Romantic Getaways at Victoria Falls and Hwange
Couples come to Matabeleland North for safari lodges, river light and open skies. There are no beach resorts and no lake swimming here, because the rivers and dams hold crocodiles and hippos. Lodge pools are the only safe place for a swim.
Three evening ideas
Sunset on the river. Cruises above the falls run in the late afternoon, and a US$12 river levy is added to the operator price. Ra-Ikane is sold by several resellers, so compare before you book.
Tea with a view. The Victoria Falls Hotel dates from 1904 and belongs to Leading Hotels of the World. Afternoon tea is served on Stanley’s Terrace from about 15:00 to 17:30, and non-guests can book. Ask the hotel for the price.
A night under the stars. The Star Bed is at Little Makalolo, a Wilderness camp in Hwange. Confirm it is running for your dates.
Where to stay near the falls
Victoria Falls River Lodge has Island Treehouse Suites on Kandahar Island. They are reached by boat only and have private plunge pools. Suite numbers (three to five) and minimum ages (12 or 16) vary, so confirm both.
Old Drift Lodge, a Wild Horizons property in Zambezi National Park, sits about 4.5 to 7 km from the falls.
The Elephant Camp, also run by Wild Horizons, overlooks a wildlife sanctuary. Elephant rides are never part of a responsible stay, and you should not expect contact with the animals.
Matetsi Victoria Falls covers a private reserve of about 50,000 to 55,000 ha, with about 14 to 27 km of river frontage, roughly 40 km above the falls. It has 18 suites in two camps.
Where to stay in Hwange
Linkwasha, Camp Hwange and The Hide are other camps in the Hwange area. Somalisa Camp and Somalisa Expeditions are separate properties, so do not mix up their details. Hwange is at its best August to November, and October heat can pass 40 C.
Choosing between river and bush
The river lodges put you near the falls, with short transfers and cruises on the doorstep. Hwange puts you in the middle of game country, but the drive on the A8 from Victoria Falls to Main Camp is about 172 to 195 km, roughly 2.5 hours. Many couples split the stay, with two nights in each. Matetsi suits a quieter stay because it lies away from the town. Whichever you pick, ask whether park fees and transfers are included in the rate.
Planning tips
- Ask each lodge which services are included, because amenity lists differ.
- Confirm that the lodge is currently trading before paying a deposit.
- Take malaria advice, as the lodges lie in risk areas.
- Stay inside the lodge grounds after dark.
Read more: Multi-day trips and Sightseeing .
Compare hotels on Booking.com . Official sites: Wild Horizons and Victoria Falls Hotel .