Amalinda Lodge

Bulawayo

Amalinda Lodge

Introduction

Matobo Hills is Zimbabwe's oldest National Park, renowned for its stunning granite domes and balancing rock formations that perfectly embody serenity. Locals hold it in high regard as a deeply spiritual landmark, making it a special place to visit.

Amalinda Lodge, nestled within a private concession on the edge of the stunning Matobo Hills, offers an unforgettable and truly special experience. Its rooms and main areas are beautifully built into massive, ancient granite boulders, creating a magical and cosy atmosphere you’re sure to love.

Each of the 9 rooms has its own unique charm, offering a delightful variety of quirky features – from impressive granite boulders that seem to rise right into the space, to charming wooden bridges crossing over to neighbouring outcrops, and even a peaceful sunrise viewing platform. Every room is thoughtfully decorated, combining tastefulness with cosy comfort.

The central area, featuring a cosy lounge, a small bar, and a charming dining deck with a central fire pit, seems to gently hug the boulders, offering inviting nooks and different levels to explore.

Whether sitting peacefully in the lounge with a good book or sharing campfire stories with knowledgeable guides about the captivating history of this area, you can almost sense the breath and songs of the Bushman who once lived in these caves 3000 years ago. It's a truly magical place that connects you with timeless stories and nature.

From the central area, you'll be captivated by the stunning view overlooking the large natural rock infinity pool and bar. Surrounded by a beautiful expanse of granite boulders and lush natural scenery, it's truly a magnificent sight.

Amalinda Lodge offers a variety of engaging activities, such as fascinating historical and cultural tours—from exploring the Bushman Rock Paintings to visiting Cecil John Rhodes' Grave.

The park is also proud of its remarkable white and black rhino populations, which visitors can often see with ease. Additionally, the area's natural beauty, with its striking granite boulders and balanced rocks, makes for a delightful drive that feels truly enchanting and timeless.

Here's what the Travel Agency considers.

Amalinda Lodge is a truly captivating place that offers a one-of-a-kind experience. From the cosy rooms to the welcoming central area, and the stunning Matobo Hills landscape surrounding it, everything about this lodge feels special. If you have a passion for history and local art, especially in this sacred region, it's definitely a place you won't want to miss.

The knowledgeable guides and friendly staff truly made the experience special, and the food was absolutely delicious.

However, they feel an incredible sense of privilege and joy when spending time in this special place, rich with fascinating history and stunning scenery.

It's truly one of the most unique lodges you can discover in Zimbabwe.

Summary

Nestled in a private concession on the edge of the UNESCO-listed Matobo Hills National Park, this charming retreat is just 20 minutes from Bulawayo, Zimbabwe's second-largest city.

It’s also conveniently located 40 minutes from Bulawayo Airport and about 6 hours by road from Victoria Falls Airport.

Guests can enjoy nine spacious and cosy rooms with ensuite bathrooms, and on-site vehicles and guides are available to offer cultural tours, rhino tracking, and other adventures.

Relax by the large infinity rock swimming pool, sip drinks at the outside bar, or unwind in the intimate central lounge and bar with breathtaking views.

Dining experiences can be savoured on the raised wooden deck or in a welcoming communal setting, and evenings are warm around the fire pit nestled among granite boulders.

For a complete getaway, consider combining your stay here with visits to Amalinda Lodge, Hwange National Park, and the stunning Victoria Falls.

Accommodation at Amalinda Lodge

Discover nine unique rooms set amidst the striking Granite Boulders of this historic area.

Enjoy 3 luxurious Suites, each featuring an en-suite bathroom carved into the granite rock, complete with a toilet, shower, outdoor shower, and his-and-hers rock basins (San, Lobengula, and Rhodes).

For families, there are 3 cosy family rooms, each with an en-suite bathroom that includes a shower & bath, toilet, and a single rock basin.

Guests can also choose from 2 comfortable double rooms, each with an en-suite bathroom, his-and-hers showers, an outdoor bath, and a rock basin.

Additionally, there's 1 charming twin room with an en-suite bathroom equipped with a toilet, his & hers showers, an outdoor bath, and a rock basin.

All rooms have:

Enjoy a comfortable stay with amenities like an en-suite bathroom, mosquito nets, and standing fans to keep you cool.

Enjoy a soothing sip of your favourite tea or Nespresso coffee from your making station, and take a moment to relax with a fan or hair dryer whenever you need a little refreshment.

There's plenty of storage with a wardrobe, and your own private veranda with seating invites you to unwind.

For your safety, a safe is available, and in the winter, cosy electric blankets keep you warm.

Advantages

Enjoy easy access from Bulawayo, with a location close to the stunning Matobo Hills National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You'll have the chance to see diverse wildlife, including rhinos, and enjoy fully inclusive stays.

This charming, privately owned, family-run place also offers a variety of wildlife and cultural activities to enrich your experience.

Dining

• Enjoy a delicious 3-course dinner.

• Choose from a delightful Continental or Full English Breakfast.

• Lunches are usually served poolside, near the beautiful sunset lounge and spa.

• For a special experience, private or romantic dining can be arranged with the camp managers.

Facilities and Services

Enjoy a cosy thatched main area featuring a welcoming dining space and comfy lounge, ideal for relaxing and catching up with loved ones.

Explore the library for some great reads, or unwind at one of the two bar areas.

Take a dip in the stunning infinity rock pool to cool off.

Convenient laundry service is available, and the borehole water ensures a reliable supply.

For exciting adventures, you can trek to Rhodes' Grave and World's View, indulge in beautiful sunset hikes up the dwalas, walk to historic caves and see Bushman paintings, go on game drives, enjoy bicycle rides, or request thrilling rhino walks. There's something for everyone to enjoy!

Children

Children are warmly welcomed at Amalinda Lodge, and family rooms are available to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable.

Directions to Amalinda Lodge

Enjoy a self-drive adventure to Matobo Hills and Amalinda Lodge!

You can choose to fly into Bulawayo Airport from Harare, Victoria Falls, or Johannesburg, and then relax with a scenic 60 km road transfer to Amalinda Lodge.

Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport

Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport to: Bulawayo 19.6 km, Amalinda Lodge 65.2 km

The route from Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport (BUQ) to Bulawayo city centre is typically well-maintained. highway

Transfers Available: Yes, at an additional cost.

All the information will be forwarded to the Travel Agency to confirm availability for the dates and to verify the price.

The Travel Agency will contact you directly.

Children aged 1 to 17. Knowing your children's ages helps us find the perfect place for your group at the right price.

When organising your trip, consider your accommodation and activities.

For additional information, feel free to contact us or send a message. This is a great place to share any important or extra details.

For instance, you might want to ask about transfer costs when booking your stay.

We're here to help!

We recommend planning ahead to fully enjoy all the amazing experiences they provide.

Rate Inclusions

Includes: Accommodation, Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

We recommend planning ahead to fully enjoy all the amazing experiences they provide.

Rate Exclusions

Please note that the following are not included in your Accommodation rate:

Activities, International and Internal Flights, and the National Park fees.

We recommend planning ahead to fully enjoy all the amazing experiences they provide.

ON-SITE FACILITIES

• Bar / Fridge

• Captain’s Style Dining

• Child Friendly

• Laundry Service

• Mobile Fan

• Pool Bar

• Private Dining

• SPA

• Swimming Pool

• Wall Socket Round

• Wall Socket Universal

• WIFI

ROOM FEATURES

• Bathtub

• Electric Blankets

• Family Rooms

• Hair Dryers

• In-Room Coffee /Tea

• In-room mosquito netting.

• In-Room Safe

• Outdoor bathtub

• Outdoor Shower

• Shower Amenities

There is no airstrip on-site.

Payment Methods

The travel agency does not charge a booking fee.

There’s no booking fee.

Their prices match those of hotels and operators, and can sometimes be cheaper.

The more you book, the bigger the discount.

It's best to organise all bookings together rather than separately.

They offer several payment options, including electronic bank transfers and credit cards.

They'll review these with you so you can choose what works best. Payments are simple from almost anywhere in the world.

Let them know your country and currency, and if you prefer a credit card or a bank transfer. They’ll help you choose the easiest method.

The price for your trip is listed in US dollars. If you're paying with a different currency, no worries—they'll convert it for you at the current exchange rate on that day.

A 2.5% fee applies for credit card payments.

Thank you for understanding!

All bank charges are your responsibility.

If unpaid, they will appear as an outstanding balance.

They can help with any questions.

Currency Accepted

Trip prices are in US dollars.

If you pay with another currency, they'll convert it using the day's exchange rate.

Deposit Required

A 30% deposit secures your reservation.

Around 60 days before arrival, a 50% deposit is required.

Full payment is due 30 days before arrival.

They make the process easy for you.

Cancellation Policy

Some places require a 20% non-refundable deposit upon booking. Please check for details.

If you cancel 30–60 days before arrival, a 50% cancellation fee may apply, set by the property.

Cancelling 15–29 days before arrival incurs a 75–100% room charge.*

If you cancel 0–14 days before arrival, you lose 100% of the room’s value.*

Cancelling more than 60 days in advance incurs a 10% handling fee. This covers their time and refund processing.

Policies may vary by hotel, season, or room demand.

They have strong hotel relationships due to many clients.

While official policies apply, they try to get refunds for clients, but cannot guarantee it.