Ivory Lodge

One of the lodge's great advantages is its easy access near the main Bulawayo to Victoria Falls Road, making it very convenient for travellers. It's a delightful place featuring spacious, unique treehouse accommodations that add a special touch to your stay. While it may not be located on the top game concession in the area, which means game viewing is limited unless you head to the National Park about 32 km away, there's still plenty to enjoy. The waterhole right in front of the lodge, with its cosy hide, is often visited by animals, offering fantastic viewing opportunities. Although it may not match the luxury of some other lodges in the area, especially considering the price, it still offers a warm, inviting experience that many guests find appealing.

Introduction

Ivory Lodge is nestled on a beautiful 6,000-acre private concession within the Sikumi Forest Reserve. It’s conveniently situated just 3 km from the main Victoria Falls – Bulawayo Road and only 24 km from the main entrance gate of Hwange National Park, making it an ideal spot for exploring these incredible natural wonders.

The lodge offers two comfortable accommodation options, giving guests a variety of cosy choices.

The popular Tree Houses and our newest feature, the Presidential Elephant Suites, are named after the famous Presidential Herd that often visits the concession.

The seven charming tree houses are beautifully constructed on raised wooden platforms, featuring large open mesh windows at the front that provide lovely elevated views of the floodplain and watering hole.

The Presidential suites are perched on charming wooden decks, offering a cosy private balcony where guests can unwind and soak in beautiful views after their exciting game activities. It's a wonderful place to unwind and savour some much-needed relaxation.

The lodge features a spacious thatched central area with the bar, dining space, and reception, all welcoming and cosy. The swimming pool is nestled in vibrant, shady gardens teeming with a variety of birds, and you might even spot a family of warthogs or a mongoose wandering nearby, adding to the charming natural atmosphere.

The well-positioned hide, just a short stroll from the main area where you can enjoy the best views, is a favourite among guests. It's the perfect spot to sit back and take in the constantly shifting scenery up close. Often, you'll find the Presidential Herd here, enjoying a cool, refreshing drink. The water hole is also popular with various plains game species, buffalo, and, if you're lucky, lions.

The lodge grounds are securely enclosed with a fence to ensure guests' safety at all times, creating a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.

Activities at Ivory Lodge include exciting 4x4 drives into the famous Hwange National Park, along with thrilling night drives and peaceful game walks on their private concession. Besides wildlife adventures, guests are warmly encouraged to visit the local village and school to get a heartfelt glimpse into community life and the lodge's meaningful work with the community. Guests often have the special chance to enjoy performances by a lively local singing and dance group before dinner, making the experience even more memorable.

The newest highlight in the area is the Star Bed, a charming elevated platform nestled in the wilderness that offers guests a magical experience of sleeping under the stars. It comfortably accommodates two people on a cosy king-sized bed at the very top, with simple ablution facilities on the middle level. Guests usually enjoy a delicious dinner at the main lodge before being picked up for a tranquil night drive to the Star Bed. There, they can savour a bottle of wine with dessert while marvelling at the breathtaking stars above. The next morning, they head back to the lodge, feeling refreshed and enchanted by the night under the stars.

Here's what the Travel Agency considers.

While the waterhole in front of the lodge is popular and the private concession offers large herds of elephants and buffalo, many guests find that Hwange National Park provides even better game-viewing experiences. Keep in mind the distance along the tar road from the lodge and the time spent at the start and end of activities to make the most of your adventure.

Ivory Lodge is a great choice for self-driving travellers who want to explore Hwange National Park or enjoy an overnight stay on their journey from Bulawayo to Victoria Falls.

Summary

This small, family-friendly lodge is situated 24 km from the main camp entrance of Hwange National Park, on a private concession. With just nine rooms, it offers a personalised experience for families, small groups, single travellers, and couples. Guests can enjoy a hide overlooking a waterhole, complete with floodlights for nighttime wildlife viewing. Activities include game drives both within Hwange National Park and on the private concession. A unique feature is the new Star Bed on the concession, offering an unforgettable night under the stars.

The changing seasons in Hwange.

The changing seasons in Hwange greatly influence both your budget and safari experience. During the Green season (rainy season), you’ll encounter spectacular birdlife and fascinating insects, though general animal sightings are less frequent. This period offers exceptional value, as lodge prices are often significantly reduced.

In contrast, the High season (dry season) brings abundant wildlife to the waterholes, creating classic National Geographic moments. This is the busiest time of year, and lodge rates rise considerably.

Please share your preferences so we can help you find the best time for your visit.

Please note: Hwange lodges often become fully booked during peak season, so we highly recommend planning and reserving in advance to secure your preferred options.

Accommodation

• Enjoy 7 charming thatched treehouse rooms and 2 luxurious elevated suites, offering a cosy, upscale retreat for every guest.
• Room configuration:
  • 5 double rooms
  • 3 twin rooms
  • 1 family suite (with two double beds)
• Room features:
  • Ceiling fans
  • Mosquito nets over beds
  • En-suite bathrooms (washbasin and shower; bathtubs in luxury suites)
  • Storage shelves
  • Electric blankets provided in winter (rooms are fairly open)

Dining

• Communal dining experience
• Hearty family-style meals:
  • Buffet and cooked breakfast
  • 2-course lunch
  • 3-course dinner

Facilities & Services

• Main lodge area with lounges, dining area, swimming pool, and reception
• 220V electricity supply
• Waterhole hide accessible from lodge grounds.
• Wi-Fi available
• Laundry service
• Activities include game drives, game walks, bird watching, and a visit to the Painted Dog Centre.

Fully Inclusive Rates Include

• Accommodation
• All your meals and local beverages
• Two activities each day
• Fees for National Parks
• Return shared transfers between Hwange Airport, Main Camp, and Safari Lodge.
• Laundry
• Wi-Fi

Fully Inclusive Rates Exclude

• Conservation Levy
• Painted Dog Conservancy entry (by donation)
• Private transfers

Children

• All children welcome
• Special rates for children under 12
• Family units available

Getting to Ivory Lodge

• Self-drive: 2.5 km off the main Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Road (258 km from Bulawayo; 180 km from Victoria Falls)
• Charter flights to Hwange Main Airport (6 km away)
• Transfers from Victoria Falls Airport (VFA), Zimbabwe available (contact for details)