Victoria Falls is undoubtedly one of the most renowned destinations in Africa. Serving as the geographical boundary between Zimbabwe and Zambia, the falls can be admired from both nations. For the ultimate experience of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, consider staying at a safari lodge in Victoria Falls.
Victoria Falls is a breathtaking spectacle. By the time the Zambezi River arrives at the falls, it spans more than 1.2 miles in width and crashes forcefully down a sequence of gorges. Its mist can be detected from over 12 miles away, and if you visit during the full moon, you’ll be delighted by a magnificent lunar rainbow (moonbow). Notable features include the Main Falls, the Devil’s Cataract, and the Devil’s Pool.
In this article, we explore safari lodges on both sides of the border: in the town of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and in Livingstone in Zambia. If you prefer a more classic hotel experience, the iconic Victoria Falls Hotel, which overlooks the Victoria Falls Bridge, is perfect. If you’re initially visiting Chobe National Park in Botswana, refer to our curated list of Safari Lodges in Chobe for the finest options available.
Safari lodges in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
With an increasing number of airlines servicing the Johannesburg/Cape Town-Victoria Falls route, visiting the falls has become more convenient than ever. Escape the bustling city life, and in less than two hours, you can embark on your Victoria Falls safari.
Victoria Falls offers a plethora of activities: helicopter tours above the falls, a full-day Chobe safari trip, or a one-day excursion to Hwange National Park. You can also explore the Devil’s Pool (on the Zambia side) with this tour.
Victoria Falls River Lodge
The remarkable Victoria Falls River Lodge provides accommodations both on the mainland (with suites offering river views) and on the exclusive island of Kandahar.
Accessible solely by boat, the island features four individual Treehouse Suites, each equipped with a private deck and plunge pool. These suites are elevated on stilts along the Zambezi riverbank, ensuring close river views and are connected to the main lodge by raised, winding walkways.
Victoria Falls River Lodge was the Winner of the 2022 Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence in the Best Waterside Hotel category.
The lodge also includes two Starbed Treehouses. These treehouses come with the same facilities as the suites, plus an additional rooftop deck with a bed, ideal for enjoying the starry African nights!
Victoria Falls River Lodge is situated so near to Victoria Falls that the spray can be seen from a distance!
Relish in twice-daily game drives in Zambezi National Park, with opportunities to spot African wild dogs, leopards, and lions.
Back on the mainland, luxurious thatched tents await your arrival. Featuring a private plunge pool, optional butler service, views of the Zambezi River, and outdoor showers, this is our version of paradise.
Activities at Victoria Falls Island Lodge:
Safari river cruises
Helicopter sightseeing trips
Sunset cruises
Fishing
Game drives
Tsowa safari island
Perfectly placed on an island in the Zambezi, Tsowa Safari Island is a luxury tented camp located upstream from Victoria Falls and belongs to the esteemed Isibindi Africa Lodges. Tsowa provides a cozy atmosphere by the river, with 6 safari canvas tents accommodating up to 12 guests.
Guests can choose from two varieties of tents: the river view safari tent or the river deck safari tent. Both options feature indoor and outdoor showers. The tents allow you to fully connect with nature and enjoy the evening sounds, such as the call of a hyena or the hoot of an owl. Birdwatchers will be thrilled to know that the Pel’s fishing owl has made the island its home!
The lodge boasts two interconnecting swimming pools and a riverfront fire pit deck, perfect for delightful evenings by the water.
Activities at Tsowa:
Game drives and island walks
Birding
River safaris
Day trips to Chobe
Victoria Falls Safari Club
Victoria Falls Safari Club is part of the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge estate, but is more intimate (20 rooms) and exclusive. It is ideal for those wanting to be closer to the falls, as it is only a five-minute drive from the lodge. Enjoy upscale dining and a two-tiered swimming pool with a lap pool and sun deck.
Overlooking Zambezi National Park with uninterrupted views of the bushveld, it truly feels as though you are in the heart of the wilderness. Most rooms offer a clear view of the private waterhole. Bring your binoculars to enjoy wildlife viewing from the comfort of your suite, where you might spot elephants, buffalo, and waterbuck—plus countless birds!