Victoria Falls is undeniably one of the most renowned destinations in Africa. Serving as the geographical boundary between Zimbabwe and Zambia, the falls can be observed from each country. Experience the ultimate visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site by staying at a safari lodge in Victoria Falls.
Victoria Falls is a breathtaking view. By the time the Zambezi River reaches the falls, it spans over 1.2 miles in width and cascades noisily down a sequence of gorges. Its mist can be seen from over 12 miles away, and if you go during the full moon, you’ll be treated to a mesmerizing lunar rainbow (moonbow). Notable attractions 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 are looking for a more traditional hotel, the iconic Victoria Falls Hotel with views of the Victoria Falls Bridge is all you need. If you are planning to visit Chobe National Park in Botswana, check out our curated list of Safari Lodges in Chobe for our top picks in the region.
Safari lodges in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
With a growing number of airlines operating the Johannesburg/Cape Town-Victoria Falls route, traveling to Victoria Falls has become easier than ever. Escape the bustling city lifestyle and in under two hours, you can embark on your Victoria Falls safari adventure.
There are numerous activities to enjoy in Victoria Falls: helicopter tours above the falls, a full-day safari trip to Chobe, or a day safari visit to Hwange National Park. You can also venture to the Devil’s Pool (on the Zambian side) with this excursion.
Victoria Falls River Lodge
The beautiful Victoria Falls River Lodge provides accommodations both on the mainland (in-suites with river views) and on the exclusive island of Kandahar.
Accessible solely by boat, the island features four unique Treehouse Suites, each with its own private deck and plunge pool. These stilted suites along the Zambezi riverbank offer intimate views of the river. They are connected to the main lodge building via raised winding pathways.
Victoria Falls River Lodge is the recipient of the 2022 Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence – Best Waterside Hotel category.
The lodge also features two Starbed Treehouses. These treehouses have the same amenities as the suites with the added bonus of a rooftop deck with a bed, perfect for stargazing on African nights!
Victoria Falls River Lodge is so near to Victoria Falls that you can see the mist in the distance!
Enjoy twice-daily game drives in Zambezi National Park for a chance to spot African wild dogs, leopards, and lions.
On the mainland, opulent thatched tents await your arrival. With a private plunge pool, optional butler service, views over the Zambezi River, and outdoor showers, this is our definition of paradise.
Activities at Victoria Falls Island Lodge:
– Safari river cruises
– Helicopter tours
– Sunset cruises
– Fishing
– Game drives
Tsowa safari island
Perfectly situated on an island in the Zambezi, Tsowa Safari Island is a luxurious tented camp located upstream from Victoria Falls and is part of the renowned Isibindi Africa Lodges. Tsowa provides an intimate riverside experience, with six safari canvas tents capable of accommodating up to 12 guests.
You can select from two types of tents, the river view safari tent and the river deck safari tent. Both come with indoor and outdoor showers. The tents allow you to truly connect with nature and enjoy the sounds of the night, such as the call of a hyena or the hooting of an owl. Birdwatchers will be delighted to learn that the Pel’s fishing owl has made the island its home!
The lodge features two interconnecting swimming pools and a riverfront fire pit deck, ideal for those stunning evenings by the river.
Activities at Tsowa:
– Game drives and island walks
– Birdwatching
– River safaris
– Day trips to Chobe
Victoria Falls Safari Club
The Victoria Falls Safari Club is part of the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge estate but is smaller (20 rooms) and more exclusive. It is perfect for visitors wishing to be closer to the falls, as it is just a five-minute drive from the lodge. Delight in fine dining and a two-tiered swimming pool with a lap pool and sundeck.
Overlooking the Zambezi National Park with unobstructed views of the bush veld, it genuinely feels as though you are immersed in the wilderness. Most rooms have a clear view of the private waterhole. Bring your binoculars and enjoy wildlife spotting from the comfort of your suite. Elephants, buffalo, and waterbuck are just a few of the animals you may see.