The chance to see the Big Five and the world’s biggest waterfall help make Victoria Falls River Lodge so popular with guests from all over the world. But it’s not just what’s on offer in the surroundings that give this place real appeal. Yes, you can hear the tumbling of the Falls from your suite at night (that’s how close it is), but there’s plenty at the lodge itself to make your time so memorable.

The rooms

There are all kinds of places to stay dotted around the grounds and on a man-made island within the boundaries of the lodge.

The Mainland Lodge is home to 13 luxury air conditioned tented suites, five designated for families, each on a raised deck with a double or twin bed (as you prefer). They are open plan with a sitting area overlooking a private deck with plunge pool.

The 8 Malachite Tented Suites on the banks of the Zambezi are designed for couples and feature a king size bed, sitting area, indoor and outdoor bathing facilities and a private deck with day bed and plunge pool.

Hippo Creek is a private villa that sleeps up to 8 and can be hired for exclusive use. It’s the same for the Rapids View villa which has 2 family suites sleeping 4 adults and 4-6 children between them, plus a private deck and plunge pool for each suite. Oh, and there’s butler service too.

The Starbed Treehouses and Island Treehouse Suites are worth booking if available (they’re very popular). Located on Kandahar Island, a short boat trip from the main complex, the chance to live high up and sleep outside while feasting your eyes on panoramic views of your surroundings deserves the tag ‘a once in a lifetime experience’. The 2 Starbed suites also have their own butler, which is precisely as luxurious as it sounds.

Shared facilities

A central thatched cottage forms the focal point of all things communal at the lodge. A quartet of restaurants give you plenty of choice at mealtimes, while the bar and lounge offer somewhere to relax after you’ve eaten.

There’s also an infinity pool in which you can swim or just wallow and enjoy the views of the Zambezi. And for the ultimate in relaxation you’ll be wanting to book some pampering in the Toa Spa which is located on a raised deck in nearby jungle. Don’t worry if you need to keep active – there’s a fitness centre here too.

Worth knowing

Victoria Falls River Lodge is family friendly, with the very youngest guests (those under 3) staying for free. Those aged between 4 and 11 will only be charged a quarter of the adult rate, while it’s half price for 12 to 17 year olds.