The dramatic Victoria Falls; the world’s largest sheet of falling water, where the wide Zambezi River simply drops away 100 meters into a narrow gorge. With such diversity on its doorstep, nothing can compare to exploring the majestical African Bush by an open vehicle at sunrise, watching the sunset over one of nature’s breathtaking wonders of the world, and at the end of the day relaxing in one of the best safari lodges near Victoria Falls.
1. Sindabezi Island Chalets at Tongabezi
Located on the Zambian side of Victoria Falls, Sindabezi Island at Tongabezi is an exclusive camp on its very own private isle on the Zambezi River and the best luxury site from where Victoria Falls can comfortably be explored. The Wi-Fi-free peaceful sanctuary that is Sindabezi Island boasts five truly luxurious and breathtaking island chalets, all perched on stilted wooden decks offering the best views imaginable across the flood plains of the Zambezi and into the nearby National Park.
Getting to Sindabezi Island Chalets at Tongabezi is straightforward – the closest airport being Livingstone Airport, a 35-minute drive from the lodge. British Airways and South African Airways fly into Livingstone from Johannesburg, South Africa daily, and Kenya Airways also flies from Nairobi into Livingstone 3 times weekly.
Upon arrival, nothing can prepare you for the amazing wildlife you will see from your open-sided chalet. Watching the Zambezi River quietly flow by your eco-friendly chalet is simply out of this world. After a day of exploring, return to this tranquil haven for a nice hot outdoor shower, followed by a delicious gourmet meal. Settle down under the starry skies by the picturesque campfire and absorb the sights and sounds of the African Bush surrounding you. Spectacular!
2. Victoria Falls Safari Lodge
Situated only 4km from Victoria Falls and surrounded by African Bush as far as you can see, lies the beautiful Victoria Falls Safari Lodge. The Falls lie across the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Sunsets from the Buffalo bar viewing deck are a sight to behold, as are the striking views from the bedrooms – some of them overlooking the waterhole frequented by elephants, buffalo, and other wildlife and birds.
3. Stanley Safari Lodge
Found in the town Livingstone, Stanley Safari Lodge is an elegant and luxurious getaway and only three kilometers from the Victoria Falls. Easy to get it by road, it can be found 25 minutes from Livingstone Airport.
Set on a hill bordering the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park and overlooking the unspoiled bush, the ten uniquely designed chalets are all open design, allowing you to immerse yourself in the wonders of the true African Bush.
4. Masuwe Lodge
Masuwe Lodge borders Zambezi National Park and is just 7km (4.4 miles) from Victoria Falls.
Animals roam freely around the natural bushland, and your eyes will be treated to frequent sightings of the local wildlife, including impala and hyenas. Lit at night-time, the small waterhole just in front of the lodge presents a truly magical experience once the sun has gone down.
5. The Elephant Camp
With its 12 luxury suites under canvas, The Elephant Camp Main really puts you at one with nature.
Situated approximately 10km from Victoria Falls, this all-inclusive camp perched on a hill offers spectacular panoramic views. Rooms boast a private plunge pool and decking area, and the gorge is the place to spend the evening watching the sunset whilst sipping a cocktail.
6. Old Drift Lodge
Overlooking the Zambezi National Park, this opulent lodge is only 7 kilometers from the Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, making it the closest lodge within the National Park to Victoria Falls.
Found between Zimbabwe and Zambia on the Zambezi River, this family-friendly lodge is situated North facing onto the Zambezi & South facing onto a water hole. With its 360 degree views, the views and sights will not disappoint.
7. Shongwe Lodge Lookout
Located around 2km from Victoria Falls Waterfall, Shongwe Lodge Lookout consists of 23 beautifully furnished rooms set in the suburbs of Victoria Falls.
The rooms surround their unique Lookout Tower, which offers amazing views of the Zambezi River, and the magical mist rising from Victoria Falls. A true African delight.
8. Mpala Jena
Inside Zambezi National Park and 10 miles from Victoria Falls, you will find four all-inclusive tented suites or a two-bedroom tented villa overlooking the stunning Zambezi River shoreline.
Using recycled materials and solar power for electricity, Mpala Jena is one of the most eco-friendly sites you will find. Offering bespoke safari tours and guided walks, this all-inclusive camp is truly exquisite.
9. Matetsi Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls is a 40km downriver from Matetsi Victoria Falls, which can be found between Zimbabwe and Zambia on the Zambezi River.
Matetsi boasts a Private Game Reserve of 55 000 hectares of protected and unspoiled wilderness. The game drives are out of this world, not to mention the incredible food and staff.
10. Gorges Lodge
Just a 30-minute drive from Victoria Falls town, you will find Gorges Lodge and Little Gorges on the edge of the Batoka Gorge.
A tranquil lodge nestled in a landscaped garden, this is a perfect choice for your Victoria Falls safari adventure, close to all the action but away from the busier Victoria Falls town. It’s lovely to see the close ties to the local community and the genuine sense of pride that exudes from everyone you come across at Gorges Lodge. A great cultural experience.
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