Siphakeme .Mnindwa
mbulelo.smpofu@gmail.com
ZIMBABWE, a jewel of Southern Africa, is not only renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife but also for its luxurious accommodations that blend comfort, culture, and adventure.
With the festive season upon us and an influx of tourists expected, Zimbabwe stands tall as a premier tourist destination. Whether one seeks a serene retreat or an exhilarating safari experience, Saturday Leisure explores ten of Zimbabwe’s finest hotels and lodges that promise an unforgettable stay.
The Victoria Falls Hotel
Nestled on the edge of the mighty Victoria Falls, this iconic hotel, affectionately known as “The Grand Old Lady of the Falls,” exudes imposing charm. With its stunning gardens and breathtaking views of the falls, it offers a perfect blend of luxury and history.
Guests can indulge in afternoon tea on the terrace or unwind at the elegant spa, all while listening to the roar of the falls nearby. The perks are enticing and give the hotel all the hallmarks of a majestic resort.
The Victoria Falls Safari Lodge
A short drive from Victoria Falls, the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge is a blend of comfort and adventure. Wildlife enthusiasts are in for a treat at this luxurious lodge adjacent to the CBD. Equipped with high-quality binoculars for wildlife viewing, guests can enjoy the flora and fauna on display. With diverse animals adding an extra layer of excitement, the lodge is perfect for enjoying gourmet food and relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Elephants are a common sight at the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge.
Camelthorn Lodge
Imvelo Safaris’ flagship property, Camelthorn, is an elegant luxury lodge on the borders of Hwange National Park. With stylish villas, superb dining, and a friendly team, it is closely linked to the community and focuses on conservation, ensuring that local people benefit from living alongside the wildlife. The camp’s accommodation allows guests to observe animals up close, creating unforgettable moments in the wild.
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Located in the heart of the Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve, Singita Pamushana Lodge offers a unique safari experience. The lodge features luxurious suites with private terraces overlooking a shimmering lake, providing a perfect spot for game viewing. With exceptional service, gourmet dining, and personalised safari experiences, this lodge guarantees an immersive adventure in nature. Fresh from a major refurbishment, it offers nine thatched pool villas designed with local Shangaan heritage in mind.
Bumi Hills Safari Lodge
Perched on a hillside overlooking Lake Kariba, Bumi Hills Safari Lodge combines stunning scenery with top-notch amenities. Named after the private reserve where it’s located, which borders Matusadona National Park, the lodge boasts spacious rooms with private balconies, allowing guests to soak in the tranquil views. Activities include game drives, fishing, and sunset cruises on the lake, making it a perfect getaway for nature lovers.
Amalinda Lodge
Bulawayo, touted as the country’s artistic and cultural hub, is also home to Amalinda Lodge, a remarkable property built around granite boulders in the Unesco World Heritage Site of the Matobo Hills. It’s a luxurious refuge in the African bush that is down to earth, captivating, and exhilarating.
Chikwenya
Vacations are often about unwinding, soaking in the cool breeze, and collecting memories. Chikwenya Camp, located in Mana Pools National Park, is often billed as a photographer’s heaven. This luxury safari lodge is set on the Zambezi River with glorious views overlooking wildlife-scattered floodplains and the muscular ridges of the Rift Valley escarpment.
Nyamatusi Mahogany
Sometimes, vacations are a family affair. Nyamatusi Mahogany, set between towering mahogany trees on the banks of the Zambezi River in Mana Pools National Park, offers families an incredible opportunity to experience wild Africa in sheer luxury. Owned by African Bush Camps, Nyamatusi raises the benchmark for luxury and design in the area, with striking views of the mighty river and escarpment.
Holiday Inn Hotels
Dotted around the country, Holiday Inn hotels offer a variety of accommodations to cater to diverse clientele. From luxury suites to conference facilities, Holiday Inn hotels are ideal for both relaxation and business, with their proximity to the CBD being a significant advantage. With swimming pools and children’s play areas, Holiday Inn hotels appeal to those who want to work and relax simultaneously.
Tsowa Safari Island
The Zambezi National Park, with its vast wildlife, provides a perfect backdrop for animal lovers. A quick boat trip across the Zambezi lands you in this castaway fantasy: a cosy encampment hidden on a forested island. Elegant, unpretentious, and welcoming, this is a destination in its own right, with great safari activities, the sound of the river, and a deeply restorative atmosphere. One might wish to be marooned here.
