Nestled within the untamed beauty of Zimbabwe’s wild landscapes lies a family legacy that has grown into one of Southern Africa’s most unique and soulful safari brands: Amalinda Safari Collection. From its beginnings as a passion project by the Stead family, Amalinda has become a shining example of how luxury tourism, community upliftment, and wildlife conservation can exist in perfect harmony.

This is not just a safari collection—it is a deeply personal journey that reflects love for Africa, reverence for its people, and an unrelenting commitment to preserving its wild spaces.

A Family’s Vision: The Origins of Amalinda

The story of Amalinda Safari Collection begins in the early 1990s with Phil and Lin Stead, a couple with a pioneering spirit and a deep connection to Zimbabwe. Their dream was to create a space where visitors could experience the raw beauty of Zimbabwe while also preserving its rich cultural and ecological heritage.

That dream first came to life with the opening of Camp Amalinda in the Matobo Hills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient granite kopjes, spiritual rock art, and storied history. The Steads were captivated by the mystical energy of the landscape, which once sheltered Bushmen and was later the burial ground of Cecil Rhodes.

They transformed a group of natural granite boulders into a lodge unlike anything else in Africa. Rooms were built into the rocks, blending seamlessly with the landscape, and filled with cultural artifacts and handcrafted decor. Camp Amalinda was more than a lodge—it was an immersive experience rooted in the spirit of the land.

As the Stead children—Brendon, Nicholas, and Shannon—grew, so did the family’s vision. The Amalinda Safari Collection slowly expanded to include new properties in unique and ecologically important areas, each shaped by the same values of authenticity, intimacy, and sustainability.

The Conservation-Driven Ethos

Conservation has always been at the heart of the Amalinda mission. The Steads understood early on that responsible tourism was a powerful tool to protect both wildlife and culture—and they have spent decades proving it.

One of their most impactful initiatives is the Mother Africa Trust, a nonprofit organization founded by the Amalinda team in 2006. The trust supports a range of conservation and community-based projects including:

• Anti-poaching efforts in Hwange National Park, one of Africa’s premier elephant sanctuaries.

• Human-wildlife conflict mitigation in local villages.

• Wildlife research and monitoring, including camera trap studies, game counts, and ranger support.

• Community health and education, including building schools and providing scholarships for underprivileged students.

What sets Amalinda apart is that these projects are not peripheral—they are deeply integrated into the guest experience. Travelers are encouraged to visit local schools, meet rangers and researchers, and see firsthand how their safari dollars contribute to long-term change.

Each Property, A Distinct Soul

What truly makes the Amalinda Safari Collection special is the distinct character and sense of place in each of its properties. They are not carbon copies of a luxury brand—they are storytellers, each one offering a different chapter of Zimbabwe’s incredible natural and cultural narrative.

1. Camp Amalinda – Matobo Hills

The flagship property and the soul of the collection, Camp Amalinda is set among the granite boulders of the Matobo Hills. This area is steeped in spiritual and historical significance. Guests can explore San Bushmen rock art, visit Rhodes’ Grave at “View of the World,” and learn about the Ndebele culture through community visits.

The lodge’s architecture blends into the rock formations, with suites carved into the hillside and open-air bathrooms overlooking ancient valleys. A stay here is as much about introspection and wonder as it is about wildlife.

2. Khulu Bush Camp – Hwange National Park

Translating to “grandfather” in Ndebele, Khulu Bush Camp is a refined and intimate safari experience situated on a private concession bordering Hwange National Park. The camp offers close encounters with elephants, lions, painted dogs, and more, often right at the camp’s waterhole.

Designed with classic safari elegance, Khulu’s tents are elevated and spacious, blending vintage charm with modern comfort. Game drives here are led by expert guides, and the nearby Bumbusi Wilderness Area offers a sense of solitude rarely found in popular parks.

3. Ivory Lodge – Hwange National Park

A sister camp to Khulu, Ivory Lodge is perfect for families and groups. Set among teak woodlands, the lodge overlooks a lively waterhole frequented by large elephant herds. Elevated treehouse-style suites bring guests eye-level with passing giraffes and birds.

Ivory Lodge is known for its warm hospitality and family-friendly atmosphere, with educational safari experiences tailored for young explorers.

4. Sable Valley– Hwange National Park

Sable Valley consists of 11 traditional thatched rondavels with the main area providing sweeping views of the Dete Vlei. The vibe at Sable Valley is intimate, relaxed and boho chic, mixing traditional African decor with vintage pieces our owners have curated over time. Home to our innovative underground hide and treehouse platform, our newest property is perfect for couples, friends, solo travellers and families.

A Legacy That Lives On

Today, the next generation of the Stead family is actively involved in managing and growing the Amalinda Safari Collection. With a fresh perspective and a continued commitment to conservation, they are taking the family legacy into the future while preserving its roots.

Their approach remains personal, passionate, and purposeful—focusing on low-impact tourism, meaningful guest experiences, and community collaboration.

Amalinda isn’t just about the Big Five or Instagram-worthy lodges. It’s about storytelling, stewardship, and soul. It’s about remembering that behind every safari experience is a family, a community, a wilderness, and a future worth protecting.