Best Hotels and Lodges Near Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking breathtaking landscapes and thrilling adventures. To complement your visit to this majestic site, choosing the right accommodation is crucial. At Nextgen Safaris, we specialize in providing curated African safaris and have compiled an extensive guide to the best hotels and lodges near Victoria Falls. Whether you are looking for luxury, comfort, or a unique experience, we have recommendations to suit every traveler’s needs.

Luxury Hotels and Lodges

The Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara (Zambia)

Overview: Located on the Zambian side of Victoria Falls, The Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara offers unparalleled luxury and direct access to the falls. This five-star hotel is named after the famous explorer, Dr. David Livingstone.

Highlights:

Elegant Rooms: Featuring colonial-style decor with modern amenities, each room provides a view of the Zambezi River.
Fine Dining: Enjoy gourmet meals at the hotel’s restaurant, which offers both local and international cuisine.
Exclusive Access: Guests have direct access to the Victoria Falls via a private entrance.

Activities:

Sunset river cruises on the Zambezi
Wildlife safaris in the nearby Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park
Guided tours of Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls Hotel (Zimbabwe)

Overview: Known as the “Grand Old Lady of the Falls,” the Victoria Falls Hotel offers timeless elegance and a rich history. It is located just a short walk from the falls and provides spectacular views of the gorge.

Highlights:

Historic Charm: The hotel, built in 1904, retains its Edwardian style and grandeur.
Luxury Rooms: Each room is tastefully decorated, offering modern comforts and views of the gardens or the falls.
Gourmet Dining: Enjoy a range of dining options, from high tea on the terrace to fine dining at the Livingstone Room.

Activities:

Historical tours of the hotel and surrounding areas
Spa treatments and wellness activities
Guided tours and adventures around Victoria Falls

Mid-Range Hotels and Lodges

Avani Victoria Falls Resort (Zambia)

Overview: This family-friendly resort offers comfortable accommodations and is just a short walk from the Zambian side of the falls. It provides a perfect balance of comfort and convenience.

Highlights:

Modern Rooms: Spacious rooms with contemporary decor and amenities.
Dining Options: Multiple dining venues offering a variety of cuisines.
Easy Access: Complimentary access to Victoria Falls for all guests.

Activities:

Swimming and relaxation by the pool
Family-friendly activities and entertainment
Easy access to Victoria Falls and adventure activities

Ilala Lodge (Zimbabwe)

Overview: Located just minutes from Victoria Falls, Ilala Lodge offers a cozy, boutique experience with easy access to the falls and the town of Victoria Falls.

Highlights:

Comfortable Rooms: Each room offers modern amenities and views of the falls’ spray.
Dining: The Palm Restaurant is renowned for its exquisite cuisine and picturesque setting.
Personalized Service: Friendly staff provide personalized service and local insights.

Activities:

Guided tours to Victoria Falls and the surrounding area
Excursions such as white-water rafting and helicopter rides
Relaxation by the pool and garden

Budget-Friendly Hotels and Lodges

Shearwater Explorers Village (Zimbabwe)

Overview: Ideal for budget-conscious travelers, Shearwater Explorers Village offers affordable accommodation without compromising on comfort and experience.

Highlights:

Variety of Rooms: Options range from camping sites to standard and deluxe rooms.
On-site Dining: Enjoy meals at the on-site restaurant and bar.
Convenient Location: Close to the falls and local attractions.

Activities:

Affordable guided tours and activities
Relaxation areas with a pool and garden
Access to local markets and cultural sites

Jollyboys Backpackers (Zambia)

Overview: A popular choice among backpackers, Jollyboys Backpackers offers a friendly and social atmosphere with budget-friendly accommodations.

Highlights:

Dorms and Private Rooms: Options to suit different budget levels.
Communal Spaces: Shared kitchen, pool area, and social spaces.
Travel Desk: Assistance with booking tours and activities.

Activities:

Organized social events and activities
Affordable tours to Victoria Falls and other attractions
Interaction with fellow travelers from around the world

Unique and Boutique Accommodations

Tongabezi Lodge (Zambia)

Overview: For a unique and intimate experience, Tongabezi Lodge offers luxurious accommodations on the banks of the Zambezi River, combining comfort with an authentic safari experience.

Highlights:

Private Houses and Cottages: Each unit is uniquely designed with stunning river views.
Personal Service: Dedicated staff including private guides and chefs.
Eco-Friendly: Commitment to sustainability and community support.

Activities:

River safaris and canoeing
Romantic dinners on a private island
Cultural tours to local villages

The Elephant Camp (Zimbabwe)

Overview: Nestled within the Victoria Falls National Park, The Elephant Camp offers luxurious tented suites with stunning views of the spray from the falls.

Highlights:

Tented Suites: Spacious and elegantly decorated, each suite has a private plunge pool.
Close Encounters: Opportunities to interact with rescued elephants.
Exclusive Experience: Limited number of suites ensure a personalized stay.

Activities:

Guided tours to Victoria Falls
Elephant encounters and wildlife safaris
Spa treatments and relaxation

Family-Friendly Hotels and Lodges

Ngoma Safari Lodge (Zambia)

Overview: Ngoma Safari Lodge offers a family-friendly environment with spacious accommodations and activities suitable for all ages.

Highlights:

Family Suites: Large suites that can accommodate families.
Kid-Friendly Activities: Special programs for children.
Dining Options: Menus catering to both adults and children.

Activities:

Family-friendly game drives and safaris
Educational tours about local wildlife and culture
Swimming and outdoor games

Lokuthula Lodges (Zimbabwe)

Overview: Located within the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge estate, Lokuthula Lodges offer self-catering accommodations perfect for families.

Highlights:

Self-Catering Units: Fully equipped kitchens and living areas.
Access to Safari Lodge Facilities: Including pools, restaurants, and activities.
Family-Friendly: Safe environment and activities for children.

Activities:

Access to the Boma Dinner & Drum Show
Wildlife watching from the lodge’s viewing platforms
Family game drives and cultural tours

Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Hotels and Lodges

Sindabezi Island (Zambia)

Overview: Sindabezi Island offers an exclusive eco-friendly retreat on a private island in the Zambezi River, focusing on sustainability and minimal environmental impact.

Highlights:

Eco-Luxury: Solar-powered chalets with eco-friendly amenities.
Intimate Setting: Limited number of chalets for a private experience.
Sustainability: Strong commitment to conservation and community support.

Activities:

Eco-tours and nature walks
Canoeing and river safaris
Bird watching and wildlife encounters

Victoria Falls River Lodge (Zimbabwe)

Zambezi Crescent, Victoria Falls Island Lodge, Kandahar Island, Zambezi River, near Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.

Overview: Situated on the banks of the Zambezi River, Victoria Falls River Lodge combines luxury with eco-consciousness, offering tented suites and a strong focus on sustainability.

Highlights:

Luxury Tents: Spacious and elegantly furnished with river views.
Sustainable Practices: Solar power, waste management, and community projects.
Wildlife Proximity: Located within a private game reserve.

Activities:

Eco-safaris and guided walks
Sunset cruises on the Zambezi River
Community and conservation tours

Why Choose Nextgen Safaris?

Expert Knowledge

Our team has extensive knowledge of Victoria Falls and the best accommodations to enhance your visit. We provide tailored recommendations to suit your specific needs and preferences.

Personalized Service

We offer personalized service from the moment you contact us. Our goal is to ensure your stay is comfortable, enjoyable, and memorable.

Commitment to Excellence

Nextgen Safaris is committed to excellence in all aspects of your travel experience. From booking your stay to organizing activities and tours, we strive to exceed your expectations.

Best Hotels and Lodges Near Victoria Falls Conclusion

Victoria Falls is a destination that offers unparalleled natural beauty and thrilling adventures. Choosing the right accommodation is key to making your visit truly special. With Nextgen Safaris, you can trust that our curated list of the best hotels and lodges near Victoria Falls will provide you with an exceptional stay, whether you are seeking luxury, comfort, or a unique experience. Let us help you create unforgettable memories at one of the world’s most iconic destinations.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:

All visitors to Africa must have a valid passport with at least 4 consecutive blanks pages. The Government of Tanzania has rolled out an online Visa application portal accessible on internet. Any applicable visa and/or relevant documentation are the responsibility of the traveler. For further information on Visa requirements visitors are advised to contact their nearest Respective Embassy or Consulate.

LANGUAGE: English

TIME: GMT +3

CLIMATE: Southern Africa climate is predominantly tropical. The long rains are from mid-March to late May and the short rains from November to January. The hottest months are from October to February and the coolest months are June to August.

VOLTAGE: 220 Volts/AC50Hz. Sockets are UK style, 3 pin square plugs. Power is from the National Grid in the city/major towns and generator with inverter back up in the Safari Lodges and Camps.

CURRENCY: Foreign currency must be changed at the Bank, Bureau de Change, and Hotel/Safari lodge/Camp/Resort. Major Credit Cards, Master card, Visa, American Express, are usually accepted throughout the country. Where credit cards are accepted, the payment will normally be recorded in US$ regardless of the card’s default currency. However, US$ older than 2009 are only accepted

CLOTHING: Dress is mainly informal and should be comfortable as well as practical. Something warm should be brought along for early morning and evenings. Safari clothes are available from hotels/lodges/camps.

BAGGAGE: Where possible, travel light. Baggage space on safari is limited to medium suitcase or soft bag per person plus reasonable amount of hand luggage. There is 15 Kilogram per person limit on all flights to the wildlife sanctuaries. Excess luggage must be stored in your arrival hotel.

WATER: You will find many different of opinion of what is safe and what is not. We recommend for peace of mind, to drink local Bottled Mineral water. It is important to drink plenty of water especially during the hotter months. We would recommend that guests drink at least 2 to 3 litres of water per day to limit the effects of dehydration.

HEALTH: Southern Africa is a safe and secure destination; however, it is a good idea to take a few precautions. Kindly consult your GP or local doctor at least 6 weeks before you travel, with regards:

Malaria prophylactics. East Africa is a known malaria area and preventive measures are essential. You are advised to take one of the recommended anti-malarial drugs. Be sure to wear long sleeved shorts and trousers after sunset and spray the exposed parts of your body with a mosquito repellent spray. The hotels provide mosquito repellent sachets as part of the room’s amenities in all our locations.

Remember to protect yourself from direct sun rays with sunscreen cream or safari hat.

DIETARY REQUIREMENTS: For those guests with specific dietary requirement, please ensure Imbasa is notified prior to travel so that the respective Hotels and Lodges are informed

GRATUITIES: As a guideline and dependent on how happy you are, we would suggest the following:

The General Hotel/Lodge/Camp Staff – Approximately U$ 10.00 per person per day

Driver Guides – Approximately US$ 15.00 to US$ 20.00 per person per day

PHOTOGRAPHY: Please be careful when photographing public buildings, airports, bridges, the national flag and people in uniform. Ensure that you have sought permission before photographing local people and their villages. If in doubt, please check with your guide.

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