Top Hotels in Zimbabwe All-inclusives
- 1. The Elephant Camp
- 2. Victoria Falls River Lodge - Zambezi Crescent
- 3. Khulu Ivory Lodge
- 4. Matetsi Victoria Falls
- 5. Somalisa Camp and Somalisa Acacia - African Bush Camps
- 6. Bomani Tented Lodge
- 7. The Hide Hwange National Park
- 8. Changa Safari Camp
- 9. Camp Hwange
- 10. Vundu Camp - Bushlife Safaris
Top Things to do in Zimbabwe
Countries
10 Top-Rated All-inclusives in Zimbabwe
Discover the best All-inclusives in Zimbabwe including The Elephant Camp, Victoria Falls River Lodge - Zambezi Crescent, Khulu Ivory Lodge, Matetsi Victoria Falls, Somalisa Camp and Somalisa Acacia - African Bush Camps, Bomani Tented Lodge, The Hide Hwange National Park, Changa Safari Camp, Camp Hwange, Vundu Camp - Bushlife Safaris.
Things to do in Zimbabwe
1. The Elephant Camp
Overall Ratings
5 based on 1419 reviews
The Elephant Camp has breathtaking views of the Victoria Falls' spray and the spectacular gorges which separate Zimbabwe and Zambia. The Elephant Camp is a luxury, intimate lodge under canvas within easy reach of Victoria Falls (approximately 10 km) and all its attractions and activities, yet secluded in its own private game reserve. The Elephant Camp offers exclusive suite accommodation for only 24 adults in 12 luxury tents. The 'Elephant Camp West' consists of 4 luxury tents that sleep 8 adults and 8 children (all are equipped to become family rooms with comfortable sleeper couches). (Children not included in total occupancy) All suites are gorge facing and boast a private viewing deck and plunge pool, private lounge area, air-conditioning and fans, bath (with a view), inside and outside shower, mini bar and tea/coffee stations. INCLUDED: Accommodation and all meals, drinks (excluding premium brands), complimentary mini bars in the rooms. Return Victoria Falls Airport transfers & two transfers to Victoria Falls town per day. Laundry & Emergency Medical Evacuation cover. Lunch at the Lookout Cafe.
What a great, relaxing Camp!
Reviewed By DougWillamanI spent two nights/three days at The Elephant Camp and LOVED it! The setting is just outstanding with views of the "smoke that thunders" coming from Victoria Falls. Upon arrival, the staff helped us set up our itinerary. We met the local elephants and got to feed them and do some behind-the-ear scratching of these amazing animals. We did a sundowner at Batoka Gorge which is just beautiful. The next day, we did the tour of Victoria Falls and Loved it! Just breathtaking! Ponchos were provided for you as you will get wet from that mist! We then had lunch at The Lookout Cafe. What a gorgeous view and the food was amazing! The staff at the camp were just great! Very friendly and were so happy to provide us with a great experience. The FOOD! WOW! I was blown away by how amazing each meal was! There were three options for dinner, one was a vegetarian option. Every single dish I had was outstanding! I cant say enough about how good everything was. The tent/cabin was amazing! Both indoor and outdoor showers were available and there was a large tub for a nice relaxing bath. Plenty of hot water. Charging outlets were right in the room . We had our own private dipping pool on the deck which was great. Everything was spotless and the beds were very very comfortable!
2. Victoria Falls River Lodge - Zambezi Crescent
Overall Ratings
5 based on 698 reviews
Set on the banks of the Zambezi River, within the Zambezi National Park (Zimbabwe), Victoria Falls River Lodge is the ideal place from which to explore Victoria Falls. The combination luxurious accommodation options (incl. 13 x spacious Luxury Tented Suites - nestled on the riverbanks and 6 x secluded Island Treehouse Suites - amidst the treetops of a private Island), personalized service, fine dining, and an exceptional African Safari experience with one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World - the spray of which can be seen in the distance – ensures an unforgettable experience that will leave guests wanting to return again, and again.
Great escape
Reviewed By A9763IEsilviabExcellent lodge, Staff is outstanding. Very efficient and helpful with a good and happy attitude. Tents facing the Zambezi are super comfortably und clean. Wildlife tours from the lodge and Vic Falls were great. Stayed 3 nights. Loved it.
3. Khulu Ivory Lodge
Overall Ratings
5 based on 153 reviews
Khulu Ivory “Grandfather of Ivory” is located on a private concession of 6,000 acres. One of the many charms of this camp is that it offers guests luxurious and private accommodation accompanied with old world hospitality.
Added extra 'armchair safari'
Reviewed By mariannel804To our surprise we were 'upgraded' from Ivory Lodge to Khulu Lodge, we were not disappointed! The warm and friendly hospitality made us feel very welcome and comfortable for the three nights of our stay. Our rooms were very well appointed chalets with a small veranda, love the extra outdoor shower as well as an indoor one, all with uniterrupted views over a very large waterhole opposite. The reception, lounge, bar, dinning was a large decked area, under the main thatched roof a very comfotable and sociable 'hub'. There was also a small open pool. You could also look outfrom another open area with chairs around a 'fire pit' which was enclosed with a rustic barrier of heavy branches for safety. We absolutely loved the open feel, no fences between us and the wild! There was always something interesting to watch at the waterhole. So if you weren't out on a safari drive you were on an 'armchair safari'! in the evenings we were entertained by the elephant's party, they would drink the fresh borehole water from our pool! Who needs tv here? We watched frequent 'stand offs' between elephants and buffalo. The guides impressed us with their knowledgeable and experience. The food was excellent. There was an abundance of other wildlife seen on our drives, Kudu, Sable, Tsessesbi, Waterbuck Zebra, Impala, Red duiker Jackhal, Baboons, Vervet monkeys, Lions, Hippos and Crocodiles. We just loved our experience at Khulu Lodge and were sorry to leave, would love to revisite another time.
4. Matetsi Victoria Falls
Overall Ratings
5 based on 201 reviews
5-Star rated Matetsi Victoria Falls on the pristine 55 000 hectare Matetsi Private Game Reserve, offers a safari oasis that combines an exceptional wildlife experience and 15km (9.3 miles) of private Zambezi River frontage with easy access to the majestic Victoria Falls. Matetsi Private Game Reserve pays homage to the wonderfully rich cultural heritage of Zimbabwe by showcasing a vibrant theme of wood and copper, the “red gold” of the country’s historical mining industry, throughout the spectacular interiors of Matetsi River Lodge and Matetsi River House. Splashes of bright blue remind guests of the rushing waters of the Zambezi River. Guests staying at Matetsi River Lodge and Matetsi River House have the opportunity to take advantage of an extensive Boutique, a fitness studio, massage sala and boardroom. A 20 meter long, rim-flow swimming pool stretches along the riverbank, while an exclusive wine cellar boasts eye-level views of the Zambezi River.
World-Class
Reviewed By NicoleBenjaminUSAThis was the last stop on our long-awaited honeymoon, which also included stays at AndBeyond Mnemba Island in Zanzibar and Giraffe Manor in Nairobi. Having never been on safari before, we valued the ability to balance game drives with the various other on-property activities, and, of course, a visit to the falls. We opted for four nights and loved every minute. The suites at Matetsi are standalone, spacious, and well-designed. The bed is huge. The food is top-class; we were fortunate that our stay aligned with a “bush dinner” - indescribably special. River views are spectacular. Boat cruises, canoeing, and a walking falls tour were included; we did all three and also indulged in massages, which were excellent. If there’s one criticism, it’s that there was so much fixed-schedule activity to try to fit in, it was a bit difficult to keep track of in the absence of a written itinerary. Perhaps a consequence of us being rookies on the safari circuit more than anything else. We went in thinking we’d only join one game drive - that would’ve been perfectly fine - but ended up joining four. They were life changing. There were lions, hyena, buffaloes, zebra, giraffes, honey badgers, dik-dik, hundreds of elephants, and many others. The wildlife weren’t accustomed to encountering people, which made for an authentic experience. The sunrise and sunset views were worth the trip on their own. We’ve spent an inordinate amount of our savings staying at some of the highest-ranked luxury properties in the US and Europe, but take the time to write reviews only when the staff make such an impression that it is wrong not to do so. This was one of those rare cases. Dr. Gardiner and her team are kind, genuine, prideful people and it was a privilege to spend this important fleeting moment in our lives with them. Mengo has seemingly infinite, encyclopedic knowledge of wildlife in the region. He is also a passionate family man with high moral character - we learned far more from him than merely one-off animal factoids. Bongani is an elite spotter and future guide who saw a 6-inch chameleon on a tree branch 30 meters from our vehicle in the dark of night. Andile was the perfect butler - appropriately casual and confident, tirelessly helpful, and a pleasure to converse with. Lloyd is a true professional and future star. Romeo gave us an excellent tour of the falls. We are grateful to each of them. We will absolutely return one day (even if it costs all of King Midas’ silver), so long as the Gardiner family continues to operate the property and Mengo sticks around. Until then, we’ll relive the memories in our heads as often as we possibly can. -Ben and Nicki
5. Somalisa Camp and Somalisa Acacia - African Bush Camps
Overall Ratings
5 based on 427 reviews
Somalisa Tented Camp is set in the heart of Hwange National Park Zimbabwe, and is known as the land of the giants for its big elephant herds. Nestled in a stunning location tucked away on an acacia island along the edge of an ancient seasonal flood plain, Somalisa provides guests with breathtaking views of the savannah plains across the famous Kennedy Vlei line. Recently re-built, Somalisa Tented Camp has upgraded its level of accommodation to that of complete comfort and luxury whilst still maintaining its focus on the guiding and hosting of guests to ensure the ultimate guest experience. Consisting of seven elegantly furnished Sail Tents with gauze sliding doors, a glass wood-burner fireplace for the cold winter nights, and an overhead fan for the hot summer days, each tent has en suite bathroom facilities including flush toilets, an indoor and outdoor shower, as well as a copper slipper-style bathtub. The main decking area includes split level decking with a separate lounge and dining area, as well as a small splash pool for guests overlooking the “Elephant Pool” and a natural waterhole where herds of game congregate to drink and where guests can relax whilst soaking in the African bush. Activities include guided walks lead by qualified and passionate guides who will share their knowledge and love of the bush with you, game drives and night drives. Wildlife sightings include elephant, kudu, sable antelope, zebra, wildebeest, gemsbok, the rare and endangered roan antelope, buffalo, giraffe, lion, leopard, hyena, and many other wildlife species.
Great location for Hwange National Park , delightful staff , great food and very comfortable accommodation
Reviewed By Jennifer EHwange National park is packed with wildlife and basing yourself at a good camp is essential to enjoy the area . Early starts on cold mornings are made easy with blankets and hot water bottles . Be prepared to see elephant in camp at very close quarters as well as in the Park . Our top class quide was great ensuring we enjoyed as many sightings as possible . Sundowners were a joy ! Dinner , in fact all the food , was professionally prepared , varied and delicious . All the staff made our stay very memorable . Just fabulous
6. Bomani Tented Lodge
Overall Ratings
5 based on 359 reviews
* Seasonal Camp - closed 11 January 2021 - 28 February 2021. Bomani Tented Lodge situated in the remote south east corner of Hwange National Park comprising of a total of 11 rooms - 5 Saddlebill tents built on raised teak decks with en suite bathrooms with hot and cold running water, showers and flush toilets, 4 Spurwing Tents built at ground level, with en suite bathrooms with hot and cold running water and flush toilets, 1 Sable Suite (Family Tent) with 2 bedrooms and en suite bathrooms, sleeping 6 people and a thatched bungalow with all amenities incl overhead fans. The main lodge comprising bar lounge and dining room overlooks waterhole frequented by all the big game prevalent in the area. Game activities in the area include drives, walks and night drives conducted by fully licensed professional guides. There is a swimming pool at the main lodge area overlooking the lodge waterhole.
Wonderful
Reviewed By David HOur trip was arranged by our UK agent Audley Travel and we came to Bomani at their recommendation and they got it so right. The approach was by the Elephant Express which is a private railcar rattling along on the main line. The team on board know how to make you feel welcome and they even had vegetarian snacks for my lady and zero alcohol beer for me. Great introduction to the African bush with stops to view the wildlife. Collected from the Express by a game-viewing vehicle for the short drive to Bomani where we were made welcome by Big Boy and given the orientation and safety talk and escorted to the tent. Given the season in late May the camp was quiet so we had undivided attention from the staff. The tent looked out across the plains and the waterhole and, as we could see by the tracks in the sand every morning there were visitors at night – though we slept so soundly we didn’t see them. The bed was very comfortable and there was constant hot water by solar power. Game viewing drives were available morning, afternoon, evening and night but there was no pressure. ‘It’s your holiday’ was repeated often meaning just say what you want. We had come with some ideas of what we wanted to try and see and Aubz, our guide, was very knowledgeable and helpful and ticked many of the list. The big surprise of the trip in late May was the temperature difference between day and night. Daytime temperatures were in the middle to upper twenties so warm enough to use the pool but shortly after the sun set the temperature plummeted. Not enough for frost and ice but too cold to sit around so pack a good sweater and thick trousers as well as shorts and T shirts. Hot water bottles are in the beds. Blankets and ponchos are supplied on game drives and since the vehicles are open you need them. The highlights? Stopping for drinks and snacks by a pool with a hide and spotting a big bull elephant coming to drink. We were quickly into the adjacent hide and then watched him drink from the borehole only seven metres away (paced it afterwards!). He was joined by six or eight other elephants all milling around in front of us. And he knew we were there! A walking safari with Sibs explaining the significance of the little things we could see around us. Just four of us and him and the whole African bush around us. Another time we were out with Aubz looking for lions knowing there were some around somewhere and suddenly there were 14 of them including 10 cubs walking through the bush. We watched an unsuccessful hunt and then the lionesses returned to the cubs and walked them close past us in the vehicle almost in touching distance. Amazing! Another simple pleasure was standing around the camp fire in the chilly early sunshine with hot coffee and making toast on the fire before going out on the morning drive. Absolute quiet. Good company. Wonderful. Departure after three nights was on the Elephant Express again going up the line to the next camp on the trip. We’d go back to Bomani any time!
7. The Hide Hwange National Park
Overall Ratings
5 based on 673 reviews
Well known and much loved, The Hide Safari Camp is situated within Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe's largest game reserve, renowned for its abundant and diverse wildlife. Built in 1992, The Hide has justly earned its reputation as a great wildlife experience wrapped in warm and welcoming hospitality. Accommodating up to 20 guests in comfortable, spacious, en-suite luxury tents under thatch, The Hide prides itself on having a family of experienced, knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides. Activities on offer include guided walks with a professional guide, day and night game drives, ‘hide’ sits, sleepovers at the romantic Dove’s Nest and much more!
Out in the African bush - with all facilities
Reviewed By David HOur UK travel agent, Audley Travel, had arranged our trip to Zimbabwe recommending The Hide as the last stay of the trip. This had more investment than other places we stayed which meant some better facilities such as newer vehicles, a more extensive central area and more management around. The tents were similar to others and the housekeeping kept them clean and tidy. There were more wildlife around the site with the chance of meeting the local elephant and an impala or baboons on the way to and from tents and the requirement for an armed guide to escort guests at night. The large lake out front was attractive to the wildlife morning and evening and there’s a hide close to the favourite elephant drinking point. There’s a small swimming pool we used to the amusement of the locals but daytime temperatures in the mid to upper twenties aren’t to be missed. But the main activity is the game drives morning, afternoon, evening and night as required. Our guide Nkosi was particularly well-informed and knowledgeable about the area and tapped into the local network to find what was required. Even an off-the-cuff idea wasn’t forgotten and produced results a couple of drives later. My lady wanted to see a Secretary Bird and after a bit of searching he produced one that caught and ate a small snake in front of us. Reports of lions involved a longish drive to another area but there was a pride on a hill including a maned male. Nkosi got us close and then when the male moved he circled round and got us into position to see the animal walk towards us over a rise – and then slump down right beside us and go to sleep! The highlight of the visit for Nkosi was discovering a Brown Hyena that he hadn’t seen in the area ever before. That really pleased him. We had a night in the Dove’s Nest but the cold nights – this is the last week of May - killed the idea of sitting on the deck in the moonlight watching animals. Woken early by the baboon calls we watched the plain come to life while well-wrapped in blankets. A herd of wildebeest, nine giraffes in a decorous line plus zebra and a jackal. But we were glad to get back for a hot breakfast. Food and drinks came regularly and often and by this time we realised that three meals a day and snacks plus sitting in a vehicle much of the time wasn’t doing the waistline much good but enquiries about a walking safari weren’t successful. And then it was time to go and now, on a drizzly Sunday morning in UK, it all seems a long way away.
8. Changa Safari Camp
Overall Ratings
5 based on 258 reviews
CHANGA SAFARI CAMP MATUSADONA NATIONAL PARK, ZIMBABWE CHANGA SAFARI CAMP is located on the shores of Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe and provides the unique experience of combined Game & Fishing Safaris. Situated on a private concession in the famed Matusadona National Park, and with its own 4.5 Km of lake shore, you can realize the total raw African experience from tastefully furnished, fan-cooled, spacious deluxe East African-style tented suites, each with its own private deck and stunning views of the mysterious Matusadona Mountains across the inland sea of Lake Kariba.This rich wilderness area offers exceptional game drives as well as walking and fishing safaris, all in the company of highly trained professional guides. Matusadona is best known for huge elephant populations, as well as being one of the last remaining sanctuaries of the endangered Black Rhino. Birdlife is prolific, with 350 species of birds having been identified in the area.With breathtaking scenery and nestled beneath shady trees, the camp lends itself to total relaxation. Listen carefully for the strident call of the iconic fish eagle and enjoy the unequalled beauty of a Lake Kariba sunset.Meals are relaxed and laid back, set around a large table in the dining room or under a canopy of trees on the vast wooden deck overlooking the lake. Scrumptious food is freshly prepared in camp everyday by our Chef, always with an imaginative and friendly approach. We invite you to experience this remote wilderness with us and our pledge will be kept if your last thought of the day is - "Can it get any better than this!"
Hippo sighting galore from Changa
Reviewed By Wadzie_MushaWe spent a weekend in June 2021 and it was a much needed rest and recuperation break. The outside sitting area outside our suite allowed me to watch hippos, sunrise and sunset. The boat transfer was quite relaxing after the long drive from Harare. The Gorge cruise is a must and so is the regular sunset cruise. The meals were fresh and you always looked forward to the next sitting - barbeque night was priceless. The pool area was my other favourite spot, the day bed will lull to a much needed power nap.
9. Camp Hwange
Overall Ratings
5 based on 253 reviews
Camp Hwange is one of the newest camps to be built in the Sinamatella region of the Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe. The construction of Camp Hwange, using local materials, skills and labour wherever possible, is the culmination of a dream. Our vision is a camp that rekindles the spirit of adventure of a bygone era, and capturing the excitement of an authentic safari in Africa.
Luxurious camp deep in the national park.
Reviewed By Claire SWe spent a wonderful three nights at Camp Hwange. The chalets were very well appointed, with lovely views. We did several walking safaris as well as driving safaris and saw lots of wildlife. Dave, Moses, Savanna, Rob, and the staff were attentive and provided us with an excellent experience. One of the highpoints was the firepit where we gathered early in the morning and late at night. We sat, listening the the elephants drinking in the waterhole not 100 yards away and watched the stars! Such an awesome experience!
10. Vundu Camp - Bushlife Safaris
Overall Ratings
5 based on 117 reviews
Bushlife Safaris is owner run and managed by Nick and Desiree Murray, who have created an award-winning portfolio of safari experiences for you. These include the luxurious Vundu Camp built on the banks of the Zambezi River, Little Vundu – an intimate camp, the Ruwesi Canoe Trail which is ideal for adventurous travellers and lastly a tented camp set in the wild Chitake Springs area. The globally-acclaimed BBC Dynasties Painted Wolf episode was filmed at Vundu Camp in Mana Pools, and Nick was the lead guide for the production crew, working alongside Sir David Attenborough. In 2019 Vundu Camp won Best Walking Safari and Best Value Safari Property in Zimbabwe from The Safari Awards.
Vundu and Little Vundu cannot improve on their extraordinary camp and guiding experience!
Reviewed By patcal4Nick and Des Murray once again provided the outstanding Mana Pools and Vundu camp experiences. Tusker, our Bushlife Conservancy mascot was also in outstanding form, and we have the pictures to prove it! What an intelligent and handsome gentle giant that Tusker is! Vundu Camp has a wonderful young couple, Sophie and Anthony (Ant) helping to co-manage the camp. They are a very hospitable young couple, and they work cohesively with guests, staff and guides. The guiding by Nick is always excellent, and we also enjoyed the experience of being in camp with guides Mitch, Siraj, and Dave. They are all absolutely fantastic - great teachers, highly engaged with clients, great conversationalists…I asked every one of them to stick around until we get back again in two years as they are a fantastic group of people and exceptional guides and staff. We were privileged to spend time with owners Nick and Des and were their first campers at their new Little Vundu camp location. This continues to be an outstanding camp experience. The new location and camp layout unimaginably exceed that of the old Little Vundu (which was my number one favorite camp in Africa). The new camp is also directly on the Zambezi River (as is Vundu Camp) and it faces an island that has ongoing wildlife and bird activity. If you want to enjoy sleeping to the sounds of safari at night, this is the place to go! Tusker made it into camp for the first night’s “grand opening” which was an intimate soiree of brilliant camaraderie, service, food, and beverages. Not everyone gets to spend time with Des in camp and we were truly fortunate to be with her. Des makes sure that all logistics, supplies, décor, and staff are pulled together to make these camps a premier safari experience. She also managed all the steps for our Covid testing in camp, as was required for us to go back home to the U.S. The process was flawless, including Admire meeting us at the Harare airport at our departure, and handing us our certified test results. We saw Violet’s wild dog pack three times, once while they rested during the day, and twice as they prepared for their early evening hunt with there pre-hunting rituals. The wild dog experiences in Mana are superior to any experience we have seen wild dogs on safari multiple times in south and east Africa. Nick’s expertise regarding the dogs is incomparable to any guide we have ever worked with. Lots of elephant babies. It was still green and the grass was not as high as Hwange is at this time of year. We walked, took several trips on the pontoon on the river, and did multiple safari drives. We went fishing with Nick a couple of times on the Zambezi and we have the pictures to prove it! Nick always asks what we would like to do and develops the best plan for the day’s safari. Seven days still is not enough time spent at Vundu camps as far as we are concerned; truly incomparable!
