In the heart of the world-famous Matusandona National Park, Fothergill island’s heritage and legacy are the foundation of the new Fothergill Lodge. Fothergill is focused on every detail to ensure that guests enjoy a sensational affair with Africa that exceeds all expectations.
Fothergill has a unique and somewhat romantic story. Named after Rupert Fothergill, who at the time in 1958 was Rhodesia’s chief game ranger, He coordinated the rescue of over six thousand animals from the rising waters after the construction of the Kariba dam wall. This famous rescue effort was called “operation Noah.”
Activities at Fothergill
Due to Fothergill’s one-of-a-kind flexible structure, professional guides are always on standby for any of the activities below. This allows guests the freedom to “be on holiday” and not be governed by a strict itinerary.
Game Drives
Modified open 4×4 vehicles, including comfortable and customizable seating, padded roll bars, interactive ipads, binoculars, and charging points for all equipment, are expertly driven by Professional guides ready to share their knowledge. Located on the shores of Lake Kariba in the Matusanadona National Park, the floodplains offer a unique and open space to view the abundant wildlife. From large herds of elephant grazing on the open floodplains to hidden corners in the many streams flowing into the Zambezi escarpment.
Guided walking safaris
Extremely experienced and knowledgeable guides will safely take you on this up close and personal connection with nature from a ground-level perspective. Showing guests many natural wonders, from birds and fauna to rock formations and flora, while walking in the same tracks as the abundant Matusadona wildlife.
Boating Safaris
Comfortably seated on one of the various custom-designed boats, Guests at Fothergill lodge can explore Lake Kariba’s lake shore and open waters. This way of viewing Game allows guests to cover more ground and take in more of the dramatic landscape on offer. This also allows for safe and one-of-a-kind up-close encounters with the healthy elephant population that frequents the lake shore and flood plains.
Fishing safaris
Many of the fishing destinations across Africa are not able to boast 5-star Food and accommodation. Fothergill is the perfect place to bring your family and stay in absolute luxury while fishing in a famous fishery. Lake Kariba is home to the mighty Tiger fish. Experienced guides will provide you with shots at many different species while exercising different techniques. You could catch and release up to Eight species of fish during your stay, So whether you’re a seasoned angler or just looking to get away, Fothergill has it all.
other activities include:
- swimming
- archery
- board games
- bush walks catered for children 5+
Accommodation at Fothergill
Fothergill Lodge comprises of two separate but linked camps, consisting of 10 luxury canvas on deck suites. The spacious tent suites are unique and very contemporary in their design, offering all the luxury and facilities one could hope for and absolute privacy to guests.
The public areas and walkways offer wifi connectivity with plenty of room for guests to pursue work activities at their leisure. In addition to the island’s accommodations and camp, ad hoc seating and lounging arrangements such as lakeside refreshments and bush cocktails can be made at any time by swift and attentive staff.
Dinning At Fothergill
Each meal is prepared by professional and passionate chefs, catering to all dietary needs. Fothergill lives by the ethos that Food is life and hopes to convey a passion for Food and dining through its fresh prepared meals. In addition, guests may choose from an inclusive and extensive wine list to pair with the perfect meal under the African sky.
Getting to Fothergill island lodge
Guests can fly internationally into Harare, Where a 5-hour road transfer can be arranged to Marineland harbor in Kariba town, followed by a 40-minute boat trip across the lake and into Fothergill private harbor.
Alternatively, we recommend guests opt for the very scenic and short one-hour charter flight to the private Fothergill Airstrip.
Basic daily Itinerary
A typical day at Fothergill lodge:
(Kindly note that times may vary slightly, and winter timings are different and are entirely up to Guests’ taste.
- 05h30 Wake-up call at the room
- 06h00 Light breakfast in the central area
- 06h30 Depart for your morning activity
- 10h30 Return from the morning activity
- 11h00 Brunch
- Afternoon at leisure
- 15h30 Afternoon Tea
- 16h00 Depart on an afternoon activity
- 20h00 Dinner
Image Gallery
Rates at Fothergill Island lodge
LOW SEASON ( 1 NOV- 30 APRIL) -: $ 650,00 P.P.S
(minimum 2 guest sharing)
PEAK SEASON (1 MAY – 31 OCT: $850,00 P.P.S
(2-night minimum stay)
(Minimum 2 guests sharing)
(Children 3-12yrs old will be charged 50% of the personal rate over and above the minimum full-paying adult)
** South African Resident? Please get in touch with us for SADC rates.
Fully inclusive of:
- Luxury accommodation,
- All boat and land-based activities
- All meals and beverages
- In-room minibar
- Wifi and
- Daily laundry.
- All Boat transfers
- 2% Tourism levy
- National park fees
Rates exclude:
- International flights
- Charter flights
- Road transfers
- Gratuities
Extra Info
- Children of all ages welcome
- A fully equipt gym is positioned on a beautiful point looking over the lake.
- The camp is fenced, so guests may walk and even run on a designated path within the camp in complete safety.
- Everyone traveling in Zimbabwe must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond the end of travel.
- No inoculations are legally required for entry into Zimbabwe. However, you may want to consult your GP for their recommendations on health precautions.
