Did you know that safari means ‘long journey’ in Swahili? Well, you do now. A top contender on almost everyone’s bucket list – treetop lodges! elephants! – safari lodges in Zimbabwe are an incredible experience.
With that in mind, we’ve narrowed it down to the very, very best safari lodges across the country. These are the lodges that you’ll never forget.
Best safari lodges in Zimbabwe
How do these rankings work?
1. Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge’s breathtaking design is just on highlight; the lodge has an ecotourism focus and purpose to contribute to the conservation of the 130,000-acre wildlife reserve.
Relax in vibrant and colourful suites with handmade Shangaan fabrics, explore the impressive wine cellars or take a break from safari adventures with a trip to the spa.
2. Somalisa
Somalise is an incredible camp with wildlife that includes the Big Five, white rhino, zebra, giraffe and the rare and endangered roan antelope. The main highlight here is an elephant pool which is a popular bathing spot for elephant families.
One minute you’re sipping on your gin and tonic, the next you’re gazing out at wild elephants passing by. Cheers to that.
3. The Hide
The Hide’s main lodge overlooks a wildlife-rich waterhole and has rustic rooms, including a beautiful treetop suite.
Get right close up to large herds of elephants and buffalo at the Underground Hide, which provides amazing photographic opportunities. Along the same tunnel, you’ll find a secret wine cellar to browse.
4. Camp Amalinda
This exclusive, privately owned safari lodge is located in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Matobo Hills, the oldest National Park in Zimbabwe. The lodge looks out over a busy watering hole, which you can see from Amalinda’s famous ‘rock’ swimming pool.
A tour to the local Matabele village and rhino tracking are just some of the highlights here.
5. Malilangwe House
Want an unforgettable safari experience with family or friends? Designed for exactly that, this private villa has five bedrooms, each with its own private deck, that all flow into the home’s living areas, interactive kitchen, chic ‘bar-deli’ and main deck with its large rim-flow pool.
The house comes with a dedicated private chef, game vehicle, Field Guide and butler catering for every need.
6. Kanga Camp
We’re warning you: you will not want to leave this place. Set in the remote inlands of the Kanga Pan, the camp’s six tents are all raised on a wooden platform for the best views. Kanga Pan is a sole source of water in dry season, bringing Zimbabwe wildlife right to your doorstep.
Sit on the deck below the splash pool and soak in the uninterrupted views of the camp’s mega-busy watering hole – the perfect “armchair safari”. Easily one of the best safari lodges in Zimbabwe.
7. Victoria Falls Safari Lodge
This amazing lodge is without doubt one of the most popular places to stay in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. The sunset-facing lodge looks out onto the African bushveld, which includes a waterhole that’s visited by elephants, buffalo and kudu.
Rooms have glass sliding doors opening on to private balconies, there’s a two-tiered swimming pool and there’s even a fitness centre if you’re feeling up to a workout after a busy day in the reserve.
