Two groups comprising 18 travel industry professionals have been visiting Victoria Falls to sample and give feedback on two of the destination's newest travel products: Chundu Island and Masuwe Lodge.
Chundu is a 1.4km-long private island in the Zambezi River some 21km up-river of the Victoria Falls, and adjacent to the Zambezi National Park. Its brand new lodge, set into the island's woodland, comprises a large, decked central living/dining/bar area overlooking the island's seasonal beach, 6 spacious "Seychelles-inspired" suites and 2 family suites all with views looking out over the river.
Masuwe Lodge is located on a private concession, bordering the other side of the Zambezi National Park and just 7kms from Victoria Falls town. It consists of nine safari-style thatch and canvas Wilderness Tents with en suite stone bathrooms and private decks overlooking the bush. One spacious Honeymoon Hide-Away is tucked in a private spot overlooking a small water hole, and the Family Nest offers a self-contained 2-bedroom retreat for 4 people.
Comments from the travel agents have been heart-warming and encouraging, says the team from Seolo Africa, who manage both lodges. They have both strengthened our belief in Zimbabwe and her people; and they told us we’re getting it right with Chundu Island and Masuwe Lodge.
Here's what three of them had to say:-
Giorgi Vaas, COO, Springbok Atlas: From the bottom of my heart I want to thank you for giving me the opportunity to join your educational. I had the best time ever. Michelle Hollis was the perfect host and took such good care of our every need, thank you very much. Please, once again thank the staff at Masuwe Lodge and Chundu Island for going the extra mile to make us feel special. It is on educationals like these that you come to realise how spoilt and lucky we are to be offered these amazing opportunities. Others only dream of this.
Yolande Smith, Destination Specialist, Siyabona Africa: Chundu Island is a gem on the Zambezi!!! Everything about the lodge and the surroundings exudes tranquillity. Masuwe Lodge is the friendliest lodge in Victoria Falls. They always made sure that you were happy and comfortable.
Christiane Glanz, Director Key Accounts UK and Switzerland, Go Vacations: You are truly blessed to be working with lovely Lodges like Masuwe, Chundu. I enjoyed both very much and would always recommend them. Chundu Island as you say is “balm” for the soul and I could not have wished to be anywhere else.