Steeped in history and elegance, The Victoria Falls Hotel is the crown jewel of luxury accommodation in Zimbabwe. Overlooking the mighty Victoria Falls and the iconic railway bridge that links Zimbabwe and Zambia, this grand colonial hotel has been welcoming travellers for more than a century. From manicured gardens to high tea on the terrace with the roar of the falls in the distance, every moment here feels timeless. Whether you’re visiting for adventure, romance, or relaxation, The Victoria Falls Hotel perfectly combines heritage charm with modern luxury — making it the ultimate place to stay in Victoria Falls.
Here’s what made our stay at The Victoria Falls Hotel truly unforgettable — from its elegant colonial charm and world-class service to those breathtaking views of one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders.
Check out our YouTube video here on our stay at the Victoria Falls Hotel.
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Related Reading: Victoria Falls by walking tour or helicopter tour
Staying at The Victoria Falls Hotel, Zimbabwe: A Luxurious Step Back in Time
1. Introduction – first impressions do matter
As you enter the grounds of the Victoria Falls Hotel, you cannot help but be impressed with the grandeur of the entrance and the manicured gardens. The doorman in his impressive uniform comes out to greet you, and your luggage is whisked away as you are guided to Reception for checking in. You gaze around the room, taking in the hotel’s history, which dates back to 1904, whilst enjoying your refreshing welcome drink.
The reception and waiting lounge exude timeless elegance, featuring dark antique furnishings, gleaming marble floors, and walls adorned with historic photographs and prints that tell the story of this iconic hotel.
2. A Glimpse Into the History of the Victoria Falls Hotel
The British built the Victoria Falls Hotel for the workers on the Cape to Cairo railroad. It was opened in 1904.
During the 1970s, the hotel was leased to the Southern Sun Hotel Group (now African Sun Limited). Today, there is a 50/50 partnership between Zimbabwe Railways, African Sun, and Meikles Africa.
The Victoria Falls Hotel has welcomed royalty, statesmen, celebrities and those who enjoy the best of the best!
The Victoria Falls Hotel is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World.
3. Location, Location, Location
The Victoria Falls are located 20 minutes from the Victoria Falls Airport. We reached out to the hotel for an airport transfer on arrival, and our driver was there waiting for us.
From Stanley Terrace, the Jungle Junction, and the pool area, you can see the Victoria Falls Bridge. For those early morning risers, you can see the mist of the falls float across the valley.
From Stanley Terrace, turn left at the flagpole, which takes you to a gate that leads into the bush area leading to the Victoria Falls. The walk will take about 15 minutes, and along the way, you can stop at the viewing point. You will need to pay an entrance fee to the Victoria Falls National Park. The park opens at 6 am.
At the entrance to the park, you can buy local souvenirs. Once you enter the entrance, information about the Falls is displayed on the wall panels, and there are toilets available —the only ones on this side of the Falls.
4. The Rooms and Suites – Colonial Comfort and Modern Luxury
Stepping out of the main building, we strolled along a pathway lined with manicured lawns and elegant fountains, leading us toward our accommodation wing. There are 149 rooms and suites in this five-star luxury hotel.
Our Classic room was on the 2nd floor, measuring 30 sq metres, overlooking the gardens and the main building. Our bedroom was decorated in warming tones of cream and brown with fine wood furnishings. Facilities included WiFi, TV, tea and coffee, in-room safe, mini bar, hairdryer, toiletries, air-conditioning and USB charging points.
5. Dining at The Victoria Falls Hotel
The Livingstone Room offers fine dining with old-world elegance. There is a dress code for men: a long-sleeve shirt and trousers, no thongs, sneakers, shorts or jeans. For ladies, the dress code is smart. Children under 12 are not allowed.
We had booked The Livingstone Room for dinner one evening, but we ended up cancelling because we preferred to be outside on the terrace at sunset.
Stanley’s Terrace – offers an all-day menu from 11 am. There is an afternoon tea from 3 pm to 6 pm. For our two-night stay, we enjoyed pre-dinner cocktails at 6, then dinner. The menu has some excellent choices and offers vegetarian options too! Such a fantastic way to end the day, just relaxing, enjoying a ‘sundowner’ and dinner! We visited in September, and the evenings were balmy.
Jungle Junction – offers a lively buffet with African entertainment in the evening, which we did not try.
An extensive continental and full English breakfast is served daily from 6.30 am to 10 am.
The service level in both Stanley’s Terrace and Jungle Junction is excellent.
6. Experiencing the Grounds and Facilities
When we were not on a guided walking tour of the Victoria Falls, we relaxed by the pool. Drinks and snacks are available.
We recommend taking time out to wander the gardens and enjoy the views.
The Victoria Falls Hotel also has a fitness centre, a spa, and a gift shop.
7. Activities and Adventures Nearby
Visit Victoria Falls National Park on a private walking tour
Take a helicopter flight over the falls
Enjoy a Zambezi River sunset cruise.
Explore local markets or the historic Victoria Falls Bridge
Chobe National Park Day Tour With Lunch
Planning a Safari?
Have you considered:
Practical Information
Getting There:
Flights are available into Victoria Falls Airport (20 minutes away) and Livingstone Airport (35 minutes away) on the Zambia side.
Flights to Livingstone Airport are slightly cheaper than those to Victoria Falls Airport.
Best Time to Visit:
April to May and September to October are the best times to visit.
Booking Tip: We recommend booking early, especially during peak season in July and August.
Check prices and book your room here.
Do you need a visa?
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Final Thoughts – Timeless Luxury by the Falls
Staying at The Victoria Falls Hotel is like stepping into a living postcard — where history, elegance, and the raw power of nature blend in perfect harmony. From the echo of the past in its grand hallways to the mist rising from the falls in the distance, every moment feels extraordinary. Whether you’re sipping tea on Stanley’s Terrace, wandering the gardens, or simply soaking up the view, this hotel captures the true spirit of old-world African luxury. It’s more than a place to stay — it’s an experience that lingers long after you’ve said goodbye to the spray of the mighty Victoria Falls.
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