It can be tricky to choose accommodation in Victoria Falls because there’s such a wide range of options available. Before you start, consider what you want from your accommodation: All-inclusive activities and meals, or independence to come and go as you please? Do you want a personal lodge, a resort with a plethora of facilities, or just a bed to use as your exploration base? Authentic safari experience, theme-park styling, or adventure experience? Some of the hotels are touristy to the extent of having African dancers greet you on arrival, whilst others are more down to earth. Look at the room photos and the hotel’s website details closely to help you choose.

Here are some lodges and hotels that I can recommend, suitable for a variety of budgets. For a list of all Victoria Falls accommodation, see Where to stay in Victoria Falls.

Best accommodation in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe: Top ten

1. Victoria Falls Safari Lodge

Victoria Falls Safari Lodge definitely ticks all the boxes. Constructed with wood, thatch and other eco-friendly materials, it pleases both the eye and the environment. It’s in a peaceful location just far enough out of town to enjoy the bush, and close enough to nip to the craft market. Add that to great service and a private game reserve at your doorstep – that’s a winning combination.

Location: Slightly out of town (10 min drive) | See map | Price: From $$$ per person per night, breakfast included | Great for: Feeling close to the Zimbabwean bush without losing any creature comforts | Website: Victoria Falls Safari Lodge | Read about my stay at Victoria Falls Safari Lodge here: Victoria Falls Safari Lodge: An Introduction.

2. Elephant Camp

Guests of this luxury 18-person camp will personally meet the elephants who live at the on-site wildlife reserve. The canvas open-air rooms each have their own private decks and plunge pools which overlook the bushveld and the spray of the Victoria Falls. Intimate, exclusive and luxurious.

Location: Further out of town | See map | Price: From $$$$$ per person per night, fully inclusive | Great for: An exclusive Victoria Falls experience. Website: Elephant Camp

3. Victoria Falls Hotel

One of the most spectacular views of the gorge and bridge can be seen from this hotel. Built over a century ago, this is a must-visit: whether it be for afternoon tea or a sundowner on the verandah, or dinner in the Stanley Room for a feel of colonial times. In 1903 it was marketed as a place where the traveller could “enjoy European luxury even here in the heart of Africa”. It was refurbished in 2013 – a welcome improvement as there were reports of the rooms being rather careworn previously.

Location: Very central to town | See map | Price: From $$$$$ per person per night, inclusive of breakfast | Great for: Old-world colonial elegance | Website: Victoria Falls Hotel | Read about my visit to Victoria Falls Hotel here: The roadtrip that roared #4

4. Imbabala Zambezi Safari Lodge

With views of the Zambezi river as well as a waterhole, this is place is truly special. Elephants walk unrestricted through the lodge grounds, leisurely trimming the trees and drinking from the swimming pool. With rooms for just 18 guests, and packages for game drives and other activities, this is a great option for first-time visitors as well as seasoned travellers to have a no-fuss, exclusive but unpretentious experience.

Location: Over an hour’s drive out of town | See map | Price: $$$$ for an all-inclusive package per person per stay | Great for: First-time visitors to Zimbabwe | Website: Imbabala Safari Lodge

5. Ilala Lodge

This is the closest hotel to the Victoria Falls, and it looks lovely to boot. Elegant rooms have teak railway furniture accenting the ivory-coloured décor, and guests are often treated to the sight of animals grazing the well-manicured lawns surrounding the lodge. The Palm restaurant has won awards for its “deluxe” menu – and the soundtrack of the roar of the falls in the background is truly memorable.

Location: Central to town | See map | Price: $$$ inclusive of breakfast | Great for: A safari with more than a touch of class | Website: Ilala Lodge

6. Lokuthula Lodges

Great for guests who enjoy solitude, quietness and good facilities – all a short distance from the hubbub of town. The lodges are situated in a woodland, giving a sense of seclusion and peace, but this does mean there are no panoramic views. Breakfast can be included for a fee. Lokuthula Lodges are on the same site as the Boma Restaurant so you’ll be treated to a free drumming soundtrack each night at around 8pm. The lodges are also on the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge property – just a short stroll away if you don’t feel like cooking dinner.

Location: Slightly out of town (10 min drive) |  See map | Price: From $$$ per multi-person lodge per night, breakfast additional if required | Great for: Home-away-from-home, natural accommodation. Website: Lokuthula Lodges | Read about our stay at the lodges here: The roadtrip that roared #3

7. Gorges Lodge

Named after the river-ravines that hold the Zambezi River, this hotel has one of the best views in the area – it will truly surprise you (well, it did me). Part of a community-based tourism project that helps build infrastructure and educational development in local villages, as well as conserving wildlife in the area.

Location: Further out of town (40 min drive) | See map | Price: From $$$ per person per night, breakfast included. Fully inclusive options available | Great for: Giving something back to the community while enjoying a stunning view and great service | Website: Gorges Lodge | Read about my day visit to Gorges here: The roadtrip that roared: #8

8. Lorries Bed and Breakfast

This has the feel of staying in a Zimbabwean friend’s home, with its genteel garden, open-sided verandah (patio), friendly pets, and owners who have a story to tell.

Location: Central to town (20 min walk) | See map | Price: From $$ per room per night, inclusive of breakfast | Website: Lorries Bed and Breakfast

9. Zambezi National Parks (Victoria Falls National Parks)

Run by the Zimbabwe National Parks Authority, booking can be tricky for visitors from outside Zimbabwe due to unreliable phone lines and systems. However, the self-catering lodges and campsites are an affordable option for those who can book from within the country. The simple self-catering lodges face the Zambezi River in a secluded spot with plenty of wildlife on your doorstep; the camping spots are unfenced and perfect for an authentic experience of the wild.

Location: Further out of town (15 min drive) | See map | Price: From $$ per multi-personlodge per night; or $ per person to camp | Great for: Locals who want to enjoy natural Victoria Falls magic without paying tourists’ prices | Website: Zambezi National Parks (Victoria Falls NP Lodge)

10. Victoria Falls Rest Camp

Slap-bang in the middle of the town, perfect for the young (and young at heart) who like being at the centre of the action. This is the closest self-catering camp to the Victoria Falls. The site is enclosed from the bustle of the town, which means that even young families can relax. All of the accommodation are no-frills, and range from private fixed tents, chalets, dormitories to camp sites. A large swimming pool and popular restaurant are situated on the property, covering the entertainment and food fronts. Ask for a spot near or far from the bar, depending on your preference.

Location: Central to town (3 min walk) | See map | Price: From $ per person per night (camping) to $$$$ per multi-person lodge per night | Great for: Young families and backpackers alike | Website: Victoria Falls Rest Camp

Click here for a Google Map with pins of Victoria Falls accommodation

You might also like: Things to do in Victoria Falls

Also see: Victoria Falls travel guide

Make sure you read my Zimbabwe travel quick reference guide