Zimbabwe offers some of the most thrilling wildlife encounters, incredible untamed wilderness, and adrenaline-soaked adventures to be found on the African continent. From classic game viewing and relaxing sunset cruises to scenic helicopter flights and photographic safaris, the country has something for everyone. Visitors to Zimbabwe are spoiled for choice when it comes to luxury accommodations which are plain to see in our list of the best 19 safari lodges and camps in Zimbabwe. Just pick a region and get planning!
Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve
1. Singita Pamushana Lodge
Located within the 130 000-acre Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve and sharing its southern border with Gonarezhou National Park, Singita Pamushana Lodge features six extravagant African suites and one villa perched high on the cliff-side making for stunning views of Lake Malilangwe, sandstone hills, and countless baobab and acacia trees. With more than 36 mammal and 125 bird species to be found, guides here deliver memorable safari experiences. When you’re not on safari, there’s plenty to do back at camp, including spa treatments, tennis, golf, mountain biking, and archery. Come sunset, you can indulge in a sundowner cruise and, after dark, a stargazing safari.
Highlights include:
- An extensive wine cellar
- 5-star dining in a variety of locations
- Awe-inspiring views of Malilangwe Dam and Nature Reserve
- Visiting ancient San rock art sites
- Dependable Black rhino sightings
- Sundowner cruises on the dam
Ideal for:
Family vacations
Activities:
- Animal tracking experiences
- Bird watching
- Fishing
- Game drives
- Guided walks
- Historical tours
- Specialist guides
- Tennis
- Guided walking safaris
2. Malilangwe House
Situated within the 130 000-acre Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve, boasting a huge variety of animal and plant species, an array of habitats, and multiple cultural and geological sites, this contemporary African bush home features stunning views of the Malilangwe Dam and surrounding wilderness. Guests here can indulge in game drives, boat cruises, walking safaris, and trips to ancient rock art sites. Enjoy panoramic views from your private deck or chill out in the infinity pool while your private chef and host take care of your every need.
Highlights include:
- Sundowner cruises on the dam
- A luxury, exclusive-use villa in a wildlife-rich reserve
- Jaw-dropping views of the bushland and Malilangwe Dam
- Private chef, butler, game vehicle, and field guide
- Mini Rangers Course and kids’ activities
- Tailor-made safari experiences
Ideal for:
Small groups and families
Activities:
- Bird watching
- Boat excursions
- Fishing
- Game drives
- Guided walking safaris
- Local village visits
- Spa treatments
- Star gazing
- Sundowners
- Sunset cruises
Victoria Falls National Park
3. The Elephant Camp
Set within a private concession just ten kilometers from Victoria Falls, this camp is regularly visited by herds of elephants. Guests here can visit the Wild Horizons Elephant Sanctuary to get up close and personal with these gentle giants – it’s an unforgettable encounter. At the camp, you can kick back for sundowners on the deck, cool off in the pool, or head out to Victoria Falls itself for some thrilling adventure activities like whitewater rafting, ziplining across the falls, and bungee jumping. For a more tranquil experience, take a relaxing cruise on the Zambezi or a walk through the wildlife concession.
Highlights include:
- Canopy tours over the falls
- Ethical elephant encounters
- Panoramic views of the Victoria Falls National Park bushveld
- Fine dining over Batoka Gorge
- Boating, canoeing, and whitewater rafting
Ideal for:
Adventurous travelers
Activities:
- Bird watching
- Day tours
4. Victoria Falls Hotel
This world-renowned and elegant hotel is so close to Victoria Falls that you can hear the thundering falls from the premises. From this destination steeped in historical glamor, you can visit the Falls on foot, go canoeing in the Zambezi, or, for the adventurous at heart, go bungee jumping or ziplining across the rushing river. Game drives and bush walks are on offer, you can keep active on the tennis court, enjoy a swim in the pool or unwind with a relaxing massage at the hotel’s spa.
Highlights include:
- Helicopter and luxury steam train tours
- A direct walkway to Victoria Falls
- Uninterrupted views of the falls
- 5-star fine dining
- Outstanding service
- Conde Nast Traveller’s 2020 Gold List Award winner
Ideal for:
Couples and families
Activities:
- Boat excursions
- Canoeing
- Game drives
- Guided walks
- Day tours
Lake Kariba, Matusadona National Park
5. Fothergill Island
An under-canvas camp, Fothergill Island seamlessly blends an authentic tented safari experience with modern stylish luxury. This one-of-a-kind accommodation oozes a cool, open, and light atmosphere and complements its wild surroundings. The camp is an island paradise located on the shores of Lake Kariba and delivers exceptional safari moments at every turn. Safari adventures include fly-fishing, archery, nature walks, and a range of child-friendly activities. Game drives here offer ample opportunities to spot wildlife in an unmistakably African environment.
Highlights include:
- Private plunge pools
- Eco-smart solar setup fulfilling 95% of the camp’s energy needs
- Age-appropriate children’s activities
- Unique luxury tents in the Matusadona National Park
- Fishing, archery, bird watching, and stargazing
- Sunset cruises on Lake Kariba
- Exploring the national park and Lake Kariba on foot, safari vehicle, and boat
- Unmatched levels of exclusivity and privacy
Ideal for:
Honeymooners, couples, and families
Activities:
- Day tours
- Fishing
- Game drives
- Guided walking safaris
6. Changa Safari Camp
Tucked away on the shore of Lake Kariba, Changa Safari Camp is a cozy lodge in the awe-inspiring setting of Matusadona National Park. Thanks to the use of all-natural construction materials, the lodge blends in beautifully with its natural surroundings, creating an unobtrusive and laid-back feel. Indulge in game drives and safari walks that provide outstanding opportunities to spot big game and a multitude of bird species, or just cruise out onto the lake for a blissful escape. Incredible cuisine and excellent service round out this awesome safari destination.
Highlights include:
- Stunning views of the lake
- Boat trips to Sanyati Gorge
- Wildlife that roams close to the camp
- Boat safaris on Lake Kariba
- The finest in gourmet dining
Ideal for:
Family vacations
Activities:
- Bird watching
- Photographic safaris
- Boat excursions
- Fishing
- Game drives
- Guided walks
7. Bumi Hills Safari Lodge
Tucked up against the remote hills above Lake Kariba, Bumi Hills Safari Lodge feels almost like a beach resort. Take to the waters for a private boat cruise, or have a go at tiger fishing while you marvel at the sensational views surrounding you. You can also go on walking safaris around the lake, interact with the local community, or head into the forests to get a look at fossilized dinosaur footprints. The lake’s shore is a twitcher’s paradise, featuring countless bird species, while the floodplain offers excellent wildlife-viewing opportunities.
Highlights include:
- A private, wildlife-rich concession
- Sunset cruises on Lake Kariba
- Animal tracking experiences
- Ngwana Club for entertaining the kids
- Breathtaking views of Lake Kariba and the Zambezi escarpment
Ideal for:
Romantic getaways and family holidays
Activities:
- Bird watching
- Fishing
- Boat excursions
- Day tours
- Animal tracking experiences
- Game drives
- Guided walks
- Local village visits
- Picnics
- Sunset cruises
Mana Pools National Park
8. Kanga Camp
Set within an uncrowded private concession in Mana Pools, Kanga Camp provides an authentic and exclusive safari experience in the wild landscape of Northern Zimbabwe. The camp enjoys views of the Kanga Pan, a natural watering point for a wide variety of birds and game, including fish eagles, storks, wild dogs, and elephants. Kanga’s resident lion pride makes for great big cat sightings, and the Big Five are never far away. If fact, you’ll be able to spot wildlife from the comfort of the viewing deck, ensconced in the warm hospitality Zimbabwe is famous for.
Highlights include:
- Animal tracking experiences
- Superb photographic opportunities at the Kanga hide
- Excellent leopard, lion, and Wild dog sightings
- A permanent water pan frequently visited by wildlife
- A luxury lodge in a private concession
Ideal for:
Families with teenagers and adventurous travelers
Activities:
- Full-day safaris
- Bird watching
- Game drives
- Animal tracking experiences
- Night drives
- Specialist guides
- Guided walking safaris
9. Chikwenya Camp
Chikwenya is a seasonal camp (open from April to November) that provides the highest level of luxury in canvas tented suites on raised wooden walkways and decks. Located in an exclusive-use area on the eastern border of Mana Pools National Park, the camp is surrounded by a dense forest of albida and mahogany trees and offers jaw-dropping views of the Zambezi River and the mountains of the Rift Valley escarpment. You’ll have unfettered access to Chikwenya Island and the Sapi River, and wildlife photographers will be spoiled for choice with healthy populations of assorted birdlife, elephants, buffalo, hippos, lions, leopards, zebra, and wild dogs. A safari in Zimbabwe doesn’t get much better than this.
Highlights include:
- Catch and release fishing
- Night game drives in an exclusive use area
- Boat and canoe safaris
- Guided walks along the Zambezi river and in the surrounding forest
- An ultra-elegant lodge in a wildlife-rich area
Ideal for:
Couples and romantic getaways
Activities:
- Bird watching
- Game drives
- Guided walks
- Sunset cruises
10. Little Ruckomechi Camp
Situated within the private Ruckomechi Concession, Little Ruckomechi is located close to the Zambezi River and is perfect for adventure seekers looking for a remote getaway. This luxurious and exclusive tented lodge features an open and airy design, with rich, natural textures complemented by local decor pieces. Expect to see plains animals like waterbuck, impala, zebra, and kudu, as well as top predators like leopards, cheetahs, lions, and wild dogs. Along the river, you’ll spot buffalo, elephants, and hippos.
Highlights include:
- Boating and canoeing on the mighty Zambezi River
- An exclusive safari experience in a private concession
- Heart-stopping game viewing
- Spectacular views of the Zambian foothills and Zambezi River
- A birder’s paradise
Ideal for:
Safari lovers of all kinds
Activities:
- Day tours
- Bird watching
- Fishing
- Game drives
- Guided walks
- River cruises
11. Ruckomechi Camp
Ruckomechi Camp is located on the western boundary of Mana Pools National Park. Tucked away in a massive grove of mahogany and acacia trees, the camp’s main camp and luxurious tents boast incredible views of the Zambezi and the peaks of the Great Rift Valley in Zambia. Enjoy 4×4 game drives, guided bush walks, canoeing, boating, and fishing expeditions, or simply relax in the plunge pool as you soak up the surrounding wilderness. As far as wildlife goes, you’ll be spoiled for choice with regular sightings of cheetahs, leopards, wild dogs, and lions, as well as healthy populations of elephants and buffalo along the river.
Highlights include:
- Reliable sightings of buffalo and elephants
- Sleepouts in a star bed under the glorious African sky
- Jaw-dropping views of the Zambezi River
- Predator sightings
- Boating and canoeing
- Guided walks through the bush
Ideal for:
Couples and families
Activities:
- Boat excursions
- Canoeing
- Fishing
- Game drives
- Guided walks
- Guided walking safaris
12. Nyamatusi Camp
Nyamatusi Camp is one of Mana Pools National Park’s most lavish destinations but places a strong emphasis on sustainability and eco-consciousness. The entire camp is solar-powered, and the use of natural building materials ensures that the camp blends in seamlessly with its surrounding miombo woodland. Air-conditioned rooms, private plunge pools, and an extensive wine cellar all add up to a level of luxury that’s unmatched in this part of Zimbabwe. Because Nyamatusi is a seasonal camp, the animals here seldom encounter vehicles or humans for up to six months of the year, making encounters with them a thrilling experience.
Highlights include:
- Eco-smart luxury
- Awe-inspiring views of the Zambezi River
- Guaranteed elephant sightings
- Fishing
- Canoeing
- Guided nature walks
Ideal for:
Couples and romantic getaways
Activities:
- Game drives
- Canoeing
- Guided walks
Zambezi National Park
13. Island Treehouse Suites at Victoria Falls River Lodge
This sophisticated lodge is located on the private Kandahar Island, surrounded by the mighty Zambezi River and tucked away among African ebony and Natal mahogany trees and giant ilala palms. This modern version of a classic safari lodge is set on elevated decks with raised wooden walkways connecting the timber and glass suites that boast spectacular views of the surrounding landscape and wildlife. Guests here can look forward to twice-daily game drives in the sprawling Zambezi National Park that’s home to giraffes, buffalo, wild dogs, elephants, hippos, and crocodiles. When you’re done with game-viewing, take a sundowner cruise along the river as the sunset splashes an awe-inspiring palette of colors across the dusky African sky.
Highlights include:
- Panoramic river and forest views
- Situated on a private island that can only be accessed by boat
- Access to all Victoria Falls River Lodge facilities and activities
- Star-bed sleepouts under the African sky
- A personal butler service
- Boating
- Kayaking
Ideal for:
Honeymoons and romantic getaways
Activities:
- Bird watching
- Game drives
- Day tours
- Fishing
- Guided walking safaris
14. Victoria Falls River Lodge
Settled on the banks of the majestic Zambezi River, Victoria Falls River Lodge was the first private game lodge to be constructed in the Zambezi National Park. Situated so close to the Falls that you can observe their spray in the distance, this lodge offers panoramic views of the wilderness surrounding it and is the picture of an idyllic riverside retreat. Beyond 4×4 game drives, you can also experience the Zambezi on a boat cruise, where you’ll easily be able to spot crocodiles and hippos. Back at camp, you can look forward to an in-suite massage, dips in the secluded swimming pool, and the best in fine dining.
Highlights include:
- Boating
- Canoeing
- Spectacular views of the Zambezi River
- Proximity to Victoria Falls
- Adventure activities such as bungee jumping and river rafting
- Touring the falls by luxury steam train and helicopter
Ideal for:
Small groups and families
Activities:
- Bird watching
- Boat excursions
- Game drives
- Night drives
- River cruises
- Sundowners
- Canoeing
- Fishing
15. Old Drift Lodge
Old Drift Lodge is a family-friendly, unfenced destination located in the Zambezi National Park. A little upstream from the world’s biggest waterfall, the front of the lodge features 360-degree views of the mighty Zambezi River and oozes old-world charm without foregoing modern amenities like Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and private plunge pools. Be immersed in this spectacular wilderness area on river boat safaris, 4×4 game drives, and guided nature walks. Thrillseekers can indulge in canopy tours, seasonal swimming in Devil’s Pool, and whitewater rafting before tucking into lunch at the Lookout Cafe above the famous Batoka Gorge.
Highlights include:
- Uninterrupted views of the Zambezi River
- Seasonal swimming in Devil’s Pool
- Lunch over Batoka Gorge
- Boat safaris
- Whitewater rafting
- Victoria Falls canopy tours
- Scenic helicopter flights
- Guided walking safaris
Ideal for:
Couples, small groups, and families
Activities:
- Day tours
- Game drives
- Guided walking safaris
- River cruises
16. Mpala Jena Camp
Getting the name from the stream that runs through the camp. Mpala Jena Camp provides a remote Victoria Falls experience. Built of sturdy canvas and recycled hardwoods and running on solar power, the camp has been designed to have a low impact on its natural environment. Spacious tented suites overlook the majestic Zambezi River, and it’s common for wildlife to roam through the camp. Twice-daily game drives and boat safaris offer guests the chance to explore the area for sightings of giraffes, elephants, lions, spotted hyenas, and buffalo. The camp is open all year and welcomes families with kids aged six and over.
Highlights include:
- Jaw-dropping river views
- Proximity to Victoria Falls
- Secluded luxury and elegance
- Dependable elephant, buffalo, lion, and African wild dog sightings
- Boat cruises and canoeing
Ideal for:
Small groups and couples
Activities:
- Boat excursions
- Day tours
- Fishing
- Game drives
- Guided walks
- Bird watching
Hwange National Park
17. The Hide
Situated in Zimbabwe’s flagship Hwange National Park, The Hide’s luxury tented suites feature jaw-dropping views of a high-activity waterhole. Well known for its diverse and abundant wildlife, Hwange was once the royal hunting ground of Ndebele kings. Twice-daily game drives explore the national park for sightings of big game, and the park is famous for large herds of buffalo and elephants. Other wildlife you’ll be able to spot here includes classic African mammals such as zebras, giraffes, African wild dogs, leopards, and lions. Twitchers will be delighted with over 400 bird species to tick off their lists.
Highlights include:
- Situated in a private concession
- Family-friendly safari experiences
- Great views of a water hole
- Sleepouts under the stars
- Photography hide
- Dependable big game sightings
Ideal for:
Small groups and families
Activities:
- Game drives
- Guided walks
- Night drives
- Bird watching
- Guided walking safaris
18. Linkwasha Camp
Made up of seven tents and one family unit, Linkwasha Camp is situated in Hwange National Parks Linkwasha Concession. Multiple decks ensure outstanding panoramic views, and the camp has been designed to be as energy-efficient and eco-friendly as possible. Birders will be delighted with plenty of migrants, five species of vulture, and raptors like martial eagles, red-necked falcons, and Dickinson’s Kestrel. Guests can hire a private game drive vehicle to go in search of predators such as bat-eared foxes, honey badgers, and side-striped jackals, as well as other firm safari favorites like zebra, waterbuck, and eland.
Highlights include:
- Incredible birding
- A photography hide
- Spectacular predator action
- Sleepouts in star beds
- Guided bush walks in a private concession
- Night drives
Ideal for:
Couples and safari-enthusiasts
Activities:
- Bird watching
- Game drives
- Local village visits
- Private game drives
- Guided walking safaris
- Night drives
- Fly camping
19. Somalisa Acacia
Somalisa Acacia is constructed on the Kennedy vlei line, making for ample wildlife action. Four airy tented suites set on raised decks around a central dining and relaxation deck enjoy incredible views of a busy waterhole and ensure you’re never far away from the thirsty animals. Traditional and authentic safari style blends with comfort and luxurious finishes for a rugged but still classy feel. Guests can look forward to good sightings of elephants, kudu, sable, buffalo, wild dogs, lions, and cheetahs. When you’re not out spotting game, kick back in the plunge pool or soak up the sounds of the wild from your en-suite copper-encased bathtub.
Highlights include:
- An intimate and family-friendly atmosphere
- Walking safari
- Night drives
- Elephants gathering at the drinking pool
- Excellent game sightings right from the camp
- The Ngwana Club for kids
Ideal for:
Small groups and families with kids
Activities:
- Bird watching
- Game drives
- Night drives
- Guided walking safaris
- Horse riding
