor sala. This is the ultimate tranquil space, where you can relax and soak in the breathtaking views of the Zambezi. It’s the perfect place to unwind, perhaps with a glass of wine, listening to the hippos serenade you as the sun sets. It’s like nothing else I’ve experienced—a surreal and peaceful moment in the wild.
Upstairs, you’ll find a playful games room, designed with families in mind. The tassel chairs here add a whimsical touch, blending comfort with style. Lolebezi isn’t just for the adults—it’s a fantastic destination for a very special family safari, or even a special mother-daughter getaway.
The dining area is graced with an exclusive Hermes scarf, one of only 15 in the world. It’s a testament to Lolebezi’s dedication to luxury and discerning taste—a true collector’s item in a space that’s all about elegance and exclusivity. And the crockery, the bathroom fixtures—everything is custom-made in limited quantities, reflecting a commitment to timeless elegance.
The culinary experience at Lolebezi is just as exquisite as its design. All the dishes were refined, delicious, and perfectly in tune with the lodge’s ambiance. It is obvious that this is a labour of love, and iteration that has resulted in every meal being a highlight. Like everything at Lolebvezi storytelling is woven into every meal. Whether it’s the Middle Eastern-inspired dishes that hint at Shahida’s heritage or the expertly crafted African cuisine, every bite is a journey. I especially loved the breakfast smoothies, and the Mediterranean mezze basket. Dining off site is always exciting on safari. Here, by the mighty Zambezi river it was a truly spectacular experience, especially when a herd of elephants casually strolled by as we enjoyed our meal. It’s moments like these that make Lolebezi so unforgettable.
Speaking of unforgettable, the wildlife here is nothing short of extraordinary. There’s a wild dog den right near the lodge, and seeing these magnificent predators up close was a thrill. With more than one female in the pack having puppies—an unusual occurrence—it’s a testament to the pack’s success. During our stay, we witnessed three kills in a single day, one right in front of us as the dogs took down a female waterbuck. It was intense, a reminder of nature’s raw power, and not an experience for the faint of heart.
Back at the lodge, we spent plenty of time at the pool—both the main communal pool overlooking the river and the private pools in our suites. Even in winter, it’s bikini weather in the Lower Zambezi, and there’s nothing quite like sipping cocktails by the pool, surrounded by the beauty of Lolebezi.
The magnificent space is perfectly matched by the incredible service culture. Lolebezi is an absolute triumph. It’s rare to find a place where every staff member knows your name, where you’re greeted personally by everyone, and where the service feels so natural and effortless.
Kulfa, the manager runs an incredibly tight ship, and it shows. She understands service culture like few others, and dining with her was an absolute pleasure. It’s a unique touch, making guests feel like part of the Lolebezi family.
James 007, our guide, was another highlight. He kept us entertained and engaged, even when the wildlife sightings were sparse—a testament to his skill and knowledge. Lolebezi currently, mainly because of the wild dogs ,might not have the same density of wildlife as some other regions, but with guides like James, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience.
In short, Lolebezi is the ultimate luxury safari destination, especially for a sophisticated woman’s trip. It’s a place where you can indulge in the finer things, explore the wild, and immerse yourself in a setting that’s as beautiful as it is unique. If you’re planning a trip to Southern Africa, Lolebezi should be at the top of your list—it’s an experience like no other. Trust me, this is safari travel on a whole different level.
For more information, or to book your own stay at Lolebezi, contact The Safari Gals today—let us help you create the trip of a lifetime!
