Riverbank safari retreat
Elevated timber boardwalks connect solar-powered tented suites along the Zambezi River, keeping pathways clear of roaming wildlife.
“Zambezi Sands, a 10-tent luxury lodge with private plunge pools on a riverbank in Zambezi National Park, reopened in 2023 after a major refurbishment.”
Where it shines
Notable
Elevated boardwalks link Bedouin-style tented suites crafted with natural textures, earthy tones, and river-facing viewing decks.
Notable
All-inclusive riverfront tented suites with private plunge pools, deep soaking tubs, and Ghanaian botanical bath amenities.
Notable
Zimbabwean-owned eco-lodge featuring regional culinary dishes and immersive visits to local village craft collectives.
What they say
One Michelin Key
Michelin
Also in AFAR.
With just ten tents, it’s nothing if not intimate, and in typical tented-lodge luxury style its units are furnished with all the comforts of a brick-and-mortar structure…
Tucked away
A place apart: the property is the destination.
Set deep inside Zambezi National Park, guided 4x4 game drives and riverboat cruises depart directly upstream from Victoria Falls.
The rooms
Tented suites feature river-facing viewing decks, deep soaking tubs, and outdoor bush showers, with private plunge pools in select units.
The spa
Bring a swimsuit.
Hot stone massages and body treatments use plant-based botanicals, set in private tented suites overlooking the river.
Yoga and meditation
Outdoor yoga sessions take place on riverfront timber decks, with guided meditation circles held in shaded forest clearings.
At the table
Chefs prepare regional Zimbabwean dishes in an open kitchen, served under woven lanterns or along the open-air river deck.
How it began
Zimbabwean entrepreneur Vimbai Masiyiwa and her mother Tsitsi acquired the camp in 2020, transforming it into a female-led ecotourism retreat.
Good to know
Stay here
Batoka Zambezi Sands
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Victoria Falls
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.