by Conor Walsh & Jonathan Lechtman
If you’re traveling to Victoria Falls for an event or conference, you’ll need a hotel that combines a convenient location, modern facilities, and a tranquil environment to relax in the evenings.
To make your choice easier, we’ve polled the Hallpax team for their favorite hotels in Livingstone (on the Zambia side) and Victoria Falls town (on the Zimbabwe side) based on our many trips to both towns.
From grand hotels and luxury resorts to modern lodges and budget-friendly guest houses that don’t compromise on comfort – we’ve got you covered with the 16 best hotels in Victoria Falls if you’re attending an event or conference.
Livingstone Zambia
Livingstone, just north of the Zambezi River’s east bank and a short drive from Victoria Falls, is Zambia’s tourism capital. It’s also an increasingly popular destination for international conferences and events.
Regardless of where you stay, Livingstone’s warm hospitality and tranquil atmosphere will quickly charm you.
1. Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara:
The Royal Livingstone Hotel is a luxurious 5-star hotel located on the banks of the Zambezi River, a stone’s throw from Victoria Falls. The hotel seamlessly blends elegant Victorian aesthetics with modern comforts. The rooms offer breathtaking views of the river and verdant green gardens, with some even overlooking the spray of the Falls. Each one has a private veranda, air conditioning, satellite TV, and more modern amenities.
The Royal Livingstone offers exquisite dining options at the on-site à la carte restaurant, sun-soaked river deck, and in numerous private garden settings. Among its numerous amenities, the hotel also features an outdoor pool overlooking the river, a riverfront spa, and several elegant lounge areas to relax in.
Royal Livingstone guests also enjoy free access to the Falls via a private entrance.
2. AVANI Victoria Falls Resort
The AVANI Victoria Falls Resort is the Royal Livingstone’s twin hotel – they share the same grounds, and you can easily travel between the two. It’s a big hotel, with expansive grounds that include natural watering holes frequented by local wildlife, a swimming pool, and two dining areas. The quirky architecture – which feels like a mix of local Zambian designs, touches of Arabic flair, and a feeling of a Mexcian hacienda – gives the AVANI a unique atmosphere.
AVANI is also home to a large, modern conference center – where you might be attending your event. So, consider a room a short walk away.
3. Protea Hotel by Marriott Livingstone
The Protea Hotel by Marriott Livingstone provides comfort, convenience, and a touch of modernity in a great location. Situated on the road from Livingstone to the Falls, it’s an ideally placed base for experiencing the best of the area while attending your event or conference.
The hotel’s rooms all feature modern amenities and contemporary furnishings, ensuring a comfortable stay. Every room is designed to facilitate relaxation after a long day, with comfy beds and calm, soothing decor.
The hotel is close to Livingstone’s town center and major conference venues, making it a practical choice, too. When you want to unwind, the hotel houses an outdoor swimming pool, restaurant, and bar – perfect for relaxing or networking in your downtime.
4. David Livingstone Safari Lodge and Spa
Overlooking the calm banks of the Zambezi River, the David Livingstone Safari Lodge and Spa brings a blend of luxury and natural beauty to your event or conference experience. This beautiful lodge offers 77 rooms, each offering a private balcony to enjoy the picturesque riverside views.
When the day’s events are done, you can unwind with a relaxing treatment at the lodge’s acclaimed spa, embark on a sunset river cruise, or dine in their award-winning restaurant, or sip a drink on the river deck – all while enjoying the remarkable surroundings.
5. Radisson Blu Mosi-Oa-Tunya, Livingstone Resort
Radisson Blu Mosi-oa-Tunya Livingstone Resort boasts an exceptional location on the banks of the Zambezi, in a quiet corner of the serene Mosi Oa Tunya National Park.
The brand new hotel blends seamlessly with nature, courtesy of an understated design, expansive gardens, and modern building techniques. As you wander through the gardens, lounges, outdoor swimming pools, sun decks, and dining areas, you’ll feel immediately at one with nature.
The hotel’s luxury rooms range from cozy superior suites to two-bedroom presidential villas, each offering a distinct experience: a stunning view of the Zambezi or the tranquility of the lush gardens.
6. Tabonina Bis Guesthouse
Tabonina Bis Guesthouse offers a homely and welcoming atmosphere just outside Livingstone town center. Everything you need in town is a pleasant 20-minute walk away – or you can take a quick taxi ride.
The guesthouse has eight spacious rooms and suites, including a full standalone cottage with a private terrace (our favorite). The accommodations are spread between a large, peaceful garden and the beautiful main house. Whichever you choose, you’ll have plenty of space to yourself.
The centerpiece of the garden is the communal dining area, pool, and gazebo. Here, you’ll enjoy a fresh breakfast every morning, and return to relax in the evening.
7. Ngoma Zanga Lodge
Nestled within lush green gardens in downtown Livingstone, Ngoma Zanga Lodge combines modern comfort with a touch of traditional African aesthetics, promising an enchanting stay.
The Lodge features a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets, but each room is equipped with air conditioning, an en-suite bathroom, and a peaceful view of the lodge’s beautiful gardens.
The lodge’s on-site restaurant serves a variety of delicious meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients, while the outdoor swimming pool offers a refreshing escape from the heat. As an added convenience, the lodge is just a short distance from the city center, making commuting to conference venues and attractions in Livingstone a breeze.
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Situated on the southern bank of the Zambezi River at the western end of the eponymous falls, Victoria Falls Town is a delightful blend of natural beauty, local charm, and modern conveniences.
The town offers a wide range of hotels, guesthouses, and resorts. From the old-world grandeur of The Victoria Falls Hotel to the contemporary comforts of Ilala Lodge, accommodations are never far from the thunderous spectacle of the falls, breathtaking wildlife in nearby national parks, or the nearest event and conferencing facilities.
1. Livingstone Lodge
Contrary to its name, Livingstone Lodge is tucked away in a quiet neighborhood of Victoria Falls town. It’s a small, budget hotel dedicated to providing a restful home away from home – loud music is banned, and they don’t accept functions or large groups.
There’s even an area of the garden designated for “quiet time.”Rooms have all the modern appliances, there’s WiFi throughout the property, and plenty of cosy lounge areas to start or end your day.
With eco-friendly practices such as solar geysers and recycling systems, Livingstone Lodge offers a modest, affordable, and sustainable stay
2. The Victoria Falls Hotel
The Victoria Falls Hotel, fondly known as the “Grand Old Lady of the Falls,” is an iconic destination that blends classic charm and modern comfort.
Each of the 5-star hotel’s 161 rooms is a testament to Edwardian elegance, offering a serene haven in a luxurious setting. High tea on Stanley’s Terrace is a tradition not to be missed, with stunning views of the falls’ spray that will leave a lasting impression.
Located in the heart of Victoria Falls town, the hotel provides easy access to local attractions and conference venues. It also offers a complimentary shuttle service to the Falls and town center.
3. Ilala Lodge Hotel
Ilala Lodge is the closest hotel to the falls on the Zim side, while still conveniently located within walking distance of the downtown area. You can enjoy awe-inspiring sights and hear the rumble of “The Smoke That Thunders” from your room, then stroll into town for dinner or get a shuttle to your event.
The hotel offers 73 stylish rooms, including deluxe suites with private plunge pools. At the award-winning Palm Restaurant, you can dine on the terrace while wildlife grazes on the hotel’s lawn below.
4. Elephant Hills Resort
Overlooking the Zambezi River and the plains beyond, Elephant Hills Resort offers breathtaking views and easy access to the town’s main attractions, events venues, restaurants, and more.
There’s also an 18-hole golf course, which is often frequented by local wildlife, three on-site restaurants, and plenty of gardens and terraces to explore.
Elephant Hills is also home to one of the best event venues in the area. If you’re attending something here, why not take a room just a few meters away?
The hotel offers a complimentary shuttle to locations within Victoria Falls town.
5. Victoria Falls Rainbow Hotel
Just outside of town, Victoria Falls Rainbow Hotel gets its name from the beautiful rainbows created by the Falls’ spray just beyond the hotel. Head to the rooftop bar for the best view.
The Rainbow provides comfortable mid-range accommodation in a convenient location. Rooms blend a touch of African flair with modern amenities and a quiet ambiance.
Its picturesque swimming pool, complete with a swim-up bar, is perfect for unwinding after a day of networking and presentations. The hotel offers an on-site restaurant, Rainbow Kraal, serving up delicious African and international cuisine, so you can satisfy your taste buds without venturing too far.
6. Nguni Lodge
Nguni Lodge offers a serene and charming retreat 3 km from Victoria Falls town center.
There are just 14 comfortable and tastefully decorated rooms, each showcasing African art and modern amenities, including aircon, a private veranda, and glass doors opening to the pool area. Bathrooms are fitted with charming walk-in showers.
The Lodge’s grounds provide a sanctuary of calm, with a sparkling pool surrounded by a lush garden, a perfect place to relax after a day of meetings and presentations. Nguni Lodge also takes pride in its restaurant, where you can indulge in a delightful mix of local and international cuisine, prepared fresh every day.
7. A’Zambezi River Lodge
A’Zambezi River Lodge is the only hotel within Victoria Fall town with a riverfront location on the Zambezi.
Its unique location at the river’s edge provides you with an unparalleled connection to the natural beauty of the area, while its rooms cater to your every comfort.
The lodge’s on-site Amulonga Restaurant allows you to dine with views of the river and wildlife, while the charming thatched open-air bar is a great place to wind down after a day of conferencing. Offering free shuttle services to Victoria Falls town, A’Zambezi River Lodge combines convenience, comfort, and an authentic African experience.
8. Cresta Sprayview Hotel
Cresta Sprayview is a budget-friendly option located within walking distance to the town center and entrance to Victoria Falls, the attraction.
Set on eight acres of manicured grounds, the accommodation offers a tranquil oasis from which to enjoy all Victoria Falls has to offer. When the Falls are in full flood, the spray from this majestic wonder is visible from the hotel, rising like a column of smoke.
Alfresco dining and the large swimming pool make the hotel a relaxing retreat for families, business travelers, and couples.
9. N1 Hotel and Campsite Victoria Falls
Centrally located in the heart of downtown Victoria Falls, N1 Hotel & Campsite presents an excellent choice for conference attendees valuing practicality and accessibility.
This budget-friendly accommodation offers a range of sleeping options, from modern, air-conditioned rooms to a campsite for the more adventurous. Each room is thoughtfully furnished, providing a comfortable space to relax after a busy day of events or sightseeing.
The hotel’s location not only offers easy access to Victoria Falls, but also to the town’s restaurants, shops, and other amenities.
Conclusion
Livingstone and Victoria Falls town offer far more than stunning landscapes and exhilarating adventure activities. They also boast plenty of hotels that effortlessly cater to business travelers and event attendees.
With the range of hotels we’ve highlighted, you can find the perfect fit that meets your budget, offers top-tier amenities, and gives you easy access to your event location.
