The Victoria Falls Hotel, popularly known as 'the grand old lady of the Falls', is situated in the Victoria Falls National Park, a world heritage site.
The Edwardian-style 5* hotel, built in 1904, combines the charm of the old with the convenience of the new. Set in lush tropical gardens with lily ponds, palm trees and semi-tropical shrubs, it provides the tranquillity and seclusion that many guests seek.
The famous Victoria Falls are just a 10 minute walk away using the hotel's private pathway, and 'the smoke that thunders' or 'Mosi-O-Tunya' in the local dialect, is clearly audible and visible from this luxurious landmark. Seeing the sun rise beneath the mist of one of the 7 natural wonders of the world and the lunar rainbow at night, all the while soaking up the history and ambience of a bygone era, is more than unforgettable - it is unique.
The service here is world-class, and food and beverage choice and preparation second to none. Choose the opulent Livingstone Room for fine dining and dancing, or the Jungle Junction for its famous breakfast and dinner buffets and ethnic entertainment in the evenings. Stanley's Terrace, with its clear view of the Victoria Falls Bridge connecting Zimbabwe and Zambia, is renowned for its cocktails and afternoon teas, and has been a rendezvous for adventurers in Africa for over a century.
All the rooms and suites are decorated in the gracious Edwardian style of Zimbabwe's colonial era. There are 161 in total, offering a range of accommodation from standard rooms to the Royal Suite. The latter, as the name suggests, has seen reigning monarchs, presidents and, more recently, many famous Hollywood stars among its privileged occupants.
A large swimming pool, 2 tennis courts, a library, and reading rooms are part of the complex. Golfers can enjoy 18 holes on the championship course of the nearby sister hotel, Elephant Hills Resort.
A sunset cruise on the mighty Zambezi River, just upstream from the magnificent Falls, is another must for the visitor. Crocodiles, abundant hippo and new friends are the staple of these legendary exhilarating cruises.