Location & Landscape
Old Drift Lodge is set along the banks of the Zambezi River within Zambezi National Park, surrounded by riverine forest, open floodplains, and wildlife-rich bush landscapes. Located upstream from Victoria Falls on the historic site of the original river crossing between Zambia and Zimbabwe, the lodge combines a tranquil wilderness setting with easy access to the falls and surrounding activities. Elephants, hippos, and antelope are frequently seen along the riverbanks and around camp.
Wildlife Experience
The lodge offers a combination of safari and river-based wildlife experiences, with game drives and river safaris providing opportunities to encounter elephants, buffalo, crocodiles, hippos, giraffe, zebra, and abundant birdlife. The nearby river channels and forested areas create diverse habitats that support rewarding wildlife viewing throughout the year, while the quieter setting inside the national park offers a more immersive bush atmosphere than staying directly in town.
Accommodation
Old Drift Lodge features spacious luxury tented suites, including family suites and unique Star Suites designed for sleeping beneath the African sky. The suites are positioned privately along the riverbank and connected by raised wooden walkways through the trees. Each accommodation includes large viewing decks, private plunge pools, indoor and outdoor bathrooms, and elegant safari-inspired interiors designed to maximize comfort and connection to the surrounding wilderness.
Design & Atmosphere
The lodge blends classic safari style with contemporary comfort through the use of canvas, timber, leather, and natural textures. Open-air lounges, river-facing decks, lantern-lit pathways, and relaxed communal spaces create an atmosphere that feels both elegant and welcoming. Despite its close proximity to Victoria Falls, the lodge maintains a calm and intimate safari ambiance shaped by the rhythm of the river and surrounding bush.
Activities & Experiences
Guests can enjoy morning and evening game drives, river safaris, guided walking safaris, birdwatching, and guided visits to Victoria Falls. Sunset cruises, bush breakfasts, and riverside sundowners are highlights of the experience, while optional adventure activities such as helicopter flights, white-water rafting, ziplining, and day trips to Chobe National Park are available nearby.
Access
Old Drift Lodge is accessed via a road transfer from Victoria Falls Airport followed by a short boat transfer across the Zambezi River. The transition from town to river and bush creates an immediate sense of arrival into the safari environment while still remaining conveniently close to Victoria Falls and its activities.
