Viceroy Hotels Opens New Luxury Safari Lodges in Zambia and Botswana, Get the Details Here

Published on December 4, 2025

Viceroy Hotels & Resorts, a global luxury hospitality company with a portfolio of timelessly original properties, has entered the African safari market with the acquisition of a collection of three luxury safari lodges in Zambia and Botswana. The move marks one of the largest expansions for the brand to date, as it introduces its first forays into both nature-based and experiential travel. The three lodges-curated by African Bush Camps-will bring Viceroy’s inimitable blend of style, contemporary design, and immersive connections with nature to some of Africa’s most awe-inspiring wildlife settings.

These new additions reflect Viceroy Hotels’ commitment to offering its guests unforgettable experiences in some of the world’s most iconic and pristine natural landscapes. The lodges include Thorntree River Lodge, Lolebezi, and Atzaró Okavango Camp-all designed to complement their spectacular surroundings and offer an intimate, luxurious safari experience that matches the surrounding wildlife and local communities.

Introducing the New Safari Lodges: A Perfect Blend of Luxury and Nature

Viceroy’s move into Africa’s safari market is a notable shift towards experiential travel, where guests can immerse themselves in the beauty and wonder of Africa’s wildlife while enjoying world-class hospitality. Each of the three lodges has been carefully designed to fit seamlessly into the natural environment, combining contemporary architecture with sustainable materials and local traditions.

Thorntree River Lodge: A Gateway to Victoria Falls and Zambezi River Adventures

Located on the banks of the Zambezi River in Zambia’s Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, Thorntree River Lodge offers guests a unique blend of luxury and adventure. The lodge’s location provides easy access to the world-famous Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Guests can explore the surrounding area through a variety of activities, including rhino tracking on foot, river cruises, and guided excursions to the falls.

The lodge itself boasts eight luxury suites and two family suites, each with private plunge pools and stunning views of the river and surrounding wilderness. The suites are designed with modern elegance, featuring both indoor and outdoor bathrooms for a seamless connection to nature. In addition to the suites, Thorntree River Lodge offers an on-site spa, swimming pool, lounge, library, and gift shop—ensuring a luxurious retreat after a day of adventure.

For tourists, Thorntree River Lodge provides the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. The variety of activities available ensures that every guest can experience the thrill of a safari while enjoying the comfort and tranquility of their luxury accommodation.

Lolebezi: A Secluded Retreat on the Lower Zambezi River

Lolebezi, another Viceroy Resort in Zambia, is nestled along five hectares of protected riverfront in the Lower Zambezi, a prime wildlife area that is less crowded than other popular safari destinations. This lodge offers an exclusive, tranquil experience with four luxury suites, a family suite, and an exclusive-use villa—each equipped with private plunge pools and air-conditioning to ensure maximum comfort.

Guests at Lolebezi can partake in a range of activities, from walking safaris and canoeing to boat excursions and game drives. The lodge is also an ideal destination for birding enthusiasts, with seasonal birdwatching opportunities available. In addition to its natural offerings, Lolebezi provides exceptional on-site amenities, including a wellness spa, yoga deck, swimming pool, open-air cinema, boma (traditional fire pit area), and a gift shop.

Lolebezi’s combination of adventure and relaxation offers something for every type of traveler. The peaceful setting and variety of activities make it a perfect getaway for those seeking both active exploration and restful luxury in the heart of Zambia’s wilderness.

Atzaró Okavango Camp: Immersive Safari in Botswana’s Okavango Delta

Atzaró Okavango Camp is situated in Botswana’s Okavango Delta, one of Africa’s most unique and ecologically diverse regions. The camp offers eight luxury suites, a family suite, and an exclusive-use villa, all with private plunge pools and sweeping views of the river or delta. The design of the camp combines contemporary style with local materials, creating a refined yet intimate atmosphere for guests.

Atzaró Okavango Camp provides an immersive safari experience, offering activities like walking safaris, mokoro (traditional dugout canoe) excursions, and day-to-night game drives. The lodge’s location allows guests to experience the Okavango Delta’s abundant wildlife, including elephants, lions, and an array of bird species. After a day of exploration, guests can unwind at the on-site wellness spa or take in the views from the elevated viewing deck. The camp also features a swimming pool, yoga deck, boma, dining and bar areas, and a gift shop, ensuring a holistic and luxurious safari experience.

For tourists seeking an authentic and private safari experience, Atzaró Okavango Camp offers an unparalleled connection to nature while providing the highest standards of luxury and comfort. The camp’s remote location allows visitors to escape the crowds and immerse themselves fully in the beauty of Botswana’s wilderness.

The Impact on Tourism and Travel in Africa

Viceroy Hotels’ entry into Africa’s safari market with these three luxury lodges is poised to make a significant impact on the region’s tourism sector. By combining luxury with immersive, nature-based experiences, Viceroy is attracting a new generation of travelers who are seeking more than just a typical vacation. These tourists are looking for authentic encounters with nature, as well as the opportunity to contribute to sustainable tourism practices that support local communities and wildlife conservation efforts.

The inclusion of hot springs, wellness facilities, and high-end amenities ensures that these lodges will attract not only safari enthusiasts but also those interested in eco-tourism, wellness tourism, and luxury travel. By focusing on sustainability, cultural heritage, and community engagement, Viceroy Hotels is enhancing the broader appeal of African safari destinations to a wider audience of international tourists.

Sustainable and Community-Focused Travel

Viceroy’s safari lodges are designed to blend seamlessly with their natural surroundings, emphasizing sustainability in both construction and operation. Each lodge aims to minimize its environmental footprint while supporting local communities through job creation and responsible tourism practices. Local guides, chefs, and artisans are employed at the lodges, fostering economic development and promoting the preservation of traditional cultures.

In addition to providing luxury experiences for tourists, these lodges contribute to wildlife conservation efforts by supporting sustainable practices and promoting eco-friendly tourism. This focus on sustainability makes Viceroy’s safari properties an attractive option for travelers who are looking to make a positive impact through their travel choices.

A New Era for African Safari Tourism

Viceroy Hotels’ expansion into Africa with its luxury safari lodges marks the beginning of an exciting new era for nature-based tourism. With properties located in some of the most pristine and wildlife-rich regions of Zambia and Botswana, Viceroy is offering travelers a unique opportunity to experience Africa’s stunning landscapes and wildlife in luxury and style. These lodges, which are set to become some of the top destinations for safari lovers, will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of sustainable tourism in Africa.

As more travelers seek immersive and meaningful experiences in nature, Viceroy Hotels’ safari properties will continue to be a premier choice for those looking for both adventure and relaxation, all while supporting conservation and local communities.

The Future of Luxury Safari Tourism

Viceroy Hotels will redefine luxury travel with its entry into the African safari market. With a dedication to making its operations sustainable, offering immersive cultural experiences, and world-class amenities, these new safari lodges in Zambia and Botswana are poised to change how tourists experience the wildlife and natural beauty of Africa. This is the future of safari tourism in Africa, and at the helm of it all is Viceroy.