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Victoria Falls Hotel
Victoria Falls Hotel
Victoria Falls Hotel
Victoria Falls Hotel
Victoria Falls Hotel

About Victoria Falls Hotel

Not just the most famous name in town, this grand old lady of yesteryear is still up there with the best.

Let’s start with the setting. Looking proudly down on the bridge that spans the Zambezi River gorge, the Victoria Falls Hotel remains the closest hotel in town to the waterfall. Just a 15-minute stroll from the extensive lawns and you’re gazing at one of the seven wonders of the ancient world.

Then there’s the sheer glamour of the place. Oozing Edwardian style, it is now fitted out in contemporary comfort to marry the charm of the old world with the efficiency of the new.

Not least among its attractions is the imposing Livingstone Room. While jackets and ties are no longer de rigueur, dinner here remains a gloriously formal occasion with a top-notch menu, along with dancing accompanied by a live pianist.

Of course, you could work up an appetite on the tennis court or in the pool, but a relaxing spa treatment seems rather more appropriate before high tea, or perhaps cocktails on the terrace.

Combine this with committed, service-orientated staff, and it’s no wonder that the hotel remains the place to stay in Victoria Falls.

Our view

The Victoria Falls Hotel is the town’s best hotel: it has a great location and has successfully updated its facilities while maintaining a stylish Edwardian air. We found the food consistently very good on our last few visits and the service efficient and often very personal: it’s a class act. Book early, as the hotel can fill quickly. The Standard Rooms are often small, so stay in the Stable Wing or the suites if budget allows: they’re worth it.

Lucy Copson

Lucy Copson

Zimbabwe expert

Accommodation

161 rooms and suites

Children

Great for all ages

Open

All year

Activities

4WD Safari

4WD Safari

Birdwatching

Birdwatching

Boat trip

Boat trip

Canoeing

Canoeing

Cultural excursion

Cultural excursion

Elephant encounter

Elephant encounter

Helicopter

Helicopter

Kayaking

Kayaking

Microlight

Microlight

White-water rafting

White-water rafting

Traveller reviews of Victoria Falls Hotel

167 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.


94%
167 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
122
Good
41
Average
3
Poor
1
Terrible
0
Mrs IfromClitheroe

Arrived 6 Apr 2025, 1 nights

"Victoria Falls Hotel review"

"A beautiful romantic and timeless hotel …" Read Mrs I’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr P.fromTatsfield

Arrived 15 Sep 2024, 2 nights

"Victoria Falls Hotel review"

"Disappointed with the attitude. Given the swimming pool and bar was closed, …" Read Mr P.’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

Mr & Mrs PfromToronto

Arrived 7 Sep 2024, 2 nights

"Gracious "

"We love the large green lawn and the calm and peaceful atmosphere it engenders. …" Read Mr & Mrs P’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr WfromLincolnshire

Arrived 25 Aug 2024, 2 nights

"Victoria Falls Hotel review"

"Fantastic staff and a superb location. …" Read Mr W’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mrs H fromLondon

Arrived 10 May 2024, 2 nights

"Victoria Falls Hotel review"

"character and comfort..friendly staff..Grounds beautifully maintained. …" Read Mrs H ’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

C&AfromMunich

Arrived 28 Jan 2024, 2 nights

"Victoria Falls Hotel review"

"The grounds of the hotel are very beautiful …" Read C&A’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr A.fromOngar

Arrived 15 Nov 2023, 3 nights

"Victoria Falls Hotel review"

"It is very comfortable.. a very warm welcome.. quality of food was great.. …" Read Mr A.’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

SoCalCouplefromCalif.

Arrived 11 Oct 2023, 2 nights

"Victoria Falls Hotel review"

"The hotel is beautiful and the staff were warm and inviting. …" Read SoCalCouple’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Ms AWfromSW London

Arrived 3 Sep 2023, 1 nights

"Victoria Falls Hotel review"

"This hotel is iconic and history abound... The facilities are beautiful. …" Read Ms AW’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

Ms J.fromNorthallerton

Arrived 5 Jul 2023, 2 nights

"Victoria Falls Hotel review"

"Lovely old majestic hotel full of history and character, in a fabulous location. …" Read Ms J.’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

See all Victoria Falls Hotel reviews

Trips visiting Victoria Falls Hotel

Just ideas, we'll always tailor-make a trip for you


Map

Sable Self-drive Safari

12 days • 7 locations • 3 country
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT

A great-value southern African self-drive adventure from Namibia along the Caprivi Strip to Botswana and Zimbabwe, combining other-worldly landscapes, unforgettable wildlife spectacles and rarely visited places, and ending at Victoria Falls.

Visiting Etosha, Chobe and 4 other areas

US$8,470 - US$9,380 per person

Read more about the Sable Self-drive Safari

Map

Great Egret Safari

12 days • 4 locations • 3 country
MAUN AIRPORT TO VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT

This wonderfully varied adventure combines Botswana's Okavango Delta and a live-aboard houseboat safari on the Chobe River, with big game in Zimbabwe's dry Hwange National Park and the stupendous Victoria Falls.

Visiting Caprivi Strip, Okavango Delta and 2 other areas

US$10,390 - US$17,440 per person

Read more about the Great Egret Safari

Map

The Highlights of Africa

17 days • 7 locations • 5 country
CAPE TOWN AIRPORT TO KIGALI AIRPORT

An epic adventure taking in some of Africa’s most incredible sights and wildlife experiences, from Cape Town to the Okavango Delta, Victoria Falls, the Maasai Mara and an encounter with mountain gorillas.

Visiting Cape Town, Okavango Delta and 5 other areas

US$16,410 - US$19,820 per person

Read more about the The Highlights of Africa

Victoria Falls Hotel: Our full report

Oozing Edwardian style, the Victoria Falls Hotel is the most famous address in town.

For travel afficionados, it's a name to rival Raffles in Singapore or The Ritz in London. When it was opened in 1904, to house engineers constructing Cecil Rhodes’ railway, the elegant hotel clearly had first choice of locations: next to the vital railway station with a vantage point above the bridge which spans the gorge. Its location is still unsurpassed: the closest Zimbabwean hotel to the waterfall and within a short walk of town .

The hotel is set in lush, well-tended gardens with large areas of lawn and some spectacular individual specimen trees. In the entrance courtyard, along with a lily pond and slender palm trees, is the carriage of an old tram that used to carry visitors from the hotel to the Falls. In another courtyard, in the Stable Wing, a peaceful, fragrant herb garden supplies the hotel's kitchen and its cocktail bar with rosemary, mint and much more.

Throughout the hotel, the walls are adorned with pictures, prints and posters looking back on the building’s history, mixed with British and colonial memorabilia from Africa – and a few slightly moth-eaten-looking hunting trophies. This might look corny or anachronistic in many settings, but here it seems effective.

Since one of our team first visited the Victoria Falls Hotel in 1987, we’ve watched as it has – like the country of Zimbabwe – come through some tough periods of chronic under-investment. However, in more recent years the hotel’s staff and infrastructure have been properly resourced, raising standards of comfort and service to match some of Africa’s best hotels.

The public areas of the hotel have long had a luxurious, Edwardian style; now their décor and furnishings are also well-maintained. Gone is the lackadaisical attitude from the staff which we saw in the first years of this millennium, to be replaced by a more attentive, service-oriented approach, befitting of the well-trained team of a smart, modern hotel. Altogether it’s now very much a class act.

The 161 rooms and suites at Victoria Falls Hotel come in a range of sizes, all with period décor and modern fixtures.

  • Standard Rooms, located in the Central Wing, have views onto the gardens and courtyards. Decorated in an Edwardian style, these generally have the same footprint as the original rooms built over a century ago. So while they have been updated with modern amenities – including air conditioning, electronic safes, a telephone and a tea/coffee station – their bathrooms incorporate a shower over the bath, and most are really quite small.
  • Deluxe Rooms, also found in the Central Wing, either have views onto the gardens and courtyards or towards the gorge and the famous old bridge. Similar in amenities and size to the Standard Rooms, they have a slightly larger bathroom with separate bath and shower.
  • A further group of Deluxe Rooms is set in the Stable Wing, with views either onto the stable courtyard or towards the gorge and bridge. This wing is the newest addition to the Victoria Falls Hotel, with much newer rooms that are nearly twice the size of the older Deluxe Central Wing rooms. They are decorated and furnished in a modern take on the Edwardian style, which looks good and generally works very welll.
  • Four Honeymoon Suites, two in the older section of the hotel and two in the newer wing, have king-size beds and four-poster king-size beds respectively. Each has its own lounge area, and includes a minibar, personal safe and air conditioning. Suites in the new wing are slightly larger, with a balcony overlooking the gardens, a separate bath and shower, and his and hers washbasins. The older suites have a shower over the bath and no balcony, but do have a view looking down towards the Falls and the bridge.
  • Junior Suites and Executive Suites are very large, with a reception room that is separate from both the bedroom and the bathroom. Having been refurbished in 2015, these suites still look superb. They have retained their traditional style of décor, but now have the same smart standards as the rest of the hotel.
The extensive range of facilities at The Victoria Falls Hotel includes complimentary WiFi throughout. Staying most recently in April 2019, each of our party was given one code which could be used by several devices, and a data allowance of 1GB of data. The speed allowed swift download of data, and reasonable browsing of the web. We understand that the main limitation in this is the country’s infrastructure, not the hotel’s.

From the breakfast buffet served at the Jungle Junction, to relaxed all-day eats on the terrace, and the smart, formal dining in the Livingstone Room – food standards are high, and it’s reasonably priced. The hotel has several restaurants, offering an assortment of dining experiences:

Breakfast is served in the relaxed, open-sided Jungle Junction, which is a short walk through the hotel gardens.

For drinks and meals throughout the day, including brunch, lunch and high tea in the afternoon, Stanley's Terrace lines the veranda of the main hotel building – with a great view of the Victoria Falls Bridge and the cloud of spray over the lawns.

Tucked away beside a corner of the terrace, the well-stocked bar and animal-print couches of Stanley's Bar are often overlooked, yet it makes a very convivial spot for pre-dinner drinks, with a particularly extensive cocktail menu.

The imposing Livingstone Room offers a real sense of occasion and very formal dining. Decorated in classic Edwardian style, it is open nightly for dinner, accompanied by a pianist with an eclectic repertoire of classic rock, pop and classical tunes. During dinner, engaged diners can have their own game of “name that tune” – and later those inclined can dance on the sprung wooden dance floor, and make requests!

In recent years, the requirement for gentlemen to wear jackets and ties in the Livingstone Room has been dropped, but there remains a dress code which bans “safari wear” in favour of expecting guests to dress smartly for dinner. For men, this means a collared shirt, trousers and closed shoes; for ladies, smart evening wear. The hotel doesn’t usually allow children under 12 years old to dine here.

The hotel’s stately air never feels energetic, but for those who are so inclined there’s a small air-conditioned gym and a couple of tennis courts. More in keeping with the general pace would be a treatment at the small spa, which offers manicures, facials and a range of body treatments.

The swimming pool is a reasonable size (about 20m x 10m) and, with an adjacent section of lawn, its deckchairs and loungers make an inviting place to relax. There’s a poolside bar and lunchtime barbecue here, and pool-side massages can be arranged. There's even a chapel, which has services every Sunday and is also available for weddings.

For most people, activities at the Victoria Falls Hotel focus on the waterfall and perhaps some shopping for curios. The Victoria Falls themselves, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, are about 15 minutes’ walk away, or a five-minute taxi ride. Most visitors look around themselves rather than taking a guide. Although the hotel has a private gate to a convenient path which leads from the gardens directly down to the Falls, this was locked on our most recent visit. (When it’s open, just beware of the occasional elephant or buffalo in this area.)

Opportunities to browse for curios abound, with a good market near the entrance to the waterfall, and an even more extensive series of craft markets about ten minutes’ walk from the hotel in and around Elephant Walk shopping centre. The hotel itself also has a good, small shop crammed with a wide variety of curios and gifts.

Staff on the desk can always organise last-minute activities, from horse-riding, parasailing, golf and canoeing to the more adventurous white-water rafting, abseiling, bungee jumping and gorge swinging.

Geographics

Location
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Ideal length of stay
We'd usually recommend a stay of 2–3 nights at the Victoria Falls Hotel.
Directions
Between the town of Victoria Falls and the eponymous waterfall, and next to the town’s (now very quiet) railway station, the Victoria Falls Hotel has a great location and is easy to find.
Accessible by
Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Bed & Breakfast
Food quality
An extensive breakfast buffet is served every day at Jungle Junction, in the hotel’s grounds beside a small sculpture park. This often feels like the busiest part of the hotel, with many visitors eating quickly before heading off somewhere. There are sections for cereals, fruits, cold meats and cheeses – as well as an extensive range of cooked options, and several chefs preparing eggs to order, waffles, pancakes and the like. The staff here function as a well-oiled machine, even when volumes of diners are high. It’s worth noting that most visitors rise fairly early, so they stop serving breakfast at around 9.30am.

Stanley's Terrace has table service throughout the day on its wide, sheltered veranda – which spills out onto tables under umbrellas on its sunny terrace. Here you’ll find drinks, snacks and light meals at almost any time – including brunch, lunch and high tea.

Lunch here gets busy, so book a table on the veranda when you return from breakfast. You’ll find a good menu with a range of dishes and some interesting choices – a few salads, various wraps and sandwiches, burgers, pasta, and a couple of dessert options. A much smaller children’s menu is great value. In April 2019 eight of us had different options for lunch here – from salmon fillet on a Caesar salad, to a child’s burger and chips – and all were fresh and very good.

High tea on Stanley's Terrace is something of an institution, attracting guests and non-residents alike to soak up the ambience and view while enjoying a pot of tea and a neatly presented three-storey tower of scones, sandwiches and cakes.

Dinner is served both on Stanley's Terrace, or in the very smart Livingstone Room, where the à la carte menu provides five or six options per course, or a menu dégustation. Expect an extensive wine list and knowledgeable, if very formal service.

We’ve eaten there most recently in 2015 and in 2019 – on both occasions in relatively large groups. It’s an unusually formal atmosphere by modern standards, with guests expected to “dress for dinner” – but that makes it all the more fun if you enjoy the formality. The food has been excellent on both occasions, particularly notable for a liberal sprinkling of game-meat dishes throughout the à la carte menu and a very theatrical crêpe suzette.

For after-dinner nightcaps, the extensive cocktail menu of the nearby Stanley's Bar is exclusively for residents and diners; it’s a bar that looks the part for serious, late-night deliberations over exotic variants of hard liquor
Dining style
Individual Tables
Dining locations
Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service
Room service available 24 hours
Drinks included
Drinks are not included. The average cost of a soft drink is U$2–3 with a bottle of wine costing from US$25.

The tap water in Victoria Falls is considered safe to drink. In addition, filtered and bottled water is provided in the rooms.

Special interests

Honeymoons
An outpost dating from the turn of the 19th century, the Victoria Falls Hotel has a gracious air and period-style furnishings, but also modern facilities and attentive service. Take a suite here for a very romantic few days as part of a honeymoon in Zimbabwe or the surrounding area.
See ideas for Honeymoons in Zimbabwe
Wellbeing
Victoria Falls may be the adrenalin capital of Zimbabwe, but you can take things a little slower at the Victoria Falls Hotel. Keep yourself fit with a large swimming pool, tennis courts and a gym, or try out the small spa, perfect for a little overindulgence.
See ideas for Wellbeing in Zimbabwe
Luxury
The furnishings and décor of the Victoria Falls Hotel evoke an era of Edwardian gentility, whilst functioning well with efficient modern amenities. For true indulgence, stay under the high ceilings of The Stable Wing, or in one of the hotel’s large and luxurious suites.
See ideas for Luxury in Zimbabwe

Children

Attitude towards children
The Victoria Falls Hotel happily accepts children of any age, and we’ve found them to be welcoming to our own children.
Property’s age restrictions
Only the formal dining in the Livingstone Room has any age restrictions associated with it (no under 12s).
Special activities & services
A babysitting service is available – but note that babysitters are unlikely to be trained up to UK standards. Stanley’s Terrace has a small but good children’s menu for lunch.
Equipment
Cots are available on request.
Generally recommended for children
The Falls Hotel is generally great for children, with large public spaces inside and even more extensive lawned areas outside. A sizeable swimming pool is a firm favourite – albeit the shallow end is minimal, so children who can’t swim will need very close supervision,
Notes
This is an old hotel filled with beautiful furniture and antiques and it is the responsibility of parents or guardians to look after their children.

Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Victoria Falls Hotel

Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Victoria Falls Hotel have kindly recorded their wildlife sightings and shared them with us. The results are below. Click an animal to see more, and here to see more on our methodology.

Elephant

39% success

Buffalo

4% success

Leopard

0% success

Zebra

0% success

Communications

Power supply notes
There are plug points in all the rooms so charging camera equipment isn't a problem, though guests may wish to bring their own travel adaptors for their appliances. The power in Victoria Falls on our last visit was generally very reliable, and when it wasn't the hotel's back-up generator swung into action very quickly.
Communications
There is a telephone in each room and complimentary WiFi throughout the hotel.The hotel also has internet facilities near reception for guest use
TV & radio
Each room has a television with local and international cable channels.
Water supply
Mains
Water supply notes
Bathrooms are fully plumbed.

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended
Yes
Medical care
There is a doctor on call 24 hours a day.
Dangerous animals
Low Risk
Security measures
24-hour security personnel patrol the premises and there is a boom gate at the entrance which is constantly manned.
Fire safety
Fire extinguishers are dotted around the hotel and there are well-demarcated fire assembly points in the main area.

Activities

  • 4WD Safari

    4WD Safari

  • Birdwatching

    Birdwatching

  • Boat trip

    Boat trip

  • Canoeing

    Canoeing

  • Cultural excursion

    Cultural excursion

  • Elephant encounter

    Elephant encounter

  • Helicopter

    Helicopter

  • Kayaking

    Kayaking

  • Microlight

    Microlight

  • White-water rafting

    White-water rafting

Extras

Disabled access
On Request
Laundry facilities
A full laundry service is available at extra cost. Items are usually returned to guests within 24 hours.
Money
Each room has its own electronic safe. The hotel reception will exchange money – although rates may not be the most favourable in town.
Accepted payment on location
The Victoria Falls Hotel accepts Visa cards but not Mastercard, American Express or Diners’ Card at present.

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Victoria Falls Hotel's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Victoria Falls Hotel.


Excursions from Victoria Falls Hotel

Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Victoria Falls Hotel. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.


Bushtracks Express

Bushtracks Express

Generally four and a half hours

The Bushtracks Express Train starts its journey at Zimbabwe’s iconic Victoria Falls Station before departing on its route through Victoria Falls National Park the Victoria Falls Bridge, where guests enjoy the stunning view of the Falls. Afterwards, the train will depart for a siding out of town, for dinner.

More about Bushtracks Express
Chobe Day Trip

Chobe Day Trip

Full day - typically around 11 hours

For a top safari experience while visiting the Victoria Falls, don’t miss a day trip to Botswana’s Chobe National Park. Easily reachable from Livingstone, Zambia or Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, Chobe boasts some of the best wildlife densities in southern Africa, with exceptional numbers of elephant drawn by the permanent waters of the Chobe River.

More about Chobe Day Trip
100% (1 reviews)
Cookery Course & Activity

Cookery Course & Activity

Six hours - afternoon activity

Make a traditional Southern African ‘potjie dinner’ on the banks of the Zambezi River. You’ll be guided through the preparation process by professional chefs before embarking on an afternoon activity while your dinner cooks. The activity is followed by a 3-course meal, including your self-made Pot as the main course.

More about Cookery Course
Elephant Art Experience

Elephant Art Experience

Three hours

The Wild Horizons Elephant Sanctuary and Art of Africa have teamed up to create a unique experience in the bush, with private tutors running painting workshops and habituated elephants provision impressive models, standing just metres away from your easel.

More about Elephant Art Experience
Elephant Encounter

Elephant Encounter

Three hours

For a very personal encounter with elephants, head to The Elephant Camp near Victoria Falls. From its sanctuary for orphaned elephants, it offers close interaction with one of Africa's most iconic species, including the chance to feed the elephants by hand, and talk to the guides who have raised and trained them.

More about Elephant Encounter
92% (5 reviews)
Guided tour of Victoria Falls

Guided tour of Victoria Falls

Two hours - AM & PM departures

One of the seven Natural Wonders of the World, the mighty Victoria Falls has to be seen to be believed. Why not take an expertly guided trip to learn about the history, geology, flora and fauna of one of Africa's most spectacular sites?

More about Tour of the Falls
100% (5 reviews)
Helicopter Flight - Zimbabwe

Helicopter Flight - Zimbabwe

Shortest flight is 12-25 minutes

While viewing the Victoria Falls from the ground is a stunning experience, seen the world’s largest waterfall from the air allows for a completely different perspective, historically said to have been so beautiful as to have been seen by ‘angels in flight’.

More about Helicopter Flight
96% (9 reviews)
Historical Bridge Tour

Historical Bridge Tour

Two hours - AM & PM departures

A feat of engineering the Victoria Falls Bridge was built in 1905 as part of Cecil Rhodes' vision to link the Cape to Cairo. With an expert guide and the appropriate safety equipment you'll not only discover the wonders of this Victorian marvel but also gain a unique perspective of the Victoria Falls themselves.

More about Bridge Tour
Livingstone Island & Devil's Pool

Livingstone Island & Devil's Pool

Three hours

Victoria Falls is one of the world's natural wonders, and a huge attraction for many visitors to southern Africa. We're often asked if the waterfall is best viewed from the Zambian or Zimbabwean side, but we think the best way to experience the full majesty of the falls is from the middle with a visit to Livingstone Island.

More about Livingstone Island
96% (9 reviews)
Ra-Ikane River Cruise

Ra-Ikane River Cruise

Two hours minimum

Cruising the upper sections of the Zambezi reveals another dimension to the river's beauty, adding a sense of serenity to the thrill of watching it cascade over the Victoria Falls. On a Ra-Ikane river cruise, experience the river’s islands and channels, keeping an eye out for wildlife, and the spray from the Falls.

More about Ra-Ikane River Cruise
95% (40 reviews)
Rhino Walk

Rhino Walk

Around four hours - mornings only

Spend an unforgettable morning on a walking safari tracking Mosi-oa-Tunya’s small population of white rhino, with a strong chance of being able to approach these endangered creatures on foot.

More about Rhino Walk
95% (4 reviews)
Zambezi Explorer River Cruise

Zambezi Explorer River Cruise

Two hours

Watching the sunset from the middle of the Zambezi River, with the spray of the falls behind you, is an incredibly popular activity. A large variety of cruises are on offer, ranging from cheap and boozy directed towards the backpacker crowd, to much more luxurious and serene experiences. A great option for the latter style is the Zambezi Explorer.

More about Zambezi Explorer
100% (4 reviews)

Other lodges in Victoria Falls

Alternative places to stay in this same area.


Ilala Lodge

Ilala Lodge

Exceptionally well located between the Victoria Falls and the town of the same name, Ilala Lodge has comfortable rooms, a friendly atmosphere & great food.


93% (273 reviews)
Batonka Guest Lodge

Batonka Guest Lodge

Small, comfortable and in lovely gardens, Batonka Guest Lodge is a perfect base for exploring the Victoria Falls away from the bustle of the town.


96% (30 reviews)
Victoria Falls Safari Lodge

Victoria Falls Lodge

High on a plateau a short distance outside Victoria Falls Town, the comfortable Victoria Falls Safari Lodge overlooks its own waterhole.


88% (22 reviews)
Sprayview Hotel

Sprayview Hotel

In close proximity to both the town and the Victoria Falls themselves, Sprayview is a value-for-money hotel in a convenient location.


75% (16 reviews)
The Elephant Camp

The Elephant Camp

The Elephant Camp is a luxury tented camp in its own private concession within Victoria Falls National Park, just 15-minute's drive town.


93% (15 reviews)
Old Drift Lodge

Old Drift Lodge

A lovely addition to the options in Victoria Falls, the stylish Old Drift has a great location in Zimbabwe's Zambezi National Park, with a range of activities.


94% (14 reviews)
Palm River Hotel

Palm River

Palm River Hotel offers a high-quality stay in a picturesque location on the banks of the Zambezi, with excellent food and a shuttle to the Victoria Falls.


100% (10 reviews)
Victoria Falls Safari Club

Victoria Falls Club

Just outside of Victoria Falls Town, Victoria Falls Safari Club offers an exclusive, relaxing and luxurious base to explore the area.


94% (10 reviews)
Pioneers

Pioneers

Located a five-minute drive from the buzz of Victoria Falls town, the mid-size Pioneers offers a relaxing stay in one of Zimbabwe's most iconic destinations.


98% (9 reviews)
Gorges Lodge

Gorges Lodge

Gorges Lodge has spectacular views from its perch on the edge of the Batoka Gorge. Although it is out of town it isn't too far from the main attractions.


98% (8 reviews)
Zambezi Sands

Zambezi Sands

Zambezi Sands is a stylish new camp with a range of activities on a remote stretch of the Zambezi River.


100% (3 reviews)
528 Victoria Falls

528 Victoria Falls

528 Victoria Falls is a charming, owner-run, boutique B&B in a leafy suburb of Victoria Falls town, offering an oasis of calm in an often-busy location.


80% (1 review)
Matetsi River Lodge

Matetsi River Lodge

Situated in the private Matetsi Reserve, Matetsi River Lodge offers luxury suites, game drives and river activities within reach of the Victoria Falls.


100% (1 review)
Victoria Falls Safari Suites

Victoria Falls Suites

Just out of the town, Victoria Falls Safari Suites offers an exclusive, relaxing and luxurious base from which to explore.


100% (1 review)
Mpala Jena

Mpala Jena

In Zambezi National Park, Mpala Jena offers a luxurious but eco-friendly experience, within easy access of the Victoria Falls.


No reviews yet

When to go to Victoria Falls

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Victoria Falls Hotel in Victoria Falls


Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Zimbabwe in January

January falls in the middle of Zimbabwe’s rainy season and is the wettest month of the year. Heavy rainfall occurs most days, flooding seasonal rivers and waterholes, with the occasional sunny spell.
With the high levels of precipitation the wildlife in the national parks becomes widely dispersed, taking advantage of the abundance of food and water, and is easily hidden by the thick, green bush.

While sightings of larger animals are possible, and many species drop their young at this time, game viewing is often sparse. However, many migratory species of bird arrive in Zimbabwe making it a peak month for birding.

The rains create incredibly sticky mud in Mana Pools National Park, preventing access and causing camps to close for the season. The majority of the camps in other parks remain open, with low rates attracting a smattering of visitors.

  • Peak of the rainy season: hot & humid with heavy rain most days
  • Bush exceptionally thick and green, with poor game viewing
  • Species such as impala drop their young
  • All camps in Mana Pools closed
  • Very few visitors, and low rates at open camps

Our view

A time to avoid if possible

Weather in January

Zimbabwe in February

February remains well within Zimbabwe’s rainy season. Although total rainfall drops, relatively short thunderstorms can still be expected most afternoons. On the plus side, there is a greater chance of some sunshine in-between.

Much of the country remains waterlogged, closing access to Mana Pools and severely restricting walking safaris in other parks. While game drives and canoeing remain an option, the abundance of water disperses animals, and thick grass can make it difficult to spot larger species, but birding remains excellent. Conversely, this is a great time of year to view the landscape, and is excellent for photographers. Sporadic cloud cover and clear air can make for some spectacular sunsets too, particularly over Lake Kariba and the Zambezi River where the reflections off the water add to the beauty.

  • Generally wet with frequent thunderstorms & hot humid days
  • Poor wildlife viewing due to dispersed animals & thick bush
  • Clear air, green landscapes & exceptional sunsets
  • All camps in Mana Pools closed
  • Very few visitors & low rates at camps that are open

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in February

Zimbabwe in March

March is the final month of Zimbabwe’s rainy season, when the rains start to trail off and sunny days become the norm. However, some days the clouds can still build, breaking into thunderstorms in the afternoon.

Mana Pools remains closed throughout the month but the majority of camps in Hwange, Matusadona and Gonarezhou remain open. Here, the landscape is green and alive, with migrant species of birds taking advantage of the abundant insect life. Larger animals remain elusive though, and walking safaris remain restricted.

By this time of year, the rains have normally trickled down to the Zambezi River and the flow of water over the Victoria Falls starts to increase, but without kicking up too much spray to obscure the views.

  • Last month of the rainy season: hot, humid days with occasional storms
  • Lush vegetation means good birding, but poor game viewing
  • Views of the Victoria Falls improve
  • All camps in Mana Pools closed
  • Open camps have few visitors & low rates

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in March

Zimbabwe in April

April marks the end of Zimbabwe’s rainy season and the end of summer. Clear skies are the norm, with just the occasional shower. Temperatures start to drop, failing to reach 30ºC most days and dropping down to around 10ºC at night.

As the rain fades the landscape starts to dry out. While the vegetation remains thick and green, the soil in Mana Pools dries enough for camps to open, and the only camps to remain closed are the most remote bushcamps in Hwange. Although viewing of larger animals remains tricky, the improved weather starts to draw back visitors, as do prices significantly below those in the peak season.

The Zambezi River and flow of water over the Victoria Falls is at its highest, although large amounts of spray diminish views of the waterfall itself.

  • Transitional period, with much lower rainfall & falling temperatures
  • Wildlife is still dispersed & hard to see, but sightings improving
  • Views of the Victoria Falls often obscured by spray
  • Camps in Mana Pools open
  • Visitors start to return & camps increase their rates

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in April

Zimbabwe in May

The first month in the dry season, May is also Zimbabwe’s first month of winter. If the rains are particularly late in a given year, you may catch the odd shower, but you can expect clear and sunny days the majority of the time. While it’s warm in the daytime, temperatures drop to single digits at night, so bring a warm jumper and gloves for early morning drives.

With the rain having cleared the air, the sky is bright blue, and it’s the best time of year for photography.

Even the most remote camps in Zimbabwe are now open. With the lack of rainfall, vegetation dies back significantly, and seasonal rivers return to sand. Not only does this open up the possibility of walking safaris, but wildlife viewing becomes much more reliable.

  • Start of the dry season, with milder days and cold nights
  • Game viewing significantly improves as vegetation dies back
  • Vegetation starts to turn from green to brown
  • Best time for photography with crystal clear air
  • Visitors start to return; all camps open & rates increasing

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in May

Zimbabwe in June

During June you can virtually be guaranteed of dry and sunny days, although temperatures continue to drop, and can get close to freezing at night in Hwange National Park. Jumpers, jackets and gloves are strongly recommended for early mornings and evenings.

The opportunities for wildlife viewing improve throughout the month as the landscape rapidly dries, and the animals start to gather on the banks of the Zambezi River and around Hwange’s waterholes.

Water levels in the Zambezi River start to drop, reducing the amount of spray kicked up at the Victoria Falls and greatly improving visibility, but still allowing a full curtain of water to cascade over the edge.

  • Middle of winter, with night-time temperatures close to freezing
  • Game viewing significantly improves throughout the month
  • Views of the Victoria Falls are at their best
  • Noticeable increase in visitor numbers
  • Camps considerably more expensive

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in June

Zimbabwe in July

July sits in the middle of Zimbabwe’s dry season. Although it’s warm at midday, temperatures are generally cold and in Hwange it’s been known to drop below freezing at night, with the lower-altitude Mana Pools feeling a bit warmer.

With wildlife clustering around the few remaining waterholes, sparse vegetation, and some of the best views of the Victoria Falls, this is one of the most popular times to travel, with camps charging peak season rates to reflect this. That said, visitor numbers to the country in general remain low, and outside of the Victoria Falls it’s rare for any areas to feel crowded.

  • Middle of the dry season with almost no chance of rain
  • Clear sunny days, but very cold nights
  • Wildlife viewing good; game drives and walking safaris unrestricted
  • Views of the Victoria Falls at their best
  • Camps charging peak season rates

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in July

Zimbabwe in August

While August is the end of winter and temperatures are starting to creep up, mornings and nights are still cold, and game drives in open vehicles can feel particularly chilly. Well into the dry season, the landscapes will have mostly transformed from green to brown and wildlife viewing in Zimbabwe’s national parks is approaching its best. Due to dust kicked up into the atmosphere and smoke from bush fires you may start to notice a haze on the horizon, but this doesn’t significantly impact photography.

August is one of the most expensive months, and the pleasant weather and decent game viewing attracts lots of visitors. While the national parks rarely feel crowded, Victoria Falls accommodation can sell out a year in advance.

  • Warm, sunny days but cold mornings & nights; almost no chance of rain
  • Wildlife viewing nearly at its best
  • Landscape turns brown, & an atmospheric haze develops
  • All camps charging peak season rates

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in August

Zimbabwe in September

Temperatures in September rarely drop below 15ºC, but are yet to reach the oppressive highs of summer. It will normally have been five months since the last drop of rain, so antelope and elephants cluster around whatever water remains, with predators never too far away.

The landscape is very brown, and the haze building on the horizon takes some of the colour out of the sky, so while animal subjects are plentiful, the background is not ideal for photography.

The combination of incredible wildlife viewing, hot and sunny weather, and cheaper flights outside of the school holidays make this the most popular time of year to travel, and availability at the camps can become limited up to a year in advance.

  • The best month for weather, with a pleasantly warm temperature range
  • One of the best months for game viewing
  • Victoria Falls starting to dry but still impressive on Zimbabwean side
  • All camps are charging peak season rates
  • Most popular time to travel, & space can be limited

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in September

Zimbabwe in October

October is the last month of the dry season with little chance of rain but building humidity. While the higher elevation of Hwange National Park limits temperatures to the 30s Celsius, they can easily top 40ºC in Mana Pools.

With little vegetation or water, wildlife is drawn to the few remaining water sources and viewing is at its best; visitors who brave the heat can be rewarded with some exceptional sightings, although haze in the air diminishes photos. Maximum visibility and dense wildlife concentrations can also make for very rewarding walking safaris, although the heat can make them uncomfortable.

Water levels in the Zambezi at the Victoria Falls drop significantly, and large stretches of the waterfall are a dry cliff-face – although it never dries completely. Camp rates remain at their peak, but visitor numbers drop as people avoid the heat.

  • Last month of the dry season; very hot with building humidity
  • Wildlife viewing at its very best
  • Dust & smoke in the air diminish photographic opportunities
  • Victoria Falls starting to look very dry
  • Camp rates remain at their peak

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in October

Zimbabwe in November

November is a transitionary period, with high temperatures and humidity. While they can’t be predicted with any precision, the first rains normally arrive halfway through the month, in the form of thunderstorms lasting a few hours each day.

Early November is a popular time to travel as the camps drop their rates, so if you’re lucky you can get peak-season game viewing at low-season rates. This is a gamble though as if the rains do arrive, animals are no longer limited to a few dangerous waterholes and will disperse into the bush. While all the camps in Mana Pools intend to remain open, the rains can make the airstrips unusable so you may find yourself moved to a different park, a risk that increases through the month.

  • Typically the start of the rains in Zimbabwe
  • Temperatures & humidity levels remain high
  • Wildlife viewing rapidly diminishes as the rains arrive
  • Camps remain open, but risk early closure in Mana Pools
  • Much cheaper time to travel as camps drop their rates

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in November

Zimbabwe in December

By December the rainy season has begun in earnest; this is one of the wettest months in Zimbabwe, with heavy thunderstorms most afternoons and occasionally continuous rain for a couple of days. While temperatures start to cool down the high levels of humidity can make the heat feel more oppressive.

With the rains comes an explosion of green growth, and the dust and smoke are washed out of the air. The resulting scenery – with the occasional bright blue skies – can be fantastic for photographers. Thick vegetation and plentiful water makes viewing of larger animals tricky, but with migratory species arriving the birding is at its best.

All camps in Mana Pools and the remote Hwange camps close, with those remaining open charging their lowest rates.

  • One of the wettest months in Zimbabwe
  • High temperatures & levels of humidity
  • Wildlife viewing poor, but birding good
  • Lush green landscapes & clear air; great for landscape photography
  • All camps in Mana Pools closed

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in December

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