Victoria Falls Hotel

Overview

The Victoria Falls Hotel, popularly known as “the grand old lady of the Falls”, is situated in the Victoria Falls National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and was the very first hotel to be built in Victoria Falls. 

The hotel was built by the British to be used as accommodation for railway workers who were building the now iconic Victoria Falls Bridge, which crosses the Zambezi River to link the countries of Zimbabwe and Zambia. It has now become one of the most famous luxury hotels in Victoria Falls, as well as the world. 

The Edwardian-style five-star hotel, built in 1904, was recently redecorated and refurbished and now combines the charm of the old with the convenience and amenities of the new. Set in lush tropical gardens with lily ponds, palm trees and semi-tropical shrubs, it provides tranquillity and seclusion.

What can you do at Victoria Falls Hotel?

Follow the private path from the hotel gardens down to the entrance of the Victoria Falls rainforest in just 10 minutes, to witness the amazing Victoria Falls waterfall up close. You can gain the best views from Victoria Falls National Park and there's plenty to do in the town itself, such as trying out authentic African cuisine at The Boma Restaurant Victoria Falls or finding out about Zimbabwean culture at the many different museums in the area. 

There are world-class facilities on site, including a mini fitness room, a beauty spa and even a hair salon, to help you to look and feel your best during your stay. Dining options are also available on site with internationally trained chefs offering exquisite menus at both of the hotel’s restaurants, where the friendly staff provide an excellent service. There is also a range of additional family-friendly activities to do during your stay at the hotel including safari trips to the surrounding national parks, a unique dining experience onboard the Bushtracks Express steam train and luxury cruises on the Zambezi river.

When to visit the Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls experiences a mild and dry winter from June to mid-August so is an all-year-round destination, but the weather does have an effect on the water flow of the waterfall, so it's wise to consider the timing of your visit. Rain and flooding sometimes occurs in January and February, meaning that the river will peak and swell by April to May when the water flow at the falls is at its greatest volume.

“The smoke that thunders” or “Mosi-oa-Tunya” in the local dialect, is clearly audible and visible from the hotel, making it an ideal site for seeing one of the seven wonders at any time of the year.

Our Thoughts

Still going strong after 100 plus years the combination of history, colonial charm and wonderful service means that this grand old hotel is still the choice for discerning visitors to the Falls.