Payments made by partners impact the order of prices displayed. Room types may vary.
The listings of booking offers for each property take into account the compensation paid to us by our partners. Prices shown may be for varying room types. Prices displayed are the lowest available, corresponding to the least expensive room type available, as provided from our partners as of the time of the user’s search.
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
5-Star rated Matetsi Victoria Falls on the pristine 55 000 hectare Matetsi Private Game Reserve, offers a safari oasis that combines an exceptional wildlife experience and 15km (9.3 miles) of private Zambezi River frontage with easy access to the majestic Victoria Falls. Matetsi Private Game Reserve pays homage to the wonderfully rich cultural heritage of Zimbabwe by showcasing a vibrant theme of wood and copper, the “red gold” of the country’s historical mining industry, throughout the spectacular interiors of Matetsi River Lodge and Matetsi River House. Splashes of bright blue remind guests of the rushing waters of the Zambezi River. Guests staying at Matetsi River Lodge and Matetsi River House have the opportunity to take advantage of an extensive Boutique, a fitness studio, massage sala and boardroom. A 20 meter long, rim-flow swimming pool stretches along the riverbank, while an exclusive wine cellar boasts eye-level views of the Zambezi River.
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
HOTEL STYLE
Trendy
Romantic
Languages Spoken
English
Location
Matetsi Private Game Reserve Zambezi River, Victoria Falls 4001 Zimbabwe
Before posting, each Tripadvisor review goes through an automated tracking system, which collects information, answering the following questions: how, what, where and when. If the system detects something that potentially contradicts our community guidelines, the review is not published.
When the system detects a problem, a review may be automatically rejected, sent to the reviewer for validation, or manually reviewed by our team of content specialists, who work 24/7 to maintain the quality of the reviews on our site.
Our team checks each review posted on the site disputed by our community as not meeting our community guidelines.
My first impression of Matetsi was that it is a slightly aging property that could use a bit of sprucing up to breathe some life back into it. And truth be told, I still feel that way after my stay - it was first opened in 1997, and it's unclear how many renovations there have been since - there are lots of signs wear and tear (loose bits of the floor in my room (3), for example making for a slightly uneven surface to walk on barefoot, rusted doors at the gym, tired looking walls and a slightly dated design). The main pool area could also do with a bit of TLC, it had too many bugs and debris in it to make me want to spend too much time there (although my private pool by contrast was very clean), and the spa seemed empty / unstaffed when I popped by.
Having said that, Matetsi really won me over with its amazing service. The staff are just fantastic, especially my waiter (whose name I sadly didn't catch), who was so kind, always smiling, and went to the trouble of making me a big jar of an amazing fresh juice cocktail for dinner and breakfast that was very much appreciated. My safari guides, Lance and Kevin, were also super chill and just a pleasure to hang out with. Also, I think my breakfast at Matetsi might have been the best I've had in nearly 2 months of travel so far in Africa.
If the owners would invest a bit to do the place up, this would be an absolutely fantastic place to stay. In the mean time, I'm giving it a slightly generous 5 stars because the service was just so good!
Read more
Date of stay: March 2025Trip type: Travelled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Sara Gardiner, Owner at Matetsi Victoria Falls
Responded 1 week ago
Dear RamblingRambler, we are delighted that you had an opportunity to visit last week and experience our team’s incredible service. Thank you for this 5 star review. We really appreciate your suggestions, which we will bear in mind as we continue to reinvest extensively in the property. Your kind words for our team mean the world to us – they are the ones who truly make Matetsi Magic. As a family-owned property, our vision is to showcase our beautiful home country, from exclusive safari to the mighty Zambezi river, which Lance and Kevin enjoyed sharing with you, all wrapped up in warm Zimbabwean hospitality – which your waiter Ashwin embodies. We hope to welcome you back one day to soak in more of the Matetsi Magic. Warmest regards, Sara & your Matetsi family
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
After a long anticipated holiday Matetsi did not disappoint. Arriving at Matetsi felt like stepping into an African paradise. My sister and I felt the warmth and kindness of the staff from moment we stepped into the car that picked us from the airport till the we were dropped off on our return. A special mention to Chris, Itai, Future Bryan and Vusani who made our stay so memorable. We arrived as strangers and left feeling like family.
Loved the way every aspect of the property gives a view of the Zambezi, the privacy we had once we were inside the reserve and in our villa….skinny dippers dream!!! Pictures don’t do much justice to the attention to detail that has been put into the design of the accomodation- trying not to sound like a commercial but I fell in love with the layout of the room and the breathtaking views from the bed sitting area and bath tub made possible by the floor to ceiling windows.
The two game drives and sunset river cruise we took meant that we were able to see 4 of the big 5 in their natural habitat large majestic elephants are a common sight , leopard lazing on a log and buffalo by the riverbanks ….Priceless memory was seeing a large male lion up close on our evening drive
The food deserves a special mention ……Chef Shane & Arty everything from breakfast lunch dinner- the snacks …..(not sure I can give you credit for the drinks ) was delicious never knew that ostrich tastes so good…. If you are a foodie and like your drinks you will not be disappointed.
Make note that insects love Matetsi too but I can’t say they are a nuisance- in the few instances we stayed outside late we had insect spray in our rooms , on the game drives as well as a guide to walk back to our villa.
I can safety check the following off my unexpected bucket list Riverbank Dinning with warthogs🌟 Showering outside with impalas grazing close by🌟 Skinny dipping with views of the Zambezi 🌟 Soaking in the huge round tub whilst enjoying the sunset🌟 Massages on the banks of the river🌟 Hearing roaring lions whilst having drinks at the bush bar on the game drive🌟 Being kissed by the sun whilst cruising the Zambezi whilst enjoying a glass of my favourite wine🌟 a team that went out of its way to make our stay amazing🌟🌟🌟🌟
Call me biased but as you must have guessed I fell in love with Matetsi❤️
Read more
Date of stay: February 2022Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Sara Gardiner, Owner at Matetsi Victoria Falls
Responded 1 Mar 2022
Dear Thani, thank you so much for taking the time to share on Tripadvisor. Our team absolutley love creating these Matetsi Magic moments - and it means the world to us to know that you enjoyed them so much. Sending warmest wishes from Zimbabwe! Sara & the whole Matetsi family
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Everything at Matetsi was perfect. The staff was extraordinarily friendly and catered to our every need. The food was amazing and the location of the rooms inside the Matetsi part of the national park perfect for seeing animals in the wild. Game viewings were incredibly; we saw all Big 4 as well as other very rare animals, and our safari guides were knowledgable, approachable and kind, making game viewings a once in a lifetime experience. Little surprises such as gifts packets in our rooms and a dinner in the bush make the experience even more special.
Read more
Date of stay: July 2022Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Sara Gardiner, Owner at Matetsi Victoria Falls
Responded 30 Aug 2022
Dear Anna, we are so glad that you and your family have had a chance to visit Matetsi Victoria Falls, and we really appreciate that you took the time to share this “perfect” feedback on Tripadvisor. We are always striving to create exceptional guest experiences and words like yours really motivate us. Thank you! Sending warmest wishes from the banks of the Zambezi! Sara & the whole Matetsi family P.S. Delighted that you saw all of the Big 4 and more!! :)
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
My wife and I stayed at Matetsi for 8 nights in October of 2024. It was a truly amazing experience. Our river side suite was perfectly designed and furnished in an amazing setting. The room provides a panoramic view of the Zambezi river and you readily observe, bushbuck, warthogs and occasionally elephants moving along the river adjacent to your room.
There are morning and evening game drives or river cruises with an abundance of animals to be seen including elephants, warthogs, giraffes, lions, zebras, buffalo and many more. The guides are outstanding!!
The service at Matetsi is 5 star with every member of staff dedicated to making your stay the most pleasurable and relaxing. They enjoy interacting with you and sharing their love of Zimbabwe and their amazing natural environment. The food is top notch with every plate a work of art.
Matetsi provides the perfect mix of being busy with game drives or visits to Victoria Falls and relaxation in the beautiful setting of your room or the dining area.
Read more
Date of stay: October 2024
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Sara Gardiner, Owner at Matetsi Victoria Falls
Responded 19 Jan 2025
Dear Barry, we were so thrilled to have you and your wife stay with us on the banks of the Zambezi for over a week. Thank you for sharing your experiences here on Tripadvisor - we loved creating Matetsi Magic moments for you, and are delighted to hear that your stay was the perfect mix of safari and Victoria Falls activities as well as relaxation. The compliments that you have shared really mean so much to our team! We hope to welcome you back one of these days. Warmest regards from Zimbabwe, Sara & your Matetsi family
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
I have the good fortune to visit quite a few lodges and camping in Africa so I can base this review on considerable experience.
We were picked up by their own transport from the Victoria Falls Hotel. On arrival we were warmly greeted and this was the way things progressed.
First lunch, looking out over the Zambezi, then taken to your "room". This had a wonderful view over the river and had all the amenities you could need including an outside seating area and pool. See "Wylie Norwich" for You Tube videos.
We were told to keep doors closed due baboons and monkeys but we did not see either near our room and only a few baboons when driving out of the lodge in the morning. There were warthog and bushbuck around the room.
In the morning tea, coffee is brought to your room and served though a hatch in to your room. You are escorted to the lodge for breakfast or your morning game drive. You are also escorted back after the diner in the evening.
The food was excellent. There was total accommodation for individual tastes and dietary requirements. All that with a setting of overlooking the Zambezi River.
There are a number of activates inc Game Drives, boat trip and kayaking.
We had a number of game drives, morning and afternoon. We had our own vehicle with 2 guides, I can only recall one of the names, Bongani, but the drivers name is unforgivably lost on me.
On morning drives you stop for tea, coffee and things to eat. In afternoon/evening its sundowners, your choice, although on our first evening we were hit by a particularly heavy thunderstorm which lasted through diner at the lodge as well.
The landscape varies, clearly there is the river, crocodiles are in view from the lodge most of the time, then is dry rocky woodland/bush, more damp woodland and some open grass areas, mainly south of the road from Vic Falls to Botswana.
There is plenty of wildlife, lots of elephants, plus kudu, zebra, impala, waterbuck, lions and a black mamba!
One evening we did the boat trip which was done by the same multi talented guides. Lots to see and a mostly smooth ride, it was a bit "choppy" for a time on the way back and we were "Zambezied" a couple of times but nothing which caused any issues.
On our last morning we asked if we could have a game drive which was not a problem. Great drive with the plus point of seeing Cheetahs at a Waterbuck kill, the apparent envy of the lodge etc, but thats just the luck of these things.
Just when I was wondering quite when we would be back for breakfast so we could depart on time, we were taken for a bush breakfast by the Zambezi, just amazing.
All the staff here are just great and you are made to feel welcome and in fact part of the "family". This was illustrated later at the Victoria Falls Hotel when one of he owners was there, but took the time to come and talk to us.
Read more
Date of stay: November 2022
Value
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled on business
Room Tip:All rooms have river views
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Sara Gardiner, Owner at Matetsi Victoria Falls
Responded 14 Mar 2023
Dear Wylie, We cannot thank you enough for taking the time to share your experiences here on Tripadvisor. Now that you've experienced the Matetsi Magic, you certainly are part of our extended Matetsi Victoria Falls family. As we say "you never know what you'll see in the bush" - in your case, great wildlife sightings AND a cheetah on a waterbuck kill! Wow! Very best regards, Sara and the whole Matetsi Family
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Matetsi has a special edge which is the story of a regeneration of nature in the area. It’s more than a safari experience for tourists…it’s part of the future for the protection of the beautiful country that is Africa.
We loved close up wildlife encounters with outstanding conservationist guides on exciting morning and evening drives.
Water buffalo, zebras, elephants, giraffes, leopard, baboons, black backed jackals, kudu, warthogs, impala,waterbuck, crocodile, hippos not to mention a vast array of birds. Hope I have left anything out! We took amazing walking safaris aimed at learning about the flora and fauna of the area. We enjoyed stylish and luxurious accomodation where every comfort is considered. We ate like royalty with; delicious moonlit suppers overlooking the fabulous and ever changing Mighty Zambezi, Boma dinners with the best local singing and dancing you could hope for and sumptuous dining in the special wine cellar. Sunrise and sunset boat cruises were a particular highlight…that river is so special. Then of course the Victoria Falls is stunning. Primarily there are the outstanding people who make the whole the place. So many special experiences to recount we cannot thank you enough.
Read more
Date of stay: February 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip:It was meant to be the wet season but they were suffering from lack of rainfall. This made the...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Sara Gardiner, Owner at Matetsi Victoria Falls
Responded 3 Apr 2024
Dear 702ruthf, a huge and extra special thank you for taking the time to share your experience here on Tripadvisor. We are delighted that you've had an opportunity to visit our pocket of paradise and to experience so much of what we have to offer, as well as to understand our mission. As we regenerate this land for wildlife and future generations, we hope to inspire others to do the same. Ruth, we hope to welcome you back one day for more Matetsi Magic. Warmest regards, Sara & your Matetsi family
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
I was so impressed by so many things at Matetsi that I started making a list so I didn't forget anything!
If I had to choose what stood out the most, I would have to say the genuine care I noticed from all staff for the animals. The conservation work happening at Matetsi is next level and all staff, particularly the guides and trackers are so proud to be apart of it. There were some moments where my heart melted, not from seeing an animal but from seeing and hearing the guides reactions to different situations, like the first spotting of a baby warthog for the season or a kudu walking straight past us having our coffee towards a waterhole where unbeknownst to it, a pack of wild dogs were relaxing after a big feed. Everyday we saw something special and different. The guide and trackers were so knowledgeable. It is 100% due to their experience that we saw a leopard and a lioness and her cub on our trip.
There is an abundance of waterholes across the huge 550 sq km reserve which made our safaris very special. I also couldn't help but notice the perfect condition of the Safari vehicles and the roads we drove on. Nice touches like blankets and your own personal water bottle were appreciated. Some people forgot to bring binoculars, so hot tip pack binoculars!
Outside of the safaris, everything else was also amazing. The Boma dinners, the food, river cruise, all amazing! The villas on the Zambezi are just spectacular. I really had to think how lucky I was sitting by the Infinity pool, looking out at the Zambezi River and having my own little animal show right there with worthogs, bush bucks, baboons, monkey's and even elephants just casually passing through.
Everything is thought of, it is a very professionally run place with what appears to be a great team culture among everyone who works there. There might have been a few tears when I had to say goodbye at the end...I will definitely be back!
Read more
Date of stay: November 2024
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Sara Gardiner, Owner at Matetsi Victoria Falls
Responded 19 Jan 2025
Dear Kylie, we are delighted to hear that you so enjoyed your time here in our pocket of paradise. Thank you for sharing your experiences and photos here on Tripadvisor - feedback like this really means so much to our whole team. We loved reading about your experience from the warm hospitality of our team to the incredible sightings - including wild dog, leopard and lion! Matetsi Magic moments! We hope to welcome you back before too long. Warmest regards from Zimbabwe, Sara & your Matetsi family
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
For me, Matetsi is southern Africa’s Garden of Eden. From the moment we were picked up from the airstrip, I was engulfed by the peace of the pristine bush, and on arrival at the camp, the warmest of welcomes awaited us.
My room was pure luxury, and attention to detail – from the kikois on the towel rail to the ‘night time survival box’ – was delightful. With my very own stretch of the Mighty Zambezi, I could have stayed on my terrace watching the bird show all day, but for the lure of magical game drives, boat trips and sundowners.
The team was entirely efficient and graceful. We spent many happy moments with our guides, Jonathan and Ophy, who shared so much of their vast knowledge. And it was incredibly exciting to hear about all the conservation and education projects going on behind the scenes at Matetsi.
From the kitchen came many splendours, like kudu tataki. A view of the Zambezi with a Tanganda and fresh croissant is my new favourite way to start the day. What will life be after Matetsi?
Thank you to the whole Matetsi family for sharing your piece of paradise with us and for making our time so special. We will be back!
Read more
Date of stay: December 2021
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Sara Gardiner, Owner at Matetsi Victoria Falls
Responded 11 Dec 2021
Dear Jessica, thank you so much for taking the time to share your experiences with fellow travellers here on Tripadvisor. As well as striving for an overall exceptional guest experience, we pride ourselves on our attention to detail, and are delighted that many of our little touches made such a positive impact on your stay. We can't wait to welcome you back to "Africa's Garden of Eden" for many more happy moments. Best wishes from the whole Matetsi family!
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Stunning rustic but elegant lodge. All inclusive with food, safari’s, hikes and sunset cruises- and of course a trip to the Falls. Decor in rooms is beautiful and rooms are large with huge bath and a plunge pool. Staff is warm and helpful. Great animal views.
Read more
Date of stay: June 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Sara Gardiner, Owner at Matetsi Victoria Falls
Responded 27 July 2024
Dear Pam, warm authentic Zimbabwean hospitality is at the heart of what we do - and we are so glad you felt that while visiting and experiencing our beautiful part of the world. Thank you so much for reviewing your experience here on Tripadvisor. Warmest regards, Sara & your Matetsi family
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Hotel Rating: 10/10 - This highly acclaimed luxe safari lodge set on the banks of the Zambezi River near Victoria Falls has won multiple prestigious awards, including best lodge in Africa. Among the many top flight safari lodges in Victoria Falls, Matetsi would win my vote as the best safari lodge on the Zimbabwe side and one of the top safari lodges in the world. It offers spacious luxury pool suites in a spectacular riverfront location, warm personalized service delivered by an empowered staff, romantic riverside dining, and exceptional game drives on its own huge private game reserve - which sets it apart from the competition. Additional experiences include romantic sunset cruises on the Zambezi river as well as guided kayaking.
Read more
Date of stay: June 2022
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Sara Gardiner, Owner at Matetsi Victoria Falls
Responded 30 Aug 2022
THANK YOU for this great feedback, we really appreciate it. We know you’ve had a chance to experience many of the properties in this corner of the world so we truly value your rating, ranking and insights. Warmest regards from Sara & the Matetsi family. P.S. We love the photo of you by the lap pool!
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Hi Jul, we would be more than happy to help book your lodges / transfers in Victoria Falls. We are currently based in the Falls and know the area inside out. There really is no need to rent a vehicle. Check out AfriVenture or pop us an email. Sanja
There are more places to choose from in the Victoria Falls area.
PRICE RANGE
AU$3,473 - AU$5,288 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
matetsi private game reserve hotel victoria falls
LOCATION
ZimbabweMatabeleland North ProvinceVictoria Falls
NUMBER OF ROOMS
21
Prices are provided by our partners, and reflect total costs of the stay, including all taxes and fees known to our partners. Please see our partners for more details.
Is This Your Tripadvisor Listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
