Dr. Terika L. Haynes shares her experience traveling to Zimbabwe in this three-part article series. Read on to learn about three hotels in Victoria Falls, and click here to learn about things to do in the area and here for dining options.
Where to Stay: Sophisticated Safari Elegance Meets Boutique Tranquility
Mbano Manor Hotel
Named one of Time magazine’s World’s Greatest Places for 2025, Mbano Manor Hotel has firmly established itself as one of the most exceptional boutique stays in Victoria Falls. Nestled within a private teak forest just minutes from Victoria Falls, Mbano Manor Hotel is the epitome of secluded luxury. This all-suite, adults-only boutique hotel caters to discerning travelers seeking personalized service, privacy and peace. Each suite boasts elegant furnishings, private verandas and lush garden views, providing a tranquil escape from the bustle of daily life.
What truly sets Mbano Manor apart, however, is the stellar service delivered by a team of warm, attentive professionals who go above and beyond to make each guest feel welcomed and cared for. The excellence in hospitality is a direct reflection of the strong leadership and vision behind the hotel, which shines through in every detail — from the thoughtful turn-down service to the seamless check-in experience.
Culinary experiences at Mbano are a treat in their own right. Guests can indulge in a selection of fresh, locally inspired dishes that blend international flavors with Zimbabwean flair, all beautifully presented in serene indoor or garden dining settings. Whether enjoying breakfast on the veranda or savoring a candlelit dinner under the stars, the cuisine is consistently refined, flavorful and memorable.
For peace of mind, the property also offers 24-hour on-site security, ensuring a safe and secure environment throughout your stay. Mbano Manor delivers an elevated, boutique experience where luxury is infused with authenticity and heartfelt hospitality.
The Victoria Falls Hotel
Often referred to as “The Grand Old Lady of the Falls,” The Victoria Falls Hotel is an iconic property that has been welcoming luxury travelers for over a century. With its colonial architecture, manicured gardens and sweeping views of the Victoria Falls Bridge and gorge, this five-star property blends historic grandeur with modern comforts. The Victoria Falls Hotel offers an immersive step back in time — without compromising on world-class amenities.
Guests can choose from a variety of elegantly appointed rooms and suites, many of which overlook the lush gardens or the mist from the falls themselves. The hotel’s old-world charm is complemented by attentive, professional service, ensuring a seamless and memorable stay from check-in to departure.
The culinary offerings at The Victoria Falls Hotel are a true highlight. Guests can enjoy afternoon tea on the Stanley Terrace, dinner in the fine-dining Livingstone Room or relaxed al fresco meals at Jungle Junction, which often features traditional dance performances in the evening. Whether it’s a gourmet tasting menu or a casual poolside lunch, the hotel’s cuisine blends international sophistication with local flavors.
Location is another major advantage: the hotel is just a short stroll along a private pathway to Victoria Falls, giving guests exclusive and direct access to one of the world’s greatest natural wonders. Whether you're enjoying sundowners on the terrace, walking the tranquil grounds or relaxing in the stately lounges, The Victoria Falls Hotel delivers a timeless luxury experience steeped in history, elegance and authenticity.
Matetsi Victoria Falls
For travelers seeking a seamless blend of ultra-luxury and authentic safari adventure, Matetsi Victoria Falls offers a one-of-a-kind experience that transcends expectations. Located just 40 km upstream from Victoria Falls on a private 55,000-hectare wildlife reserve, Matetsi seamlessly combines safari adventure with refined luxury. Guests enjoy opulent river-facing suites, private plunge pools, fine dining and personalized service.
Guests can choose from spacious river-facing suites or the lavish Matetsi River House, a private-use villa with a dedicated team including a butler, chef, guide and tracker. Every suite features a private plunge pool, indoor and outdoor showers and panoramic views of the Zambezi River — creating a tranquil sanctuary that is both stylish and immersive.
Culinary experiences at Matetsi are a standout feature. The lodge’s talented chefs craft seasonal menus using locally sourced ingredients, delivering meals that are both nourishing and artfully presented. Guests can enjoy breakfast overlooking the river, wine-paired dinners under the stars or a surprise bush lunch in the heart of the reserve. The wine cellar is impressively stocked, featuring top Southern African labels and international vintages.
Matetsi also prioritizes sustainability and community empowerment, with a deep commitment to conservation and responsible tourism. Their rewilding efforts have successfully brought wildlife back to the land, offering guests the rare chance to witness untouched ecosystems while supporting a meaningful mission. With its unmatched privacy, sophisticated design and expertly guided experiences, Matetsi Victoria Falls is perfect for luxury travelers, honeymooners and multigenerational families seeking an unforgettable African escape where safari and serenity meet.
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