Article |Rudo Nhamoinesu Images | Africa Albida Hospitality Group & Rudo Nhamoinesu
The African bush provides an escape from the realities of our fast-paced lives, allowing us to retreat into a calmer, quieter, and more natural setting, soaking in the beauty and richness it has to offer. Going on safari is a dream trip for many people, and we understand why: from the magnificent sunrises to the jaw-dropping animal encounters, there is beauty at every turn. Every day, you embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through your game drives and game walks, surrounded by breathtaking scenery and animals. Safaris in the present day have evolved to include wellness activities that nourish your mind, body, and spirit in a wilderness setting that ensures whole-body detoxification. The Africa Albida Tourism hospitality group, with its latest product Victoria Falls Safari Spa, have prioritised holistic experiences and perfectly combined safari and wellness. Surrounded by indigenous trees on the group’s Victoria Falls Safari Lodge estate, this purpose-built spa in Victoria Falls allows you to go on a much-needed safari vacation and enjoy the luxurious treatments on offer. Nature has a de-stressing effect, for us, being surrounded by indigenous woods, dressed in afro chic robes, and sipping water that felt as if it had just come from a mystical spring melted our problems away. Following a quick consultation and treatment selection with the head therapist in the main area, we were whisked away by our various “wellness angels” or, as many would name them, therapists. The spa has three luxurious stand-alone treatment rooms (one double and two singles), linked by meandering walkways. The walk to the treatment room I found very soothing, the bird calls to the various animal sounds in the distance gave “spa” a new meaning. My treatment room was named “Zinzile”, which means “calm or content” in Ndebele. It was a suitable name for this room, which oozed peace from the neutral-toned African-inspired décor and the beautiful view that makes you feel like you’re far up in the trees. The spa is heavily influenced by the ethnic Ndebele culture; all treatment rooms have Ndebele names that speak to wellness and relaxation, and bright Ndebele prints and artifacts can be seen throughout the main area. The design exudes elegance and sophistication, and the spa “tells the African story, communicating our Africaness through the décor, treatments, and products used,” according to Victoria Falls Safari Lodge estate General Manager Anald Musonza. You are spoiled for choice with ten treatment options!
Being an urbanite, my pick was obvious: “the stress release,” a 30-minute back, neck, and shoulder massage—I had high hopes for this one! Doris, my therapist, had the most pleasant smile and demeanour, and with many years of experience and expertise in the safari wellness industry, I knew I was in good hands! The session began with a welcoming ritual, which for me was a foot massage- this allows you to relax and gives you a sense of comfort with your therapist. Spa treatments are very personal experiences and this helps you connect with the therapist. I was ready to let it all go and float away after that. I had requested firm pressure on my consultation form, I needed to get all the knots out somehow! Doris worked her magical hands on me while I lay there, releasing tension from the deepest depths of my muscles and connective fibres. She would periodically check to see if the pressure was okay or if I needed it reduced, and at each point during my 30 minutes of treatment, I felt well taken care of and in a deep stress-free state, allowing me to drift off into deep sleep, only to be woken up by the sound of the gong, signalling the end of our session. This was a massage experience like no other, allowing me the ability to relax in a bush setting. The spa’s products are authentic to Africa, with each conveying a narrative. Because of the spa’s collaboration with Africology and Cashmere & Co., with each treatment, you will share your love for organically grown products. Each one elevates the mind and body in a pleasant therapeutic way, and one of the benefits of these spa treatments is that you may choose your favoured scent. After your treatment, you are invited to continue your indulgent escape by the infinity pool, nibbling on nutritious treats or sipping on delicious smoothies from the health bar, or promote self-healing by utilizing the reflexology pool, which stimulates your reflex zones. The spa also has a hair and makeup studio. This is a one-stop shop for destination brides! A spa itinerary is essential for your next safari and visit to Victoria Falls. Victoria Falls Safari Spa provides a unique, intimate setting to restore balance and unwind.