At a Glance
- Viceroy expands into Africa with three new luxury safari lodges.
- Partnership with African Bush Camps strengthens premium safari offerings in Zambia and Botswana.
- New lodges target rising global demand for high-end, nature-focused travel.
Viceroy Hotels, a luxury lifestyle hotel brand is expanding into one of Africa’s most competitive travel markets with the launch of three luxury safari lodges in Zambia and Botswana.
The move deepens the brand’s presence outside major urban centers and brings it into regions where demand for high-end nature travel continues to grow among international visitors.
The new lodges, Thorntree River Lodge in Zambia’s Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, Lolebezi in Zambia’s Lower Zambezi National Park, and Atzaró Okavango Camp in Botswana’s Okavango Delta will be operated in partnership with African Bush Camps, a respected company known for its long-standing work in premium safari hospitality.
Luxury escapes along the Zambezi
Thorntree River Lodge, set along the banks of the Zambezi River, gives travelers immediate access to Victoria Falls, one of the region’s most visited landmarks.
Guests can join guided walks to observe rhinos, take sunrise and sunset river cruises, or explore the falls with park specialists who understand the area’s history and wildlife patterns.
The lodge offers private plunge pools, a spa, a swimming pool, and a small library designed as a quiet retreat after outdoor excursions. Staff members emphasize relaxed service, creating an atmosphere that balances adventure with comfort.
Lolebezi, located further east in the Lower Zambezi National Park, sits on a protected stretch of riverfront surrounded by wildlife corridors. It is built for travelers who want privacy without giving up the amenities expected at an international luxury property.
Activities include walking safaris, canoe outings, boat trips, and close-up wildlife viewing that often features elephants, leopards, and unique bird species.
The suites are air-conditioned and include private plunge pools, a yoga deck, and an open-air cinema. The setting attracts couples, families, and guests who want deeper engagement with the natural environment while keeping the comforts of a modern lodge.
Wellness meets wildlife in the Okavango Delta
In Botswana, Atzaró Okavango Camp sits in the heart of the UNESCO-listed Okavango Delta, one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world.
Travelers can explore the area through mokoro rides, walking safaris, and both daytime and nighttime game drives. The camp includes private plunge pools, elevated viewing decks, a spa, a yoga space, and a shared swimming pool.
These features place the camp among the stronger contenders in Botswana’s high-end safari circuit, where guests expect quiet luxury and access to wildlife throughout the year.
“Expanding into Africa is a defining milestone for our brand,” said Arash Azarbarzin, CEO of Viceroy Hotels & Residences. “Each lodge reflects the character of its surroundings, its people, its culture, and its landscapes. We want guests to leave with experiences that stay with them long after they return home.”
Viceroy broadens its global reach
Viceroy Hotels has long focused on design-led spaces, attentive service, and experiences grounded in local culture.
With the addition of its African properties, the brand now enters a region where luxury safari travel and eco-focused tourism continue to draw high-spending visitors.
The lodges position Viceroy among global hospitality companies seeking growth in Africa’s expanding travel market, where interest in premium, nature-based experiences shows no sign of slowing.
