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Zimbabwe offers an authentic safari vacation that is both intimate and exhilarating. Led by some of Africa’s most skilled and knowledgeable guides, you’ll experience more than just game drives. Partake in walking safaris, night drives, and canoe trips, offering you a diverse perspective of the wilderness around you.
Our Travel Experts have handpicked some of the best luxury safari lodges in Zimbabwe, along with insider tips to make the most of your trip:
1. Linkwasha Camp, Hwange National Park
Located in the southeastern corner of Hwange National Park, Linkwasha Camp features 9 stylish, en-suite tents plus a family tent, all with contemporary safari chic interiors. Imagine waking up to views of a lively waterhole right from your tent! Here, adventure awaits with game drives, evening safaris, and walking tours to intimately explore Hwange's diverse wildlife.
Highlights:
The most exclusive camp in the Hwange National Park.
Overlooks a pan that is a magnet for wildlife.
Up to 40,000 elephants roam the park. That's a lot of trunks!
Insider tip: "Linkwasha Camp has the most amazing sunken luxury hide with a day bed. Witnessing elephants come to the waterhole every day whilst we sipped on champagne in our luxury hiding hole below them was a memory I will never forget." - Claire Picknell, Team Leader
2. Bumi Hills Safari Lodge, Lake Kariba
Bumi Hills Safari Lodge, overlooking Lake Kariba, is right in the middle of a wildlife hotspot – lions, leopards, elephants, and buffalo. You won't run out of things to do here, there are plenty of activities on offer! The lodge features 10 suites with stunning lake views, an infinity pool, and the exclusive 2-bedroom Baobab Villa.
Highlights:
Tucked away on its own private spot near Matusadona National Park.
Kids of all ages can have a blast with the Ngwana Club Activities.
There's a gym and spa for some top-notch pampering.
Insider tip: "This is an excellent property to end your Zimbabwe safari. It provides the ideal setting to relax, or you can take part in the many activities on offer. Most evenings, you can enjoy postcard-perfect sunsets over Lake Kariba." - Steve Meinhold, Travel Expert
3. Singita Pamushana Lodge, Gonarezhou National Park
Singita Pamushana Lodge is all about luxury and elegance, located in the untouched Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve, right next to Gonarezhou National Park. The area is a wildlife sanctuary, home to the Big 5 and one of the highest populations of critically endangered black rhinos in Africa, promising exciting game drives. It's also a fantastic option for a Zimbabwe honeymoon safari.
Highlights:
Ultra-luxurious suites and villas with private plunge pools.
It's one of the last untouched wilderness areas in Africa.
Enjoy a crowd-free safari experience.
Insider tip: "Singita’s work with the non-profit Malilangwe Trust and its enduring purpose to contribute to the conservation of the 130,000-acre wildlife reserve, sets a new benchmark for meaningful travel experiences."
4. Mpala Jena, Zambezi National Park
Mpala Jena is a real gem tucked away in a private slice of paradise within Zambezi National Park. This exclusive, eco-friendly camp features just five Moroccan-styled tented suites on the Zambezi River's sandy shores. It's like living the "barefoot luxury" dream. The suites here are all about keeping it green – they're made from recycled materials and run on solar power.
Highlights:
- It's right by the sandy shores of the Zambezi – a one-of-a-kind spot.
The perfect base from which to explore the thunderous Victoria Falls.
Get the best of both worlds with land and water-based game-viewing activities.
Insider tip: "Mpala Jena is heaven on Earth! The stunning surroundings are so modern and fresh in the wilderness. We had lions roaring 100m from camp at dinner time and saw animals every time we walked from the lodge to our rooms. It’s a perfect combination of safari and the Falls in a luxury location. I never wanted to leave!" - Claire Picknell, Team Leader
5. Old Drift Lodge, Zambezi National Park
Old Drift Lodge, located on the Zambezi River near Victoria Falls, offers a unique blend of history and luxury. You're in for some breathtaking 360-degree views - gaze out at the river and a waterhole, all from one spot! The lodge boasts 14 luxurious tented suites with en-suite bathrooms, including indoor and outdoor showers and baths.
Highlights:
- Get a 360-degree view of the Zambezi River and a wildlife-packed watering hole.
Your own private plunge pools and outdoor bathtubs for some extra relaxation.
Victoria Falls is just a 7km upstream adventure away.
Insider tip: "The Livingstone Island Experience is a bucket-list activity for many. Livingstone Island is in the middle of the Zambezi River, touching the lip of the Victoria Falls, where the water thunders down the 103m drop."
6. Ruckomechi Camp, Mana Pools
Ruckomechi Camp is this hidden gem in Mana Pools National Park, right by the Zambezi River. Here, you can enjoy water activities like canoeing and boat trips, and they have many great chill-out spots too. This eco-friendly camp has 10 en-suite tented suites with stunning river views using solar power for lighting and hot water. And don't forget the outdoor showers and baths – it's all about that natural luxury!
Highlights:
Views of the river, floodplains, tree canopy and mountains - a nature lover's dream.
Set on the banks of the hippo-filled Zambezi River.
Experience a night under the stars in their Star Bed treehouse.
Insider tip: "Don't miss the high tea! It's an unforgettable experience. During my high tea experience, I was amazed when an elephant casually strolled into the camp, just about 10 yards away from us and then proceeded to raise himself onto his back legs to eat the seeds from the ana tree!" - Greg Fox, Co-Founder & Director
7. The Victoria Falls Hotel, Victoria Falls
A stone's throw from the world-famous Victoria Falls, this iconic hotel brings together old-school colonial charm and modern-day luxury. The Victoria Falls Hotel even has its own private walkway to the Falls! Here you can enjoy the colonial charm and friendly service throughout the property, relax in the tropical gardens with views of the Falls' mist, and dine in the Palm Restaurant.
Highlights:
Just a 10-minute walk to Victoria Falls.
Oozes old-school charm and is soaked in history.
Close to lots of cultural and adventure activities.
Insider tip: " If you're looking for that old-school grandeur and charm, this is the place to stay. It's a fantastic location being one of the closest hotels to Victoria Falls National Park and town. You must experience the high tea in the afternoon." - Steve Meinhold, Travel Expert
8. Changa Safari Camp, Matusadona National Park
Changa Safari Camp, uniquely positioned on Lake Kariba's eastern peninsula in Matusadona National Park, is the park's only permanent private camp. Expect amazing lake and mountain views from the 8 tents. The heart of the camp is where all the fun happens – it's got a chill lounge, dining spot, bar, deck, and a pool, all connected by walkways with lake views.
Highlights:
Top quality, experienced, and qualified guides.
Get ready for some amazing walks in the wild.
Enjoy Kariba’s spectacular sunsets with a cocktail in hand.
Insider tip: "Don’t miss the trip to dramatic Sanyati Gorge, a scenic afternoon boat cruise, where you can meander peacefully through the steep cliffs for up to 10km."
9. Matetsi Victoria Falls, Victoria Falls
Matetsi Victoria Falls is set on a vast concession with 9 miles of private Zambezi River frontage. You get a little bit of everything here – wildlife adventures, local warmth, and easy access to Victoria Falls. Savour delicious meals in the interactive kitchen, either indoors or al fresco under mangosteen and waterberry trees, accompanied by the sounds of the river and local wildlife.
Highlights:
Enjoy 9 miles of your very own Zambezi River paradise.
Ideal combination of safari, river, relaxation and Victoria Falls.
You can spot four of the Big Five.
Insider tip: "A highlight is the exclusive Zambezi sundowner cruise, offering a romantic and intimate setting with stunning sunsets, snacks, and drinks." - Donna Armstrong, Travel Expert
10. Somalisa Acacia, Hwange National Park
Somalisa Acacia is situated in a private concession in Hwange National Park. This intimate camp is perfect if you're traveling with a small group or your family and want your own private safari adventure in Zimbabwe. There's even a waterhole where you'll spot elephants and buffalo! The luxurious tents, built on wooden platforms, provide a mix of classic safari with all the modern comforts you could ask for.
Highlights:
- Right in the heart of Hwange National Park, on its very own private spot.
Perfect for families with little ones or small groups looking for their own adventure.
The camp has its own elephant drinking pool for some up-close encounters.
Insider tip: "The camp is a 45-minute flight from Victoria Falls where you can stay at Somalisa Acacia's sister property Thorntree River Lodge.
