Tongole Wilderness Retreat
Unrivalled luxury in the heart of the wilderness
The central relaxation areas feature several secluded and elevated areas where guests find privacy and enjoy drinks with stunning river views and sunsets over the mountains. They can relax by the shaded pool deck on comfy loungers, share experiences and make new friends around the fire core, under the African star-studded canopy.
Tongole is accessible by air from April – November in the dry season. The airstrip, managed by African Parks is located just 3km from the lodge. Flying time from Lilongwe is approx. 30 min and charters are bookable direct with Ulendo Safaris.
Road transfers from Lilongwe takes up to three and a half hours to Tongole and about five hours using the shore road from Blantyre. Transfers can be assisted with at the time of making a reservation and are bookable via Land & Lake Safaris.
Rooms at Tongole
The Riverside Suites – four spacious riverside suites comfortably accommodate two adults. Two of these suites have super-king double beds and the other two, twin beds which can be joined.
All are en-suite with twin marble basins, a large, hand-built shower and a feature sunken bathtub, both of which are big enough for two! Wraparound wooden decking offers stunning views over the river and forest, the perfect spot to enjoy private moments in nature.
The Family Cottage – is handcrafted by locals artisans, from the same distinctive red earth and rock upon which Tongole stands. In addition to a second bedroom, the cottage provides extra communal space, ideal for a family or two couples travelling together.
Dining in Tongole
Breakfast
Listen to the dawn bird chorus and enjoy a choice of:
- Continental Breakfast (cereals, yoghurts, fresh fruits, toast, muffins, etc)
- Cooked Breakfast (Full English breakfast, French toast and crisp bacon, etc)
Lunch
Return to the lodge to refuel. An example of our seasonal menu:
- Delicious home-made chicken pie, served with a fresh garden salad
- Home-made 100% pure beef burger grilled to your liking and served with a selection of potatoes and garden salad
- Tender prime beef, stir-fry noodles
- Seasonal risotto plus parmesan
Afternoon tea
Relax in the shade with a choice of sweet and savoury treats
Enjoy an afternoon tea spread whilst watching the elephants crossing the Bua River
Bar & mixology
Fully stocked bar, offering both local and premium drinks. Cocktails made to order.
Dinner
A legendary, four-course dining experience. Examples of the dinner menu include:
- Starter: Light, crispy cheese & onion spring rolls with a tangy paprika dipping sauce
- Salad: Fresh Greek salad with a delicate, herb dressing
- Main: Tender fillet of prime beef, served with mushroom sauce and a side of Lyonnaise potatoes
- Dessert: Decadent black cherry pie with freshly made ice cream
Vegetarian dishes are available and all dietary demands can be catered for with prior notice. A specially tailored menu can be requested in advance.
