Taita Falcon Lodge

Taita Falcon Lodge

60012 Batoka Gorge Mukuni, Livingstone 10101 Zambia
Traveller (189)
Dining (42)
Room & Suite (32)

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About

#8 of 43 lodges in Livingstone
4.7 of 5 bubbles
Location
4.5 of 5 bubbles
Rooms
4.3 of 5 bubbles
Value
4.6 of 5 bubbles
Cleanliness
4.7 of 5 bubbles
Service
4.5 of 5 bubbles
Sleep Quality
Nestled above the Zambezi River, overlooking its winding waters and the dramatic cliffs of the Batoka Gorge lies Taita Falcon Lodge. This wilderness retreat is located in the heart of Zambia, downriver from the mighty Victoria Falls. This secluded lodge has a total of 7 en-suite chalets all of which are designed and built using local materials, with stones from the gorge and reeds from the river. Each chalet is named after a bird of prey that can be seen soaring the skies. Décor is simple, yet stylish, with hints of handmade crafts and natural features, keeping in tune with its wilderness surrounds. The lodge itself was designed to showcase the dramatic views that surround it. With its vast viewing platform, open-air bar and lounge perched over the sheer cliffs, it’s the perfect place to sit and take in Zambia’s scenic vistas. Winding stone lined pathways lead the way through the grounds from the main lodge, bar, pool and boma area around to the secluded chalets. There are various walks to explore the gorge and the indigenous forests, where ancient mopanis, white seringas, marulas, leadwoods and African star chestnuts dot the diverse landscape. Beyond the lodge there are a vast array of activities to suit everyone, from thrill seekers to wildlife lovers. Experience the falls in all its wonder on foot, on the water and even from the air, there are more ways than one to discover this part of wild Zambia.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Public wifi
Pool
Free breakfast
Hiking
Canoeing offsite
Highchairs available
Airport transportation
Free wifi in the business centre
Pool / beach towels
Outdoor pool
Bar / lounge
Restaurant
Complimentary Instant Coffee
Complimentary tea
Complimentary welcome drink
Special diet menus
Wine / champagne
Fishing
Walking tours
BBQ facilities
Baggage storage
Mosquito net
Outdoor fireplace
Outdoor furniture
Sun loungers / beach chairs
Sun terrace
Sun umbrellas
Laundry service
Room features
Bathrobes
Housekeeping
Private balcony
Safe
Seating area
Wardrobe / wardrobe
Walk-in shower
Complimentary toiletries
Bottled water
Private bathrooms
Wake-up service / alarm clock
Room types
Landmark view
Non-smoking rooms
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
3.0 of 5 stars
HOTEL STYLE
Hidden Gem
Quaint
Languages Spoken
English, Afrikaans, Dutch
Traveller rating
  • 103
  • 39
  • 6
  • 3
  • 1
Time of year
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Detailed Reviews
WCAnth wrote a review Sept 2024
Johannesburg, South Africa
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Little gem hidden away in Livingston. It's located below the Vic Falls overlooking the entire gorge. Having been several times to both Vic Falls and Livingston one could appreciate the tranquility of the lodge and not having the constant hum of helicopters. We loved being in the bush, suspended with only the sound of the water from the falls. Only 14 people can sleep there so a very quiet retreat without the mass of tourists you get in town and at big hotels. Most of the excursions are on the Livingston side and Donna who runs the lodge is more than happy to book for you.
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Date of stay: August 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: Drive is 40min so not really ideal if you hire a car. The lodge will happily arrange transfers
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Joe M wrote a review May 2024
Oakville, Canada
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
The renovated Taita Falcon Lodge is simply stunning!. We spent 3 wonderful days at the lodge in early May. The facilities, views, food and staff were beyond excellent. We are already looking forward to go back and to recommend this lodge to family and friends.
The location is very safe but transportation is a must to reach the falls and other local attractions. Given that we were not driving, the lodge staff made all arrangements for our transportation and assisted us in the selection desirable attractions. Again, if you considering this lodge, do not hesitate as you will not be disappointed.
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Date of stay: May 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Stuart K wrote a review Oct 2020
Ndola, Zambia
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We drove down from the Copperbelt to get away from it all. We certainly were not disappointed with what we found at this lodge.

We were looking for natural tranquility and away from the usual high gloss lodge.

The whole place is built from natural bush materials whilst having an amazing warmth and luxury feel to it. Drinks were cold and food excellent. Bar prices reasonable especially being out in the bush.

We booked three nights but unfortunately due a family member being admitted to hospital back in Australia, we cut short to two nights due to the fact that extremely limited connectivity was available to get updates from Aus.

We really enjoyed our time there and the owners have even offered another night if we ever in Livingstone to cover for the night we lost due to leaving early.

I might add that although this place is very Rustic to say the least, it far outdid the Royal Livingstone in character, ambiance and service not to mention value for money. Our last night obviously spent at the Royal

Thanks crew, lovely place, very earthy and sparkles without the glitz
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Date of stay: September 2020
4.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Room Tip: As close to the river canyon edge in the hot months, very hot and need a breeze
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Anmarie Fourie, Owner at Taita Falcon Lodge
Responded 09 Oct 2020
Thank you for your review Stuart. It is much appreciated and we are very glad you enjoyed your stay with us. We are looking forward to receiving you at the Lodge again in future!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
The Overlander zm wrote a review Aug 2020
Livingstone, Zambia
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Taita Falcon lodge is right at the edge of the Batoka gorge.

It is 17km from town.

Panoramic views of the gorge.

A bird sanctuary...wake up melodies from the birds gives it a unique atmosphere.

As you sleep to the sounds of zambezi water crushing down below the rapids.

A hike down the gorge is a must do activity for the physically fit persons.

The restaurant has a very good selection from fish to steak filets.

Nothing beats the Breakfast with a view.

The customer care service by is excellent.

A pool for a hot day and ice cold beer.

#theoverlanderzm
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Date of stay: June 2020Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Anmarie Fourie, Owner at Taita Falcon Lodge
Responded 24 Aug 2020
Thank you for your very nice feedback. We are so glad you enjoyed your stay with us. Please come again!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Synnøve S wrote a review Oct 2024
Oslo, Norway
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We just went for lunch. What a beautiful place to relax and enjoy the dramatic view!! I would love to come back and stay here!! Nice staff, good food! It is best for all if the meal is booked in advance, like the day before. I didn't want to leave this place 😊
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Date of stay: October 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
4.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled with friends
Room Tip: If going for food only, book the day before.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
kunda k wrote a review Apr 2022
Zambia
5.0 of 5 bubbles
If you are looking for a couples get away weekend from the busy life then taita falcon is definitely the place to be.i had a great experience with family. The walk down the gorge was exhilarating and being surrounded by nature on Easter weekend was truly meaningful to me.. The staff was great, food was excellent and the chalets quite interesting. Lol..
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Date of stay: April 2022Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Anmarie Fourie, Owner at Taita Falcon Lodge
Responded 19 Apr 2022
We are very glad you enjoyed your stay with us. Thank you for your review!
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Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
KristyinVA wrote a review Oct 2014
Manassas, Va
2.0 of 5 bubbles
This lodge was one of our destinations on a two week adventure trip through Zambia, Zimbabwe and Botswana.

Upon arrival we were greeted by the friendly staff and shown around the main gathering area/bar.

They have ample seating options, all of which overlook the Mighty Zambezi. After rafting the river for the past three days it was great to see it from this perspective.

Dinner and drinks on the deck were a nice touch to the evening.

The setting is very isolated and felt secure. I was glad that I took the time to read through the sheet left in the room so we knew where to store our valuables as this was never directly addressed by the owners at the time of our arrival.

In the middle of the night our friend alerted us that she had been robbed in her room by 4 men. The men came in through her sliding door which she was not given a key for and even when a key was presented later it did not lock. Given that she was not given a key she also did not know that there was a place to store her valuables. My husband could not get our door to lock either but after we were were aware of the robbery I fiddled with the lock and door in order to finally get it to lock.

The robbers were presumably looking only for cash or goods but when my friend struggled with one of the men over her 50 lb suitcase another man hit her repeatedly with what she thought was a large stick.

Our trip guide was able to chase down one of the men and recover one of the bags that they took and luckily another bag that they stole was not closed properly so all of the contents fell out as they ran off. Through a continued search, by our guide, my friend was able to recover her passport and most of her cash.

While the robbers managed to steal valuables that were in another bag, in the end we were all relieved that no one suffered any major physical harm.

This event really shook our entire group and it made me realize how vulnerable we were at that particular location.

The owner told my friend that a few weeks prior they had been robbed but all that they stole were linens from an empty lodge. It turns out that was the lodge my husband and I were in which was at the far end of the property.

I refuse to let this one experience ruin my overall impression of our trip. I can only hope that going forward the owners clearly cover safety procedures at the time of the introduction. Also on looking back at the other camps and lodges we stayed at during our trip this was the only one that did not offer either a whistle or a fog horn in the room/tent. While I thought that was to scare off any animals I know realize it was also likely to scare off any robbers.
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Date of stay: October 2014
3.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
3.0 of 5 bubblesService
1.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from TaitaFalconLodge, Owner at Taita Falcon Lodge
Responded 27 Oct 2014
The owners of Taita Falcon Lodge , once again, would like to express our deep regret about the incident and promise that we are doing everything in our power that it does not happen again.We have not had a theft in 12 years and might not have been as ready as we should have been. We have appointed more security guards as well as added security chains on the doors. It was an unfortunate incident and we are not sure how they managed to get through without our security detecting them. We once more apologize to the lady involved as well as all the other guests that might have been traumatized by the incident.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
rcamblin wrote a review Jun 2018
San Francisco, California
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Spectacular off the beaten path location with spectacular views! Warm welcoming staff and owners! Wonderful meals! The long, rough, 11KM drive to the lodge is worth it...and there's cold beer waiting for you! We will come again!
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Date of stay: April 2018
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: They only have 7 chalets...all pretty much the same.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from TaitaFalconLodge, Owner at Taita Falcon Lodge
Responded 20 Jun 2018
Thank you for your feedback. We appreciate it! And we hope to see you again soon!
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Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Ramack wrote a review Jun 2017
Johannesburg, South Africa
2.0 of 5 bubbles
Having read other reviews of this property, we arrived with high expectations. We were sadly disappointed. Apart from its breathtaking location on the edge of the Batoka gorge with stunning views of the Zambezi flowing 1200m below, this lodge has very little left to offer. The lodge is reached by a 45 minute drive along very rough dirt roads (at $27 per person) – this makes getting to and from, arduous and inconvenient, although there was always a driver on standby and the staff were very willing to assist. In its heyday, it must have been beautiful, but one gets the feeling that absolutely no maintenance or deep cleaning of any description has taken place in the last decade. From the cobweb laced lamps, to the cracked concrete floors and the cushions worn thin by use, this was all a little too rustic for us! The chalets are unusual in their construction – made of wooden poles (droppers) with thatched roofs, they have an opening of about 40cm all the way around. meaning that there is a constant breeze blowing through the room. In winter, this would be unbearable. This property needs a major upgrade to make it remotely comparable with even the most basic lodges in Southern Africa. Hendrik, our resident host, tried his best but even his sincerest efforts made it difficult to ignore the lack of staff training (our drinks were served in their bottles, without glasses); the mediocre food (with microwaved puddings reminiscent of boarding school) and the shabby accommodation. If you must go, go for the view which is quite magnificent and takes your breath away - besides the locations, this lodge it has nothing else to recommend it.
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Date of stay: May 2017
2.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
2.0 of 5 bubblesService
2.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from anmariefourie, Owner at Taita Falcon Lodge
Responded 04 Jun 2017
We are sorry that you did not enjoy your stay with us. We will take into consideration all your comments you made and give attention to all your negative critique.Just one comment from me -our Lodge is a three star Lodge and it seems to me you are a five star client. Maybe in future, if you ever come to the Victoria Falls again, you should rather book one of the five star lodges.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
wrmomxg wrote a review Oct 2014
Florida
2.0 of 5 bubbles
Okay, this is the third attempt to rate and report on this lodge. The first one was not ever posted as tripadvisor felt it did not meet their guidelines. The second was actually posted and then pulled down after the owners gave a casual response and then I was informed by tripadvisor that I once again did not meet the guidelines. So, with that in mind let me say we stayed one night. The lodge is located in a very advantageous location and has nice open public spaces to lounge about during the afternoon. The food; dinner and breakfast were very good. I would suggest you view the pictures of the "chalet's". They are clean and provide for all that you need. Okay; here is where we go off the rails. On the only night we were there a fellow traveler (female) at around midnite, who had a chalet on the periphery of the grounds, gave out a shriek as 3-4 men broke into her lodge and were attempting to steal anything they could get their hands on and make a break for it. Certainly, there is a lot more to the story as we personally know the female and also viewed the police report. Suffice it to say, should you choose to stay at this lodge my suggestion is to drill down with the owners regarding their security process and sleep with one eye open. Also, make sure your key locks your door (our's did not) and use the coffin they have inside to chalet to store your valuables, suitcase and maybe consider sleeping inside it.
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Date of stay: October 2014
3.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
3.0 of 5 bubblesService
1.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: Get a "chalet" close to the bar .
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
…
afrikaril asked a question Nov 2014
Arusha, Tanzania77 contributions7 helpful votes
Do the chalets have air conditioning? Is it needed in March?
Answer from SafariCamps
Port Elizabeth, South Africa159 contributions
There is no Aircon, but the chalets are open and does have a lot of ventilation and a fan to circulate air. This should be fine to visit in March.
watchenry asked a question Jul 2014
Lusaka, Zambia17 contributions7 helpful votes
How much per night in Zambian Kwacha
Answer from Taita Falcon Lodge
2 contributions
Dear client We use the exchange rate of the day when quoting. You can check the currency convertor to have an idea of how much it is in Zambian kwacha depending on the package you want to be booked under. Thanks and let us know if you still need clarification somewhere.
Answer from Taita Falcon Lodge
2 contributions
Hi Ben, Thank you for your review. I will decline it for you, problem is, I am not sure how to decline the review.If they send me the option to decline it I will do that.
Answer from anmariefourie
Livingstone, Zambia1 contribution
You can email Taita Falcon Lodge to make bookings for the Peregrine's Nest Bush Camp.
Synnøve S wrote a tip Oct 2024
Oslo, Norway12 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"If going for food only, book the day before."
Read full review
WCAnth wrote a tip Sept 2024
Johannesburg, South Africa34 contributions8 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Drive is 40min so not really ideal if you hire a car. The lodge will happily arrange transfers"
Read full review
Stuart K wrote a tip Oct 2020
Ndola, Zambia6 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"As close to the river canyon edge in the hot months, very hot and need a breeze"
Read full review
eaterofallthingsgood wrote a tip Sept 2018
Maypearl, Texas803 contributions131 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"no air conditioning"
Read full review
rcamblin wrote a tip Jun 2018
San Francisco, California2 contributions6 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"They only have 7 chalets...all pretty much the same."
Read full review
Not the right property for you?
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LOCATION
ZambiaSouthern ProvinceLivingstone
NUMBER OF ROOMS
7
Prices are provided by our partners, and reflect average nightly room rates, including taxes and fees that are fixed, known to our partners, and due at time of booking. Please see our partners for more details.
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TAITA FALCON LODGE - UPDATED 2024 Reviews (Livingstone, Zambia)

Frequently Asked Questions about Taita Falcon Lodge
Which popular attractions are close to Taita Falcon Lodge?
Nearby attractions include Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park (7.9 km) and Gorge Swing (7.0 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Taita Falcon Lodge?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free breakfast, a pool, and an on-site restaurant.
Which room amenities are available at Taita Falcon Lodge?
Top room amenities include a view of a nearby landmark, a mosquito net, and a seating area.
What food & drink options are available at Taita Falcon Lodge?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge during their stay.
Is parking available at Taita Falcon Lodge?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Taita Falcon Lodge?
Yes, guests have access to a pool during their stay.
Does Taita Falcon Lodge have airport transportation?
Yes, Taita Falcon Lodge offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Taita Falcon Lodge?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English, Dutch, and Afrikaans.
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