Travel blog

Best Victoria Falls Hotels to Stay At During Your Next Visit

With the mighty Zambezi River thundering into the gorge below and a constant mist hanging in the air, Victoria Falls is one of Africa’s most iconic travel destinations. Whether you’re here for adrenaline-fuelled adventure, wildlife safaris, or simply to soak in the natural wonder of it all, choosing the right hotel can make your trip even more unforgettable.

2min read

Published 6 May 2025

Sophie Baker

Guest Blogger

If you’re a fan of Anele Mdoda from 947 and Mzanzi’s Greatest Family (or the Nkoanes, as you might know them!) then you’ll know they recently spent a bucket list few days in Vic Falls and loved every moment of it. Want your own family to experience it firsthand? To help you plan the perfect stay, we’ve rounded up some of the best hotels near Victoria Falls. There’s luxurious riverside lodges to stylish safari stays and everything in between. Each option offers something special. Think unbeatable views, exceptional food, or access to once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Or maybe all of the above!

The Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara (Zambia)

Just steps from the waterfall itself and set within the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, this elegant five-star hotel is one of the most iconic in the region. Picture manicured lawns where zebras wander past, a colonial-style terrace perfect for sundowners, and private river-facing rooms that put you right at the heart of the action.

Guests can enjoy complimentary access to Victoria Falls, fine dining with Zambezi River views, and spa treatments under ancient monkey trees. It's ideal for a romantic escape or a luxe family adventure. For more on why it’s one of our top picks, check out our feature on The Royal Livingstone.

This is where Anele Mdoda stayed, and she was blown away by the hotel, food, beauty, and history that surround the "smoke that thunders."

A’Zambezi River Lodge (Zimbabwe)

If you want a stay that blends nature, convenience, and family-friendly comfort, A’Zambezi River Lodge should be high on your list. It’s the only hotel in Victoria Falls with its own river frontage and jetty on the mighty Zambezi. If you’ve been following Mzanzi’s Greatest Family’s social media on their trip to the falls, you might remember how good their sunset cruise was. Guess where it departed from? Yebo, right here!

The lodge is about 25km from the airport, set on lush lawns with thatch-roofed rooms that blend into the scenery. Guests here can book a special Flight Centre package that includes return flights from Johannesburg, airport transfers, and a stay for 3 nights, pay for 2 deal—plus the option to add dinners and a river cruise. It’s peaceful, affordable, and close enough to town to explore without feeling like you’re fighting off crowds.

Ilala Lodge Hotel (Zimbabwe)

This family-owned boutique hotel is located closest to the Zimbabwean entrance of the falls. With Edwardian-style touches and views of the mist from your balcony, Ilala Lodge gives you the best of both worlds: convenience without sacrificing any style or comfort. It's within easy walking distance to the Falls themselves. Plus, it’s really well located to ‘regular’ amenities like restaurants, shops, markets, and the famously atmospheric Victoria Falls town.

Expect beautifully furnished rooms, delicious al fresco dining, and a peaceful garden that often attracts grazing warthogs and bushbuck…who are probably looking to grab a bite of your brekkie! If you're looking for an upscale but relaxed stay, Ilala Lodge delivers.

Victoria Falls Safari Club (Zimbabwe)

Set within a private game reserve on the edge of town, the Victoria Falls Safari Club offers a more secluded experience with a touch of the wild. Each suite has a private deck with sweeping views over a wildlife-rich watering hole.

If an African getaway isn’t complete without a safari experience in your mind, then this is the perfect spot for quiet afternoons watching elephants and kudu wander in to drink.

A shuttle runs regularly into town and to the Falls so you don’t have to feel like you’re far away from the action either. Plus, there’s a huge viewing terrace, a stylish bar and restaurant for family dinners or sunset drinks, and access to nearby activities like game drives and cultural village tours.

Elephant Hills Resort (Zimbabwe)

Elephant Hills is one of the most popular hotels near Victoria Falls for a reason: it’s a large, resort-style property with excellent facilities, sweeping views, and a golf course where wildlife roam the fairways. Families will love the range of on-site restaurants and pool area, while couples and groups can enjoy easy access to the adventure capital of the region.

The resort also has a spa, tennis courts, and conference facilities, making it a solid pick for events, weddings, or longer stays. Or just for anyone who needs to entertain family members or groups with a huge variety of interests and ages. Book your cheap flights to Victoria Falls and pair them with a stay at this well-loved hotel.

The Elephant Camp

For a splurge-worthy luxury weekend, The Elephant Camp delivers in every way. This five-star lodge is located just outside Victoria Falls in a private nature reserve. Each suite features a plunge pool and private deck with panoramic views of the Batoka Gorge or surrounding bush. Think outdoor showers, spacious tents, gourmet meals, and elephant encounters. The included “Meet the Elephants” experience is one of the highlights of this place!

Flight Centre’s exclusive Elephant Camp holiday package includes flights, airport transfers, all meals and drinks, a guided tour of the falls, a sunset cruise, and even lunch at the Lookout Café. It’s perfect for honeymoons, anniversaries, or simply treating yourself to an unforgettable escape.

Victoria Falls Safari Suites

For bigger families or small groups, the Safari Suites are an ideal alternative to the main lodge at Victoria Falls Safari Lodge. These stylish multi-bedroom units come with private patios, open-plan living spaces, and access to the broader resort's facilities, including the famed Buffalo Bar and the MaKuwa-Kuwa Restaurant.

It’s a great way to have a more independent stay without sacrificing access to the highlights of Victoria Falls town and the surrounding reserve.

Top Tips for Visiting Victoria Falls

Entrance Fees: Entrance to Victoria Falls National Park (Zimbabwe side) is around USD 30 for international visitors. Zambian side entrance is approx. USD 20.
Best Time to Visit: Between May and September is ideal for clear skies and impressive water flow without the intense heat or high water spray of the rainy season.
Where to Stay: Choose Zimbabwe for sweeping views of the main falls, Zambia for up-close adventure (Devil’s Pool, anyone?), or pair both sides for the full experience.

Ready to Book?

Victoria Falls is more than a stopover—it’s a destination that delivers a sense of awe and adventure in equal measure. Whether you’re after heritage hotels, safari lodges, or riverside retreats, our Victoria Falls travel guide and latest Flight Centre deals make planning easy.

Chat to an expert to start building your Victoria Falls holiday today.