Luxury Lodges · Livingstone, Zambia
Wilderness Toka Leya
Overview
Highlights
- Tranquil safari camp on the mighty Zambezi River, optimally situated to explore Victoria Falls and the adrenaline-activity hub of Livingstone.
- Explore Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park from boat cruises and game drives; go catch-and-release fishing; take a fascinating back-of-house tour to find out more about our pioneering sustainability initiatives; indulge in a sublime relaxation treatment at the camp's scenic riverside spa.
- A guided on-foot encounter to view white rhinos is an unforgettable experience in Zambia’s smallest national park.
- Spot hippos, crocodiles, elephants and buffalos, and a dazzling array of birds, including specials like the African finfoot and African skimmer.
Destination: Wilderness Toka Leya is an elegant riverside camp that invites total relaxation, and adventure, in equal measure. Overlooking the mighty Zambezi River and some of its islands, it is a serene wildlife sanctuary and a superb base for guests to explore the rich wildlife in and on the water, and on land. It’s also just a short drive from one of the seven Natural Wonders of the World – the Victoria Falls.
At almost 2 kilometres wide, the Victoria Falls is the largest sheet of falling water in the world. The river plunges dramatically more than 100 metres into the Batoka Gorge, raising an iridescent mist that can be seen from as far as 20 kilometres away – hence its local name, Mosi-oa-Tunya – The Smoke that Thunders.
Place: Overlooking the mighty Zambezi River and some of its islands, Wilderness Toka Leya is the ideal combination of relaxation and adventure. Game drives and river cruises can be followed by a therapeutic treatment at our spa; tours of Victoria Falls, a nearby rural village and Livingstone town add cultural and historical diversity. Fishing, a guided white rhino walking experience and plenty of adrenaline-filled activities add excitement to the experience.
Experience: Guests are spoilt for choice at this delightful safari camp. A day could start with an early morning game drive with one of our knowledgeable guides, spotting elephants, buffalo and a dazzling number of birds. Head back to camp for a glorious swim in the infinity pool overlooking the river, relax over a delicious riverside lunch followed by an afternoon siesta or a therapeutic treatment at the spa. Later, embark on an afternoon river cruise scouting for hippos and crocodiles, and a superb array of birdlife.
A back-of-house tour is a must-do – visit the tree nursery and wormery, then plant a tree to contribute to Toka Leya’s impactful reforestation initiative.
Opportunity of viewing white rhino on foot* in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park and catch-and-release fishing* for thrilling tigerfish and other Zambezi specials are also just two more of the in-camp activities on offer.
Day tour to the majestic Victoria Falls, as well as an introduction to Zambian culture through a rural village visit and exploration of Livingstone area. Bungee jumping, white-water rafting, ziplining, and helicopter flights over the Victoria Falls round out these unforgettable Zambezi experiences.
* Please note these activities are at an additional cost.
Purpose: Thanks to our tree-planting project, pioneering energy-saving systems and recycling initiatives, this formerly degraded site has been rehabilitated to become a lush riverine woodland once more. We (guests too) continue to plant trees, including donating saplings to renew other sites in Zambia. We take enormous pride in the community partnerships we have created here.
Wildlife: Wilderness Toka Leya overlooks the mighty Zambezi River, where hippos, crocodiles, and elephants are regularly seen, as well as an impressive diversity of birdlife. As it is centrally located in Mosi-oa-Tunya Park, guests can look forward to spotting iconic African animals such as buffalo, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, and white rhino. The occasional small predator may be seen as well. Several sought-after bird species are found, including African finfoot, half-collared kingfisher, African skimmer (seasonal), Schalow's turaco, and rock pratincole (seasonal).
Wlderness Toka Leya: The camp is the perfect place to start, or end, your African safari. The interior design draws inspiration from the waters, wildlife and tranquillity of the Zambezi, as reflected in the design and furnishings. The colour palette and numerous décor pieces were chosen specifically to embrace Wilderness Toka Leya’s natural and cultural heritage.
Bespoke décor pieces influenced by the natural beauty of the Zambezi can be found throughout the camp, paying homage to the local community. These include Zambian basket light fittings boldly featured in the serene lounge and dining areas. The bar is clad in vibrant fabric featuring a bespoke Zambezi fish design, and is the ideal setting for watching the sun set in a glorious blaze reflected in the river.
Beanbags add a splash of colour and fun on the riverside beach, and offer the ultimate spot to unwind, right on the water’s edge.
Toka Leya’s sparkling infinity pool invites deep relaxation, while the spacious sundeck doubles as a romantic private dining venue. The convivial fire deck for night-time gatherings completes a well-rounded guest experience.
Suites & Rates
Choose how you stay
Family Accommodation
There are three en-suite family rooms which accommodate four people in each.
Standard Twin/Double Tent(s)
Nine spacious, en-suite safari-style tents all have expansive decks for wildlife spotting. Elevated wooden walkways weave between the guest tents and further limit our footprint in this pristine area. This peaceful sanctuary showcases quintessentially...
Details
Good to know
Languages spoken
English
Ideal for
Birding, Flora, Hiking, Nature, Relaxation, Wildlife
Property facilities
Bar, Internet Access (Complimentary), Library, Pool, Spa, Vegetarian
Accommodation & amenities
Air Conditioning, Fan, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mini Bar, Mosquito Nets, Safe, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Services
Credit Card Facilities, Private Vehicle (Available)
On-site activities
Bird Watching, Boating, Catch-and-release Fishing, Game Drives, Massages, Night Drives, Rhino Tracking, Walks (Guided)
Nearby activities
Adrenaline Activities, Canoeing, Cultural Tours, General Sightseeing, Helicopter Scenic Flights, Historical Tours, Quad Biking
Location
Where you'll be
Video
See the stay
We Are Wilderness
Discover Earth’s ultimate, untamed places with Wilderness. Let us take you on an unrivalled journey through a collection of the world’s most iconic wild destinations. Our company exists to make sure the world will always have a version of its iconic wild places that is unfenced, wild, unpredictable. It’s not our reputation as one of the first, or the largest, in the conservation tourism space that makes us Wilderness. It’s our determined push to keep going. To keep protecting, exploring and expanding Earth’s ultimate, untamed places. To then bring guests to discover the beating pulse of each one.
Discover Zambia - Where Endless Adventures Await
From the mighty Victoria Falls to safaris in the remote wilds of the Busanga Plains in Kafue National Park, Zambia offers an off-the-beaten-track safari holiday for those with a pioneering spirit. From Wilderness Toka Leya at Mosi-oa-Tunya, the Smoke That Thunders, to Wilderness Shumba and Busanga Bush Camp in Kafue, a journey through Zambia with Wilderness reveals fascinating and rare wildlife, remote and untouched landscapes, and unforgettable adventure.
Discover Zimbabwe: The ultimate adventure awaits
If the word adventure gets your pulse racing, you’re going to love a Zimbabwe safari. Be awed by the mesmerising Victoria Falls, the most expansive curtain of water in the world. Capture cherished family moments along the vast Zambezi, sighting pods of hippos, fish-eagles and bustling antelope herds. Marvel at a ponderous elephant coming to drink from a waterhole nearby – as a fiery sunset illuminates the horizon.
Activities
What you can do
Wilderness Toka Leya - Unwind in the Wilderness at the Wilderness Toka Leya Spa
The camp's uniquely situated riverside spa allows guests to relax and be pampered with its variety of wellness treatments.
Wilderness Toka Leya – Adventure Activities *
Wilderness Toka Leya is a tranquil safari base from which to easily access and explore the Victoria Falls and the adrenaline-filled adventure hub of Livingstone. The mighty Zambezi’s many experiences include thrilling activities such as white water rafting, bungee jumping, jet boating, and helicopter rides to name a few.* These activities are at extra cost.
Wilderness Toka Leya – Back Of House Tour
An opportunity for guests to gain an understanding of the camp’s eco-friendly initiatives. Energy saving is explained, including how waste water is reused in the camp nursery which was established to rehabilitate the area. The camp’s worm farm not only assists in the degradation of organic waste, it is the perfect fertiliser for the indigenous trees in the nursery – which are then planted in areas where they once grew. Guests have the chance to participate in our rehabilitation efforts as well by planting their very own tree.
Wilderness Toka Leya – Cultural & Historical Tours
Cultural visits to one of the nearby villages are respectful and insightful ways of learning about and interacting with the people and culture in this part of Zambia. The visit includes seeing one of the schools, and a homestead. Guest donations have assisted with projects that focus on schooling and income-generating activities, ensuring that the community benefits from tourism in the area.
Wilderness Toka Leya – Fishing *
The Zambezi River hosts several varieties of bream (Tilapia) which are a good catch. Tiger fishing is an unforgettable challenge for keen fishermen, particularly during the warmer months (October through to December).* Fishing is on a catch and release basis, with a nominal park fee applicable.
Wilderness Toka Leya – Game Drives
Game drives into Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park offer sightings of general game species namely elephant, buffalo, giraffe and white rhino. Rich birdlife, including sought-after species such as half-collared kingfisher and Schalow’s turaco may be spotted as well.
Wilderness Toka Leya – Guided Nature Walks *
Exploring the area on foot is a remarkable way to enjoy the small wonders within close proximity to the camp – the experience enables an understanding about the medicinal properties of plants and trees, the ecology, birds and insects; as well as interpreting the signs of the wild including animal tracks.* Seasonal and subject to the availability of a qualified walking guide.
Wilderness Toka Leya – Livingstone Town Tours
Visit the local museum, and neighbourhood markets, to catch a glimpse of historic and modern Livingstone town.
Wilderness Toka Leya – Rhino Encounter *
This experience at Wilderness Toka Leya is an exhilarating way of getting up close and personal with these endangered animals. Zambian Wildlife Authority (ZAWA) scouts monitor these rhino 24 hours a day and therefore the animals’ whereabouts are always known. Travel to the location by vehicle, and then continue on foot, accompanied by the scout.* Please note that a nominal park fee is applicable.
Wilderness Toka Leya – River Cruise
Whether a relaxing sunset cruise or a game viewing cruise, there are stunning scenic views and exciting wildlife to be enjoyed from the comfort of a spacious boat. There is always an abundance of hippo and crocodile; with the mighty Zambezi revealing other surprising sightings along the way.
Wilderness Toka Leya – Tour Of The Falls *
A World Heritage Site, Victoria Falls straddles the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia and is the most expansive curtain of water in the world. Behold the "Smoke that Thunders", Victoria Falls, is known to locals as "Mosi-oa-Tunya" for valid reasons. View its dramatic roaring waters and a mini rainforest that clings to the Falls’ edge, with a variety of mammals and birds. Plummeting some hundred metres into a basalt gorge, the spectacular spray, seen from kilometres away, is beguiling. * A guided tour on the Zambian side is included in your stay; while the view from the Zimbabwean side is at extra cost.
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