Gondwana Collection | Lodges

Zambezi Mubala Lodge

Share Zambezi Mubala Lodge

Overview of Zambezi Mubala Lodge

Zambezi Mubala Lodge is a newly built, modern retreat situated on the banks of the Zambezi River in Namibia's Zambezi Region, approximately 40 kilometers east of Katima Mulilo off the B8 road.

This innovative lodge serves as a secret river hideaway where guests can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area, with water lapping the shores, hippos calling, and fish eagles soaring overhead.

The name “Mubala,” meaning “color” in the local Silozi language, is reflected in the lodge's stylish interiors featuring gentle blues and sea greens inspired by the river and surrounding vegetation. Positioned in the heart of southern Africa, equidistant from the equator and the continent's southern tip, as well as between the Indian and Atlantic oceans, it offers a tropical paradise feel in Namibia's best-kept secret region.

The lodge is ideal as a base for exploring the Zambezi or as a stopover en route to Chobe National Park or Victoria Falls, about 215 kilometers away.

The property emphasizes relaxation and connection with nature, with vervet monkeys in the trees, swamp boubous singing, and tree squirrels scampering about. It's part of the Gondwana Collection and provides a peaceful escape from the world, where the infinite blue sky and river sounds dominate.

Guests arrive at Zambezi Mubala Camp and are transferred by boat to the lodge, enhancing the sense of arrival in an enchanted world. Bird lovers will appreciate the over 450 species in the area, including the seasonal visit of one of Africa's largest carmine bee-eater colonies between August and December, when these vibrant birds nest along the riverbanks in a burst of color and activity.

The lodge's design and location make it perfect for those seeking a blend of luxury and wilderness, with opportunities to fish for tigerfish or simply unwind as the sun sets over the water.

Location and Accessibility

Located at GPS coordinates S 17° 32.400 E 024° 33.983, the lodge is nestled along the Zambezi River, offering direct access to water-based activities. It's 40 kilometers east of Katima Mulilo, making it accessible via tarred roads suitable for standard vehicles.

Secure parking is available at Zambezi Mubala Camp, from where guests are transferred by boat to the lodge. The area is characterized by riverine vegetation and is seasonal for some activities due to water levels.

Transfers from Mpacha Airport in Katima Mulilo (50km one way) are available at N$505 per person return (min 2 pax). A package transfer between three Zambezi Gondwana properties (Namushasha River Lodge, Zambezi Mubala Lodge, Chobe River Camp) costs N$1170 per person round trip. The property is not specified for restricted mobility, so inquire for details. Mobile connectivity is available.

Accommodation Options

The lodge features 21 bungalows, each designed with modern elegance and river views.

Twin Rooms

• 4 rooms with twin beds.
• Amenities include air conditioning/heating, safe, veranda, small fridge, en-suite bathroom with shower, mosquito nets, tea/coffee facilities, hairdryer.

Double Rooms

• 13 rooms with double beds.
• Amenities mirror the twin rooms.

Family Rooms

• 4 rooms, each accommodating 2 adults and 2 children or 4 adults (2 rooms and a bathroom in each).
• Amenities include air conditioning/heating, safe, veranda, small fridge, en-suite bathroom with shower, mosquito nets, tea/coffee facilities, hairdryer.

All bungalows offer spacious, stylish interiors with private balconies overlooking the Zambezi River.

Property Facilities and Amenities

Shared facilities enhance the riverside experience:

• Restaurant and bar for meals and drinks.
• 1 cold water swimming pool.
• Curio shop for souvenirs.
• Wi-Fi at reception (1MB free per person per day).
• 24-hour security and mobile connectivity.
• Laundry service available.
• Credit cards accepted: Visa and MasterCard.

Dining and Meals

Meals are served in the restaurant at set times:

• Breakfast: 07:00-09:00 (buffet).
• Light lunch: 12:00-14:00.
• Three-course lunch: 12:00-14:00.
• Dinner: 19:00-21:00.

Bed and breakfast is included for room bookings, with lunches and dinners available for purchase. Lunch packs can be prepared for excursions.

Activities and Experiences

Activities focus on the Zambezi River and surrounding wilderness, with guided options for immersion. All fishing is catch-and-release.

Guided Activities

• Sundowner Boat Cruise: Experience the water world as the sun sets (1.5 hours, departs 1.5 hours before sunset), with refreshments and snacks.
• Morning/Afternoon Boat Cruise: Capture river birdlife, ideal for birding/photography (3 hours, departs ±8:00 or ±15:00), with refreshments and snacks.
• Guided Walk to the Bird Colonies: Discover the carmine bee-eater colony (3 hours, on request), seasonal; min 2 participants.
• Fishing Trips: Guided per hour (min/max 2 per boat), with boat, tackle, bait; lost equipment at guest's expense; license not included.
• Fishing Excursion for Enthusiastic Anglers: Tailor-made, on request; seasonal.

Excursions to Victoria Falls and Chobe National Park are available on request.

Child Policy and Reservations

Children are welcome:

• Up to 5 years: Free of charge.
• Ages 6-13: 50% of the bed and breakfast rate.

In summary, Zambezi Mubala Lodge provides a colorful, modern escape along the Zambezi, with comfortable bungalows and river activities. It's well-suited for relaxed stays or as part of a broader itinerary exploring Namibia's northeast.

INCLUDES

• Bed and breakfast (for room bookings)
• Air conditioning/heating in bungalows
• Safe in bungalows
• Veranda for each bungalow
• Small fridge in bungalows
• En-suite bathroom with shower
• Mosquito nets in bungalows
• Tea/coffee facilities in bungalows
• Hairdryer in bungalows
• Access to cold water swimming pool
• Wi-Fi at reception (1MB free per person per day)
• 24-hour security
• Mobile connectivity
• Secure parking (at Zambezi Mubala Camp)
• Curio shop access

EXCLUDES

• Lunch and dinner (available for purchase)
• Guided activities (e.g., Boat Cruises, Fishing Trips—bookable separately)
• Fishing license (required for fishing, arrangable separately)
• Lost or broken fishing equipment (at guest's expense)
• Laundry service (available for a fee)
• Transfers (arrangable separately)
• Additional Wi-Fi beyond 1MB free per person per day
• Any items from the curio shop (for purchase)
• Excursions to Vic Falls or Chobe (on request)