My Favorite Safari Lodges in Zimbabwe

After five separate trips to Africa, Zimbabwe ranks as one of my all-time favorite safari destinations. The combination of world-class guiding, unique and beautiful landscapes, and diverse and plentiful wildlife make Zimbabwe a top-notch safari location for both first-timers and seasoned safari travelers.

What truly defined my safari experiences in Zimbabwe was the quality of the lodges I had the pleasure of staying at. On safari, a lodge is far more than a place to sleep. The lodge is the heart of the entire experience, shaping everything from wildlife sightings and land access to guiding and activities, as well as meals, comfort, and moments of relaxation between game drives. Thoughtfully designed spaces, knowledgeable guides, and warm, attentive staff contribute to the entire experience.

The best lodges in any destination balance authentic safari atmosphere, high-touch hospitality, excellent cuisine, and exclusive access to wild spaces. With those priorities in mind, here are some of my favorite safari lodges in Zimbabwe.

Victoria Falls River Lodge, Zambezi National Park

Located on the banks of the Zambezi River within Zambezi National Park, Victoria Falls River Lodge is perfectly situated upstream from Victoria Falls. It’s far enough from town to feel remote and secluded, while also being close enough to transfer in for shopping, touring the Falls, taking a day trip to Devils Pool or Cataract Island, or embarking on something more adventurous like bungee jumping or whitewater rafting.

Victoria Falls River Lodge has some of the most beautiful luxury suites I’ve ever seen. My favorite accommodation category is their Island Treehouse Suite: positioned on a small private island in the middle of the Zambezi River, these suites are elevated on stilts with a spacious private deck, plunge pool, and a gorgeous air-conditioned interior. Each suite has wonderful views of the river and the wildlife that comes with it, including hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birds.

Victoria Falls River Lodge also features two exclusive-use private villas, perfect for groups of friends or multi-generational families. Both are set away from the main lodge for privacy and come equipped with a personal chef, butler, and pontoon boat for exploring the Zambezi.

Verney’s Camp, Hwange National Park

Verney’s Camp delivers a truly classic safari experience in one of Africa’s largest wild spaces, Hwange National Park. Located in a private concession adjacent to the park, Verney’s is best accessed by bush plane and sits far removed from the most popular areas of the park, ensuring exclusivity of game viewing and experiences for its guests.

The most iconic feature of Verney’s Camp is its prime position on a semi-permanent pan, which draws in large herds of migrating elephants, buffalo, antelope, and other wildlife throughout the day and night. The animals are frequently visible from the communal areas and private tents, especially at sunset.

Styled with traditional safari charm, Verney’s eco-luxury canvas tents and common areas balance rustic authenticity with modern comforts. Exceptional guiding, excellent food, and a warm and welcoming staff elevate Verney’s into one of the most authentic and immersive safari experiences in Hwange.

Fothergill Island, Lake Kariba and Matusadona National Park

Fothergill is located in one of Zimbabwe’s most unique and pristine wilderness settings: along the shores of Lake Kariba at the edge of Matusadona National Park. Occupying a private island in the world’s largest man-made lake, the lodge is surrounded by dramatic lake views, the distant Matusadona Mountains, and distinctive bush landscapes that shift beautifully with each season, making every visit unique.

Fothergill’s location, combining water, mountains, and thick forest, allows for an exceptional range of activities including traditional game drives, walking safaris, boating, and fishing. From the lodge itself, guests can spot elephants, hippos, and antelope congregating at the lake’s edge, watch dramatic sunrises and sunsets, and observe local fishermen navigating the water at dawn and dusk.

The lodge features elegant, spacious tented suites, each thoughtfully appointed with a private deck and plunge pool overlooking the lake. The common areas include a full-sized swimming pool, a gym, alfresco dining, and relaxed lounges that blend comfort with the beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Machaba Ingwe Pan, Mana Pools National Park

Machaba’s Ingwe Pan property boasts one of the most secluded and wildlife-rich locations in Mana Pools National Park. The camp sits on a private concession within the UNESCO World Heritage Site, away from many of the other temporary and permanent camps in the area. Positioned directly on the edge of a reliable watering hole, the camp offers exceptional year-round wildlife viewing, particularly during the dry season, with elephants, hippos, the occasional leopard, and other species regularly visiting the pan.

Thoughtfully designed to blend into the landscape, Ingwe Pan’s tents and common areas allow the constant, intimate wildlife encounters from camp to remain the highlight of the property. The location, natural setting, and wildlife viewing are the true luxuries here.

All eight eco-luxury canvas tents face the water, each with a private deck that places guests front and center to the action. The shared living and dining areas offer spectacular game viewing, ensuring that dining under the mopane trees or enjoying a pre-dinner cocktail by the fire feels that much more special.

Filled with varying environments, excellent game viewing, superior guides, and outstanding lodges, Zimbabwe is an unbeatable safari destination, especially for travelers who prioritize high-quality guiding and unique, remote experiences.

Contact a Vaya Destination Specialist today to start planning your customized trip to Zimbabwe.

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