Best places to stay:
Zambezi National Park, Matabeleland North, Central African Republic (CAR)
|victoriafallsriverlodge.com|As the first private lodge to be built in the Zambezi National Park, a short way upstream from the Victoria Falls, this riverfront escape has an enviable location on the banks of the Zambezi River. And it’s put to good use in the bold Scandi-chic suites, that take full advantage of glorious river views.
There’s a wonderful range of accommodation on offer too, from under-canvas tented suites suitable for families – with lovely, private plunge pools – to the romantic Treehouse Suites set on a private island.
The Starbed Suites are unforgettable, with a rooftop deck and bed above the forest canopy.
Although the lodge is just 10 minutes’ drive from the town of Victoria Falls, the bushveld setting feels a world apart from the tourist bustle. It’s close enough to drop into town every day for adventures, but a sanctuary of peace and quiet to escape to after.
Suites are perched on the riverbanks, surrounded by lush indigenous forest and birdlife, while the wilderness of the national park extends beyond to offer hours of safari adventure.
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Bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, Southern Province, Zambia[2.2 miles]
Excellent guided bush walks that will get you up close and personal with the endangered white rhinoceros in Zambia’s Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park.
Best for ages: 14+ | £82 | 2 or 4 hours
Victoria Falls Town, Matabeleland North, Zimbabwe[4.6 miles]
Scenic cruises and game spotting on one of Africa’s greatest rivers, just made for sundowners.
Best for ages: 4+ | £35 | 1+ hours
Victoria Falls Town, Matabeleland North, Zimbabwe[6.2 miles]
Vibrant outdoor restaurant steeped in African decor, with local entertainment and terrific barbecue buffet.
Best for ages: 4+ | £25 | 3 hours
Livingstone, Southern Province, Zambia[6.9 miles]
Fine-dining aboard a lovely colonial-era steam train as it chuffs for 15km through the game-rich Zambian bush.
Best for ages: 13+ | £150 | 4 hours
Other worthwhile experiences in this destination if you have the time or the interest, closest first
Victoria Falls Town, Matabeleland North, Zimbabwe[5.8 miles]
Designed by golfing legend Gary Player, the 18-hole Elephant Hills course upstream from the Falls is one of the wildest golf courses in Africa, and players will have to mind the antelope and crocodiles as carefully as the water hazards.
Best for ages: 13+ | £10 | 2-4 hours
Livingstone, Southern Province, Zambia[7.4 miles]
There’s not much to recommend the town of Livingstone, but Zambia’s largest and oldest museum is certainly worth a visit for its collection of original David Livingstone artefacts, including tools, journals and maps.
Best for ages: 18+ | £5
Livingstone, Southern Province, Zambia[7.7 miles]
Enjoy a taste of local living at the Dambwa market in Livingstone. This is where locals come to shop, and you’ll find everything from fresh produce to wooden carvings. Guided tours are available if you’re unsure about exploring on your own.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Victoria Falls Town, Matabeleland North, Central African Republic (CAR)[8.5 miles]
Dating back to 1904, The Victoria Falls Hotel occupies a dramatic promontory above the Batoka Gorge. It’s a view best enjoyed over the decadent platters served for afternoon tea, a much-loved tradition.
Best for ages: 13+ | £15 | 1-2 hours
Destination guides including or relevant to this place to stay
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
The world-famous Victoria Falls is also Africa’s adventure playground, offering an array of brilliant adrenalin-packed adventure activities plus Big Five safaris.
