Victoria Falls River Lodge

Wow. The River Lodge is an incredibly special place. We were lucky enough to stay in the Island Suites and it was the perfect place for a honeymoon. You are embedded in nature, gorgeous views. The activities are well planned - you never get bored. The food is amazing! And most of all, the staff are incredibly kind, friendly, knowledgeable, professional, and go above and beyond to ensure you are happy. The attention to detail is next level. If you have the chance, absolutely stay here! You won’t regret it.

We spent 3 days at the River Lodge. We stayed on the island and the quick trips by boat to and from were fantastic. We had our first of many game rides that first afternoon. The river boat evening cruise on the Mighty Zambezi was fantastic. The staff, food and accommodations were first class. The rooms were modern, clean updated and spectacular view over the river. Can't say enough about how well we were treated the entire time from arrival to departure. This is the place to stay in Victoria Falls.

From the moment we arrived at Victoria Falls River Lodge’s Malachite Suites, we knew we had chosen something truly special. This calm, understated yet luxurious open camp sits gracefully on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River, offering a front-row seat to one of Africa’s most breathtaking landscapes. We were welcomed with expansive views, a cool breeze, warm smiles, and a chilled drink—an invitation to slow down and embrace the rhythm of the wild. A gentle but clear safety briefing reminded us that we were guests in nature’s domain, setting the stage for an experience unlike any other. Our stand-alone tent was a private sanctuary, beautifully appointed with every comfort. The private deck—complete with plunge pool, breakfast table, lounger, and an outdoor bathtub—became our favorite place to watch sunrises and stargaze in the evening. The food was a highlight in itself: healthy, flavorful, and elegantly presented. The staff were consistently warm and welcoming. “Saint” Francis, our bartender and host, lived up to his name, while TK, the property manager, struck the perfect balance of attentiveness and discretion. Our guide, Jamie, made our stay unforgettable. His deep knowledge of the area’s wildlife and ecosystems added richness to every excursion. We’ll never forget the awe of watching three elephants swim across the river—just one of many magical moments. For travelers seeking the perfect blend of comfort, wilderness, and wonder, we cannot recommend Malachite Suites at Victoria Falls River Lodge highly enough.

After 18 hours travelling we finally arrived in Victoria Falls airport, and were met by our driver in a comfy mini-bus, where the two of us were cheerily transferred in 30 minutes to the boat that would ultimately, 15 minutes later, take us to the hotel. We were met with a smiling and welcoming team and whilst our luggage was seamlessly whisked away to our room, we completed our check-in in relaxed comfort of the open hotel lobby in very comfy chairs! We were soon whisked away by buggy (recommended and advised - we saw later to/from our room a tribe of baboons and a hippo in the grounds, so always best to be escorted!), to our room. We were incredibly lucky to have stayed in the expansive and luxurious Rapids Villa suite, a three / four bedroom multi-levelled and very large villa, with indoor and outdoor bathrooms, seating both indoor and outdoor for 10+ people, as well as sweeping views of the Zambezi river from two large bedroom decking areas as well as the main decking / viewing point off the lounge area. There were a variety of seating options, from deck chairs, sofa's, swing chairs, bar stool or sunbeds. The room had everything you could need, coffee machines in every room, ice maker, fridges in all the rooms, 2 large wine fridges and a huge well stocked high end bar, most of it included with some high end brands at a supplement. The bedrooms had ample storage space, wardrobes and shelves galore and you could want for nothing. The views were to die for and whilst we have travelled the world extensively in 5 star properties, this has to be the biggest room we have ever stayed in with the most breath-taking of views. Hippos would wake us up in the morning and swim right past, birds would swoop by, and elephants would graze and play in the water right outside our decking area. We were often just sitting there in awe of the majesty of it all not wanting to move. The property itself was spread over and along the Zambezi river with a variety of views, and I believe the higher numbered rooms (especially 15 & 16, which were just beyond our villa) had a more open view of the river. The main dining and reception area was only a 5 minutes buggy ride away where we would have our meals. Breakfast was a A La Carte selection and a small buffet, all good quality and plenty to choose from. Lunch was also good, whilst dinner alternated from the main dining area A La Carte to a BBQ type dinner in the nearby bar and dining area. Here, things were freshly cooked, not too much variety but good quality. There was a couple of salads and 2-3 hot options and we even ventured into Crocodile Curry (yes, similar to chicken!). With the main dining, the menu was not too expansive and was repeated every other day that we saw which limited our choice, but you could not fault the quality and taste and we always looked forward to meal times. Overall, the main thing apart from our room that stood out, was the level of service. Everyone seemed so happy in their job, the m

Outstanding place with oustainding stuff and wonderful tents! The design everywhere in the lodge is amazing, the tents are specious and clean. The river views stunning! Five points for the package….but….please work on the food quality…..that is max 4 stars out of 5! Not consistent….sometimes great and next moment opposite! But in this case in total….5 stars….who need with that view and package perfect food? OK….will be nice! Thanks for the outstanding time! Special thanks to Charles….great job!

We stayed in one of the beautiful Malachite tented suites overlooking the Zambezi. Such a beautiful, tranquil, spot. The suite was stunning, spotlessly clean and so luxurious. The staff were exceptional, nothing was too much trouble, their hospitality really was second to none. The food was excellent, every meal was fabulous! What an amazing chef they have there. On top of all that, we had our own driver (Charles) who took us on a river cruise, 2 game drives and on a guided tour around Victoria Falls. He truly was amazing and so knowledgeable. We really can’t thank the VFRL enough for such a wonderful experience. We hope we will be able to return in the future.