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)