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A gem among Africa’s safari destinations, Zimbabwe boasts some of the most spectacular untamed wilderness, wildlife encounters and experiences that are hard to match anywhere else on the continent. Start your trip with some classic game viewing in Hwange, stopping off at Mana Pools, Lake Kariba and Malilangwe along the way, before ending off with a bang in Africa’s Adventure Capital, Victoria Falls.
With each region offering its own unique wonders, exploring the country’s top spots is highly recommended. To help you plan and find the best Zimbabwe accommodation, we’ve found the 19 best places to stay in Zimbabwe:
Lake Kariba, Matusadona National Park:
1. Bumi Hills Safari Lodge
Set on verdant hills bordering Matusadona National Park that overlook the tranquil waters of Lake Kariba, Bumi Hills offers a secluded safari experience in a game-rich region without foregoing modern-day luxury and comfort. Tastefully decorated rooms resemble those of a 5-star hotel, while boasting picturesque views of the majestic landscape below. Opulent lodgings are complemented by a host of activities to fill your days – from sunset cruises on the lake to searching for lions on game drives.
Highlights:
- Spectacular views of Lake Kariba & Zambezi escarpment
- Private, game-rich concession
- Sunset cruises on the lake
- Ngwana Club for kids’ entertainment
- Animal tracking experiences
Best for…
Family & romantic getaways.
2. Changa Safari Camp
Hidden among the Mopane woodlands on the shores of Lake Kariba, the charming Changa Safari Camp exudes a rustic elegance that blends luxury and homeliness. The eco-conscious camp is constructed from all-natural materials and draws inspiration from the surrounding wilderness. Traditional canvas tents are stylishly decorated with African textiles and local hand-carved furnishings. Serene and remote, Changa Camp offers an authentic safari experience in one of Africa’s extraordinary safari destinations.
Highlights:
- Boat safaris on Lake Kariba
- Fresh, gourmet dining
- Picturesque views of the lake
- Wildlife roams close to camp
- Guided bush walks, photography safaris & fishing
- Boat trips to Sanyati Gorge
Best for…
Family vacations.
3. Fothergill Island
Fothergill Island is a beautiful, tented camp that offers the very best of an authentic safari experience while not compromising on modern luxury. The camp blends harmoniously into the surrounding environment of Lake Kariba and the Matusadona National Park, and is an eco-friendly option relying primarily on solar energy. Bespoke activities include nature walks, fly-fishing, archery and superb game viewing, encountering some of Africa’s large mammals such as elephant and buffalo.
Highlights:
- Unique luxury tented camp in Matusadona National Park
- 95% of the camp’s energy requirements come from solar energy
- Explore the National Park and Lake Kariba on foot, safari vehicle or boat
- Private plunge pools
- Fishing, bird watching, stargazing and archery
- Age-appropriate children’s activities available
- Sunset cruises on Lake Kariba
- Exclusive and private, ideal for couples
Best for…
Families, couples & honeymooners.
Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve:
4. Malilangwe House
For an exclusive, private and ultra-luxury getaway, look no further than the upscale and elegant Malilangwe House. Ideal for families and groups of friends, guests at the exclusive-use villa are treated like royalty. A private chef prepares fresh, delectable meals; a dedicated butler fulfils your heart’s every desire; and a personal field guide takes you on tailor-made days of adventure and exploration. ‘Roughing it’ in the wild has never looked better.
Highlights:
- Luxury, exclusive-use villa in a game-rich reserve
- Spectacular views of bushland & Malilangwe Dam
- Tailor-made safari experiences
- Private chef, butler, game vehicle & field guide
- Sundowner cruises on the dam
- Mini Rangers Course & kids’ activities
Best for…
Families & small groups.
5. Singita Pamushana Lodge
Perched on a sandstone ridge above the Malilangwe Dam sits the slice of paradise that is Singita Pamushana Lodge. Elegant thatch-and-stone buildings pay tribute to the surrounding landscape with its earthy colour palette, while local handcrafted woodwork and furnishings adorned with fabrics featuring traditional patterns are a nod to the lodge’s African roots. Whether you’re indulging in Michelin star-worthy meals under a canopy of stars, taking in the awe-inspiring view while soaking in the infinity swimming pool or having a heavenly massage on your private veranda, you’ll experience the African wilderness in style at Pamushana.
Highlights:
- 5-star dining in various locations & extensive wine cellar
- Visit ancient San rock art sites
- Spectacular views of Malilangwe Dam & Wildlife Reserve
- Sundowner cruises on the dam
- Reliable black rhino sightings
Best for…
Family vacations.
Hwange National Park:
6. Somalisa Acacia
Somalisa Acacia seamlessly combines an authentic African safari with a 5-star luxury getaway. Traditional canvas tents and game drives through the wildlife-rich Hwange National Park will delight your inner explorer, while modern amenities and luxe design ensure a comfortable stay. Exuding the romance of a bygone era, one can’t help but be transported back in time when soaking in the freestanding copper bathtub with a view of the never-ending bushland ahead of you.
Highlights:
- Elephants congregate at Somalisa Acacia’s drinking pool
- Great game sightings from camp
- Intimate & family-friendly
- Ngwana Club keeps kids entertained
- Walking safaris & night drives
Best for…
Families with young kids & small groups.
7. Linkwasha Camp
Simple yet elegant, Linkwasha is arguably Hwange‘s most luxurious safari camp. The camp’s minimalist design captures the elegance and style of a contemporary penthouse suite, while still managing to subtly remind guests that they’re in the heart of the African wilderness. The exterior of the canvas Meru-style tents does well to give the impression that guests are ‘roughing it’. Inside, however, the tasteful décor and chic furnishings show the camps true luxurious nature. The perfect combinations of these two vastly different worlds makes for a safari experience you’ll never forget.
Highlights:
- Sleepouts under the night sky in the star-bed
- Excellent birding
- Great predator action
- Photography hide
- Night drives & guided bush walks in a private concession
Best for…
Safari-lovers & couples.
8. The Hide
A luxury getaway with a quirky twist, The Hide is a charming safari lodge in the heart of the wildlife-rich Hwange National Park. The lodge is geared for family safaris that accommodate the entire brood, with a private suite and exclusive-use villa, as well as special packages that include free board for children under the age of 10. With something for safari-goers of every age, there’s no better place spend a family vacation.
Highlights:
- Sleepouts under the stars in the Dove’s Nest
- Family-friendly safari camp
- Wildlife-frequented watering hole in front of camp
- Charming, quirky lodge on a private concession
- Reliable big game sightings
- Photography hide
Best for…
Families & small groups.
Mana Pools National Park:
9. Nyamatusi Camp
Conservation has never been more in vogue and Nyamatusi proves that sustainable living can be glamourous too. Set deep in the Mana Pools National Park, the camp ensures that its sustainability and eco-friendly principles are implemented in every respect. From the large solar farm that powers the camp to the natural materials used to construct the contemporary main building, Nyamatusi is eco chic. Guests can relax and enjoy the African wilderness knowing that they’re having minimal impact on the untamed surroundings.
Highlights:
- Breathtaking views of the Zambezi River
- Canoeing, fishing & guided nature walks
- Eco-friendly luxury camp
- Reliable elephant sightings
Best for…
Couples & romantic getaways.
10. Ruckomechi Camp
Ruckomechi sits on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River, an iconic African landmark known for its immense concentration of hippo. This tented camp promises an authentic safari experience in one of Zimbabwe’s most famous national parks without foregoing any of the comforts one expects from a luxury vacation. And when you’re not enjoying all that Rukomechi has to offer, head out and explore the diverse ecosystem by 4×4 vehicle, boat or on foot.
Highlights:
- Spectacular views of the Zambezi River
- Guaranteed sightings of elephant & buffalo
- Reliable predator sightings
- Sleepouts under the night sky in the star-bed
- Boating & canoeing
- Guided bush walks
Best for…
Families & couples.
11. Little Ruckomechi Camp
The younger sibling to Ruckomechi, Little Ruckomechi’s location in Mana Pools embodies the essence of the richly diverse national park. The camp is comfortable, contemporary and stylish, making it the perfect respite after a day of ‘roughing it’ in the African wilderness. Track big cats through the bushland on game drives before enjoying a sunset cruise down the Zambezi River, snapping pictures of the hippo frolicking in the water as you float by. A true nature-lovers paradise, Little Ruckomechi will not disappoint.
Highlights:
- Great views of the Zambezi River & Zambian foothills
- Exclusive safari experience on a private concession
- Boating & canoeing on the Zambezi
- Incredible game viewing
- Birder’s paradise
Best for…
Safari-lovers.
12. Chikwenya Camp
Chikwenya is the quintessential Mana Pools camp. Putting its own stylish twist on the traditional safari tents, the camp has the grandeur of a 5-star presidential suite with its spacious, airy rooms and contemporary décor. Fold-over doors take full advantage of Chikwenya’s location, framing the sprawling plains against the backdrop of the Rift Valley escarpment. All the while, the camp’s location in a forest means that there are plenty of opportunities to see wildlife up-close as animals arrive to eat the pods of the ana trees.
Highlights:
- Guided walks along the Zambezi River & surrounding forest
- Boat & canoe safaris
- Catch & release fishing
- Night game drives in an exclusive-use area
- Elegant lodge in game-rich region
Best for…
Couples & romantic getaways.
13. Kanga Camp
Kanga Camp is a delight for the more adventurous traveller. Although it boasts lavish suites fitted with every creature comfort known to man, the seasonal camp (April to November) puts a strong emphasis on immersing guests in nature and getting as close as possible to the game that freely roams the camp. Explore nature at its wildest on game drives through Mana Pools or while tracking animals on foot around the private concession. Better yet, enjoy an armchair safari, viewing the vast array of wildlife from the comfort of the viewing deck.
Highlights:
- Luxury lodge in a private concession
- Reliable wild dog, leopard & lion sightings
- Great photography opportunities in the Kanga Hide
- Animal tracking experience
- Overlooks a permanent water pan frequented by animals
Best for…
Adventurous travellers & families with teenagers.
Zambezi National Park:
14. Mpala Jena Camp
Mpala Jena is a chic camp that blends Moroccan-influenced design with traditional safari elements to create a unique style with canvas tents, stonework and wooden decking. The lavish camp sits in the heart of the Zambezi National Park and borders the more popular Victoria Falls. This is the ideal location for those who want a private, peaceful getaway far from the crowds that’s still close enough to experience the thrills of Africa’s Adventure Capital.
Highlights:
- Secluded & tranquil luxury camp
- Close to Victoria Falls
- Stunning river views
- Boat cruises & canoeing
- Reliable sightings of buffalo, elephant, lion & African wild dogs
Best for…
Couples & small groups.
15. Old Drift Lodge
The elegant Old Drift Lodge sits on the lip of the mighty Zambezi River, offering a luxury safari getaway that will delight avid and first-time safari-goers alike. The contemporary, chic design and tasteful décor of the lodge is complemented by the striking views of the untouched surrounding landscape. Explore this natural wonderland on foot, in a vehicle or by boat. And if you’re feeling extra adventurous, take to the sky and get an aerial view of the world’s largest waterfall, Victoria Falls.
Highlights:
- Boat safaris & white-water rafting
- 360-degree views of the Zambezi River
- Lunch over Batoka Gorge
- Swim in Devil’s Pool
- Guided walking safari
- Scenic helicopter flights
- Vic Falls canopy tours
Best for…
Families, small groups & couples.
16. Victoria Falls River Lodge
Victoria Falls River Lodge is the first private lodge that was built in the hidden gem that is the Zambezi National Park. This lavish haven sits on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River and is so close to its namesake waterfall that you’re able to see its spray in the distance. Aside from the lodge’s 5-star luxury tents and top-tier service, guests can explore both the Zambezi and Victoria Falls National Parks with river cruises, game drives, helicopter flights and even a luxury steam train.
Highlights:
- Stunning views of the Zambezi River
- Close to Victoria Falls
- Boating & canoeing
- Adventure activities like river rafting & bungee jumping
- Tour the falls by helicopter & luxury steam train
Best for…
Families & small groups.
17. Island Treehouse Suites at Victoria Falls River Lodge
An extension of Victoria Falls River Lodge, the Island Treehouse suites are located on the private Kandahar Island just upstream from the world-famous waterfall. Constructed on stilted wooden decks and overlooking the Zambezi River, these beautifully designed suites are perfect for secluded, romantic getaways. For a special treat, book yourself into one of the star-bed suites for an unforgettable night under the African sky.
Highlights:
- Located on a private island only accessible by boat
- Access to all Victoria Falls River Lodge activities & facilities
- Panoramic river & forest views
- Personal butler service
- Boating & kayaking
- Star-bed sleepouts under the night sky
Best for…
Romantic getaways & honeymoons.
Victoria Falls National Park:
18. Victoria Falls Hotel
Victoria Falls Hotel’s charming Edwardian-style building transports guests back in time to an era of ageless elegance and grandeur. A member of the exclusive group of the globe’s top-tier hotels, Leading Hotels of the World, Victoria Falls stands as an icon in the luxury safari industry. Within walking distance to the one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the hotel is arguably the best place from which to explore this breathtaking marvel.
Highlights:
- Direct walkway to Victoria Falls
- Unobstructed views of the waterfall
- Conde Nast Traveller’s 2020 Gold List Award winner
- Helicopter & luxury steam train tours
- 5-star fine dining & service
Best for…
Families & couples.
19. The Elephant Camp
The Elephant Camp is best known for the visits from the pachyderms after which it is named. Guests can experience unforgettable encounters at the Wild Horizons Elephant Sanctuary, interacting with these gentle giants in an ethical and inobtrusive manner. Largest living land mammals aside, the camp’s close proximity to Victoria Falls allows for endless fun activities in Africa’s Adventure Capital, from game drives through the national park to ziplining over the falls.
Highlights:
- Uninterrupted views of Victoria Falls National Park bushland
- Ethical elephant encounters
- Canopy tours over the falls
- Boating, canoeing & white-water rafting
- Fine dining over Batoka Gorge
Best for…
Adventurous travellers.
