andBeyond has announced that the Matetsi Private Game Reserve will return to its portfolio; the company also managed the property from 1996 to 2011. Located on the Zambezi River in Zimbabwe, just 25 miles from Victoria Falls, the reserve includes two safari lodges and a 123,500-acre wildlife concession. The two lodges are currently undergoing a $10 million renovation, and are set to reopen in July.
“With the expansion of Victoria Falls Airport providing easier access and changing the dynamics of how guests travel in the region, we felt that it was the right time to re-engage with an old safari favorite of ours, Zimbabwe, and Victoria Falls specifically,” says andBeyond CEO Joss Kent.
Matetsi River Lodge features two camps of nine suites each, including a family suite. A sole-use private villa, andBeyond Matetsi River House, offers exclusive accommodation for private groups or families of up to eight. The four-bedroom villa boasts its own kitchen, indoor and outdoor dining areas, a private veranda overlooking the Zambezi River, a swimming pool, and a firepit. It comes with a dedicated guide, private vehicle, chef, and butler.
The design draws inspiration from the traditions of fishing and basket weaving local to the area. Featured artwork includes traditional abstract carvings of wood and stone combined with contemporary pieces by Zimbabwean artist Helen Teede.
A strong copper theme will run throughout in homage to the mineral riches of the region, from copper drums in the open-air outdoor enclosure, to copper pots and pans in the kitchen, and copper details on the taps in the bathrooms. Splashes of bright blue will mimic the waters of the river. Simple glass coffee tables will showcase objects naturally found along the banks of the Zambezi, such as driftwood, nests, rocks, and pods. Recycled materials from the previous design of the lodge will be incorporated wherever possible.
The spacious suites, which are set between trees, feature facades of intertwined leaves that merge with the surrounding vegetation, as well as private plunge pools.
The lodge includes a safari shop, gym, massage room, conference facility, wine cellar, and 82-foot-long rim-flow swimming pool. Sitting areas and dining spaces will make the most of river views, and guests can enjoy an interactive kitchen.
