Zambezi riverfront safari lodgings
Shaded by jackalberry and sausage trees, life unfolds at an unhurried pace across open riverfront lounges and tranquil sandy pathways.
Where it shines
Notable
Scalloped thatch roofs, sand-floored pavilions, and reclaimed railway sleeper decks under canvas canopies.
Notable
Personalized butler and guide service paired with private plunge pools overlooking the flowing river.
Listed
Guided riverboat cruises and open vehicle game drives traversing the surrounding Zambezi National Park.
What they say
Also in Condé Nast Traveler.
New lodgings like Mpala Jena offer a stylish refuge at—and easy access to—the iconic Victoria Falls.
Tucked away
A place apart: the property is the destination.
Set sixteen kilometres upstream from Victoria Falls inside Zambezi National Park, the lodge is reached by a scenic Zambezi boat cruise.
1 of 6
The rooms
Screened canvas suites feature open-air showers, freestanding soaking tubs, and wooden decks set beneath riverine tree canopies.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
Cushioned loungers and fringed parasols line the curved timber pool deck overlooking the Zambezi River.
Swing Bar & Beach Lounge
Suspended swing chairs and beanbags sit on soft sand beneath a thatched pavilion facing the riverbank.
At the table
Meals range from sand-floored pavilion spreads to candlelit campfire dinners and sunset picnics set directly on river sandbanks.
Stay here
Mpala Jena Camp
See rooms and prices on the hotel's own website.
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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.