Café Zambezi House of Africa - Hostel

When we arrived at the lodge, the staff at reception seemed didn't know I had an online booking and the room wasn't ready. Waited 45 minutes to enter the room after a long drive. There was no hot water because the hot water heater "geezer" was off. (Staff didn't advise us if this when we arrived). It was switched on and waited 30 minutes and only got luke warm water for our 2 day stay. I told staff and nothing was done until the last day. Ordered complimentary breakfast and it took 30 minutes and there were no other guests ordering. The staff were arguing with each other about work in front of us (My partner speaks Bemba). We arrived back at the lodge after 10 pm and the door and gate to park the car was locked. Fortunately a staff member appeared out of nowhere and let us in. There is no communication between staff and guests and I asked to speak with the manager but he/she was never there. Asked for the number to call the manager and the phone wasn't answered. Staff were rude and expect the quests to understand the rule by magic!

Television (TV) and DSTV: Despite booking a room that supposedly included DSTV, I was shocked to find it non-operational. When I brought this to the attention of the staff, I was told it hadn't been paid for. Unacceptable! Even after escalating the issue to the so-called manager on duty, no resolution was provided. Internet Woes: The promised free WIFI at Café Zambezi turned out to be a complete sham. The duty manager cited ongoing internet issues, but what's more infuriating is the lack of effort to address the problem during my entire 3-day stay. Unprofessional and inexcusable. Bathroom Towel, Cleanliness, and Toiletries: One dirty towel for the entire stay, with no option for a replacement, left me questioning the hygiene standards. The claim of free toiletries was a flat-out lie; all I got was a minuscule bar soap that barely lasted a day. Housekeeping Oversight: Don't expect your room to be cleaned unless you leave your key at the reception before 11 am – information conveniently omitted during check-in. Such lack of transparency is unacceptable. Mosquito Menace: Considering the malaria risk in the area, it's shocking that Café Zambezi doesn't provide insecticide or bother to spray the rooms. Be prepared to fend off mosquitoes on your own. Pool Problems: I had hoped to enjoy the swimming pool, but the water looked more like a mud puddle than a refreshing oasis. This stark contrast to other properties in the area left me thoroughly disappointed. Save yourself!

A perfect 10/10 from me. Great room, great food, great setting and very delicious fresh food! Need to give special mention to the friendly staff who go out of their way to make you feel at home. I arrived late, well after the kitchen had closed but the staff still went and prepared a fresh meal for me, at midnight.