Budget-Friendly Accommodation at Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls, one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the world, attracts travelers from across the globe. While it’s renowned for its luxury lodges and high-end hotels, there are also plenty of budget-friendly accommodation options that offer comfort, convenience, and unique experiences.

At Nextgen Safaris, we specialize in providing curated African safaris and have compiled a comprehensive guide to the Budget-Friendly Accommodation at Victoria Falls. Whether you’re a backpacker, a family on a budget, or simply looking to save on your stay, we’ve got you covered.

Overview

Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean you have to compromise on quality or experience. The following accommodations provide affordable options without sacrificing comfort or the chance to enjoy all that Victoria Falls has to offer. From hostels and campsites to budget lodges, you’ll find a variety of choices that cater to different preferences and needs.

Top Budget-Friendly Accommodations

Shearwater Explorers Village (Zimbabwe)

Overview: Located just a short walk from Victoria Falls, Shearwater Explorers Village offers a range of budget-friendly accommodations, from camping sites to standard rooms. This lodge is perfect for those seeking affordability without sacrificing convenience.

Highlights:

Accommodation Options: Choose from campsites, dormitory rooms, or private rooms with en-suite bathrooms.
On-Site Dining: Enjoy meals at the on-site restaurant and bar, which offers a variety of affordable dishes.
Amenities: Includes a swimming pool, free Wi-Fi, and a travel desk to assist with booking tours and activities.

Activities:

Guided tours to Victoria Falls
Adventure activities such as white-water rafting and bungee jumping
Social events and gatherings at the lodge

Jollyboys Backpackers (Zambia)

Overview: Jollyboys Backpackers is a well-known and popular choice among budget travelers and backpackers. Located in Livingstone, it offers a friendly and social atmosphere with various accommodation options.

Highlights:

Dorms and Private Rooms: Offers dormitory beds, private rooms, and even a family room for those traveling with children.
Communal Spaces: Features a shared kitchen, pool area, and comfortable social spaces for meeting fellow travelers.
Travel Desk: Provides assistance with booking tours and activities around Victoria Falls and Livingstone.

Activities:

Organized social events and activities
Affordable tours to Victoria Falls and other local attractions
Interactions with a diverse group of travelers

Victoria Falls Rest Camp (Zimbabwe)

Budget-Friendly Accommodation at Victoria Falls

Overview: Victoria Falls Rest Camp is situated within walking distance of the falls and offers a range of budget accommodations, including camping sites, chalets, and dormitories.

Highlights:

Variety of Accommodations: Options include self-catering chalets, budget rooms, and campsites.
Dining Options: On-site restaurant and bar serving affordable meals.
Location: Prime location close to Victoria Falls and other attractions.

Activities:

Self-guided tours to Victoria Falls
Affordable adventure activities such as zip-lining and gorge swinging
Relaxation by the pool and communal BBQ areas

Shoestrings Backpackers Lodge (Zimbabwe)

Overview: Shoestrings Backpackers Lodge is a vibrant and budget-friendly option located in Victoria Falls Town. It is known for its lively atmosphere and variety of accommodation types.

Highlights:

Accommodation Choices: Includes dorm beds, private rooms, and camping spaces.
On-Site Bar and Restaurant: Offers affordable meals and drinks, often accompanied by live music and entertainment.
Social Environment: Great place to meet other travelers and enjoy a vibrant social scene.

Activities:

Guided tours and excursions to Victoria Falls
Cultural experiences and local market visits
Social events and parties hosted at the lodge

Livingstone Backpackers (Zambia)

Overview: Located in Livingstone, just a short drive from Victoria Falls, Livingstone Backpackers offers a budget-friendly and sociable environment with various accommodation options.

Highlights:

Dorms and Private Rooms: Offers dormitory-style rooms, private rooms, and camping spaces.
Amenities: Includes a swimming pool, shared kitchen, free Wi-Fi, and a bar.
Travel Desk: Assistance with booking tours and activities in the Victoria Falls area.

Activities:

Affordable tours to Victoria Falls and surrounding attractions
Social activities and events organized by the lodge
Interaction with other budget-conscious travelers

Family-Friendly Budget Accommodations

Ngoma Safari Lodge (Zambia)

Overview: Ngoma Safari Lodge offers a family-friendly environment with budget-friendly accommodations suitable for families. Located near Victoria Falls, it provides a comfortable and affordable stay.

Highlights:

Family Suites: Spacious rooms that can accommodate families comfortably.
Kid-Friendly Activities: Special programs and activities designed for children.
Dining Options: Family-friendly menus and dining areas.

Activities:

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

Lokuthula Lodges (Zimbabwe)

Overview: Lokuthula Lodges offer self-catering accommodations within the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge estate. These lodges provide a budget-friendly option for families and groups.

Highlights:

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

Unique and Boutique Budget Accommodations

The N1 Hotel (Zimbabwe)

Overview: The N1 Hotel is a budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of Victoria Falls Town. It offers clean and comfortable accommodations with easy access to the falls and local attractions.

Highlights:

Modern Rooms: Simple yet comfortable rooms with modern amenities.
Affordable Rates: Budget-friendly pricing without compromising on quality.
Central Location: Conveniently located near shops, restaurants, and the falls.

Activities:

Guided tours to Victoria Falls
Local market visits and cultural tours
Access to adventure activities and excursions

Camp Nkwazi (Zambia)

Overview: Camp Nkwazi is a unique budget-friendly lodge situated on the banks of the Zambezi River, offering a combination of camping and luxury tented accommodations.

Highlights:

Variety of Accommodations: Includes camping sites, self-catering chalets, and luxury tents.
Natural Setting: Beautiful location with stunning views of the Zambezi River.
Eco-Friendly: Commitment to sustainability and minimal environmental impact.

Activities:

Canoeing and river safaris
Bird watching and nature walks
Cultural visits to local villages

Conclusion

Victoria Falls offers an incredible travel experience, and staying within your budget can enhance your visit even more. With Nextgen Safaris, you can trust that our curated list of budget-friendly accommodations will provide you with a comfortable and affordable stay. Let us help you explore one of the world’s most iconic destinations without breaking the bank.

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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