Victoria Falls River Lodge | Zimbabwe
Victoria Falls River Lodge, Zambezi National Park
Combining luxury safari living with unrivalled access to one of the world’s natural wonders, Victoria Falls River Lodge offers a unique blend of wilderness and iconic scenery. Set on the banks of the Zambezi River, just upstream from the Victoria Falls, it provides the rare opportunity to enjoy both a Big Five safari and the thrill of visiting the Falls from one base.
The lodge is located inside Zambezi National Park, only a short distance from Victoria Falls town, yet it feels wonderfully remote. With the Zambezi River flowing right past camp and thick riverine forest all around, the setting is alive with wildlife. Hippos grunt offshore, elephants swim between islands, and a dazzling variety of birdlife fills the trees. The park itself stretches over 50,000 hectares of protected wilderness, home to lion, buffalo, leopard, and a range of plains game.
The lodge’s position offers guests the best of both worlds: access to the dramatic spectacle of Victoria Falls — one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World — and the serenity of a riverfront safari retreat.
The Lodge
Victoria Falls River Lodge is divided into several distinct accommodation options, each designed to create a different style of stay while sharing the same hallmark of riverside luxury.
Luxury Tented Suites are the core of the lodge, with canvas walls under thatch blending safari authenticity with modern comfort. Each suite features king beds, freestanding bathtubs, outdoor showers, and private decks with plunge pools overlooking the river. Floor-to-ceiling windows bring the outside in, allowing for uninterrupted views of the Zambezi and its passing wildlife.
Island Treehouse Suites, set on the private Kandahar Island, take seclusion to the next level. Elevated walkways lead to stylish, glass-fronted villas with private plunge pools, outdoor baths, and personal butler service. Surrounded entirely by the river, they are among the most exclusive accommodations near Victoria Falls.
Family Suites cater to those travelling with children, offering spacious two-bedroom layouts and all the comforts required for a family-friendly safari.
The main lodge is open and breezy, with a central dining area, bar, lounge, infinity pool, and firepit — all facing the Zambezi. Dining is a highlight, with meals often served al fresco under the stars or in private on your deck.
Safari Experience
Being situated within Zambezi National Park, the lodge offers a full safari program. Morning and afternoon game drives explore the park’s diverse habitats, where guests can encounter elephant herds, prides of lion, buffalo, and a variety of antelope species. While leopards are elusive, they are present, and wild dog sightings occasionally reward the lucky.
River safaris are a standout here. Boat cruises along the Zambezi allow for close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and elephants wading through the channels, as well as some of the region’s finest birdwatching. Sunset cruises are especially memorable, with golden light reflecting off the river and wildlife silhouetted against the horizon. Fishing is also available, with the Zambezi famous for its powerful tigerfish.
Of course, no visit would be complete without experiencing Victoria Falls itself. The lodge arranges guided excursions to the Falls, along with a wide array of adventure activities — from helicopter flights over the gorge to white-water rafting, ziplining, and visits to local craft markets. The combination of safari, river activities, and the Falls makes for one of Africa’s most varied and thrilling itineraries.
What makes Victoria Falls River Lodge unique is the balance it strikes: it is a true luxury safari lodge set in a national park, yet it also places you just minutes away from one of the world’s most extraordinary natural landmarks. Guests can spend the morning tracking lion on the floodplains, the afternoon visiting the Falls, and the evening sipping cocktails as elephants cross the Zambezi at sunset.
Staying at Victoria Falls River Lodge feels a bit like having the best of both worlds. You’re close enough to the Falls to hear its roar on a quiet night, but far enough in the park to wake up with elephants outside your deck and hippos in the river below. Days move easily between game drives, boat cruises, and visits to the Falls, with evenings ending around the fire watching the Zambezi drift past.
If you’re looking for a place that blends the magic of safari with the wonder of Victoria Falls, this lodge makes it all feel effortless. Get in touch with our safari experts and we’ll craft a personalised journey that combines Victoria Falls, the Zambezi, and beyond.
Booking Process
We tailor every aspect of your travel – your itinerary, private guides, accommodations, & activities – to create the trip you’re dreaming of. With deep in-country knowledge, our team is able to craft your trip precisely the way you want. Request a custom itinerary below.
1. Make an Enquiry
Submit an enquiry online.
2. Speak to a Local Expert
Discuss your travel plans with your own dedicated Africa specialist.
3. Receive a Quote + Itinerary
We craft your dream itinerary and send you a quote.
4. Book Your Trip
Once every detail is just right, we confirm your booking.