We stayed at Lulu Lodge in order to visit Victoria Falls as part of a longer trip to Africa.
When we arrived at the airport, John was ready and waiting to pick us up and transfer us to the lodge. He was friendly and welcoming. Our room was comfortable and spotlessly clean. We had breakfast each day on the shady stoep outside our room, and all the staff were kind and courteous. We particularly enjoyed a dip in the hotel pool, which is clean and pleasantly shaded in the hottest part of the day.
We deliberately chose an independent hotel rather than a large corporate one. We wanted to see more of the real Zimbabwe rather than being shielded behind am expensive facade. Some elements of our stay revealed a tight budget for the owners: the minibus had seen better days, and had no air-conditioning, and the shower was a bit temperamental, but this was easily offset by the willingness of John and his staff to show us the places and share the experiences we had wanted to see. He took us to the Victoria Falls, showed us the beautiful Lookout Cafe, which we probably would not have found by ourselves, ferried us into town for lunch and shops, and arranged an elephant ride which was an absolute joy! The elephants were free to roam over an extensive area as part of a conservation project, and we were delighted to have a 7 month old baby tag along with. her mother as we rode.
John also took us to a local school where we were able to see students who truly valued their opportunity to have a proper education at a manageable price.
We hope to return to Lulu Lodge within the next two years.
Thank you, John, Tom and Honest.
