Situated in the heart of suburban Victoria Falls, Shongwe Look Out, and the adult’s only Shongwe Oasis, have in recent years garnered acclaim as one of the city’smost popular guest lodges for local and international guests alike. The family owned and managed boutique lodge offers an intimate and luxurious experience for travellers seeking a unique escape, with its prime location overlooking the majestic Victoria Falls from the imposing “Lookout Tower” after which the lodge is named.
Opened right before the global pandemic in 2019, and today having not only survived the challenges of that era but gone on to reach award-winning status, Shongwe Look Out’s secluded setting amidst lush gardens and indigenous trees of Victoria Falls, creates a serene ambiance far from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Owned and managed by Zimbabwean-bornJamie Henson and his wife from New Zealand, the couple took advantage of the lockdown season to curate an experience and develop a product that would witness their lodge concept becoming a vibrant addition to the town’s emerging boutique hospitality landscape.
“We were looking for a chance to bring something different to Victoria Falls. We wanted our guests to experience what we got a glimpse of in New Zealand – lodges that provide first class décor, food and service,” says Jamie.
“We really felt that Shongwe Lookout would give us that opportunity, and it has. The designer, Amanda West, exceeded our expectations in every regard, and we still get guests commenting on just how beautiful the lodge is,” said Jamie when Travel Essence Magazine first spoke to him as far back as 2020.
Today, with growth and the subsequent expansion that later introduced Shongwe Oasis, the adjacent lodge that caters to adults only, one can see the successes that came as a result ofintentional effort in preserving the aesthetic design, service excellence, and elevating Shongwe’s garden to enhance the resident chef’s culinary creations. Each of Shongwe’s spacious rooms is thoughtfully designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings and lush landscaping, featuring modern amenities while maintaining a rustic charm. The patios in front of each room equally award guests the opportunity to dart between the confines of their own space, while seamlessly absorbing the quiet energy the lodge invokes.
A quite getaway haven for couples
For couples seeking a romantic getaway, both Shongwe Look Out and neighbouring Shongwe Oasis are a haven of tranquility and intimacy. The lodge’s secluded setting, coupled with its luxurious amenities, creates a perfect atmosphere for relaxation and rejuvenation. Couples can enjoybreakfast, lunch or dinner at themain terrace doubling up as an al fresco style restaurant area, or indulge in spa treatments at Mvula Spa, the first high-end Spa to open in Victoria Falls, offering luxurious treatments with an African twist. If it is pure relaxation they are after, guests can simply bask in the luxury of being unrushed by spending quality time together amidst the property’s stunning natural surroundings.
Dreamy sunset from an iconic look out deck
One of the most captivating features of Shongwe Look Out is its exclusive access to a private viewing point overlooking the Victoria Falls. Guests can enjoy uninterrupted views of the majestic waterfall, the spray mist, and the rainbow that often forms in the afternoon. This vantage point offers a truly unforgettable experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the sheer power and beauty of one of the world’s natural wonders.To ensure guests do not miss a single moment of those famous African sunsets, a dumbwaiter connected to a pulley system brings a steady supply of drinks up and down the three-story tower with the pull of a chord without missing the magical sunsets for which Zimbabwean skies are known.
But there’s more about town…
The lodge’s popularity among tourists can be attributed to its combination of luxury, convenience, and breathtaking views. Its proximity to the Victoria Falls National Park makes it an ideal base for exploring the area’s attractions, including the world’s largest curtain of falling water, the mighty Victoria Falls, the Devil’s Pool on Livingstone Island on the Zambia side of the Zambezi River, going wine tasting or art experiences about town.
Victoria Falls offers a wide range of activities for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Visitors can also take a thrilling white-water rafting trip on the Zambezi River, go on a guided safari in the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, or take a scenic helicopter flight over the falls. For those who prefer a more leisurely experience, there are opportunities for bird watching, fishing, and sunset cruises.
In addition to its natural beauty and adventure activities, Victoria Falls also offers a vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can explore the local markets, learn about the history and traditions of the Tonga people, or enjoy live music and entertainment at the various bars and restaurants. Whatever your preference, the lodge’s staff is knowledgeable and helpful, providing personalized recommendations and arranging activities to suit guests’ interests.
Whether you are seeking adventure, relaxation, or a romantic escape, Shongwe Look Out offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of Victoria Falls. With its stunning location, luxurious accommodations, and personalized service, this boutique lodge is the perfect choice for travellers who appreciate honest hospitality that is delivered with a passion for creating memorable experiences for all. To learn more about Shongwe Look Out visit https://shongwelookout.com/
