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Accommodation Guide

Accommodation Types

Victoria Falls a broad spectrum of lodging options, finding something to match your preferences and budget.

Full spectrum of lodging options from hostels to luxury hotels:

  • Hostels

    Shoestrings Backpackers in Victoria Falls and Jollyboys Backpackers in Livingstone. These are suitable for budget travelers and those looking to meet other visitors.

  • Budget Lodges/Guesthouses

    These offer simple, clean rooms, often family-run. Many options exist in both towns. They offer a comfortable stay without high costs.

  • Mid-Range Hotels/Lodges

    These properties offer comfortable rooms and amenities like pools, restaurants, and organized activities. They are located in or near the towns, a good balance of comfort and convenience.

  • Luxury Hotels/Lodges

    These are high-end hotels and exclusive lodges, some with prime views of the falls or river. Others are located in private concessions, with an integrated safari experience. The Victoria Falls Hotel and Royal Livingstone Hotel, as well as various lodges upstream or in surrounding reserves.

Unique local accommodation types:

  • Safari Lodges

    Located outside the main towns, often in wildlife areas or along the river. These lodges often packages that feature game drives and activities. They offer an immersive wildlife experience.

  • Houseboats

    Available for rent on the upper Zambezi River. These unique floating accommodation experience, usually travel upstream from the main towns. They perfect for a tranquil river escape.

  • Vacation rentals and apartment options

    Increasingly available through platforms like Airbnb in both Victoria Falls and Livingstone. These self-catering facilities, flexibility and often more space, especially beneficial for families or longer stays.

  • Homestay and community-based tourism opportunities

    Some opportunities exist, often arranged through local guides or specific tour operators. These homestays cultural immersion experiences, connecting with local communities and their way of life.

Neighborhood Guide

Both the Zimbabwean and Zambian sides distinct characteristics.

Victoria Falls Town, Zimbabwe

Pros
  • Walking distance to the falls entrance
  • Many amenities nearby
  • Central location
  • Easy access to activities
Cons
  • Can feel touristy
  • Potentially busier
  • Higher prices for some amenities
  • Can be noisy

Livingstone, Zambia

Pros
  • More local flavor
  • Often slightly lower prices
  • Closer to Livingstone Island/Devil's Pool
  • Access to local markets
Cons
  • Transport to the falls entrance
  • Less walkable to attractions
  • Fewer high-end options
  • Can feel less polished

Upstream Zambezi River

Pros
  • Tranquility
  • Wildlife experience
  • Often all-inclusive packages
  • Scenic views
Cons
  • Transport for visits
  • Typically more expensive
  • Limited dining outside lodge
  • Less direct falls access

Safety and Proximity:

Safety Considerations:

Both Victoria Falls town and Livingstone are generally safe during the day in main areas. Be more cautious after dark, especially away from well-lit streets. Standard precautions against petty crime apply in all areas.

Proximity & Ambiance:

Staying in the main towns or very close to the falls entrance the best access to the falls themselves and activity booking centers. Lodges further out pre-arranged transport for sightseeing and activities. Town centers can have some traffic noise. Lodges further out tranquil sounds of nature.

Booking Strategies

Smart booking strategies your preferred accommodation and often better rates. Planning ahead is important during peak seasons.

Advance booking recommendations by season:

  • Essential for Peak Season (June-August): Book accommodation and popular activities well in advance (three to six months). Availability limited, prices higher.
  • Recommended for Shoulder Seasons (April/May, Sept/Oct): Booking a few months in advance to secure good options.
  • More Flexibility for Low Season (Nov-March): Flexibility for last-minute deals.
  • Check Holiday Periods: Book early for major holidays like Christmas and Easter.

Booking Platforms and Policies:

  • Trusted Platforms: International platforms like Booking.com and Agoda a wide selection.
  • Direct Booking: Direct booking with hotels or lodges or through reputable local tour operators can sometimes better rates or packages.
  • Deposit & Cancellation: These vary by property. High-end lodges often significant deposits and strict cancellation policies. Read terms carefully.
  • Price Fluctuations: Prices highest during peak dry season (June-August/September) and around holidays. Lowest during wet season (November-March).

Important Considerations:

Negotiation Customs:

Walk-in rates less common for mid-range to luxury hotels. You might negotiate at budget lodges in low season, but pre-booking reliability.

Specialized Agents:

Specialized safari booking agents useful for lodges further afield, especially those all-inclusive safari experiences.

Travel Insurance:

Consider travel insurance to cover unexpected cancellations or changes.

Accommodation Recommendations

A comparison table to help visualize different accommodation types and their features.

Family-Friendly Options:

Elephant Hills Resort

Larger rooms, pools, and supervised activities. Good for families.

  • Pools and activities
  • Kids club
  • Spacious grounds
  • Variety of dining
Avani Victoria Falls Resort

Larger grounds and pools suitable for children.

  • Direct falls access (Zambia)
  • Family suites
  • Child-friendly facilities
  • Wildlife on property

Solo Traveler Focus:

Hostels

Excellent for meeting other travelers. Good security and communal areas.

  • Social events, budget-friendly
  • Meet others easily
  • Organized tours
  • Communal kitchen
Budget Lodges

Privacy without the high cost. Secure and comfortable.

  • Good value, privacy
  • Basic amenities
  • Local feel
  • Often family-run

Properties with Historical Significance:

  • The Victoria Falls Hotel

    Iconic, colonial-era hotel with historical ties to the bridge construction. Views of spray and bridge. Glimpse into the past.

  • Royal Livingstone Hotel

    Luxury hotel within Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, direct access to Zambian falls. Historical charm.

  • Other Colonial Buildings

    Livingstone town retains some colonial buildings, reflecting its past as a capital.

  • Railway Museum (Livingstone)

    Details the history of the railway and bridge construction.

Long-Stay & Unique Options:

  • Long-Stay Accommodations

    Vacation rentals or lodges with weekly/monthly rates. Home-like environment, often less per night.

  • Unique Local Stays

    Homestays, houseboats, and specialized safari lodges.

  • Self-catering options

    More space and flexibility, beneficial for families or longer stays.

  • Camping

    Available at hostels or budget lodges, connecting with nature.

Summary of Accommodation Styles:

Overall Range:

Victoria Falls accommodation ranges from budget-friendly hostels to opulent safari lodges, suiting every traveler's preference and wallet.

  • Hostels to Luxury
  • Safari Lodges
  • Vacation Rentals
  • Houseboats
Factors & Booking Advice:

Location (proximity to falls), amenities, and budget are main considerations when selecting your ideal stay. Book well in advance for peak seasons and popular lodges to secure your desired dates and rates.

  • Proximity to Falls
  • Available Amenities
  • Advance Booking
  • Consider Travel Insurance

Victoria Falls Accommodation Comparison

Hostel e.g., Shoestrings

Town Center, $20-$40/night. Dorms/Basic Rooms, Communal Kitchen, Bar, Pool (sometimes).

Mid-range Hotel e.g., Three Monkeys

Town Center/River bank, $150-$400/night. Restaurant, Bar, Pool, Tour Desk, AC, Wi-Fi.

Luxury Lodge e.g., Royal Livingstone

Near Falls/Upstream River, $400+/night. Fine Dining, Infinity Pool, Spa, Included Activities (safaris, cruises).