Majestic Riverfront Escape
Nestled upon the banks of the Zambezi River, Tanyati Villa encapsulates the essence of an elegant river safari, where the pulse of the rugged Zambian wilderness beats to the drum of your luxury bush holiday.
Some adventures don’t require mapping-out. They leisurely unfold like the gentle flow of the river’s rapids. All of your safari needs and itinerary wish lists are tended to without fuss, but plenty of frills. Prudently served on a regal platter. Tanyati Villa offers that kind of journey. Discreetly perched on the banks of the Zambezi, upstream from the majestic Victoria Falls, and deeply immersed in the wilderness of Zambia. The kind of luxury accommodation that evokes a forgotten thought of yearning. Oh, if only, I had a lodge in Africa. With a Blixen twang to the sentiment. Ah, but you do. And it’s ever-so opulently dressed for your arrival.
Tanyati Villa is part of the Residence Portfolio, as an additional attribute to Mukwa River Lodge – an exclusive boutique family-owned retreat on the banks of the Zambezi. The villa lends itself as a private luxury retreat, that accommodates as many as 10 guests – 8 adults and 2 children. Ideal for those seeking a tranquil pocket of seclusion, where the river frontage is all yours. There’s a dedicated social space with a living area, a bar, spa and gym, and even a cinema room. Of course a lovely long deck and swimming pool that merges with the river, framing the views. Lush gardens creep their ways around the suites, adding that dreamy green to the bushveld palette. Guests are welcome to enjoy all of the perks of the main lodge, whilst maintaining their privacy from the comfort and luxury of Tanyati.
Secluded sanctuary by the river
Tanyati Villa is intrinsically connected to the environment it occupies. Consciously nurturing a revered relationship with the wilderness. The owners have implemented their expertise in architecture and design, and their passion for worldly cuisines, ensuring a seamlessly indulgent experience. Sheer luxury accommodation essentials, deep bathtubs and vibrant, refined furnishings. The living, dining and entertaining spaces of the villa elegantly reflect the elements of the earth. Showcasing a commitment not only to sustainability, but to the local community, too. Working closely with local partners and ensuring its presence is both respectful and regenerative.
Rather than game drives, guests are invited into an experience defined by its proximity to the river. Watching it shift and flow with the romance of the Southern African light that smothers the Livingstone landscape. Witnessing the Goliath herons, the fish eagles and the kingfishers dart through the reeds. Observing the majesty of the natural world in all of its raw and rugged beauty.
All of the activities are tailored to your holiday wish lists, with an element of surprise in every detail. This is not your standard safari. Some mornings will involve a hearty breakfast on the river, with your private chef in tow. A secret set-up on the banks of a secluded spot (hippos and crocs not invited). High tea on the banana boat as you watch the elephant wade through the water. Beautiful boma dinners or gathered around the long tables at the villa. The team like to “Mukwafy” your experience of Zambia. Adding the “Mukwa Magic” to every element of your stay. Something that will solidify your love for the African wilderness, and be at the core of your yearning to return as often as possible.
What we love!
- Spending time around the fireplace in your own private suite, ending off the perfect day with that perfect dose of blissful reclining.
- After a morning on the water, enjoying the peace and privacy of your own patio, reading on the loungers as you absorb the sounds coming from the river.
- The luxury experienced at the lodge is authentically stitched together with the essence of nature, paired-up with colour and vibrancy.
- Experiencing a full day exploring the river and surroundings. Early mornings or afternoons on the banana boat, bird and wildlife watching. Followed by relaxing treatments in the spa.
- The incredible food prepared in the main kitchen, as well as the kosher kitchen, for every meal – tailored to your needs, in keeping with the global-local philosophy. Enjoying dishes that are world-class, yet inspired by the local cuisine.
What you need to know…
- Tanyati Villa is located 18 kilometres by road from Livingstone International Airport, or 53 kilometres (60 minutes) by road transfer from Victoria Falls Airport on the Zimbabwe side. Both Airports receive multiple international and domestic flights daily, connecting visitors from around the globe. The lodge is a 15-minute drive from Livingstone Town, and a mere 10 minutes onwards to the majestic Victoria Falls.
- Guests can rely on their own concierge at the villa or the main lodge, for assistance with a wide range of activities and any necessary transfers that they may require. From white-water rafting, kayaking, bungee jumping (all of the adrenaline stuff) to game drives and helicopter flights.
- Your stay is fully-catered to, from their magnificent herb and vegetable garden, and other fresh ingredients sourced by local suppliers – with an emphasis on your stay being an authentic foodie destination. Any surplus produce from the veggie garden goes to the
Written by Colleen Ogilvie