This week, my discussion was with Malemia Banda, the General Manager at Tongabezi Lodge, part of Green Safaris. It’s clear to see that this locally nurtured Zambian individual harbors immense enthusiasm for Tongabezi Safari Lodge. He has fully embraced the remarkable chance presented to him at Tongabezi safaris and upholds a high standard of service for his visitors.
It appeared in our conversation that he leads by setting a good example concerning directing his team in their responsibilities at Tongabezi Safari Lodge.
RJZ: What motivates international tourists to visit Tongabezi Lodge and Sindabezi Island Camp by Green Safaris near Victoria Falls?
MB: Indeed, international tourists ought to explore Tongabezi Lodge and Sindabezi Island camp because it provides a legitimate, exclusive, and intimate bond with both the environment and our indigenous culture. We are also positioned along the Zambezi River, just before the world-renowned Victoria Falls, a notable natural phenomenon.
Our distinguishing factor is the personalized, luxurious service coupled with genuine Zambian warmth. Experiences range from private river journeys and island outings to evening meals on a floating sun deck.
RJZ: What challenges do you believe you address for individuals coming to Tongabezi Lodge and Sindabezi Island camp?
MB: Typically, the main focus at Tongabezi Lodge and Sindabezi Island camp is the emphasis on details, which is often where challenges arise. Ignoring these can lead to problems. Thus, from our end, right when visitors arrive, we ensure their requirements and desires are recognized.
Every visitor is assigned a personal assistant committed to making their stay enjoyable and smooth. This includes everything from arranging their belongings to planning activities. We invest time in understanding our visitors’ tastes, whether they seek thrilling pursuits like bungee jumping or peaceful moments, such as a private sunset sail.
By fostering a close connection with our visitors, we assure them of feeling cherished, and that their stay aligns with their expectations. Our workforce is trained to be both proficient and friendly, contributing to the sense of home in a luxurious setting like Tongabezi Lodge and Sindabezi Island camp.
RJZ: What is your preferred place to visit personally and why? Where else would you recommend people visit in Zambia?
MB: Zambia holds numerous places to explore splendid National Parks. Referring to your inquiry, “where else should people visit within Zambia or beyond.” I hail from the eastern part of Zambia, and my upbringing was in the area of South Luangwa National Park. I also traveled outside Zambia, visiting the Lower Zambezi, another remarkable National Park we possess in Zambia.
After managing a camp for four years in the Kafue National Park, which is equally stunning, I would recommend that any visitor to Zambia includes a safari to South Luangwa National Park. Its beauty is unparalleled.
RJZ: Could you share an amusing fact about a personal encounter you’ve had, as you probably have many, involving a guest, wildlife, or any interaction while working in the tourism sector?
MB: Indeed, as you mentioned, there have been several instances, but to select one recent event would be at Tongabezi. A guest desired us to organize a clandestine proposal without the lady’s knowledge. We arranged it by setting up a sun deck for their dining experience.
This is a floating stage right in front of our lodge, where they dined while we coordinated for our choir to sing for them, and the gentleman indeed proposed.
It all unfolded perfectly, and such moments make us feel we are part of the guests’ joys, offering our assistance.
RJZ: Lastly, let me ask for a brief background about yourself. Feel free to start as far back as you wish, detailing your identity, origins, current position, etc.
MB: Certainly, regarding myself, I was blessed to grow in South Luangwa National Park, an area rich with natural splendor and wildlife. My professional journey began back in 2001 when I became part of a newly inaugurated Safari Lodge in Zambia.
I later worked at a presidential lodge in South Luangwa, which changed management to a subsidiary of Abercrombie and Kent before I departed in 2018 to join Green Safaris. My first assignment was in Kafue National Park, where I spent four years. Eventually, I was relocated to Tongabezi in 2023 as the general manager and have remained ever since.
In my role at Tongabezi, I oversee general management, ensuring the operations of both the Tongabezi Lodge and Sindabezi Island camp, focusing on accommodations and excursions, guaranteeing that our guests have a notable experience with us.
If interested in exploring exceptional offers to Victoria Falls, feel at liberty to reach out to me: rael@wildsunsets.travel or visit our specials at www.wildsunsets.travel
