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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.

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Types of Accommodation

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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)
Tented Camps:
  • 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)
Mobile Camps:
  • 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)
National Parks Lodging:
  • 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)

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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
Harare:
  • Meikles Hotel
  • Rainbow Towers
  • Bronte Hotel
Bulawayo:
  • Nesbitt Castle
  • Cresta Churchill
Features:
  • Full-service restaurants and bars
  • Swimming pools and gardens
  • Business centers and Wi-Fi
  • Tour desks and concierge services
  • Air conditioning
Price range: $150-400 per night

Mid-range Hotels

Solid, comfortable options in most major destinations:National Chains:
  • Cresta Hotels (nationwide)
  • Rainbow Tourism Group (major cities)
  • African Sun (various locations)
Independent Hotels:
  • Numerous locally-owned establishments
  • Often good value for money
  • Variable quality—research reviews
Features:
  • Clean, comfortable rooms
  • Basic amenities (TV, Wi-Fi in common areas)
  • On-site restaurants
  • Air conditioning in most (not all)
Price range: $70-150 per night

Resort Properties

Destination properties focused on leisure:Lake Kariba:
  • Caribbea Bay Resort
  • Lake View Resort
Eastern Highlands:
  • Troutbeck Resort
  • Inn on Rupurara
Great Zimbabwe:
  • Great Zimbabwe Hotel
  • Lodge at the Ancient City
Features:
  • Recreational facilities (pools, watersports)
  • Multiple dining options
  • Entertainment programs
  • Family-friendly amenities
  • Activity centers
Price range: $100-250 per night

Business Hotels

Practical options for business travelers or those passing through cities:Locations:
  • Primarily in Harare and Bulawayo
  • Near airports and business districts
Popular Options:
  • Holiday Inn (Harare)
  • Cresta Lodge (Harare)
  • Express By Holiday Inn (Harare Airport)
Features:
  • Meeting rooms and business services
  • Reliable Wi-Fi
  • Airport shuttles
  • Breakfast included
  • 24-hour front desk
Price range: $80-160 per night

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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)
Rural Guesthouses:
  • 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
Farm Stays:
  • 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

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Budget Accommodations

Backpacker Hostels

Budget-friendly options popular with independent travelers:Major Locations:
  • Victoria Falls
  • Harare
  • Bulawayo
  • Chimanimani
Types of Accommodation:
  • Dormitory beds ($10-20 per night)
  • Private rooms ($25-50 per night)
  • Camping sites ($5-10 per person)
Common Features:
  • Communal kitchens
  • Social areas
  • Wi-Fi in common spaces
  • Tour booking services
  • Airport pickups
  • Opportunity to meet other travelers
Popular Options:
  • 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
Private Campgrounds:
  • 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
Self-catering Cottages/Chalets:
  • Independent units with kitchen facilities
  • Good for families or longer stays
  • Varying levels of luxury
  • Price range: $40-120 per night
Fully-equipped 4x4 Camping Rentals:
  • Vehicles with roof tents, camping gear, refrigeration
  • Ultimate independence for safari travel
  • Price range: $150-250 per day inclusive

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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
Price range: $150-500 per person per nightPopular options:
  • 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
Examples:
  • Victoria Falls Hotel (built 1904)
  • Nesbitt Castle, Bulawayo (1908 folly)
  • Rhodes Nyanga Hotel (built 1897)
  • Inn on Rupurara (colonial farmhouse)
Price range: $100-350 per night

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
Examples:
  • Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge (Gonarezhou)
  • Nantwich Lodge (Hwange)
  • Malilangwe Trust accommodations
Price range: $100-400 per night

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Accommodation by Region

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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
Mid-range:
  • Shearwater Explorers Village
  • Batonka Guest Lodge
  • Pioneers Victoria Falls
  • The Kingdom Hotel
Budget-friendly:
  • Shoestrings Backpackers
  • Victoria Falls Backpackers
  • Victoria Falls Rest Camp (camping and chalets)
  • Adventure Lodge
Location Considerations:
  • Town center accommodations: Walking distance to falls, restaurants
  • Out-of-town lodges: More exclusive feel, need transport
  • Zambian side alternatives: Consider Livingstone accommodation options

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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)
Sinamatella/Robins Areas (Central/Northern Hwange):
  • National Parks facilities at Sinamatella and Robins
  • Tuscany Lodge (mid-range)
  • Nantwich Lodge (luxury)
  • Hwange Bush Camp (mid-high end)
Private Concessions:
  • Linkwasha Camp (luxury)
  • Davison’s Camp (high-end)
  • Little Makalolo (luxury)
  • Somalisa Camp (luxury)
  • Khulu Bush Camp (luxury)
  • Nehimba Lodge (luxury)
Accommodation Tips:
  • 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)

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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
Mid-range:
  • 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
Budget:
  • Small World Backpackers
  • New Ambassador Hotel
  • Harare Safari Lodge
  • Numerous guesthouses in suburbs
Location Advice:
  • Northern suburbs (Highlands, Borrowdale): Safer, quieter, upscale
  • City Center: Convenient but busier and less recommended at night
  • Airport area: Practical for short layovers

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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
Bvumba Mountains:
  • 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
Chimanimani:
  • 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
Accommodation Features:
  • 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

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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
Matobo Hills Area:
  • 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
Location Considerations:
  • 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

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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
Masvingo Town (25km away):
  • Inn on Great Zimbabwe: Comfortable mid-range option
  • Flamboyant Hotel: Business hotel in town center
  • Chevron Hotel: Budget-friendly option
Accommodation Notes:
  • 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

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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
Seasonal Camps:
  • 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
Important Notes:
  • 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

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Booking Information

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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
3-6 months in advance:
  • Mid-range lodges in national parks
  • City hotels during major events or conferences
  • Eastern Highlands during holiday periods
  • Victoria Falls in shoulder seasons
1-3 months in advance:
  • City hotels during normal periods
  • Budget accommodations in major tourist areas
  • Mid-range options during low season
  • Backpacker hostels (except during major events)
Last-minute possibilities:
  • City business hotels on weekends
  • Some guesthouses and B&Bs
  • Budget options in less-visited areas
  • Low season opportunities throughout the country
Note: Zimbabwe’s accommodation capacity is limited compared to demand in peak season. Earlier booking is always recommended, especially for specific properties.

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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
Methods:
  • Property website booking engines
  • Email communication
  • Telephone (international rates apply)
Best for:
  • 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
Limitations:
  • Many safari lodges and remote properties not listed
  • Sometimes higher rates due to commission
  • Limited ability for special arrangements
Best for:
  • 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
Considerations:
  • Less flexibility to customize
  • Potential markup on individual components
Best for:
  • 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
Best for:
  • Complex itineraries within Zimbabwe
  • Accessing special rates
  • Last-minute availability during peak seasons
  • Properties without online presence

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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
Deposit Requirements:
  • 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
Currency Considerations:
  • 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
Tax Information:
  • 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

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Accommodation Tips

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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
Exclusivity Factors:
  • 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
Activity Focus:
  • 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
Size Considerations:
  • 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
Family Friendliness:
  • 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

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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
Mid-range:
  • 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
Budget Level:
  • 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

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Special Considerations

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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
Planning advice:
  • 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
Recommended family properties:
  • 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
Best options include:
  • 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.