Amalinda Lodge

At the heart of the Matopos Hills

Country

Zimbabwe

Regions

Matopos

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À vivre

Amalinda Lodge sits at the heart of the Matopos hills, fully integrated into its surroundings.
Here, spectacular views stretch out on every side, and striking rock formations cast a mystical spell over the landscape.
Less than an hour from Bulawayo, Zimbabwe’s second-largest city, Amalinda sits amid some of the world’s most remarkable rock scenery, nestled between the granite domes and kopjes (small hills topped with imposing boulders) of Matobo Hills, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The region is steeped in history, both ancient and modern, and holds one of the largest concentrations of San rock art in Africa. The park is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, including rhinos, leopards and a population of black eagles, an endangered species.
Amalinda, the finest lodge in the park, offers a sense of absolute quiet alongside the noble presence of wild Africa.

Layout

Set within a former bushman shelter in Matobo National Park, Zimbabwe’s oldest national park, Amalinda Lodge comprises 9 thatched-roof rooms, nestled among huge rock formations with views over the Matobo Hills. As intriguing as they are comfortable, they are worth lingering in.
There is an elegant bar, a charming lounge area surrounded by comfortable cushions adorning rocky benches, several other welcoming sitting areas (with a good selection of African classics), and a dining room with an impressive table made from old railway sleepers. All these spaces are extensively shaded by thatched roofs.
The camp also has a pool overlooking a waterhole where animals come to drink.
There is also a spa for those wanting to be pampered, and a gym for the more energetic.

Rooms

Amalinda Lodge offers 9 thatched-roof rooms, individually decorated and furnished, set among the park’s granite boulders.
They are air-conditioned and feature spacious bathrooms with showers and double basins carved into the rock.
Three “honeymoon” suites, named after local historical figures, boast striking freestanding outdoor bathtubs.
There are also three family suites.
Polished concrete floors are softened throughout by colourful scattered rugs.
Fine leather and teak furniture, together with historical photographs, give the property a distinctive African atmosphere while adding modern comfort. Each room has a private balcony with a sweeping view over a striking landscape.

SPA

Amid this striking granite landscape, the Amalinda Lodge Spa is an irresistible retreat worth experiencing — drifting off on crisp linen as the scents of ancient African aromas swirl beneath a thatch-and-rock canopy.
Indulge in a full body massage, a back and neck massage, a hot stone massage, a manicure or a pedicure.

Activities offered

Activities include walking and 4x4 safaris as well as cultural visits.
While a number of animals can be seen (particularly around the lodge), the focus here is less on wildlife than in most Zimbabwean parks and lodges.
That said, you have good chances of seeing white rhinos on foot.
With luck, you may also come across one of the resident leopards.
A walk around the lodge can bring you close to a variety of animals, including zebra, kudu, wildebeest and hyrax.
Hiking is an excellent way to explore the granite hills, and a visit to Cecil John Rhodes’ grave, known as “View of the World”, is a must.
Explore the granite hills of Matobo, rich in San Bushman rock art.
Abseiling is also available.

Seasons

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Season not possible
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Optimal season

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