MileHacker Logo
Where to Stay in Victoria Falls

Where to Stay in Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls Southern Province, Zambia Travel 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 Mosi-oa-tunya and Jollyboys Backpackers in Livingstone. These are good for budget travelers and those looking to meet other visitors.

  • Budget Lodges/Guesthouses

    These offer simple, spotless rooms, often family-owned-run. Many choices are available in both towns. They provide a pleasant stay without high costs.

  • Mid-Range Hotels/Lodges

    These places offer comfortable rooms and facilities such as pools, restaurants, plus methodical activities. They reside 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 Accommodation and Royal Livingstone Hotel, as well as various lodges upstream or in the nearby 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 safaris in a vehicle 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 ideal for a tranquil river escape.

  • Vacation rentals and apartment options

    Increasingly obtainable on platforms like Airbnb in each of The Falls on the zambezi river and Existingstone. These self-catering facilities, flexibility and often more space, especially beneficial for groups or extended visits.

  • Homestay and community-based tourism opportunities

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

Neighborhood Guide

The two 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 seem 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 key regions. Be more cautious after dark, especially away from well-lit streets. Standard precautions against petty crime apply in all areas.

Proximity AND Atmosphere:

Staying in the major 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 carry 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-last-minute offers.
  • Check Vacation Times: 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 be at timestter 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 the monsoon (November-March).

Important Considerations:

Negotiation Customs:

Walk-in rates less common for the middle of-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 more distant, 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

Roomier accommodations, pools, and supervised activities. Good for families.

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

Larger grounds plus pools good for children.

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

Solo Traveler Focus:

Hostels

Excellent for meeting other travelers. Good safety plus collective 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-owned-run

Properties with Historical Significance:

  • The The Smoke that thunders 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 of zanzibar retains some buildings from the colonial era, showing its past as a capital.

  • Railway Museum (Livingstone)

    Describes the history of the railway and bridge construction.

Long-Stay & Unique Options:

  • Long-Stay Accommodations

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

  • One-of-a-kind Local Stays

    Homestays, houseboats, and specialized safari lodges.

  • Self-dining arrangements

    More space and flexibility, beneficial for groups or extended visits.

  • Camping

    Available at hostels or budget lodges, connecting with nature.

Summary of Accommodation Styles:

Overall Range:

Victoria Falls accommodation varies 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 best stay. Book well in advance for peak seasons and popular lodges to secure your wanted 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/Simple 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).

Where to Stay in Victoria Falls. Hotels, Neighborhoods, Accommodation