Ilala Lodge Backend

Author: Focus Online Team

  • Top 10 Restaurants in Victoria Falls

    Top 10 Restaurants in Victoria Falls

    Eating out is about more than letting somebody else do the cooking for a change – although that is a definite plus.

    On holiday, the restaurants and eateries we pick have a tangible impact on our experience of the place we’re visiting. Chosen wisely, these establishments can offer us a glimpse into the culture, life and atmosphere of a town.

    This is as true in Vic Falls as it is anywhere else, and below we have a list of locally beloved spots for you to try, each lending a new set of eyes to the diner.

    From easy and laid-back to sophisticated and sleek, here is our round-up of the top 10 restaurants in Victoria Falls!

    1. Cassia Restaurant

    We start this list with our very own Cassia Restaurant – one of the most popular restaurants in Victoria Falls.

    We pride ourselves on having created a space where guests can truly relax – be it inside the elegantly decorated dining space, outside on the terrace beneath the Golden Shower trees (Cassia fistula), or by the pool-side bar.

    Sitting outside, your meal will be accompanied by the gentle rumble of Victoria Falls in the background as you soak up the serenity of our lush gardens.

    You couldn’t ask for a better dining experience when it comes to food. We have á la carte menus for breakfast, lunch and dinner, respectively, as well as a snack menu for those in between times. These menus are frequently updated to suit the season, but also offer classic fare like burgers, wraps, kebabs and fish.

    We stock a wide selection of hand-picked South African wines from award-winning vineyards – the perfect accompaniment to an al fresco dining experience under the starry African night sky – and local and international beers.

    Join us for an unforgettable culinary experience at one of the highest-rated restaurants in Victoria Falls on TripAdvisor!

    BOOK ONLINE

    2. Palm River Hotel Restaurant

    Our sister hotel, Palm River Hotel, serves eclectic fusion fare with a quintessential Zimbabwean twist!

    The dining space is modern and airy, with an old-world feel. The vaulted ceilings create a seamless transition between the dining hall and the veranda – both beautiful areas in which to enjoy a meal as you gaze out on the Zambezi River.

    BOOK ONLINE

    3. Riverside Dining Experience

    For a fun foodie activity, consider the Palm River Hotel’s Riverside Dining Experience.

    During this experience you’ll taste authentic African barbecue dishes with Zimbabwean flavours – all cooked over open fires.

    Attentive staff will see to your every need as you dine by lantern light on the banks of the Zambezi – you might even spot wildlife while you eat!

    This offering is exclusive to guests of Palm River Hotel and Ilala Lodge Hotel – be sure to book ahead to secure your spot.

    Email fnb@palmriverhotel.com or call +263 867 7196873 to make a reservation.

    4. The Lookout Café

    Owned and operated by Wild Horizons, The Lookout Café is one of the most iconic restaurants in Victoria Falls.

    Why? Well, the name says it all! Here you’ll be treated to an incredible view of Victoria Falls Bridge as you gaze down upon the gorge and Zambezi River below.

    They offer breakfast, lunch and dinner, combining traditional favourites with more adventurous menu items – crocodile, for instance. Their list of cocktails is also extensive, making The Lookout Café a wonderful sundowner location.

    They even present a Full Moon Dinner which may coincide with your visit!

    BOOK ONLINE

    Image Credit: Instagram | the_lookout_cafe

    5. The River Brewing Company

    If you’re a lover of beer, you can’t miss out on a visit to The River Brewing Company!

    This quirky establishment has everything you want in a craft brewery – quirk, eccentricity and a staff dedicated to creating brews as unique as our incredible African setting.

    You’ll find their beers at several outlets in Vic Falls, but nothing beats going to the source and enjoying a meal at their very own bar – where the magic happens!

    Be sure to buy a few cans – like Siyabonga Session IPA and Painted Dog Pale Ale – to take home with you.

    BOOK ONLINE

    Image Credits: Instagram | Shared by theriverbrewingco & taken by the.salty.zebra.co 

    6. The Three Monkeys Restaurant & Bar

    There’s always a buzz at The Three Monkeys Restaurant & Bar!

    Clustered around an old train carriage, which serves as the main kitchen area and food outlet, here you can be guaranteed of tasty meals enjoyed in what feels like a “beer tent” atmosphere.

    This is a great restaurant for families as they serve all the classics – burgers, wraps and pizzas for the kids and killer cocktails for the adults.

    Take a bite of the authentic Vic Falls in what has quickly grown into a town hub for tourists and locals alike!

    BOOK ONLINE

    Image Credits: Instagram | the_three_monkeys_vic_falls 

    7. The Rainforest Café

    Located in the heart of the action – in Victoria Falls National Park – this is the ideal place to relax beside the rainforest after taking in the Falls.

    The café-style meals are simply delicious – think chicken mayo paninis, pan-seared Zambezi bream and ginger beer waffles!

    The laid-back setting and buoyant atmosphere is sure to recharge you for the rest of the day.

    BOOK ONLINE

    Image Credit: Instagram | the.rainforestcafe

    8. Dusty Road

    Dusty Road is a Zimbabwean catering company born right here in Vic Falls under the stewardship of Sarah Lilford.

    They have a restaurant in Chinotimba, the largest and oldest township in Victoria Falls, just 2km from the town’s centre. It’s here where you can enjoy the Dusty Road Township Experience – where meals are prepared in cast iron pots and over open fires.

    This is an authentic and vibrant activity that every foodie should add to their list of things to do in Victoria Falls.

    Here you’ll also be able to buy wares from local vendors and immerse yourself in this welcoming community.

    BOOK ONLINE

    Image Credit: Instagram | dustyroadtownshipexperience_

    9. The Boma – Place of Eating

    Experience more than just dining at The Boma, a unique cultural enclave nestled in a Gusu Forest.

    Delight in Zimbabwean delicacies, from game meats to traditional dishes, amidst nightly entertainment featuring a hand-washing ceremony, Shangaan dancers and local fortune tellers.

    This experience is the perfect way to unravel the rich tapestry of Zimbabwe’s folklore, culture, and heritage during your trip!

    BOOK ONLINE

    Image Credit: Instagram | thebomadinneranddrumshow

    10. Baines Restaurant

    Travel upriver to Baines Restaurant, located along the Zambezi above the Falls.

    The magical setting lends a sense of serenity to your dining experience, with modern dishes like Turmeric Pumpkin Risotto with Fillet Steak and Zambezi sesame battered Tilapia.

    Seated right on the waterfront, you couldn’t ask for a more elegant dining experience when visiting Victoria Falls. And remember, as their menu states: Ithemba – entrust the chef!

    BOOK ONLINE

    Image Credit: Instagram | bainesrestaurant

    Stay With Us

    Nestled in the heart of town, Ilala Lodge Hotel is the ideal place to base yourself when on holiday in Victoria Falls.

    Our lush gardens provide sanctuary and seclusion, while our location makes us the perfect choice for those looking to explore town on foot.

    Browse our luxury accommodation options here and make your pick.

    Bookings can be done online or via email.

    Once settled in, Victoria Falls is at your fingertips!

  • Lesser-Known Victoria Falls Activities

    Lesser-Known Victoria Falls Activities

    As Africa’s “Adventure Capital,” there are so many things to do in Victoria Falls that it can make your head spin!

    You’ve heard of the adrenaline-inducing bungee jump off the Vic Falls Bridge, white water rafting down the Zambezi and taking the awe-inspiring Flight of Angels over the Falls, but there may be a few lesser-known gems you’ve overlooked.

    Carry on reading to discover a few lesser-known things to do in Victoria Falls.

    Bamba Tram

    Take a quaint tram ride across the iconic Victoria Falls Bridge on the Bamba Tram! This 1,5-hour round trip is perfect for families and offers panoramic views over lush landscapes, including the Falls.

    Your trip will begin at Three Monkeys near the Victoria Falls Railway Station. Guests can choose their ideal time: Sunrise, morning, sunset safari or dinner.

    Discover more here.

    Image Credits: Instagram | bambatram

    Bridge Tour

    If taking flying leaps off of manmade objects isn’t your thing, why not explore the historic Victoria Falls Bridge with an informative guided tour instead?

    During your bridge tour, you will learn about this engineering marvel’s past and present, including details of its construction and significance – all the while taking in panoramic views of the Zambezi River and the breathtaking Victoria Falls below.

    The tour includes an exhilarating walk on the catwalk beneath the bridge, where you’ll witness daring bungee jumpers and be in the thick of things.

    An enriching experience for history buffs and adventure-seekers alike!

    More information can be found here.

    Jet Boat On The Zambezi

    Zoom through rapids and channels of the Zambezi River near the thundering crash of the mighty Falls! Marvel at the towering cliffs and wildlife along the riverbanks as experienced guides navigate the water on your behalf.

    If this sounds like your idea of fun, click here for more details.

    Image Credit: victoriafalls-guide.net

    Witness A Moonbow

    On full moon nights, the spray from the Falls reveals a magical lunar rainbow – also known as a moonbow!

    On these nights, Victoria Falls National Park opens the rainforest for nighttime visitors to come and enjoy this occurrence – weather and spray permitting! This is truly a magical activity to tick off your bucket list.

    We’ve dedicated an entire blog post to moonbows – click here for all the information you need.

    Dine Beside The Zambezi

    For the foodies among you, we bet you didn’t know that our sister property, Palm River Hotel, offers a dreamy outdoor dining experience beside the Zambezi River.

    Under a starlit canopy and beside the lanterns’ glow, guests will enjoy an authentic African-style barbeque dining experience featuring locally sourced delicacies like crocodile and kudu steaks!

    Contact fnb@palmriverhotel.com for more information.

    Stay With Us

    Victoria Falls, Africa’s “Adventure Capital,” promises a whirlwind of activities. Beyond the famed bungee jumps and rafting, explore hidden gems like the Bamba Tram for panoramic views or delve into the bridge’s history. Whether jet boating or marveling at moonbows, every moment here is an adventure waiting to unfold.

    Stay with us at Ilala Lodge Hotel to make the most of all that Victoria Falls has to offer.

    Browse our luxurious accommodation options here.

  • 5 Unique Features of Ilala Lodge Hotel

    5 Unique Features of Ilala Lodge Hotel

    There are many unique features of our beautiful hotel that set us apart from the crowd.

    Being family-run, the Ilala Lodge Hotel is infused with personal touches that can only be attributed to the warm personalities and hospitable values of the Brown family.

    If you’d like to dive into the specifics, keep reading! Here are five features guaranteed to make Ilala Lodge Hotel a unique holiday stay!

    1.) Proximity to Victoria Falls

    Geographically-speaking, you’ll find no hotel closer to The Falls. Ilala Lodge Hotel is nestled right in the heart of town and is a mere 8-minute walk from the front gates of The Victoria Falls National Park. (Faster if you’re eager to get there!)

    The front of our property borders the park and makes for more than a few curious visitors. Guests are often delighted by warthogs and impala grazing on the sprawling front lawn – elephants too, on occasion!

    2.) Award-Winning Restaurant On-Site

    You don’t need to venture far to sample some of the best food in Victoria Falls! Our on-site Cassia Restaurant is rated ‘Excellent’ on TripAdvisor and has won multiple awards over the years to back up this claim.

    Apart from the delicious cuisine on offer right on your doorstep, guests can also see the spray from the falls on the terrace and hear the rumble of ‘The Smoke That Thunders’ while eating; a unique inclusion to your dining experience.

    3.) In-House Tours & Activities Desk

    With so much to see and do in the Falls, consulting websites can prove confusing. (Which tour is best? Why are there so many options?) Don’t worry, we understand, which is why we’ve set up an in-house tours and activities desk at the hotel.

    Now it’s as simple as chatting to one of our friendly team members (in person, mind you) and having them help you select itinerary items that best suit your needs. Services include booking activities on your behalf, organising transfers, arranging Zambezi River cruises and taking care of onward bookings.

    No hassles, no stress.

    4.) Golden Trees

    Guests can’t help but marvel at the gorgeous Indian Laburnums on our grounds, also known as ‘Golden Trees.’ These were introduced by Beryl Brown, a wonderful gardener and one of the main visionaries behind our garden. 

    When you see them, you’ll understand what all the fuss is about. With leaves that seem to light up in brilliant shades of yellow and amber, it’s a truly magical sight!

    Views of our Golden Trees are best enjoyed from the terrace of the Cassia Restaurant or from the privacy of your balcony overlooking the lawns.

    5.) Rare Wood Finishings

    Our beautiful poolside bar contains a unique feature you might not notice at first glance.

    The finishings are actually made from repurposed Zimbabwean teak railway sleepers. If you know your timber, you’ll know that this incredibly hard wood was highly sought-after as a building material in times gone by. It’s difficult to work with, due to its density, but this trait also makes it desirable for its durability.

    You’ll find more teak furnishings scattered throughout the hotel – also made from railway sleepers.

    Speaking of building materials, our hotel’s original structure was built using hand-selected gum poles and thatching grass from Brown family’s farm 700 km away in Darwendale! Strath Brown and his son, Keith, thatched the hotel’s roof themselves.

    Bonus!

    Read all about our hotel’s beautiful namesake, the Ilala Palm, here.

    Look out for these beautiful trees on our grounds!

    Stay With Us

    For a unique holiday stay filled with personal touches, convenient amenities, luxurious lodgings and all the wonder that comes with being so close to the mighty Victoria Falls, book your stay at Ilala Lodge Hotel.

    We can’t wait to share all that Zimbabwe has to offer with you – from world-class cuisine to friendly hospitality and unsurpassable natural beauty.

    Browse our accommodation options here and get in touch with us via onlinereservations@ilalalodge.com to secure your dates.

    Alternatively, feel free to make use of our online booking platform.

    We look forward to welcoming you to Victoria Falls!

  • The Palm Hospitality Group Paves the Way for Holiday Travels and Marches for Reforestation

    The Palm Hospitality Group Paves the Way for Holiday Travels and Marches for Reforestation

    The holiday season is a time for giving and sharing joy. This December, the Palm Hospitality Group (PHG)  Foundation embraced this spirit through impactful corporate social responsibility initiatives that gave back to our community.

    Paving the way for Holiday Travels

         

    The most wonderful time of the year brings a welcome influx of visitors to Victoria Falls eager to experience our vibrant town. But after last year’s heavy rains wreaked havoc on local roads, we faced a different type of storm – how to make infrastructure repairs in time for the seasonal boom in tourism.

    That’s when the Palm Hospitality Group rolled up their sleeves, grabbed their gravel and rocks, and got to work alongside the Ministry of Roads Department on priority repair operations. Our crew of 7 men worked away at the road before the Masuwe Bridge leading up to the airport route – rebuilding damaged mitre drains, clearing blocked culverts, and stabilizing eroded edges threatening the roadbeds.

    12 additional helpers from the Ministry of Roads department arrived with a 7-tonne truck to assist! Six 20-tonne loads of gravel and 22 seven-tonne truckloads of rocks were used and strategically placed, to reinforce the most vulnerable stretches. The combined teams also added drainage features called “swales” to capture silt on steep inclines and slow down the speed of water drainage.

    Alongside the Ministry of Roads Department, the Palm Hospitality Group Foundation continues to pave the way for holiday comforts and convenience in Victoria Falls.

     

    Palm Hospitality Group Marches for Reforestation

    While visitors flocked to Victoria Falls for the start of peak tourist season, our team laced up their boots on December 2nd for a very different type of adventure. The Palm Hospitality Group rallied our conservation-minded staff for the annual Friends of the Environment (FOTE) walkathon – a 10km march to raise awareness and support reforestation efforts across Zimbabwe.

    As employees from local hotels and lodges kicked off from the town centre, crowds cheered seeing tourism operators shining a light on ecosystems. 90 participants donned matching t-shirts to emblemize a united front as environmental stewards.

    Breathless but buzzing with inspiration, we finally reached St. Bakhita School to great fanfare. FOTE organizers then presented us shovels to commence officially planting over 100 saplings in honour of National Tree Planting Day. From managers to housekeepers, our team dug deep to root hope for the country’s 2026 goal of 500 million trees.

    By getting sweaty for the cause, we grew community spirit while nurturing mother nature. Our efforts offered just a sprout of possibilities for restoring Zimbabwe’s delicate ecosystems. But days like the FOTE walkathon plant seeds of change in hearts and minds. As Palm Hospitality’s guests enjoy Victoria Falls holidays, they can rest easier knowing we march alongside advocates like Friends of the Environment. Because true hospitality means caring for both the people and the lands that welcome us.

     

    The PHG Foundation

    Formed in 2022, the PHG Foundation combines Ilala Lodge Hotel‘s community projects with the passionate staff of Palm River Hotel. Such community efforts are part of the PHG Foundation’s broader mission to aid the local Victoria Falls community.

    Other PHG Foundation initiatives include monthly litter clean-ups throughout designated sections of the town centre, recycling programmes, wildlife protection, cultural heritage preservation, and local fundraisers.

    The group is dedicated to sustainable tourism and minimising environmental impact. Their efforts endeavour to make Victoria Falls a better place to live and visit for all!

    If you’d like to stay up to date with the latest news at Ilala Lodge Hotel, consider following us on Instagram or Facebook.

    Alternatively, subscribe to our newsletter and receive updates directly to your inbox!

    SUBSCRIBE HERE

  • New Baboon-Proof Bins in Victoria Falls

    New Baboon-Proof Bins in Victoria Falls

    Tackling the Local Litter Issue

    The Palm Hospitality Group (PHG) Foundation has unveiled a new community initiative to address an ongoing issue with baboons raiding and emptying public litter bins in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.

    The Problem: The Litter-Bin Raiders

    Placed as it is within a wildlife national park, the community of Victoria Falls faces mild human and wildlife conflict, one of which includes the rummaging and overturning of litter bins throughout the town centre by baboon troops.

    The baboons dig through the bins, emptying the contents and spreading them across the town centre. Not only does this create an unsightly mess, but more worryingly poses a threat to other wildlife who might stumble across the litter (much of which is plastic) and ingest it.

    Previously, the PHG Foundation attempted to deter the primates by installing tall, narrow, metal bins with small deposit openings. Unfortunately, the mischievous baboons were able to tip these bins over and pry them open in search of food scraps.

    A Clever Solution: Primate-Proof Litter Bins

    To combat this, the PHG Foundation has introduced a new series of specialised baboon-proof bins throughout the Victoria Falls town centre. The 15 new bins are made of durable material and feature a closed deposit section with a rotating wheel that allows contents to fall in, but keeps baboons out. The bins are also significantly larger than previous bins and are weighty enough to prevent being tipped over easily.

    This week the PHG Foundation handed over the specialised bins to the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority at the entrance to the iconic Victoria Falls Rainforest. Guests are encouraged to dispose of their litter correctly in aid of preserving our Natural World Wonder. Other bins can be spotted throughout the Victoria Falls town centre for ease of access.

    This initiative supports the efforts of the Pristine Victoria Falls Society, a local community organisation working towards making Victoria Falls a clean, green city in Africa by creating a litter-free and sustainable environment.

    The PHG Foundation

    Formed in 2022, the PHG Foundation combines the successful track record of Ilala Lodge Hotel‘s community projects with the passionate staff of Palm River Hotel. The baboon-proof bins are part of the PHG Foundation’s broader mission to aid the local Victoria Falls community.

    Other PHG Foundation initiatives include monthly litter clean-ups throughout designated sections of the town centre, recycling programmes, wildlife protection, cultural heritage preservation, and local fundraisers.

    The group is dedicated to sustainable tourism and minimising environmental impact. Their efforts endeavour to make Victoria Falls a better place to live and visit for all!

    If you’d like to stay up to date with the latest news at Ilala Lodge Hotel, consider following us on Instagram or Facebook.

    Alternatively, subscribe to our newsletter and receive updates directly to your inbox!

    SUBSCRIBE HERE

  • The Story Behind The Ilala Palm

    The Story Behind The Ilala Palm

    You might think it strange that our beautiful hotel is named after a palm tree. After all, aren’t palm trees best suited to tropical locations? Not this one.

    The Ilala Palm, also known locally as the Molala or Vegetable Ivory Palm, is native to this region. Look out for it in Zimbabwe, Angola, Botswana, Namibia and northern South Africa.

    Not only is it lovely to look at, growing up to 7 m tall (15 m in rare cases) with broad, fan-shaped leaves, but the fruit is also highly sought-after by humans and animals alike.

    Young fruit, which are generally green in colour, contain a white fluid similar to coconut milk. As the fruit matures over two years, it darkens to an orange colour and finally settles on a rich, dark brown. The fruit’s exterior is hard and needs to be broken using force to access the sweet gingery pulp inside. Baboons will often use rocks to accomplish this task.

    The crown heart of the tree is also edible and is known in Botswana as ‘gau,’ where they prepare and consume it much like a vegetable. Although the fruit of the Ilala Palm takes a long time to ripen, a mature tree can produce up to 2000 at a time, making them a rich food source for large animals like elephants, who also like to eat the leaves. Its seeds are dispersed by elephants and baboons, who consume and deposit them over long distances.

    Where humans are concerned, the Ilala Palm is commonly tapped for what’s known as “Palm Wine.” The sap is fermented for a few days before the drink is ready to consume. The liquor is rather sour and has a slight effervescence to it – sample at your own risk!

    Young Ilala Palms are useful for other reasons, too. Their fronds are used in basketry and their hard, white seeds are perfect for carving into trinkets, tools and jewellery. In this way, the Ilala Palm also creates industry for local communities.

    Here at Ilala Lodge Hotel, we boast a number of young and mature examples of the Ilala Palm on our grounds. Our sister property, Palm River Hotel, also derives its name from the Ilala Palm. You could say it’s become something of a symbol for us…

    The name was originally suggested by Thelma Newmarch, an interior designer with close ties to our hotel family. She suggested the name because of the abundance of Ilala Palms in our area.

    In a fitting twist, ilala is actually the Ndebele (local language) word for “lie down,” the perfect moniker for us as a hospitality provider. Ilala Lodge Hotel is indeed a place to lay down your head and soak up our warm hospitality.

    Ilala Lodge Hotel, Victoria Falls

    Ilala Lodge Hotel is a luxury, 5-star property conveniently located in the heart of Victoria Falls. We are walking distance from most attractions in town and offer unparalleled service to local and international travellers.

    If you’d like a front seat to Africa’s Adventure Capital, contact us today and start planning your Zimbabwean vacation.

    You can choose between making use of our seamless online booking platform or contacting our friendly reservations team directly via email at onlinereservations@palmriverhotel.com.

    We look forward to welcoming you to Victoria Falls, home to one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World!

    Sources: krugerpark.co.za; roundglass.com

  • Your Family-Friendly Vacation at Ilala Lodge Hotel

    Your Family-Friendly Vacation at Ilala Lodge Hotel

    When taking the entire family on vacation, there are a few key factors you’ll want ticked off: Safe spaces for the littlies to run around, convenient amenities that minimise your need to plan, and luxurious lodgings that offer all the comforts of home – plus a little extra.

    As a family-run hotel, we strive to provide you with all of these things, plus more, to ensure you enjoy a holiday that doesn’t feel like a battle for compromise, but a relaxing break where you make wonderful memories together as a family.

    When you leave, we hope it’s with a memory card full of photos and a cup that’s running over.

    Here are a few family-friendly features to look forward to at Ilala Lodge Hotel.

    The Hotel Itself

    Location, location, location.

    We’re a mere 8-minute walk away from Victoria Falls National Park, minimising your need to organise additional transportation while on holiday. (However, if you do need a lift somewhere, the hotel is happy to assist in arranging transfers to anywhere you’re interested in visiting..)

    Being situated in the heart of town places you in the perfect position to explore all that Victoria Falls has to offer, from craft markets and galleries to quaint eateries.

    While relaxing at the hotel (next to one of our dreamy swimming pools, perhaps?) there are spacious lawns for the children to run around while you enjoy a meal at our award-winning Cassia Restaurant – no need to worry about cooking! Our menus also include meals suited to young palettes, like toasted sandwiches and (dare we say it) chocolate brownies with ice-cream…

    Family-Friendly Activities in Victoria Falls

    As one of the primary resorts in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, we’ve got an exciting list of activities up our sleeve, ranging from adrenaline-inducing to scenic and relaxing.

    Planning an itinerary is easy. Mention your activity preferences when booking or swing past our in-house Ilala Lodge Hotel Activities Desk and pick from a list of activities everyone will enjoy. This is Africa’s ‘Adventure Capital,’ after all!

    Ra-Ikane River Cruise

    Our fleet of river cruise boats are the perfect place from which to enjoy a legendary Zimbabwean sunset. These boats exude old-world charm and give you the opportunity to get up-close and personal with the animals and birdlife of the Zambezi River.

    There are 16 seats available on each – perfect for small or large families.

    See The Falls

    This is the ideal activity for all ages and the mighty falls are, after all, why you’re here!

    After entering the park, there are a myriad of walkways that lead you through the rainforest as well as a main Cliff Path that skirts the ravine of the falls and offers you plenty of viewing points from which to gawk at ‘The Smoke That Thunders’. The pathways are well-maintained and suited to all walking abilities.

    Prepare for shrieks of joy when the spray off the water soaks you through when walking along the rainforest pathways. Or pick up a rain poncho at the entrance to the rainforest to ensure you don’t get fully soaked. This is not a drill – it gets really wet out there – and that’s part of the fun.

    We also offer guided tours of the falls for those who want to get the most out of this experience.

    Game-Viewing

    Ilala Lodge Hotel is close to The Victoria Falls National Park and the Zambezi National Park, both of which boast a large variety of animals, including large mammals like elephant, leopard, lion and buffalo.

    Game drives are a hit among old and young alike. We can arrange a variety of packages depending on your needs, from a 3-hour morning or afternoon game drive to a full day trip including a game-viewing cruise, lunch and a game drive. Speak to our Activities Desk or reservations team for more information when booking.

    Cultural Dining

    Our sister property, Palm River Hotel, offers an authentic, African-style barbeque dinner right on the banks of the Zambezi River.
    Enjoy a 3-course meal al fresco as river cruises pass you by on the Zambezi. As the sun sets, your feast will be illuminated by lanterns and the starry night sky. This is a brand new, unmissable offering!

    For more cultural experiences, enquire about the Dusty Roads Township Experience at our Activities desk. For the full list of our adventure-related activities (plus rates), click here.

    Family-Friendly Accommodation in Victoria Falls

    Standard Suites

    Our Standard Suites are located on the top floor of the hotel and have private balconies that offer magnificent views overlooking our gorgeous grounds and Victoria Falls itself. The suites have an ultra-comfortable King-sized bed and an additional ¾ bed is neatly tucked around the corner in a private section of the room.

    For families of 3 +, the Standard Suite is connected to a Standard Twin bedroom via an interleading door. The interconnecting room is equipped with a private bathroom and balcony that overlooks the mist that rises from Victoria Falls.

    Interleading Deluxe Rooms

    Situated in the stylish West Wing, the Deluxe Rooms at Ilala Lodge Hotel ooze old-world charm and sophistication. Ideal for couples, solo travellers and families alike, the Deluxe Rooms feature either twin or double configurations. Guests can opt for interleading rooms offering a door between Double or Twin room configurations.

    The Twin Deluxe Rooms have two three-quarter beds and an en-suite bathroom with a walk-in shower. The Double Deluxe Rooms have one King-size bed and an en-suite bathroom with a walk-in shower. All bathrooms have double vanities.

    All rooms have a private patio off the bedrooms where guests can enjoy the stunning sunrise in Victoria Falls.

    Strathearn Suite

    In addition to offering an ideal romantic retreat, this 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.

    Stay With Us

    To book your family-friendly vacation with us, simply email reservations@ilalalodge.co.zw with any enquiries.

    If you’re already sold, make use of our seamless online booking platform to lock in your dates.

    We can’t wait to show you all that Victoria Falls has to offer!

  • A First-Timer’s “Must-Do List” in Victoria Falls

    A First-Timer’s “Must-Do List” in Victoria Falls

    If you are looking for an adventurous holiday, Victoria Falls is the perfect destination. (more…)

  • Ilala Lodge Hotel celebrates decades of staff loyalty

    Ilala Lodge Hotel celebrates decades of staff loyalty

    It’s no secret that our staff are one of the top reasons why guests choose Ilala Lodge Hotel as their number one accommodation option in Victoria Falls!

    To honour our exceptional team members, every year we hold a Long Service Awards Ceremony at Ilala Lodge Hotel. The ceremony aims to recognize key members of our team and reward them for their unwavering dedication and commitment to our hospitality family.

    This year’s lineup includes an impressive 14 individuals who have each played an integral part of the Group’s hospitality success as long-serving loyal staff members. While we are exceptionally proud of each one of our staff members for their attentive service, we have chosen a highlight four of our longest-serving members, one of whom has worked at Ilala Lodge Hotel since its opening in 1991!

     

    Lucky Shoko

    POSITION: Barman
    YEARS WITH THE COMPANY: 25 years

    Lucky began his career at Ilala Lodge Hotel as a kitchen porter, he then transitioned to a stores hand and worked his way up to a stores clerk.  From there Lucky moved over to the hotel’s laundry and finally progressed into the Food and Beverage team as a bar hand. With his friendly smile and stories that keep guests well entertained, Lucky progressed to a waiter and then onto the head barman – where you’ll now find him serving up his signature show-off cocktails!

    Soja Dube

    POSITION: Storeman
    YEARS WITH THE COMPANY: 20 years

    Soja is passionate about numbers, which makes him perfect for his role in the hotel’s stores department. He takes great pride in his work particularly in completing stocktake tasks and ensuring his recordings are perfectly balanced. Soja loves working within the tourism industry, progressing from a general hand in 2002, to cashier in 2005 and then into his current position as a storeman. Soja hopes to pass on his expertise and experience to his daughter so she too can excel in an industry he so admires.

     

    Berrington Mathe

    POSITION: Maître D’
    YEARS WITH THE COMPANY: 25 years

    Berrington began his career at Ilala in the hotel’s lush gardens as a gardener, he then moved across to become a bar hand which shortly progressed into becoming a restaurant waiter. With his great smile, attentive service and eye for detail, Berrington was promoted to Head Waiter and ultimately became Maître D’- a position he has proudly held for the last 2 years. Berrington’s dream aspirations include owning and managing his own grocery store someday.

     

    Shepherd Mudimba

    POSITION: Laundry Hand
    YEARS WITH THE COMPANY: 32 years

    Shepherd has been with Ilala Lodge Hotel since its opening in 1991 and has only ever wanted to work for one company. His aspirations include building his own house on a residential site here in the heart of Victoria Falls.

    Our long-serving staff are an integral part of the hospitality family, congratulations to each of our members on this huge milestone and we thank each of you for your loyalty and unwavering dedication!

  • Inspiring the Young Girls of Lupinyo Village

    Inspiring the Young Girls of Lupinyo Village

    We recently had the privilege of hosting a group of young girls from Lupinyo Village for lunch and a tour of Ilala Lodge Hotel. The tour was arranged by the Managing Director of Africa Travel Tours, Leana as well as her husband Lovemore Machipisa. Together the pair are involved in selflessly helping transform the lives of underprivileged girls and orphans from Lupinyo Village in Victoria Falls.

    The Girls of Lupinyo Village visit Victoria Falls with Travel Africa Tours

    Ranging in age from 10 to 14 years old, the girls attend various different schools – Jabulani Primary School, Jabulani Secondary School as well as Mosi Oa Tunya High School. Their tour included a visit to the Natural World Wonder, Victoria Falls as well as lunch and a visit of Ilala Lodge Hotel, as part of an inspiring, motivating, and engaging opportunity that most young individuals living in the town are never afforded. The group of girls visited the waterfall for the very first time. Needless to say they were blown away by what they saw and experienced.

    Experiencing a World Wonder for the very first time!

    Following the tour of the falls, the girls were treated to lunch at Ilala Lodge Hotel and arrived full of stories of what they had seen and done; their eyes were dancing with delight.

    It was also their very first visit to a hotel and they couldn’t contain their excitement. They were astounded at just how luxurious Ilala is and it was so wonderful to witness the sheer joy on their faces as they did their walk around the hotel.  For many, the bathrooms created much excitement, to see both a bath and a shower in one room, a sight they are not familiar with.

    An inspiring tour of Ilala Lodge Hotel 

    It was a heart-warming experience to witness these intelligent and humble young girls on their tour around the hotel. Absolutely everything was a completely new experience for them, and each little element from the chocolates in the mini bar, to the patio to the number of towels turned into sheer delight.  There was much laughter, shrieks of joy and lively chatter on seeing the different room types.

    When they sat down for lunch at the Cassia Restaurant and had their lunch served to them, one could see that this too was an alien yet delightful concept for them.  They dutifully bowed their heads to pray and give thanks before starting to eat.

    A hearty lunch and refreshments enjoyed by the girls at Ilala Lodge Hotel’s Cassia Restaurant

    These girls come from an array of different family backgrounds – each with their own challenges; however, under the guidance of Leana and Lovemore, they are being exposed to so much more of what life can really entail.  Leana has instilled in them a burning desire to yearn for more, to excel in all areas of their lives (especially education) and to not necessarily have to settle for what traditionally is expected of young girls in Zimbabwe.

    Leana feels very passionate about this as she too came from a rural village similar to Lupinyo yet she didn’t let that stand in her way and through hard work, sheer determination and incredible focus she has gone on to become the Managing Director of Africa Travel Tours.

    Leana sets a great example and is a superb role model for such a great initiative as she personally knows exactly how hard it can be to be born a girl in Africa.  She assists in providing school stationary for the girls, helps to provide sanitary ware and ensures they have ample clothing and education. We wish all these girls everything of the very best for their future and look forward to following their journey along the way.

    If you would like to find out more about the work that Leana and Lovemore do for these young girls, or to support them. Please email info@africatravelvicfalls.com.