Accommodation in Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and travel styles. From world-class safari lodges to charming guesthouses and budget backpackers, you’ll find distinctive places to stay that enhance your Zimbabwean experience.Types of Accommodation
Safari Lodges and Camps
Safari accommodations represent some of Zimbabwe’s most distinctive lodging options:Luxury Safari Lodges:
- All-inclusive with gourmet meals and premium drinks
- Expert guides and private vehicles often available
- Spacious rooms/suites with high-end amenities
- Swimming pools, spas, and viewing decks
- Price range: $500-1,500+ per person per night
- Examples: Linkwasha Camp (Hwange), Bumi Hills (Kariba), Little Ruckomechi (Mana Pools)
- Permanent or seasonal luxury tents on platforms
- En-suite bathrooms with hot water
- Comfortable furnishings while maintaining bush feel
- Communal dining and lounge areas
- Price range: $300-800 per person per night
- Examples: Davison’s Camp (Hwange), John’s Camp (Mana Pools)
- Seasonal operations that move with wildlife
- Authentic safari experience with comfortable basics
- Shared or private bathroom facilities
- Often focused on specific activities (canoeing, walking)
- Price range: $250-500 per person per night
- Examples: Goliath Safaris (Mana Pools), Natureways (Zambezi)
- Government-run accommodations within parks
- Basic but comfortable lodges and chalets
- Self-catering facilities usually available
- Limited services compared to private lodges
- Price range: $50-150 per night
- Examples: Main Camp (Hwange), Nyamepi (Mana Pools)
Hotels and Resorts
Luxury Hotels
Zimbabwe has several iconic luxury hotels, particularly in Victoria Falls and major cities:Victoria Falls Area:
- Victoria Falls Hotel (colonial-era landmark)
- Victoria Falls Safari Lodge
- Ilala Lodge
- Stanley & Livingstone
- Meikles Hotel
- Rainbow Towers
- Bronte Hotel
- Nesbitt Castle
- Cresta Churchill
- Full-service restaurants and bars
- Swimming pools and gardens
- Business centers and Wi-Fi
- Tour desks and concierge services
- Air conditioning
Mid-range Hotels
Solid, comfortable options in most major destinations:National Chains:
- Cresta Hotels (nationwide)
- Rainbow Tourism Group (major cities)
- African Sun (various locations)
- Numerous locally-owned establishments
- Often good value for money
- Variable quality—research reviews
- Clean, comfortable rooms
- Basic amenities (TV, Wi-Fi in common areas)
- On-site restaurants
- Air conditioning in most (not all)
Resort Properties
Destination properties focused on leisure:Lake Kariba:
- Caribbea Bay Resort
- Lake View Resort
- Troutbeck Resort
- Inn on Rupurara
- Great Zimbabwe Hotel
- Lodge at the Ancient City
- Recreational facilities (pools, watersports)
- Multiple dining options
- Entertainment programs
- Family-friendly amenities
- Activity centers
Business Hotels
Practical options for business travelers or those passing through cities:Locations:
- Primarily in Harare and Bulawayo
- Near airports and business districts
- Holiday Inn (Harare)
- Cresta Lodge (Harare)
- Express By Holiday Inn (Harare Airport)
- Meeting rooms and business services
- Reliable Wi-Fi
- Airport shuttles
- Breakfast included
- 24-hour front desk
Guesthouses and B&Bs
An excellent mid-range option with personal service:Urban B&Bs:
- Primarily in residential neighborhoods of major cities
- Owner-operated with personalized service
- Home-cooked breakfasts
- Local knowledge and advice
- 3-10 rooms typical size
- Price range: $40-100 per night
- Examples: Kutandara Lodge (Harare), Hornung Park Lodge (Bulawayo)
- Located in small towns and countryside
- Great base for exploring lesser-known areas
- Often historic or character properties
- Home-style meals usually available
- Price range: $30-80 per night
- Examples: Frog & Fern (Chimanimani), Inn on Great Zimbabwe
- Working farms offering accommodation
- Insights into rural Zimbabwean life
- Home-cooked meals featuring farm produce
- Activities often included (farm tours, horse riding)
- Price range: $40-120 per night
- Examples: Farmhouse Lodge (Matobo), Eastern Highlands farms
Budget Accommodations
Backpacker Hostels
Budget-friendly options popular with independent travelers:Major Locations:
- Victoria Falls
- Harare
- Bulawayo
- Chimanimani
- Dormitory beds ($10-20 per night)
- Private rooms ($25-50 per night)
- Camping sites ($5-10 per person)
- Communal kitchens
- Social areas
- Wi-Fi in common spaces
- Tour booking services
- Airport pickups
- Opportunity to meet other travelers
- Shoestrings Backpackers (Victoria Falls)
- Small World Backpackers (Harare)
- Bulawayo Backpackers
Camping and Self-catering
For independent and budget-conscious travelers:National Park Campsites:
- Basic facilities in spectacular locations
- Unfenced sites in wildlife areas (caution required)
- Limited amenities (basic ablutions, sometimes no power)
- Must bring all supplies
- Price: $10-30 per site/vehicle
- Better facilities than national parks
- Often attached to lodges or hostels
- Hot showers and electricity usually available
- Some have small shops for basic supplies
- Price: $10-25 per person
- Independent units with kitchen facilities
- Good for families or longer stays
- Varying levels of luxury
- Price range: $40-120 per night
- Vehicles with roof tents, camping gear, refrigeration
- Ultimate independence for safari travel
- Price range: $150-250 per day inclusive
Unique Accommodation Options
Houseboats
Distinctive Lake Kariba experience:
- Floating accommodations with crew
- Various sizes from 2-20 passengers
- Activities include fishing, game viewing
- All meals typically included
- Cruise to different locations daily
- Range from basic to luxury
- Zambezi Trader
- Karibeer
- Shikra
Historic Properties
Stay in buildings with historical significance:
- Colonial-era hotels and lodges
- Converted farmhouses and homesteads
- Historic railway accommodations
- Renovated missionary stations
- Victoria Falls Hotel (built 1904)
- Nesbitt Castle, Bulawayo (1908 folly)
- Rhodes Nyanga Hotel (built 1897)
- Inn on Rupurara (colonial farmhouse)
Community-based Lodges
Supporting local communities directly:
- Owned or co-owned by local communities
- Profits benefit conservation and development
- Cultural experiences often included
- Authentic interaction with local people
- Varying comfort levels available
- Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge (Gonarezhou)
- Nantwich Lodge (Hwange)
- Malilangwe Trust accommodations
Accommodation by Region
Victoria Falls
As Zimbabwe’s premier tourist destination, Victoria Falls offers the widest range of accommodation:Luxury Options:
- Victoria Falls Hotel: Colonial grande dame with falls view
- Victoria Falls Safari Lodge: Overlooking waterhole with wildlife viewing
- Ilala Lodge: Closest hotel to the falls
- Stanley & Livingstone: Boutique luxury on private reserve
- Shearwater Explorers Village
- Batonka Guest Lodge
- Pioneers Victoria Falls
- The Kingdom Hotel
- Shoestrings Backpackers
- Victoria Falls Backpackers
- Victoria Falls Rest Camp (camping and chalets)
- Adventure Lodge
- Town center accommodations: Walking distance to falls, restaurants
- Out-of-town lodges: More exclusive feel, need transport
- Zambian side alternatives: Consider Livingstone accommodation options
Hwange National Park
Zimbabwe’s largest national park offers diverse accommodation styles:Main Camp Area (Eastern Hwange):
- National Parks accommodations (budget)
- The Hide Safari Camp (luxury)
- Hwange Safari Lodge (mid-range, outside park)
- Miombo Safari Camp (mid-range)
- Sable Sands (mid-range)
- National Parks facilities at Sinamatella and Robins
- Tuscany Lodge (mid-range)
- Nantwich Lodge (luxury)
- Hwange Bush Camp (mid-high end)
- Linkwasha Camp (luxury)
- Davison’s Camp (high-end)
- Little Makalolo (luxury)
- Somalisa Camp (luxury)
- Khulu Bush Camp (luxury)
- Nehimba Lodge (luxury)
- Camps inside the park offer the best wildlife experience
- Book many months in advance for high season (July-October)
- Consider combination of park facilities and private lodges for different experiences
- Some camps close during rainy season (November-March)
Harare
Zimbabwe’s capital offers primarily business-oriented accommodation:Luxury:
- Meikles Hotel: Historic five-star in city center
- Rainbow Towers Hotel: Modern high-rise with conference facilities
- Bronte Hotel: Colonial hotel with beautiful gardens
- The Amanzi Lodge: Boutique property in northern suburbs
- Cresta Lodge: Business-friendly in quiet setting
- Holiday Inn Harare: Convenient city center location
- Monomotapa Hotel: Central location with city views
- N1 Hotel: Modern, functional option
- Small World Backpackers
- New Ambassador Hotel
- Harare Safari Lodge
- Numerous guesthouses in suburbs
- Northern suburbs (Highlands, Borrowdale): Safer, quieter, upscale
- City Center: Convenient but busier and less recommended at night
- Airport area: Practical for short layovers
Eastern Highlands
Zimbabwe’s mountain region offers charming accommodations in scenic settings:Nyanga Area:
- Troutbeck Resort: Historic highland retreat with fishing
- Rhodes Nyanga Hotel: Colonial-era hotel near park
- Pine Tree Inn: Mountain views and gardens
- Inn on Rupurara: Upscale country manor
- Leopard Rock Hotel: Elegant hotel with championship golf course
- White Horse Inn: Historic country inn known for fine dining
- Inn on the Rupurara: Stylish mountain retreat
- Selborne Routledge: Charming forest hotel
- Frog & Fern Cottages: Rustic cottages with beautiful gardens
- Chimanimani Hotel: Historic hotel near national park
- Kweza Lodge: Simple but comfortable mountain lodge
- Farmhouse Lodge: Working farm with guest accommodation
- Many properties offer fireplaces for cool mountain evenings
- Trout fishing often available or nearby
- Hiking trails frequently accessible from properties
- Beautiful gardens common in this fertile region
Bulawayo and Matobo Hills
Zimbabwe’s second city and nearby Matobo Hills National Park:Bulawayo City:
- Nesbitt Castle: Unique castle hotel with period furnishings
- Cresta Churchill: Reliable business hotel
- Holiday Inn Bulawayo: Modern option outside city center
- Bulawayo Club: Historic gentleman’s club converted to hotel
- Bulawayo Rainbow Hotel: Central city option
- Big Cave Camp: Unique lodge built among granite boulders
- Amalinda Lodge: Luxury lodge integrated into rock formations
- Hermits Peak: Mid-range lodge with good views
- Matobo Hills Lodge: Comfortable lodge near park entrance
- Camp Amalinda: Safari-style tented camp
- Bulawayo accommodations: Good base for city exploration
- Matobo Hills properties: 30-45 minutes from city but closer to park
- National Parks accommodations: Basic but located inside park
Great Zimbabwe and Surroundings
Accommodations near Zimbabwe’s most important historical site:Closest to Monument:
- Lodge at the Ancient City: Themed architecture reflecting Great Zimbabwe
- Great Zimbabwe Hotel: Older property closest to the ruins
- Norma Jeane’s Lakeview Resort: On Lake Mutirikwi, 15km from site
- Inn on Great Zimbabwe: Comfortable mid-range option
- Flamboyant Hotel: Business hotel in town center
- Chevron Hotel: Budget-friendly option
- Limited luxury options in this region
- Properties may have seasonal closures
- Advance booking recommended as options are limited
- Consider Masvingo accommodation with day trips to monument
Mana Pools and Lower Zambezi
Remote wilderness accommodation along the Zambezi River:Permanent Lodges:
- Chikwenya Camp: Luxury tented camp on private concession
- Nyamatusi Camp: High-end tented lodge
- Ruckomechi & Little Ruckomechi: Elegant river-facing tented camps
- Mana Pools Safari Lodge: Comfortable mid-range option
- Goliath Safaris Tented Camp: Specialist operator’s permanent camp
- John’s Camp: Authentic tented camp (May-November)
- Kanga Camp: Inland location focused on water hole
- Zambezi Expeditions: Mobile tented camp on riverfront
- Nyamepi Camp: National Parks camping ground
- Exclusive campsites: Various private sites for self-drivers
- Most camps close during rainy season (November-April)
- Limited self-catering options
- Advance booking essential (up to a year for peak season)
- Charter flights required for most camps unless self-driving with 4x4
- National Parks accommodations very basic but affordable
Booking Information
When to Book
Booking timeline recommendations:8-12 months in advance:
- Luxury safari lodges during high season (July-October)
- Victoria Falls accommodations during peak periods
- Exclusive-use properties and villas
- Houseboats during school holidays
- Mid-range lodges in national parks
- City hotels during major events or conferences
- Eastern Highlands during holiday periods
- Victoria Falls in shoulder seasons
- City hotels during normal periods
- Budget accommodations in major tourist areas
- Mid-range options during low season
- Backpacker hostels (except during major events)
- City business hotels on weekends
- Some guesthouses and B&Bs
- Budget options in less-visited areas
- Low season opportunities throughout the country
Booking Channels
Direct Booking
Contacting properties directly:Advantages:
- Often best rates without intermediary fees
- Special requests more easily accommodated
- Direct communication about specific needs
- Sometimes includes extras not in third-party bookings
- Property website booking engines
- Email communication
- Telephone (international rates apply)
- Luxury safari lodges
- Specialized accommodations
- Longer stays
- Complex requirements
Online Travel Agencies
Booking through platforms like Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com:Advantages:
- Compare multiple properties easily
- Secure payment systems
- Loyalty/rewards programs
- Guest reviews and ratings
- Often have generous cancellation policies
- Many safari lodges and remote properties not listed
- Sometimes higher rates due to commission
- Limited ability for special arrangements
- City hotels and standard accommodations
- Last-minute bookings
- Simple, straightforward stays
Tour Operators
Booking accommodation as part of package:Advantages:
- One-stop shopping for accommodation and activities
- Access to properties not available elsewhere
- Transport and logistics handled
- Often have preferential rates
- Local knowledge and recommendations
- Less flexibility to customize
- Potential markup on individual components
- Multi-destination itineraries
- Safari circuit bookings
- First-time visitors to Zimbabwe
- Remote area accommodations
Local Agents
Zimbabwe-based travel agencies:Advantages:
- Local knowledge and connections
- Often have allocation at sought-after properties
- Can arrange ground logistics
- Handle payments in local currency
- Direct relationships with properties
- Complex itineraries within Zimbabwe
- Accessing special rates
- Last-minute availability during peak seasons
- Properties without online presence
Payment Information
Important payment considerations:Payment Methods:
- Most international-standard properties accept credit cards
- Visa and Mastercard widely accepted; American Express limited
- Safari lodges often require bank transfers for deposits
- Cash (USD) accepted at most properties
- Mobile payment platforms gaining popularity in cities
- Luxury safari lodges: 20-50% deposit at booking, balance 30-60 days before arrival
- Hotels: First night deposit or credit card guarantee common
- Peak season bookings: Often require full prepayment
- Cancellation terms stricter during high season
- Prices most commonly quoted in USD
- Some city hotels may quote in Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG)
- Clarify which currency is being used before booking
- Check for dynamic currency conversion fees on card payments
- 15% VAT typically included in quoted rates
- 2% Tourism Levy may be added at some properties
- Confirm whether rates are inclusive or exclusive of taxes
Accommodation Tips
Safari Accommodation Selection
How to choose the right safari accommodation:Luxury vs. Authentic:
- Luxury lodges: Exceptional comfort, excellent food, premium service
- Tented camps: More authentic bush feel while maintaining comfort
- Mobile/expedition camps: Closest to traditional safari experience
- Private concessions: Limited vehicles and exclusive traversing rights
- Communal conservancies: Support local communities while enjoying wildlife
- National park lodges: Often busier but access to public park areas
- Water-focused camps (Mana Pools, Kariba): Boating and water activities
- Walking-focused camps: Specialist guides and walking terrain
- Photography-oriented: Hides, specialized vehicles, optimal angles
- Small intimate camps (4-8 rooms): Personal attention, quiet atmosphere
- Medium lodges (8-12 rooms): Balance of privacy and social interaction
- Larger properties (12+ rooms): More facilities but less personalized
- Minimum age restrictions vary widely (from no restriction to 16+)
- Family units/interconnecting rooms at select properties
- Dedicated family programs at certain lodges
- “Children’s safaris” with specialized activities
Value for Money
Maximizing value across different budget levels:Luxury Level:
- Consider all-inclusive packages that include activities
- Look for “stay 4, pay 3” type offers in shoulder seasons
- Combine expensive parks with more affordable destinations
- Check if conservation fees are included in rates
- Evaluate full board vs. all-inclusive (activities included) options
- National park accommodations offer great location at lower cost
- Self-catering options reduce meal expenses
- Combine self-driving with occasional guided activities
- Local guesthouses often offer excellent value
- Consider shoulder season for premium properties at reduced rates
- Camping in national parks provides affordable wildlife access
- Backpacker lodges often offer affordable activity packages
- House rental for groups divides costs effectively
- Public campgrounds near parks (cheaper than inside)
- Free/low-cost activities near paid attractions
Special Considerations
Electricity and Power
Electricity and Power
Important power considerations:
- Zimbabwe experiences regular power outages
- Most accommodations have backup generators or solar power
- Hours of generator operation may be limited at budget properties
- Remote camps often have limited charging facilities
- Solar-powered camps may have restrictions during cloudy periods
- Charge devices whenever possible
- Bring power banks for mobile devices
- Universal adapter necessary (Zimbabwe uses UK-style 3-pin plugs)
- Voltage: 220-240V
Internet and Connectivity
Internet and Connectivity
Connectivity varies widely by accommodation type:
- Urban hotels: Generally reliable WiFi (though can be slow)
- Safari lodges: Limited WiFi often available in common areas only
- Remote camps: May have no connectivity or satellite internet at specific times
- National Parks accommodations: Typically no WiFi
- Mobile data: Alternative in areas with cell coverage
- Consider connectivity needs when booking if staying connected is essential
- Download maps, guides, and entertainment before traveling to remote areas
Water and Bathroom Facilities
Water and Bathroom Facilities
Water availability and bathroom standards:
- Luxury accommodations: Reliable hot water, full bathroom amenities
- Mid-range: Generally reliable hot water, may have water pressure issues
- Budget/camping: Basic facilities, sometimes limited hot water hours
- Remote camps: Bucket showers common (water heated on request)
- Water shortages possible in urban areas
- Water conservation practiced at most safari properties
- Bottled water provided at most accommodations
- Eco-friendly properties may not offer single-use plastics
Climate Control
Climate Control
Managing Zimbabwe’s variable climate:
- Air conditioning standard in upper-end city accommodations
- Safari lodges often use ceiling fans rather than A/C
- Eastern Highlands properties may have heating (fireplaces/heaters)
- Tented camps rely on natural ventilation (can be hot mid-day)
- Mosquito nets provided in malaria areas
- Some properties offer hot water bottles during cool season
- Open-air designs common in safari accommodations
- Consider seasonality when booking (e.g., fan-only properties challenging in October heat)
Accommodation for Special Needs
Accessibility
Options for travelers with mobility challenges:
- Major international hotels have accessible rooms
- Victoria Falls area has best accessible accommodation options
- Many safari lodges can accommodate mobility needs with advance notice
- Ground-floor rooms and units with ramps available at select properties
- Special safari vehicles with hoists available through specialized operators
- Personal attendants can often be accommodated in adjacent rooms
- Eastern Highlands accommodation rarely wheelchair friendly due to terrain
- Communicate specific needs clearly when booking
- Request detailed information about bathroom accessibility
- Ask about distances between rooms and common areas
- Consider properties with golf carts or transport between units
Family Accommodations
Options when traveling with children:
- Family rooms/suites available at many hotels and lodges
- Some safari lodges have minimum age restrictions (7-12 years common)
- Family-friendly properties often offer:
- Interconnecting rooms
- Kid’s clubs or activities
- Early dining options
- Babysitting services
- Child-appropriate menus
- Self-catering options ideal for family flexibility
- Private safari villas/exclusive-use properties for family privacy
- Victoria Falls Safari Lodge
- Elephant’s Eye (Hwange)
- Ilala Lodge (Victoria Falls)
- Great Zimbabwe Hotel
- Troutbeck Resort (Eastern Highlands)
Solo Travelers
Accommodation considerations for solo travelers:
- Single supplements common at upscale properties (30-100% surcharge)
- Some lodges offer single traveler promotions in low season
- Backpacker hostels ideal for meeting other travelers
- Group tours with shared accommodation reduce costs
- Some safari lodges waive or reduce single supplements for shoulder season
- B&Bs often friendlier environment for solo travelers than large hotels
- Safari group departures sometimes matched for shared accommodation
Long-Term Stays
Options for extended visits to Zimbabwe:
- Serviced apartments in Harare and Bulawayo
- Monthly rates at select hotels (significant discounts)
- House rentals in major cities
- Volunteer lodging for those on programs
- University accommodation during holiday periods
- Long-stay discounts at some safari lodges during low season
- Bronte Garden Hotel apartments (Harare)
- Corporate lodges in business districts
- Suburban rentals through local agents
- Extended stays at backpacker lodges (negotiable rates)
Accommodation Advice: When booking safari accommodations, ask about the specific location and habitat. Waterhole-facing rooms often provide 24-hour wildlife viewing, while rooms overlooking rivers may offer more diverse scenery but fewer animal sightings. River views in Mana Pools or Zambezi area accommodations are particularly spectacular.