AMANI ON SAFARI: OUR ADVENTURE TO TIGER BAY LODGE, KARIBA
Sundowner set ups
Amani Safaris’ team members Tyla and Mana recently had the privilege of travelling on a Famil trip to see the refurbishments happening at Tiger Bay Lodge which is beautifully nestled along the glistening shores of Lake Kariba on their own private concession.
The journey began in pure comfort, with a private flight from Charles Prince Airport that landed us at Kipling’s Airstrip where we were greeted by our enthusiastic guide, Madison, and only a short 15-minute drive to the lodge. From the moment we arrived, the sense of calm and excitement was undeniable. In the past Tiger Bay had been a firm favourite amongst locals and visitors alike so we were looking forward to seeing all the goings-on in camp.
We were warmly greeted by the charismatic camp manager, Raphael, who welcomed us with refreshing drinks before taking us on a tour of the property. The refurbishments under-way are impressive - seamlessly blending modern touches with a natural, earthy elegance that compliments the wild beauty of Kariba.
Our rooms were a highlight in themselves, rebuilt using the original foundation blocks and redesigned with thoughtful detail, featuring private plunge pools that looked out across the lake’s endless horizon, a MUST in the hotter months of the year. After settling in, we headed out on a game drive through the lodge’s concession, learning about their exciting conservation and expansion projects that promise an even more immersive safari experience in the near future.
The afternoon unfolded beautifully - a delicious lunch, a quick swim in our room pools to cool down, and then one of our favourite experiences: a sunset cruise on Lake Kariba. The golden light danced across the water as elephants and buffalo wandered the shoreline and hippos surfaced nearby serenading us with their grunting calls. The evening ended with a magical private sundowner setup, complete with lanterns, laughter, and the sounds of Africa surrounding us.
Tiger Bay Room Views
Day Two started early and in earnest with a spot of Tiger Fishing, a Kariba must-do and with which Tiger Bay is so aptly named! Guided by Maddy again, who fussed over us like we were his fond students, Tyla experienced the absolute thrill of catching her first Tiger whilst Mana, not to be outdone, caught a beauty a few minutes later. We enjoyed a few great catches that morning amidst plenty of laughs before returning to the lodge for breakfast and a relaxed morning of unwinding. That evening’s surprise bush dinner under the stars was the perfect finale’ - a dreamy setup in the wilderness, accompanied by good company, great food, and the distant call of lions.
Who says women can’t fish?
Our stay at Tiger Bay Lodge was the perfect blend of adventure, comfort, and inspiration. With its refreshed look, outstanding hospitality and stunning location, it’s clear that Tiger Bay is entering a remarkable new chapter - one we can’t wait to share with our guests soon. Set to reopen in 2026, we look forward to showing you more of this hidden gem. Watch this space!
Sunset scenes - peaceful serenity!
The comfortable Tiger Bay game drive vehicles
