Sian Simba River Lodge is a newly completed lodge that is situated 32kms inside the Victoria Falls National Park, on the banks of the Zambezi River, on a private concession. Apparently the lodge was originally a National Parks fishing site before it was renovated, an interesting bit of history for the lodge. The new owners kept the name Sian Simba, as they believe it is a great name, having originated from the Shona phrase – meaning “respect for a strong person.”
To get to the lodge you are transferred via road, using either the main entrance to the park or the entrance off the Kazungula road. The transfer is in a game drive vehicle, ensuring guests start their trip on safari with the excitement of possibly seeing a variety of wildlife before arriving at the lodge. The trip takes roughly an hour – game viewing dependant.
The lodge is comprised of 12 double or twin tented suites, with tents 6 & 7 being a combined family suite. Rooms 1-5 overlook the Zambezi River, while rooms 6-12 overlook the pan – which during the dry season has a huge variety of animals coming down to drink. All the rooms are en-suite with a gas shower, toilet and basin with complimentary toiletries. The rooms all have a private deck with seating outside overlooking a birdbath, as well as a small lounge area inside for those wishing to enjoy the bush from the comfort of their room. Each room has a safe, coat stand, dressing table, wardrobe, free-standing fans, emergency air horns and radios. The double/twin beds have mosquito nets to ensure a good night’s sleep. Morning tea and coffee are provided upon request.
Sian Simba’s restaurant is open to the public, with meals served in the dining room and part of the large entertainment area overlooking the Zambezi River. As well as the dining room, this sizeable entertainment area has a bar, a comfortable seating area with a jet-master fireplace for cool days and an interesting lofted deck area which is the perfect place to enjoy a quiet time of reflection or early morning coffee.
The lodge has a lovely swimming pool at the front of the premises, which has a gorgeous view of the Zambezi River flowing downstream. Adjacent to this is what is called the “Kraal” which is the Boma area with a fire-pit, where guests are served snacks and drinks when they return from their late afternoon activity. Sian Simba has many activities on offer; from game drives or walks to fishing and boating for those who enjoy the river, or alternatively bush lunches or teas for anyone wanting an activity that is a little more relaxing.
Sian Simba is solar powered, with a backup generator that is used when needed. The lodge is not fenced, allowing wildlife to walk freely through camp and for this reason guests are escorted to their tents by a guide before sunrise or after sunset. There is Wi-Fi available at an additional cost in the main area but not in the rooms. Only roaming or Zambian cell phone signal is available in this remote area of the park. Water is provided by borehole and is safe to drink.
A little known feature of Sian Simba is the Camp Site, which, as previously mentioned, was the site of the original fishing camp. It is located near Room 1 and has a magnificent view of the Zambezi River. The Camp Site can take up to 24 people but is also ideal for smaller family groups. It is hired out on an exclusive basis, meaning only 1 group or family will be booked in at any one time – ensuring privacy for that group. The facilities available are a Braai (BBQ) area (with wood provided), an ablution block with flush toilet, shower with hot and cold water, a lockable storeroom and entertainment area with a picnic bench under shelter. Guests who book the camp site are able to use the main lodge’s facilities too, mainly the pool, bar and restaurant.
Sian Simba River Lodge is an ideal location for those wanting to experience the Zambezi River and the surrounding wildlife and birding in a comfortable tented camp. The chef and his team ensure your meals are top notch and creatively prepared, while the guides are extremely knowledgeable. All the staff at Sian Simba are well trained, enthusiastic and friendly. What more could you ask for on a trip away; beautiful location, charming lodge and wonderful staff.
Contact Us
Package Deals
For package deals that include accommodation, as well as other lodges, activities and annual event participation in and around Zimbabwe.
