Ilala Lodge Hotel | Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe)
Situated in Victoria Falls town centre, Ilala Lodge Hotel holds the distinction of being the closest hotel to the waterfall on the Zimbabwean side – an eight-minute walk from the main viewing points. This positioning offers particular convenience for guests seeking immediate access to the Falls upon arrival.
The hotel's 73 rooms and suites are configured across multiple categories, from Classic Rooms to the expansive Strathearn Suite. All accommodations feature garden views that extend toward the adjacent national park. The constant sound of falling water – locally known as "the smoke which thunders" – provides a distinctive atmospheric element unique to this location.
The award-winning Cassia Restaurant has earned recognition for both its cuisine and extensive wine menu, featuring selections from established South African vineyards. The restaurant operates throughout the day, with evening service conducted outdoors under natural lighting. The proximity to Victoria Falls means that the spray from the of the waterfall provides a unique visual backdrop.
Two swimming pools anchor the hotel's leisure facilities, complemented by a poolside bar and lounge area equipped with business facilities, games, and reading materials. An activities office staffed by specialists are ready to book activities ranging from helicopter flights to multi-day safari extensions.
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Ilala Lodge Virtual Tour
7 x double rooms with 1 king size bed in each. 2 of these rooms are inter-connecting with Classic twins rooms so ideal for families.
Like the Classic Double rooms, all double rooms have an en-suite bathroom with separate shower, air conditioning, overhead fan, satellite TV hairdryer, safe, room service and have individual coffee and tea facilities and free WiFi. Complimentary initial stocking of mini bar is also included.
The rooms are spacious with railway teak furnishings. All rooms face the mighty Victoria Falls and the Zambezi National Park, so you'll often see wild animals grazing on the hotel lawns - while seated comfortably on your private patio area.
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bed Linen, Complimentary Wi-Fi, En Suite Bathroom, Fan, Hand Towels, Heater, Laundry Service (Available), LCD DVD/TV, Mini Bar, Safe, Smoke Alarm, Telephone, Television, Verandah, Wardrobe
25 twins, with 2 large three-quarter beds in each room.
All rooms have en suite bathroom with separate shower, air conditioning, overhead fan, satellite TV hair dryer, safe and have individual coffee, free WiFi, room service and tea facilities. The rooms are spacious with railway teak furnishings. Complimentary initial stocking of mini bar is also included.
All rooms look towards the Victoria Falls, and the National Park. There are often wild animals grazing on the lawn, and the windows and doors rattle from the force of the water from the mighty Victoria Falls.
Rooms have either a private patio or their own seating area on the lawn, facing the Falls.
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bed Linen, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Electrical Outlets, Ensuite, Fan, Fridge, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Heater, Laundry Service (Available), LCD DVD/TV, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mini Bar, Safe, Satellite / Cable TV, Shower, Smoke Alarm, Telephone, Television, Twin Bed, Verandah, Wardrobe, Wheelchair Friendly
13 Twin rooms with 2 x 3/4 beds in each room. Like the double rooms, these all have an en-suite bathroom with walk-in shower, twin vanity basins (no bath). Air conditioning, overhead fan, satellite TV, hairdryer, safe, free WiFi, room service and individual coffee and tea facilities. Complimentary initial stocking of mini bar is also included.
Private patio with sliding doors from the bedrooms, with magnificent views of the sun rising over the Victoria Falls.
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony , Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bed Linen, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, Ensuite, Fan, Fridge, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Heater, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Facilities, LCD DVD/TV, Mini Bar (Paid/Free), Smoke Alarm, Telephone, Twin Bed, Wardrobe
23 Double rooms with 1 x king size bed, with an en-suite bathroom with walk-in shower (no bath), twin vanity basins. Air conditioning, overhead fan, satellite TV, hairdryer, safe, free WiFi, room service and Nespresso machine and tea facilities. Complimentary initial stocking of mini bar is also included.
Private patio with sliding doors from the bedrooms, with magnificent views of the sun rising over the Victoria Falls.
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony , Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bed Linen, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, Fan, Fridge, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Heater, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Facilities, Laundry Service (Available), LCD DVD/TV, Mini Bar (Paid/Free), Mini Bar, Safe, Smoke Alarm, Telephone, Television, Verandah, Wardrobe
2 Classic Suites with 1 x king-size bed & 1 x ¾ bed in each suite. The Classic Suites are situated at the very top of the hotel with amazing views of the Victoria Falls.
All Classic Suites have en-suite facilities with a bathtub, separate shower, air conditioning, overhead fan, satellite TV hairdryer, safe, free WiFi, minibar fridge with complimentary stocking, writing desk, room service and have individual coffee, Nespresso and tea facilities.
A private patio where morning tea & coffee can be enjoyed while watching the sun rise over the mighty Victoria Falls.
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony , Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bath, Bed Linen, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, Ensuite, Fan, Fridge, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Facilities, Laundry Service (Available), LCD DVD/TV, Lounge Area, Lounge, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mini Bar (Paid/Free), Mini Bar, Mosquito Nets, Mosquito Netting, Private Lounge / Sitting Area, Safe, Satellite / Cable TV, Shower, Telephone, Television, Verandah, Wardrobe
2 Executive Suites located in the pool wing. Each suite has their own separate lounge area with satellite TV, Nespresso coffee machine, as well as tea making facilities, air conditioning, fan, lounge suite, writing desk, mini bar fridge, room service, private patio with sliding doors that lead off the lounge.
Separate bedroom adjoins the lounge but has a sliding door separating the two rooms. A king-size bed, clothes closet, hairdryer, safe, robe and slippers. En-suite facilities with walk-in shower, twin vanity basins and separate bath. Minibar fridge with complimentary stocking.
Own private patio with sliding doors leading off the bedroom.
Magnificent views of the sunrise over the mighty Victoria Falls.
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony , Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, Ensuite, Fan, Fridge, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Heater, Internet Access (Complimentary), Internet Access (Paid), Laundry Facilities, LCD DVD/TV, Lounge Area, Lounge, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mini Bar, Mosquito Nets, Mosquito Netting, Private Lounge / Sitting Area, Safe, Satellite / Cable TV, Shower, Smoke Alarm, Telephone, Television, Under Seat Storage, Wardrobe
The Strathearn Suite offers an abundance of space in a class of its own. The residence is complete with a private lounge, kitchen, en-suite bathroom with double vanity basins, walk-in shower and an indulgent bathtub. There is a private balcony, where guests can indulge in a large spa bath while enjoying world-class views of the spray rising above the mighty Victoria Falls waterfall.
Guests receive a complimentary in-room mini stocking of breakfast offerings such as yoghurt, cereal cheese, mini bread loaves etc. as well as a relaxing river cruise - subject to availability.
In addition to offering an ideal romantic retreat, the suite can also be transformed into a comfortable and spacious family villa, via a pair of interleading doors into a secondary suite and deluxe guest room.
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony , Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bath, Bed Linen, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Cooking Facilities, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, Ensuite, Fan, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Heater, Internet Access (Paid), Laundry Service (Available), LCD DVD/TV, Lounge Area, Lounge, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mini Bar (Paid/Free), Mini Bar, Mosquito Nets, Mosquito Netting, Private Lounge / Sitting Area, Private Pool / Jacuzzi, Safe, Satellite / Cable TV, Smoke Alarm, Telephone, Television, Under Seat Storage, Verandah, Wardrobe
Property Facilities
Accept Credit Cards, Activity Desk, Air conditioner, Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Children Friendly, Conference Centre, Disabled Friendly , Eco Friendly, Gym nearby, Internet Access (Complimentary), Internet Access, Laundry Service, Licensed, Meal On Request, Mobile Connectivity, Outdoor Pool / Pool Deck, Parking, Pool, Power Generator , Restaurant, Room Service, Satellite TV , Secure Parking, Spa, Travel Desk, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bed Linen, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Ensuite, Fan, Fridge, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Heater, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mini Bar, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Smoke Alarm, Tea / Coffee, Television, Verandah, Wardrobe
Available Services
24-hour Security, Airport Shuttle (Available), ATM, Credit Card Facilities, Laundry Service (Available), Room Service, Travel Desk
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Boating, Cycling, Elephant Interaction, Fine Dining, Game Drives, Game Viewing Hide, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Helicopter Scenic Flights, High Tea, Massages, Night Drives, Safaris, Sailing, Scenic Flights, Walks (Guided), Walks (Self Guided), Wildlife Tours
Activities Nearby
Adrenaline Activities, Animal Encounters, Big 5, Bird Watching, Boat Cruises, Boating, Canoeing, Child Friendly Activities, Cultural Tours, Cycling, Elephant-back Safaris, Fishing, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, General Sightseeing, Golf, Helicopter Rides, Helicopter Scenic Flights, Historical Tours, Horse Riding, Rhino Tracking, River Cruises, Safaris, Scenic Flights, Squash Court, Tennis Court, Walks (Guided), Wildlife Tours
The Riverside Dining Experience offers authentic African-style barbeque dining within an unparalleled setting on the edge of the Zambezi River. The diverse menu includes traditional Zimbabwean specialities, fresh salads and flavour-filled side options. Includes a 3-course BBQ dinner with a welcome drink and traditional entertainment. Available throughout the year at the Palm River Hotel, weather permitting. Cash bar available.
Available for individuals and small groups staying at any hotel inVictoria Falls.
Experience gourmet dining in Victoria Falls at the top-rated Cassia Restaurant. Centrally located only minutes from the Victoria Falls at Ilala Lodge Hotel. The Cassia restaurant offers a delicious breakfast buffet, lunch and al fresco evening dining under the starry African sky.
The Cassia Restaurant delivers an unmatched menu, paired with an extensive wine list comprised of carefully selected wines from South Africa’s top vineyards. The calming and tranquil ambience is further complemented by the gentle rumble of Victoria Falls in the background. A truly unforgettable dining experience not to be missed
You know what they say about the early bird? If you are a passionate birdwatcher, don’t miss out on this river cruise! Keen bird lovers will delight in marking off their sightings in the birding booklet provided on board while enjoying a delicious continental breakfast including fruit platters, fresh pastries and a variety of cheeses and biscuits. Rare birds such as the African Pitta and the Narina Trogon have been sighted here, as well as hundreds of other bird species. The knowledgeable and experienced guides conduct these early morning river cruises.
Enjoy freshly brewed coffee and a continental breakfast as you cruise up the Zambezi River towards Kandahar Island while enjoying the sounds of the diverse birdlife and the African bush come to life in the early morning. Breakfast includes freshly baked pieces of bread and pastries, fresh fruit platters, jams, yoghurts and cheeses as well as an assortment of teas and coffee.
Sit back and relax while sipping a cold drink and enjoying a few quiet hours along the banks of the Zambezi River. Our lunch buffet includes cold meats, fresh salads and a wide selection of biscuits and cheeses, all catered by the award-winning Palm Restaurant at Ilala Lodge Hotel. The fully stocked bar is available throughout the cruise and the attentive crew is at your service.
There simply is not a better way to enjoy the dazzling African sunset than from the comfort of a Ra-Ikane boat on a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. Our ever-popular sunset cruise offers a unique way to explore the channels of the river and to get an up-close view of the pristine wilderness and African game along its banks. Enjoy an array of canapés, a full bar and a charming crew who can impart a bit of interesting Victoria Falls history with you on board the Ra-Ikane.
The Cassia Restaurant
Experience gourmet dining in Victoria Falls at the top-rated Cassia Restaurant. Centrally located only minutes from the Victoria Falls at Ilala Lodge Hotel. The Cassia restaurant offers a delicious breakfast buffet, lunch and al fresco evening dining under the starry African sky.
The Cassia Restaurant delivers an unmatched menu, paired with an extensive wine list comprised of carefully selected wines from South Africa’s top vineyards. The calming and tranquil ambience is further complemented by the gentle rumble of Victoria Falls in the background. A truly unforgettable dining experience not to be missed
Your Stay
2 Nights
Bed and Breakfast
Fast Facts
4 Star
Lodge
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 73
Special Interests: Adventure, Big 5, Birding, Fishing, Flora, Gourmet, History & Culture, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Shopping, Wildlife, Wine
African Bush Camps Bumi Hills Safari Lodge | Lake Kariba
Nestled within the secluded hills of northern Zimbabwe, Bumi Hills Safari Lodge offers breathtaking views of the vast and shimmering Lake Kariba – the largest reservoir in the world. Here, embark on an unforgettable safari experience, where refined luxury meets the serenity of one of Africa's most breathtaking remote destinations.
On its own private safari concession, Bumi Hills Safari Lodge is surrounded by rich wildlife thanks to its proximity to Matusadona National Park. Expect incredible game viewing as you witness Lake Kariba teeming with hippos, crocodiles and an impressive array of bird species, while the surrounding bush is home to lions, leopards, elephants, and more. At the Lodge, enjoy a variety of activities including boating, game drives, fishing, sunset cruises, walking safaris, star gazing, night drives, bird watching, and a unique sleep-out experience under the stars.
The Lodge is adorned with wooden elements and natural textures that integrate the local Tongan influences. At its heart is the elegant viewing deck that offers sweeping views of the lake and its bustling wildlife habitats, as well as a canvas-covered bar and open dining area. Refresh your mind and energize your body from the comfort of the on-site wellness spa and fully equipped gym.
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The Lodge houses eight spacious suites, each complete with air-conditioning, a freestanding bath, an indoor and outdoor shower, a mini bar, and a private viewing deck extending out towards Lake Kariba.
The private Baobab Villa is the perfect family retreat or friends’ getaway - featuring two large suites, a living room, and an outdoor and indoor dining area. The Villa also comes with the personalized services of a butler, a guide, and the exclusive use of a safari vehicle - ensuring every aspect of your experience is tailored to perfection.
The Lodge houses interleading luxury suites, with two bedrooms each complete with air-conditioning, a freestanding bath, an indoor and outdoor shower, a mini bar, and a private viewing deck extending out towards Lake Kariba.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Gym, Internet Access (Complimentary), Kiddies Club, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Private Vehicle (Available), Restaurant, Spa
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath, Dressing Gowns, En-Suite, Fan, Hair Dryer, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mini Bar, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Available Services
Airport Shuttle (Complimentary), Credit Card Facilities
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Boating, Fishing, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, High Tea, Night Drives, Safaris, Walks (Guided)
Activities Nearby
Bird Watching, Boat Cruises, Catch-and-release Fishing, Cultural Tours, Fishing, Fly Fishing, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Health and Fitness Centre, Massages, Safaris, Sailing, Walks (Guided)
Explore Lake Kariba in an open 4x4 vehicle, driven by your safari guide. Encounter the region's wildlife during early morning and late afternoon drives – the times of day when animals are most active. Learn about the wildlife, their tracks, and the surrounding plants from your expert guide as you experience close-up encounters. On your game drives, enjoy morning coffee, snacks, and evening sundowners set against the beautiful backdrop of a savanna sunset.
The Bumi Hills Wildlife Area is bordered in the north west by the Chalala and Mola communities, which are home to the Tonga, a delightful and very spiritual people who have resided in this area and along the length of the Zambezi river for centuries. They have preserved ancient traditions and still live a largely subsistence lifestyle that is reliant on fishing, livestock and small scale farming. In the village of Chalala these customs have melted together with the inevitable infiltration of modern ways of life. However the luxuries of a permanent electricity and water supply to homes are still absent, leaving the communities still largely reliant on the surrounding environment for their livelihood.
Bird lovers will find plenty to enjoy in the area’s rich diversity of avian life, with chances to spot incredible species like the Squacco heron and Collared pratincole. Listen for the distinctive call of the Giant kingfisher or try to capture a photo of the elusive Pel’s fishing owl. Whether you're admiring their beauty or simply soaking in their songs, African birdlife is a marvel to behold.
Enjoy dinner from atop the hills overlooking Lake Kariba. This iconic view is the undoubtedly the best in Kariba.
Cast your line into the crystal-clear waters of Lake Kariba to experience the thrill of a catch. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a simply a beginner eager to learn the basics, the Zambezi River offers a wonderful fishing adventure. Relax, sit back, and enjoy the serenity of nature, surrounded by the majestic beauty of this iconic African river.
A sunset cruise down the iconic Lake Kariba offers incredible wildlife sightings in the most tranquil setting. The calm waters mirror the spectacular sunset, creating a beautiful backdrop as you enjoy sundowners and spot elephants, birds, and other amazing wildlife in their natural habitat.
Walking safaris in Zimbabwe present a rare opportunity to explore the African wild on foot. By stepping away from the safari vehicle, you can fully immerse in the environment, awakening your senses to the sights and sounds of nature. Our expert walking guides will accompany you through the African bush, offering fascinating insights into wildlife, animal tracks, insects, native plants, and the region’s geology.
Children under 16 can experience nature walks around the camp led by our child-certified walking guides as part of the Cub Club.
After an day in the bush, relax next to the camp fire and allow yourself to get lost in the starry night above. At night the stars utterly dominate the land; their brilliance and immediacy are totally arresting. Our guides have a growing passion in astronomy and are able to show you show you several star constellations including those which make up the Milky Way.
"Ngwana," the Setswana word for “explorer,” is the name of our young adventurer program at Bumi Hills Safari Lodge. The Ngwana Club offers a variety of safari adventures for children of all ages, including nature walks, cooking classes, traditional storytelling, and arts and crafts. Children’s safari activities are tailored to each family's unique needs and preferences, considering ages and any special interests or requests.
After a morning boat game viewing, enjoy a delicious lunch on Starvation Island
Your Stay
2 Nights
Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
Fast Facts
Luxury Tented Camp
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 10
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Fishing, Flora, History & Culture, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Watersports, Wildlife
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Your Stay
2 Nights
Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
