In this article we explore some of the best luxury hotels in Zimbabwe.
Whether you are visiting the country for business or pleasure, where you decide to stay will certainly determine how your experience will be like.
Being one of the biggest tourist destinations in Africa, it comes as no surprise that this beautiful nation also has some of the best accommodation facilities on the continent.
Zimbabwe’s luxury accommodations provide world-class amenities, impeccable service, and unique experiences that reflect the nation’s heritage and natural beauty.
For those seeking an opulent retreat, here are ten of Zimbabwe’s finest luxury hotels that promise an unforgettable stay.
1. The Victoria Falls Hotel (Victoria Falls)
Established in 1904, The Victoria Falls Hotel is a testament to Zimbabwe’s colonial history and is affectionately known as “The Grand Old Lady of the Falls.”
This five-star hotel seamlessly blends Edwardian-style architecture with modern comforts.
Guests are welcomed into elegantly furnished rooms and suites, each offering views of the meticulously manicured gardens or the Zambezi River gorges.
The hotel’s prime location provides direct access to a private pathway leading to the Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
Dining options include the renowned Livingstone Room, which offers a fine dining experience, and Stanley’s Terrace, famous for its traditional afternoon tea and spectacular views of the spray from the falls.
The hotel also features a spa, a swimming pool, and various curated activities such as guided tours and cultural performances, ensuring a luxurious and immersive experience.
2. Matetsi Victoria Falls (Victoria Falls)
Nestled along a private stretch of the Zambezi River, Matetsi Victoria Falls offers an exclusive safari experience combined with contemporary luxury.
The lodge comprises spacious suites, each with a private plunge pool, indoor and outdoor showers, and stylish interiors that reflect African artistry.
Guests can indulge in gourmet dining experiences that fuse local flavors with international cuisine, complemented by an extensive selection of wines from the lodge’s cellar.
Activities include personalized game drives, walking safaris, and sunset boat cruises, providing intimate encounters with Zimbabwe’s diverse wildlife.
The lodge’s proximity to Victoria Falls allows guests to explore the falls at their leisure, returning to the tranquility of their secluded retreat.
3. Singita Pamushana Lodge (Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve)
Perched atop a sandstone ridge in the Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve, Singita Pamushana Lodge offers a sanctuary for those seeking luxury intertwined with conservation.
The lodge features suites and a private villa, each adorned with vibrant African décor and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Guests can participate in daily game drives, guided walks, and community visits, gaining insight into the local Shangaan culture.
The lodge’s commitment to sustainability is evident through its support of numerous conservation initiatives and community development projects.
An on-site spa, yoga sessions, and a cliff-top swimming pool provide relaxation, while the culinary offerings celebrate local ingredients and traditional recipes, ensuring a holistic and enriching experience.
4. Bumi Hills Safari Lodge (Lake Kariba)
Bumi Hills Safari Lodge, which overlooks the vast expanse of Lake Kariba, combines luxury with the tranquility of nature.
The lodge’s suites are designed to maximize the breathtaking lake views, featuring private balconies, contemporary interiors, and all modern amenities.
Guests can unwind in the infinity pool that seems to merge with the lake or indulge in spa treatments inspired by African wellness traditions.
Activities are diverse, ranging from game drives in the surrounding wildlife-rich areas to cultural village tours and sunset cruises that offer spectacular views and photographic opportunities.
Fishing enthusiasts can also try their hand at catching the renowned tiger fish, adding an adventurous twist to their stay.
5. The Elephant Camp (Victoria Falls)
Situated within a private concession bordering the Zambezi National Park, The Elephant Camp offers an intimate and eco-conscious safari experience.
The camp comprises luxury tented suites, each equipped with a private plunge pool, outdoor shower, and a deck offering sweeping views of the bushveld and the spray of Victoria Falls in the distance.
Guests can engage in close-up encounters with the Wild Horizons elephants, participate in game drives, or enjoy guided nature walks that highlight the area’s flora and fauna.
The camp’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its community upliftment programs and conservation efforts, allowing guests to contribute positively to the preservation of Zimbabwe’s natural heritage while enjoying unparalleled luxury.
6. Amalinda Lodge (Matobo Hills)
Amalinda Lodge is a unique retreat set among the ancient granite boulders of Matobo Hills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The lodge’s suites are individually designed and integrated into the natural rock formations, creating a harmonious blend of luxury and nature.
Each suite offers a distinct ambiance, with private balconies providing views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Guests can explore the rich history of the area through visits to San rock art sites, tracking rhinos on foot, or enjoying sundowners atop granite kopjes.
The lodge’s spa, nestled within a cave, offers a range of treatments that provide relaxation after a day of adventure.
Dining experiences are intimate, often set in unique locations such as a cave or under the starlit sky, offering a deep connection to the environment.
7. The Stanley & Livingstone Boutique Hotel (Victoria Falls)
Located within the Victoria Falls Private Game Reserve, The Stanley & Livingstone Boutique Hotel offers a blend of colonial charm and modern sophistication.
The hotel’s suites are elegantly furnished, featuring private terraces that overlook landscaped gardens frequented by wildlife.
Guests can enjoy personalized game drives within the reserve, home to the Big Five, or take a short drive to experience the majestic Victoria Falls.
The hotel’s restaurant offers a curated menu that celebrates local ingredients, and the bar provides a selection of fine wines and spirits, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
8. Ilala Lodge Hotel (Victoria Falls)
Ilala Lodge Hotel is a family-run establishment nestled in the heart of Victoria Falls town, making it the closest accommodation to the majestic falls.
Guests can enjoy an eight-minute walk to this Natural World Wonder, experiencing the spray and sounds along the way.
The hotel boasts well-appointed rooms set within expansive gardens, offering a serene retreat after a day of adventure.
Wildlife such as warthogs and impala often graze on the hotel lawns, providing guests with delightful sightings during their stay.
Dining at the award-winning Cassia Restaurant is a highlight, where guests can indulge in gourmet cuisine while viewing the spray from the falls and listening to the ‘Smoke That Thunders’ under starry African skies.
The hotel’s proximity to various attractions allows guests to explore the lush wilderness on game drives, embark on Zambezi River white-water rafting expeditions, or enjoy a legendary Zimbabwean sunset from the comfort of the elegant Ra-Ikane river cruisers.
9. Hyatt Regency Harare The Meikles (Harare)
Situated in the heart of Harare, overlooking Africa Unity Square, Hyatt Regency Harare The Meikles has been regarded as Zimbabwe’s premier five-star luxury hotel since 1915.
The hotel features iconic architecture and offers 312 rooms and suites, each providing panoramic views of the city or the historic square.
Guests can relax by the outdoor pool, unwind at the rooftop spa, or maintain their fitness routine at the state-of-the-art gym.
Dining options include a world-renowned restaurant and bar, offering a variety of culinary delights and an extensive selection of fine wines and spirits.
The hotel’s central location provides convenient access to Harare’s business district, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travelers seeking an urban oasis in Zimbabwe’s capital.
10. Chengeta Safari Lodge (Selous)
Nestled in the scenic landscapes of Selous, just an hour’s drive from Harare, Chengeta Safari Lodge is an exquisite retreat that offers a blend of luxury, adventure, and tranquility.
This hidden gem is set within a private wildlife reserve, providing guests with an authentic safari experience without sacrificing comfort.
The lodge features elegantly designed chalets, each offering private verandas with breathtaking views of the surrounding bush.
Guests can unwind in beautifully furnished rooms, complete with en-suite bathrooms and air-conditioning, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Activities at Chengeta Safari Lodge are diverse and cater to all levels of adventure seekers.
From game drives that provide up-close encounters with Zimbabwe’s diverse wildlife to guided bush walks, canoeing, and horseback safaris, the lodge offers a unique opportunity to explore the untamed beauty of the African wilderness.
Dining at Chengeta is a culinary experience in itself, with gourmet meals served in an open-air boma or the main restaurant overlooking the lush gardens.
Guests can also relax by the pool, enjoy spa treatments, or take in the peaceful atmosphere of the lodge, making it an ideal destination for couples, families, and solo travelers alike.
Honorable Mentions
- The Palm River Hotel (Victoria Falls)
- Mbano Manor Hotel (Victoria Falls)
- Batonka Guest Lodge (Victoria Falls)
- Victoria Falls Safari Club (Victoria Falls
- Hwange Safari Lodge (Hwange National Park)
- Matobo Hills Lodge (Matobo Hills)
- Gorges Lodge (Victoria Falls)
- Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge (Gonarezhou National Park)
Why Choose The Best Luxury Hotels in Zimbabwe?
Zimbabwe’s luxury hotels and lodges offer more than just opulent accommodations.
They provide an immersive experience, blending breathtaking natural landscapes with rich cultural heritage, world-class hospitality, and unparalleled comfort.
- Exclusive Locations
From the banks of the mighty Zambezi River to the heart of bustling Harare, each hotel is strategically located to offer guests proximity to Zimbabwe’s top attractions, whether it be Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, or Lake Kariba.
- Unmatched Safari Experiences
Many of these luxury hotels in Zimbabwe are located within private game reserves or national parks, offering guests exclusive game drives, walking safaris, and wildlife encounters, often in uncrowded and pristine environments.
- World-Class Amenities & Service
Whether it’s a private plunge pool overlooking the Zambezi, a five-star spa treatment, or fine dining with panoramic sunset views, Zimbabwe’s luxury hotels prioritize guest comfort and personalized service.
- Commitment to Conservation & Sustainability
Several hotels in Zimbabwe actively support conservation initiatives, community projects, and eco-friendly tourism, ensuring that guests contribute positively to the preservation of country’s natural and cultural heritage.
For travelers seeking an unforgettable, high-end experience in Africa, luxury hotels in Zimbabwe deliver on all fronts.
Whether you prefer the elegance of The Victoria Falls Hotel, the exclusivity of Matetsi Victoria Falls, or the safari adventure at Bumi Hills, each of these establishments promises a premium stay tailored to the needs of discerning travelers.