VICTORIA FALLS (LIVINGSTONE)

There is no substitute for the thrill of seeing, hearing and being showered by the Victoria Falls, but some statistics set the scene. Here the Zambezi River pour 120 million gallons of water per minute into a narrow chasm more than 330ft deep. The mist and spray may reach 1,500ft into the sky, hence the indigenous name for the falls; Mosi-oa-Tunya, "the Smoke that Thunders".

The spray can be seen as far as 20 miles away and the rainbow possibilities of the world's largest waterfall are tremendous. The surrounding terrain on the Zimbabwe side of the falls is so drenched that this area is known as the Rain Forest.

Tongabezi

Tongabezi Lodge is set in a secluded, tranquil grove of African ebony trees on the banks of the Zambezi River, upstream from the Victoria Falls. Accommodation is in five luxury cottages and four spacious open planned thatched houses. All rooms have magnificent views of the river and a private verandah. Each of the houses has unique architectural features, king size beds and large airy mosquito canopies. All rooms have en suite bathrooms, flush loos with views and running hot and cold water. The cottages – four doubles and one twin with oversized beds, have en suite bathrooms and private decks with a view. Link to Lodge web site.

Season: All Year

Price per person per night from US$400 / £223

Sindabezi Island Camp

Sindabezi Island Camp consists of reed and thatched chalets built on a small shady island in the middle of the Zambezi River. The dining room faces east over a floodplain of the Victoria Falls National Park where buffalo and bushbuck feed most evenings. Spectacular sun and moon rises, fantastic birdlife and wandering elephants make Sindabezi Island Camp a very special place to end or start your safari. Link to Camp web site.

Season: June to November inclusive

Price per person per night from US$365 / £203

The River Club

The River Club is situated on the Zambian side of the Zambezi River, 18 kilometres upstream from Victoria Falls. The camp has a distinct Edwardian flavour, and guests here enjoy the sights and sounds of Victoria Falls and the Zambezi River in a peaceful and tranquil setting away from the crowds.

Ten luxury, thatched chalets overlook the Zambezi River, and have en-suite facilities including a bath, shower, toilet and basin. All the rooms have fans. The rooms are all completely open in the front giving guests the best possible views of the Zambezi. The Zambezi National Park is located just across the river, and elephants can be seen on the river bank. A rich bird life is found in the area. Hippos are regularly sighted (and heard) along the river's edge.
Link to Camp web site.

Season: June to November inclusive

Price per person per night low season US$415 / £231 high season US$535 / £298

Islands of Siankaba

The Islands of Siankaba is a small and highly exclusive lodge, located on two Islands in the Zambezi River near Livingstone, Zambia, it is positioned just 30 miles upstream from Victoria Falls and 40 miles downstream from Chobe National Park in Botswana. It has been developed as a true retreat for discerning travellers who wish to distance themselves from the ‘hustle and bustle’ of the tourist activity in and around Victoria Falls, yet be close enough to explore the falls at their leisure.

The secluded chalets, each with its unique and individually different view of the mighty Zambezi River, are situated on one island and linked by a foot bridge to the second island with the main lounge bar and dining areas. The design and landscaping of all the facilities incorporates the use of natural materials that blend in with the feel of the surrounding bush and takes full advantage of the beauty of the riverine site.
Link to camp web site

Price per person per night low season US$347 / £193 high season US$450 / £250

Stanley Safari Lodge

Stanley Safari Lodge has only 7 private cottages and is situated bordering the Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park, with a direct view over the spray of the Victoria Falls. Each of the 7 luxury cottages is individually designed and decorated with local materials. Accommodation ranges from double rooms, to the honeymoon suite - with both its own fireplace and plunge pool. All cottages have their own private garden and dining area. Link to lodge web site.

Season: June to November inclusive

Price per person per night from US$340 / £193

Zambezi Sun

The Zambezi Sun, is sited on the banks of the Zambezi River only a short distance from the Victoria Falls. It is constructed in a series of eight buildings, consisting of the guest rooms, a central pavilion of restaurants and a fabulous convention centre which surround a swimming pool. Alongside the pool an al fresco grill serves poolside lunches, while the indoor buffet restaurant serves breakfast and dinner.

The decor is of simple finishes with highlight bright mosaics and fabrics and the intoxicating environment is characterised by ethnic wall stencils, timber and plaster ceilings, Zambian artworks and accessories. Open and airy, the rooms are designed with Zambian influences, creating an atmosphere of bright earthy colours that’s fun and welcoming. All rooms are air-conditioned and have satellite television. Link to hotel web site.

Price per person per night from US$258 / £143