Sable Valley LodgeSituated just outside the Hwange National Park on its own private concession, this lodge is easily accessible from Victoria Falls and is a perfect place from which you can explore the areaIntroductionSable Valley Lodge (former Sable Sands Lodge), is situated on the magical Dete Vlei just outside Hwange National Park Main Camp, is a great safari getaway within a close range of Victoria Falls only 180 km away on the main road to Bulawayo. The Dete vlei (pronounced "flay") is a dried up river with multiple waterholes of which a 7 km stretch belongs to the lodge's concession, which allows them private game viewing in this area. Although it is positioned outside the boundary of Hwange National Park, it is essentially the same area as game wanders freely through this concession and the park, there is no difference. Safaris can be taken into the Park but quite honestly that is not necessary. The lodge now falls under the Amalinda Collection's portfolio, with Ivory Lodge and Khulu Lodge in Hwange, and Amalinda Lodge in Matopos. It was made famous in 1991 when her majesty, Queen Elizabeth II and His Royal Highness Prince Philip chose it for their Safari adventure. Sable Valley has a partnership with the Forestry Commission of Zimbabwe and The Amalinda Safari Collection's Mother Africa Trust anti poaching unit. The lodge is located just within the shady tree line, with the main lodge building, a stunning thatched structure, overlooking the vlei and waterhole where the patient observer is rewarded by large herds of elephant, buffalo, zebra and various antelope species as well as being regularly frequented by lion, cheetah and occasionally leopard, as well as hyena, wild dog and other predators. The region has a wealth of birdlife with over 400 species recorded. The eleven forest chalets, or 'rondavels', generously spaced around the central swimming pool, have been designed with flexibility in mind and have the options of twin, double or family rooms, with en-suite bathrooms and shower and complete with small private terrace areas. Amalinda is a private, family run operation, and includes some of the most professional and knowledgeable guides. Sable Valley Lodge is a splendid place to base your safari activities, relax around camp and enjoy the views of the vlei from the comfort of the main lodge, or enjoy the peace and quiet in a tree slung hammock under the shade of the trees. A tree-house is located within the forest section - great for enjoying the surrounding scenery, and game viewing too. Safari options include professionally guided walking safaris on their private concession and into Hwange National Park. Sable Valley has an underground hide where guests can safely sit and watch the action at the nearby waterhole. If you do not wish to go underground, you can get another perspective from the comfort of the treehouse platform. Game drives are done on their private concession, which extends across the vlei and includes a variety of habitats.
Our OpinionSable Valley is positioned in an area with fantastic game viewing. It no longer falls under the mid-range safari lodge, though. Summary• Positioned on a private concession on the Dete Vlei just outside the Hwange National Park
Accommodation at Sable Valley Lodge• 11 spacious rondavel (round) cottages with thatched roofs and private terraces All rooms have: Dining• Communal dining at the Captain's Table Facilities and Services• Indoor public dining area, lounge and bar area with library and loft How to Get to Sable Valley Lodge• 2 hour drive from Victoria Falls (180km) 3 hour drive from Bulawayo (260km)
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