Matabeleland: Safari, culture, and scenic stays

by NQOBANI MATHIBELA
GWANADA – ZIMBABWE’S south‑western province of Matabeleland, split into North and South, is an adventurer’s paradise where majestic wildlife, ancient heritage and warm local hospitality meet world‑class resorts and lodges.

With iconic natural wonders like Victoria Falls and Matobo Hills, plus vast national parks teeming with wildlife, this region should be on every traveller’s bucket list.

Top 10 Resorts and Hotels to Stay

1. The Victoria Falls Hotel (Matabeleland North) – A historic luxury hotel offering elegant rooms, river views and impeccable service close to the falls.
2. Victoria Falls Safari Lodge – Stylish safari‑inspired lodge with great views over the surrounding bush and plentiful wildlife sightings.
3. A’Zambezi River Lodge – Riverside accommodation combining comfort with relaxed ambience and great access to Zambezi cruises.
4. Palm River Hotel – Popular with families for its scenic gardens, views of the Zambezi River and good access to town activities.
5. Old Drift Lodge – Luxury safari lodge set on the Zambezi floodplains with personalized game drives and birdwatching opportunities.
6. Cresta Sprayview Hotel (Victoria Falls) – Well‑located mid‑range hotel close to the falls with excellent value and friendly staff.
7. Matobo Hills Lodge (Matabeleland South) – A top choice for exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Matobo Hills with guided game drives and views across the Maleme Valley.
8. Big Cave Camp – A unique camp built into granite kopjes, combining adventure with comfort, ideal for families and nature lovers.
9. Amalinda Lodge – Boutique safari lodge nestled among granite boulders, perfect for romance or honeymoon stays.
10. Matopo Ingwe Lodge – Quiet lodge near Matobo National Park, great for birding and rhino tracking.

What to See and Do

Upon arrival in Matabeleland North at Victoria Falls, visitors are greeted by one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World — the breathtaking Victoria Falls on the Zambezi River, known locally as Mosi‑oa‑Tunya (“The Smoke That Thunders”), with mist and roar visible miles away.

Nearby Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe’s largest wildlife conservancy, home to elephants, lions, buffalo, giraffe, zebra and countless bird species, offering unforgettable game drives and walking safaris.

Further south, Matobo National Park in Matabeleland South blends dramatic granite landscapes, ancient San rock art and dense rhino populations.

Visitors can explore rock art sites, track white and black rhinos with knowledgeable guides, and learn about local history at Cecil Rhodes’ grave sites — all while being surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

Local Hospitality

Zimbabweans are renowned for their warm, welcoming spirit. Visitors consistently report genuine friendliness, thoughtful service at lodges, and community‑led cultural tours that invite travellers to share meals, music and traditions with Ndebele and Kalanga communities.

Local guides provide not just tours, but stories — making every safari and heritage visit deeply personal and memorable.

10 Reasons to Visit Matabeleland

1. Victoria Falls — an iconic wonder
2. Spectacular wildlife safaris in Hwange.
3. Rich cultural heritage and art.
4. Ancient San cave paintings.
5. Diverse lodges from luxury to eco‑camping.
6. Birdwatching paradise.
7. Zambezi River activities – cruises, fishing and rafting.
8. Warm, hospitable local communities.
9. Spectacular landscapes and photography spots.
10. Cultural tours interact with Ndebele traditions.

Whether you seek adventure, wildlife, culture or pure relaxation, Matabeleland North and South offer experiences that captivate every kind of traveller.