10 Best Lodges in Zimbabwe for an Unforgettable Stay

Planning a trip to Zimbabwe and looking for the top places to stay? This article covers the 10 best lodges in Zimbabwe, showcasing a mix of luxurious safari camps, eco-friendly retreats, and exclusive wildlife experiences. Discover where you can stay to truly experience Zimbabwe’s stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.

Key Takeaways

• Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe’s largest game reserve, offers luxurious safari experiences at camps like Somalisa Expeditions, Camp Hwange, and Verneys Camp, known for their close wildlife encounters and luxurious accommodations.
• Exclusive retreats such as Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge in Gonarezhou National Park and Singita Pamushana Lodge in Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve offer unparalleled luxury, thrilling wildlife encounters, and a strong focus on conservation.
• Eco-friendly and sustainable lodges like Nyamatusi Camp in Mana Pools National Park and Changa Safari Camp in Matusadona National Park prioritize environmental responsibility while providing luxurious accommodations and diverse activities.

Luxurious Escapes in Hwange National Park

Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe’s largest game reserve, is known for its diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife. Some of the animals you can find there include:

• Buffalo
• Giraffe
• Kudu
• Lions
• Leopards
• Cheetahs

Its proximity to major travel hubs like Victoria Falls and Johannesburg makes it a convenient and appealing destination for safari enthusiasts.

Somalisa Expeditions, Linkwasha Camp, and Little Makalolo Camp stand out as some of the most luxurious safari camp options due to their luxurious accommodations and exceptional safari experiences.

Somalisa Expeditions

Somalisa Expeditions is a charming tented camp that offers an intimate atmosphere and close encounters with elephants. The camp features "six tented suites" that exude a 20th-century charm, making it a favorite among safari lovers. Guests can often witness elephants drinking from a nearby waterhole, providing a truly authentic safari experience.

Somalisa Expeditions, with its six tents and evening bonfires, provides a captivating and cozy safari experience. This camp is perfect for those seeking a luxurious safari getaway that feels personal and connected to the surrounding wilderness.

Verney's Camp

Verney's Camp is a luxurious safari camp that offers an authentic and intimate experience in the heart of Hwange National Park. The camp features "ten luxury tented suites", each with its own private deck overlooking a waterhole frequented by wildlife. Guests can partake in twice-daily game drives, guided bush walks, and even spend a night under the stars in a unique star bed. The camp’s location ensures frequent sightings of elephants, buffalo, and antelope, making each day an exciting adventure.

Verney's Camp organizes activities that immerse guests in the African wilderness, including exploring the bush on foot and thrilling night game drives. This camp is ideal for those looking to blend luxury with a diverse range of safari activities.

Camp Hwange

Camp Hwange is a luxurious safari camp known for its intimate setting and exceptional wildlife experiences. The camp features "eight safari chalets" with private decks that offer stunning views of the surrounding wilderness. Guests can partake in twice-daily game drives, guided bush walks, and even spend a night under the stars in a unique star bed. The camp’s location ensures frequent sightings of elephants, buffalo, and antelope, making each day an exciting adventure.

At Camp Hwange, visitors can anticipate soul-stirring wildlife experiences such as observing elephants at close range and watching the park’s predators in their natural habitat. This camp is perfect for those seeking an intimate and unforgettable safari experience.

Exclusive Retreats in Gonarezhou National Park

Gonarezhou National Park is a hidden gem known for its stunning and remote landscapes, as well as its high density of elephants, housing approximately 11,500 elephants. This makes it a prime destination for those seeking an exclusive safari experience away from the crowds.

Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge

Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge is a luxurious retreat that offers guests a stunning location set high on the cliffs overlooking the Save River. It offers an immersive ‘classic safari’ experience with a strong emphasis on community conservation.

Expert guides, enhance the experience. Guests can encounter big cats, buffalo, hippo, painted impala, birdlife, and elephants. A memorable hike to Chivalila Falls and a day trip to marvel at the stunning red sandstone Chilojo Cliffs are also available, both sure to be unforgettable experiences.

A variety of activities are available for guests at Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge, such as encounters with big cats, buffalo, hippo, painted impala, birdlife, and elephants.

Chilo Gorge offers both luxury and adventure. The lodge's combination of breathtaking views, expert guideing, "10 thatched chalets", and a variety of activities ensures a memorable stay for all its guests.

Premier Lodges in Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve

Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve is a private sanctuary dedicated to conservation, making it a unique and exclusive destination for safari enthusiasts. The reserve is home to Singita Pamushana Lodge, a luxurious lodge that combines exceptional accommodations with a strong focus on wildlife preservation.

The Malilangwe Trust, established in 1994, plays a crucial role in protecting and managing this vast wilderness area, ensuring that guests at Singita Pamushana Lodge can enjoy a pristine and unspoiled environment.

Singita Pamushana Lodge

Singita Pamushana Lodge features breathtaking views of the Malilangwe Dam within the 130,000-acre private Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve. It offers "eight luxurious suites", each complete with a private plunge pool, blending luxury with the natural beauty of the surrounding wilderness. The design is inspired by Shangaan culture, incorporating stonework reminiscent of ancient Zimbabwe ruins, creating a unique and culturally rich experience for guests.

At Singita Pamushana Lodge, guests can partake in a variety of activities, including game drives, rhino tracking, boating, and tennis, promising a thrilling and diverse safari adventure. The lodge's commitment to conservation and community support ensures an exclusive and enriching safari experience.

With its luxurious accommodations and a strong focus on wildlife preservation, Singita Pamushana Lodge offers guests an unforgettable experience in a pristine and unspoiled environment.

Scenic Stays by Lake Kariba

Lake Kariba, one of the world’s largest man-made lakes, offers scenic stays with abundant wildlife and exceptional birdlife. The serene waters and stunning sunsets create a perfect destination for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility amidst Zimbabwe’s natural beauty.

Visitors to Lake Kariba can enjoy a variety of activities such as fishing, boating, and bird-watching. The lake's vast expanse and picturesque surroundings make it an ideal spot for relaxation and adventure alike. Whether you’re looking to unwind by the water or explore the rich biodiversity, Lake Kariba provides a unique and memorable experience.

In addition to its natural allure, Lake Kariba is home to several luxurious lodges that offer comfortable accommodations and exceptional service. These lodges blend seamlessly with the environment, ensuring that guests can fully immerse themselves in the beauty of this remarkable destination.

Bumi Hills Safari Lodge

Bumi Hills Safari Lodge is renowned for its stunning views of Lake Kariba and the surrounding hills, providing a picturesque backdrop for an unforgettable stay. The lodge features an infinity pool that offers panoramic views, allowing guests to relax and soak in the beauty of their surroundings. With daily game drives and boat safaris, guests have the opportunity to experience the area’s rich wildlife and birdlife.

An insider tip for Bumi Hills Safari Lodge is to end your safari here, enjoying the relaxation and numerous activities available, along with postcard-perfect sunsets over Lake Kariba. This luxuryioius safari lodge with only "ten suites" is perfect for those looking to combine luxury with a deep connection to nature.

Top Picks in Mana Pools National Park

Mana Pools National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a remote and breathtaking natural wonder renowned for its abundant big game and picturesque oxbow lakes. This park stands out as one of the most extraordinary wildlife destinations in Zimbabwe, offering visitors a chance to witness unforgettable and immersive wildlife experiences. The park’s diverse ecosystems, from lush floodplains to dense woodland, create a vibrant habitat supporting a wide variety of species, making it a top choice for safari enthusiasts seeking both adventure and tranquility.

Home to elephants, lions, leopards, and a variety of bird species, Mana Pools provides numerous opportunities for thrilling game drives, guided walking safaris, and canoeing along the Zambezi River. Visitors can see herds of elephants bathing, prides of lions lounging, and many other animals in their natural environment.

Mana Pools is also celebrated for its stunning scenery. The park’s oxbow lakes, formed by the meandering Zambezi River, create serene and picturesque water bodies perfect for photography and peaceful reflection. The combination of dramatic landscapes and rich wildlife makes Mana Pools a magical destination offering a deep connection to nature and an unforgettable safari experience. Whether you are a seasoned safari-goer or a first-time visitor, Mana Pools promises an adventure filled with awe-inspiring moments and cherished memories.

Chikwenya Camp

Chikwenya Camp is a tranquil lodge located on the wild eastern boundary of Mana Pools National Park, at the confluence of the Sapi and Zambezi Rivers. The camp features seven tents with light tones of cream and beige, blending seamlessly into the wilderness. Guests can enjoy varied wildlife encounters and activities such as game drives and canoe safaris.

Chikwenya Camp provides an ultra-luxurious experience with its spacious, airy, contemporary designs and stunning views of the endless plains. From brunch under a Natal mahogany to witnessing the park’s big game, Chikwenya Camp offers an authentic and serene safari experience.

The camp's combination of "seven tented suites" as well as immersive activities ensures a memorable stay for all its guests. Whether you are enjoying a peaceful brunch or an exhilarating wildlife encounter, Chikwenya Camp promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of nature.

Tembo Plains Camp

Tembo Plains Camp, located in the Sapi Private Reserve, offers a unique safari experience in a stunning stone-and-canvas setting. The camp’s design marries stone with canvas, creating an aesthetically pleasing and comfortable environment for guests. Private safaris provide opportunities to spot African wild dogs, lions, leopards, and elephants, turning each day into an exhilarating adventure.

The blend of luxurious accommodations ("four tented suites" in total) )and thrilling wildlife encounters at Tembo Plains Camp ensures a top-notch Mana Pools experience in an exclusive setting. Guests can enjoy varied wildlife encounters and activities such as game drives and canoe safaris, all while being immersed in the natural beauty of the reserve.

Tembo Plains Camp provides an ultra-luxurious experience with its spacious, airy, contemporary designs and stunning views of the endless plains. Whether you are enjoying a peaceful brunch or an exhilarating wildlife encounter, Tembo Plains Camp promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of nature.

Ruckomechi Camp

Ruckomechi Camp features "ten tented suites", including family suites, ensuring guests have a comfortable and luxurious stay. The camp offers a variety of activities such as canoeing, boat trips, and bird-watching, particularly for species like the African skimmer. Additionally, guests can enjoy breathtaking views of the Zambezi River right from their tents, making the experience even more memorable.

Ruckomechi Camp, with its star bed, outdoor fire pit, and variety of activities, offers a diverse and memorable safari experience. Guests can enjoy game drives, night game drives, walking safaris, and fishing, making it a perfect destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation. The camp's location also provides opportunities for close encounters with elephants and other wildlife, ensuring each day is filled with exciting and unique experiences.

Unique Lodges in Matobo National Park

Matobo National Park is renowned for its granite boulders and rich wildlife, offering a unique landscape that’s different from other national parks in Zimbabwe. This park is home to notable lodges such as Amalinda Lodge and Khayelitshe House, each providing distinct and memorable experiences.

Khayelitshe House

Khayelitshe House is an eco-friendly guest house set amidst 1,200 acres of private land in Matobo National Park. The lodge offers a variety of activities, including game drives, walking safaris, boat cruises, and visits to San rock art sites. The focus on conservation and the intimate setting make Khayelitshe House a perfect choice for those looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying luxurious accommodations.

Guests at Khayelitshe House can experience unique adventures such as tracking white and black rhino on foot and visiting the burial site of Cecil Rhodes. These experiences set the lodge apart and provide an in-depth connection to the rich history and wildlife of the region. The personalized and eco-friendly approach ensures that guests have a memorable and responsible stay.

With its commitment to sustainability and a wide range of activities, Khayelitshe House with only "four rooms" offers an exceptional blend of luxury and adventure. Whether exploring the wild on foot or learning about ancient cultures, guests are guaranteed an unforgettable experience that harmonizes with the natural beauty of Matobo National Park.

Prime Locations in Victoria Falls National Park

Victoria Falls National Park, home to the iconic Victoria Falls, is known as Africa’s Adventure Capital, offering a plethora of thrilling activities for adventure seekers. The park is also home to prime lodges such as Palm River Hotel, Mpala Jena, and Matetsi River Lodge, each providing luxurious accommodations and diverse activities.

These lodges offer the perfect blend of luxury and excitement, making Victoria Falls National Park a must-visit destination for those looking to combine adventure with relaxation.

Stanley & Livingstone Boutique Hotel

The Stanley & Livingstone Boutique Hotel is a five-star luxury hotel situated just outside of the town of Victoria Falls. The boutique hotel features spacious suites with private balconies offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Each of the "sixteen luxury thatched suites" is elegantly designed with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable and luxurious stay for all guests.

Ideal for honeymooners and families, the Stanley & Livingstone Boutique Hotel ensures a memorable stay for all guests with activities such as river cruises and game drives. Guests can enjoy a variety of excursions that showcase the beauty of Victoria Falls and its surrounding wildlife, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

In addition to its prime location and luxurious accommodations, the hotel offers personalized services to cater to each guest's unique needs. Whether you're looking to relax by the pool, indulge in a spa treatment, or embark on a thrilling safari adventure, the Stanley & Livingstone Boutique Hotel provides an unforgettable experience that combines luxury with the natural beauty of Victoria Falls.

Mpala Jena

Mpala Jena is a luxury safari camp offering an exclusive escape within Zambezi National Park near Victoria Falls. The camp features luxurious and spacious tents, providing a serene and private safari experience. Each of the "five luxury suites" is elegantly designed with modern amenities, ensuring guests enjoy comfort and style amidst the wilderness. The camp's location on the banks of the Zambezi River adds to the tranquil ambiance, making it an ideal retreat for nature lovers.

Guests at Mpala Jena can partake in a variety of activities that allow them to connect deeply with the natural environment. Game drives offer the chance to encounter buffaloes, elephants, and lions in their natural habitat, while river cruises provide a unique perspective on the park's diverse wildlife. Bush walks led by experienced guides give guests an intimate look at the flora and fauna, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of the ecosystem.

Mpala Jena is perfect for those seeking a luxurious and intimate connection with nature. The camp's commitment to sustainability and conservation ensures that guests can enjoy their stay while knowing they are supporting responsible tourism practices. Whether relaxing in the comfort of their tent or exploring the stunning landscapes of Zambezi National Park, guests are guaranteed an unforgettable safari experience.

Matetsi Victoria Falls

Matetsi Victoria Falls is set in a vast 136,000-acre game reserve, offering guests a luxurious safari experience combined with river adventures and relaxation. The lodge is conveniently located near the iconic Victoria Falls, providing easy access to one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

Guests have a range of activities to indulge in, from game drives to exclusive Zambezi sundowner cruises, promising a diverse and thrilling stay. The lodge’s prime location ensures that guests can easily explore the breathtaking beauty of Victoria Falls, while also enjoying the tranquility of the Zambezi River.

Matetsi Victoria Falls is ideal for those looking to combine luxury with adventure and natural beauty. With its blend of opulent accommodations (twenty two luxury suites).

Best Family-Friendly Lodges

Family-friendly Zimbabwe safari lodges, such as The Hide and Somalisa Acacia, offer exclusive-use options and engaging activities for children. These lodges in Zimbabwe ensure that families can enjoy a comfortable and personalized safari experience, with activities designed to entertain and educate young guests.

From nature walks and arts and crafts to cooking lessons and junior ranger programs, these drift lodge accommodations provide a range of activities that make them perfect for family vacations.

The Hide

The Hide Hwange offers family-friendly packages that ensure comfort and engaging experiences for families and small groups. Accommodations include "ten luxury tented suites" and a private exclusive-use villa named Tom’s Little Hide, which is part of the private concession.

At The Hide Hwange, children can participate in the Junior Ranger programme to learn about conservation, tracking, and local flora and fauna, creating an educational and fun experience for families. This programme includes hands-on activities that teach kids about the environment and wildlife, making it an enriching part of their safari adventure.

Additionally, The Hide Hwange provides various family-oriented activities such as guided bush walks, game drives, and campfire storytelling sessions. These activities ensure that families can bond and create lasting memories while exploring the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of Hwange National Park.

Somalisa Acacia

Somalisa Acacia is an ideal destination for families with young children. It also offers a great experience for small groups seeking their own unique adventure. The camp provides "four tented suite" with two specifically designed for those traveling with children, featuring inter-leading walkways to connect parents’ and children’s rooms.

Amenities at Somalisa Acacia include a splash pool, private decks with panoramic views, roll-top baths, and wood-burning fireplaces in the rooms. These features ensure that families can relax and enjoy their stay in comfort and style, surrounded by the beauty of the African wilderness.

Activities such as game drives, walking safaris, and birding are available and led by experienced guides, ensuring a memorable and educational experience for the whole family. These activities provide an opportunity to learn about the local wildlife and environment, making it a perfect choice for nature-loving families.

Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Lodges

Eco-friendly and sustainable lodges in Zimbabwe prioritize minimizing environmental impact through:

• Solar power
• Water conservation practices
• Waste management systems
• Use of locally sourced materials
• Support for local communities

These lodges offer luxurious accommodations while ensuring that their operations are environmentally responsible and sustainable.

Nyamatusi Camp and Changa Safari Camp are top picks for eco-conscious travelers, offering luxurious experiences that blend seamlessly with the natural environment.

Nyamatusi Camp

Nyamatusi Camp is an ideal lodge with "six luxury suites" is perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway in Mana Pools National Park. The camp is powered entirely by solar energy, minimizing its environmental impact and ensuring a sustainable stay. Its commitment to eco-friendly practices makes it a standout choice for environmentally conscious travelers.

Nyamatusi Camp’s design incorporates natural materials, seamlessly blending with the surrounding landscape. The camp features handwoven lighting fixtures and furniture, showcasing local artisans’ craftsmanship. This thoughtful design not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also supports the local community by promoting traditional skills.

Guests at Nyamatusi Camp can enjoy a range of activities that connect them deeply with the natural world. From guided walking safaris to canoeing on the Zambezi River, each activity is designed to provide an intimate and immersive experience with the stunning wildlife and landscapes of Mana Pools National Park.

Changa Safari Camp

Changa Safari Camp, located in Matusadona National Park, offers guests stunning views of Lake Kariba and a commitment to sustainable tourism practices. The camp's eco-friendly initiatives include waste reduction efforts and active wildlife conservation projects, ensuring that the natural beauty of the park is preserved for future generations. Guests can enjoy their stay while knowing that they are supporting responsible tourism.

With a range of activities such as walking safaris, boat safaris, and game drives, Changa Safari Camp provides a well-rounded and eco-friendly safari experience. The "eight tented suites", combined with the breathtaking views of Lake Kariba, make it a perfect choice for eco-conscious travelers. Whether you're exploring the diverse wildlife on foot or cruising the serene waters of the lake, each adventure is designed to be both thrilling and environmentally responsible.

Changa Safari Camp's dedication to sustainability is evident in every aspect of its operations. From the use of solar power to the sourcing of local materials, the camp ensures that its environmental footprint is minimized. This commitment to eco-friendly practices, along with the camp's stunning location and luxurious amenities, guarantees a memorable and guilt-free stay for all guests.

Hidden Gems for Adventure Seekers

Zimbabwe offers a range of adventurous activities, including:

• Exploring national parks on foot
• Navigating the currents of the Zambezi River
• Visiting Hwange, Mana Pools, Lake Kariba, and Malilangwe for unique experiences and thrilling activities.

Kanga Camp and The Elephant Camp are hidden gems that cater to adventure seekers, providing luxurious accommodations and a variety of exciting activities.

Kanga Camp

Kanga Camp, located in a remote part of Mana Pools National Park, offers lavish suites fitted with modern comforts while emphasizing immersion in nature. The camp features "six tented suites" with floor-to-ceiling mesh windows, powered by solar energy and equipped with ensuite facilities. This luxurious safari camp, one of the finest safari lodges camps, is perfect for those seeking an adventurous and immersive safari experience.

At Kanga Camp, guests can partake in a variety of activities that bring them closer to the stunning wildlife and landscapes of Mana Pools. Guided walking safaris offer an intimate look at the flora and fauna, while day and night game drives provide thrilling opportunities to spot big game. The unique ‘Armchair Safari’ experience allows guests to observe wildlife from the comfort of the camp, making it a perfect option for those who want to relax while still enjoying the natural beauty around them.

Whether you’re exploring the park on foot or enjoying the serene views from your tent, Kanga Camp ensures a memorable and adventurous stay. The camp’s commitment to sustainability through the use of solar power and eco-friendly practices enhances the experience, allowing guests to enjoy their safari adventure guilt-free. With its blend of luxury, adventure, and environmental responsibility, Kanga Camp stands out as a premier destination for safari enthusiasts.

The Elephant Camp

The Elephant Camp, located near Victoria Falls, provides a scenic and strategic location for a variety of activities. The camp is known for its close-up wildlife encounters, including ethical interactions with elephants at the Wild Horizons Elephant Sanctuary. Guests can experience the majesty of these gentle giants in a responsible and respectful manner, enhancing their appreciation for wildlife conservation.

For thrill-seekers, The Elephant Camp offers a plethora of adventure activities that make the most of its prime location. Guests can embark on canopy tours over the falls, providing breathtaking views and an adrenaline rush. Boating and canoeing on the Zambezi River offer a unique perspective on the park's diverse wildlife, while white-water rafting promises an exhilarating experience for those looking to test their limits.

In addition to its adventurous offerings, The Elephant Camp ensures a luxurious and comfortable stay. The camp features "sixteen tented safari suites" with modern amenities and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you're enjoying an adventure-filled day or relaxing in the comfort of your tent, The Elephant Camp provides an unforgettable experience that seamlessly blends excitement with relaxation.

Summary

Zimbabwe’s lodges offer a diverse range of experiences, from luxurious escapes and exclusive retreats to eco-friendly stays and family-friendly adventures. Each lodge highlighted in this blog post provides a unique gateway to the country’s natural wonders, ensuring that every visitor can find the perfect accommodation to suit their needs.

Whether you’re seeking the thrill of a close-up wildlife encounter, the serenity of a scenic lake view, or the comfort of a family-friendly lodge, Zimbabwe has it all. We hope this guide has inspired you to explore the best lodges in Zimbabwe and embark on an unforgettable safari adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Zimbabwe for a safari?

The best time to visit Zimbabwe for a safari is during the dry season, from May to October, when wildlife is more easily spotted around waterholes and the weather is pleasant.

Are these lodges suitable for families with young children?

Yes, many of the lodges, like The Hide and Somalisa Acacia, provide family-friendly accommodations and activities for children. They are suitable for families with young children.

What are the eco-friendly practices of the lodges mentioned?

The lodges mentioned, such as Nyamatusi Camp and Changa Safari Camp, prioritize sustainability through practices like solar power usage, water conservation, and local sourcing of food and materials. This helps them minimize their environmental impact.

Can I enjoy adventure activities at these lodges?

Yes, you can enjoy adventure activities at lodges like Kanga Camp and The Elephant Camp, which offer walking safaris, game drives, canoeing, and white-water rafting.

How can I book a stay at one of these lodges?

To book a stay at one of these lodges, you can use their official websites or contact established travel agencies that focus on African safaris.