Rhino Africa’s Top 10 Safari Lodges in Zimbabwe 2012

Zimbabwe is a land of untouched wealth and wonder, often overlooked by travellers due to fears of the political situation. But tourism in Zimbabwe is on the rise currently for a reason. Not only is it safe to visit, this side of the Falls is just waiting to be explored, with Victoria Falls as its landmark attraction and several great revamped and upgraded hotels and lodges of luxury standards.

Zimbabwe means “large houses of stone” in Karinga,the language spoken by the county’s native Shona people. The name refers to the vestige that now forms what is left of the legendary Great Zimbabwe. But there is more to this rugged landscape than its ancient ruins.

To bring you our Top Safari Lodges in Zimbabwe, we’ve gone off the beaten track and spread out across the plains to find the best that this beautiful vast and untamed country has to offer.

 Victoria Falls

It’s no surprise that three of our favourite safari lodges are located at the Victoria Falls. Celebrated as one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Victoria Falls, known as “The Smoke that Thunders” by the local people, straddles the boundary between Zimbabwe and Zambia. From the Zimbabwean side, one can enter through Victoria Falls Town, which acts as a thriving tourist centre. The Falls stands as the pièce de résistance in this already spectacular region.

Where? Located inside the Victoria Falls National Park.
Why? For more than 100 years, this grand monument has been wooing guests with its opulence and charm. Providing a private path to the Victoria Falls, guests are assured peace and privacy as they explore one of nature’s most spectacular sights.

Read more about Victoria Falls Hotel here.

Where? Located about 20 minutes from Victoria Falls Airport in the Zambezi National Park..
Why? Imagine relaxing on the banks of the Zambezi River, in the comfort of your luxury tent. Imagine waking up to the call of fish eagles and watching elephants mosey about along the river line. This is just another day at the Victoria Falls River Lodge, where you’ll be so close to the Falls, you’ll be see the astonishing spray from your doorstep!

Read more about Victoria Falls River Lodge here.

Where? Set within the game-rich Victoria Falls Private Game Reserve, a 10-minute drive from the Victoria Falls.
Why? This boutique hotel is the perfect hideout, away from the madding crowd. With the hotel’s charming Victorian-style furnishings and old-world glamour, you’ll be enjoying the high life in the heart of the African bush.

Find out more about Stanley and Livingstone here.

Southern Zimbabwe

Southern Zimbabwe is a spectacularly diverse and beautiful piece of Africa. The wildlife is abundant, the vegetation lush and the temptation to explore every nook and cranny of this untouched wilderness is overwhelming. We encouraged you to take your time and enjoy every wildlife encounter here. The Pamushana Lodge, in particular, specialises in rest and relaxation between adventures, allowing you to chill out and soak in the bush.

Where? Found within the Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve in south-eastern Zimbabwe.
Why? Imagine discovering a magical hideaway in the heart of the African bush. This is what Singita Pamushana promises to be. With six luxury suites and one villa, you’ll have your every need catered to, leaving more time for just you and the wild!

Read more about Singita Pamushana here.

Hwange National Park

There’s a reason Hwange National Park is one of Africa’s premier game reserves. With over 100 mammal and 400 bird species, including the Big 5, the park is a rich hub of activity. The sprawling landscape boasts vegetation as diverse as its animal population. We’ve chosen three authentic, classy lodges to give the best of what Hwange has to offer.

Where? Situated in a large private concession inside the Hwange National Park about half way between Bulawayo and Victoria Falls.
Why? What better way to explore Zimbabwe’s creatures and comforts that in one of 10 ten large, comfortable tented rooms overlooking the stunning Somavundla Pan – a hotspot for elephant herds and predators alike.

Read more about Makalolo Plains Camp here.

Where? Part of a private concession, 20 minutes drive from Makalolo Plains, in Hwange National Park.
Why? This hidden gem, nestled under a canopy of  teak trees gives you an exclusive, all-access pass to the wonders of the Zimbabwean wilderness and while you’re there, find yourself under the stars, experiencing an authentic boma dinner!

Find out more about Little Makalolo Camp here.

Where? Located in the eastern corner of Hwange National Park about half way between Bulawayo and Victoria Falls in western Zimbabwe.
Why?  This stunning luxury camp has been voted the “Best Tented Safari Camp” in Zimbabwe on thirteen occasions. Enough said.

Read more about Hide Safari Lodge here.

 Mana Pools

Mana Pools National Park is one of the most remote reserves in Africa, ensconced in the Middle Zambezi Valley in northern Zimbabwe.  This sequestered area is one of Africa’s best kept secrets. The land is wild and beautiful – you’ll find very little development or human intrusion. Mana Pools is a land untouched and unspoilt – offering a unique and authentic safari experience.   Described as a natural zoo, where animal is king, the park is a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site, recognised for its abundance of flora and fauna.

Where? Located in the Mana Pools National Park in the Middle Zambezi Valley.
Why? This luxury camp offers the best of both worlds – track lions and elephant herds before breakfast, watch the multitude of bird life fly overhead during lunch and after dinner, and take a satisfying soak  in the infinity pool as you prepare to do it all over again.

Read more about Ruckomechi Camp here.

Where? Set away from the crowds in a remote part of the Mana Pools.
Why? Experience the thrill of tracking a lion on foot, the exhilaration of making your way over terrain uncorrupted by human endeavours. A trip to the Kanga Bush Camp will transform you into the fearless explorer you’ve always wanted to be.

Read more about Kanga Bush Camp here.

 Lake Kariba

In 1958  the Zambezi River flooded and Lake Kariba was born. It now covers 282km² of the Zambezi Valley and bridges both Zimbabwe and Zambia. Dotted with fertile islands and flanked by  mountains and forests – it  is a sight not easily forgotten. This fresh-water paradise is home to a multitude of creatures, including hippo and the ever-present crocodile. Game fish, particularly tigerfish, now thrive in the deep, murky waters as well. Kariba is four and half hours by tarred road from Harare.

Where? Situated on top of a hill approximately 55km south west of Kariba town.
Why? Panoramic views of the majestic lake greet you at dawn, the sounds of the elephant herds on the shoreline lull you to sleep, reminding you that you’re nestled in the bossom of Africa. Enjoy Lake Kariba in luxury and comfort.

Read more about Bumi Hills Safari Lodge here.

Rhino Africa can tailor-make an African holiday of a lifetime to suit your budget, needs and style. One of our discerning and experienced consultants can give you all the inside information to ensure that you get the best experience and the best value for money possible. So contact us today and let’s start planning! Africa awaits.