Spurwing Island Lodge — Hotel in Mashonaland West Province

We spent just a single night at Spurwing Island Lodge, only because we moved here as we could not secure three consecutive nights at another venue. But we were treated to another exceptional experience, with the camp right on the doorstep of Matusadona National Park and close to the water of Lake Kariba. Arriving at the camp in the early morning, we were lucky enough to spot a huge herd of buffalo right on the edge of the camp, which we were able to check out later that afternoon on a game drive with Blade, which yielded plenty of wildlife, including jackals, crocs and a herd of very large bull elephants. Blade also talked us through the extremely involved process of becoming a qualified safari guide in Zimbabwe – it is a labour of love and shows real dedication. Spurwing is larger than many of the other camps we stayed in and, unlike others, has secure fencing that keeps wildlife out at night – well, except for the impala that got locked in overnight, so had all the fresh green grass outside our lodge to itself! Spurwing is reputed as being popular with avid fishers, and from the people we spoke with that certainly seemed to be the case, with many guests heading out for the whole day of fishing on Lake Kariba. But don’t worry about having to catch your own meals here – you get fed exceptionally well at Spurwing! Eoin &...

Very relaxing and far away from the hussle and bustle. Very natural and peaceful. Accommodation is rustic and lovely. Wake up with views of the lake . . . heaven. Food was good. Not great, but taking into account the isolated location, they do pretty well. DO THE GAME DRIVE! This is a must, especially if you have not got the luxury of having a boat at your disposal. Takes a few hours, but well worth the money. Guide was very knowledgeable. One thing that did annoy me was I think I may have got ripped off in the bar bill! The barmen get you to sign a scrap of paper with the drinks you have had (each time you order) with your tent/chalet no. These are all totted up when you check out. There is no way of knowing if they add a few beers to the bill once you have signed? My son's bill was extremely high as was mine. Probably best to draw a line through the space left on the bar slip so that nothing can be added? Enjoy anyway and don't be alarmed if you wake up with a huge elephant right next to your tent....

Best place ever!! Spurwing is a little slice of heaven in Kariba, we had an amazing stay in April 2025. We were in the family tent which had everything we needed and the views were just incredible. Edward took us fishing and was fantastic, very friendly and patient with the kids. Tarryn was just amazing, brilliant with our children and super knowledgeable. She really involved them in the game drives and showed my daughter how to measure how tall an elephant is by using it's footprint! Tarryn also organised a special dinner surprise for my husband's 40th which was so appreciated. On an early morning game drive she spotted a beautiful male leopard which was the highlight of our trip! We are still thinking about our wonderful holiday to Spurwing and can't wait to go back again (hopefully soon!) Thanks Tarryn...