Welcome to Ilala lodge

It is one of the privately owned Victoria Falls lodges, situated within walking distance of the mighty Victoria Falls and the town centre. The Lodge offers upmarket accommodation in a gracious and secluded ambiance and the décor evokes a feeling of adventure and romance.

On arrival in the vibrant reception area you are served with a long cold drink and made to feel welcome.

The hotel grounds are secluded and well maintained and borders the Zambezi National Park and one can often see warthog and other wild animals grazing on the lawn.

The hotel has a large terrace running along the front of it and the view from here, of the never ending spray from the Falls, is enchanting.

The original swimming pool has a large wooden sun deck perfect to sit around and soak up a bit of the African sun. In 2019, they added poolside lounge, and also a plunge pool in a lovely setting on the terrace, with wooden deck and sun loungers.

In late 2015, an entirely new section of the hotel was built to increase capacity. Ilala Lodge went from having 32 standard and deluxe rooms to 56 rooms, and again in 2018 to 73 which now include regular suites and executive suites, still holding that personalised and intimate level of service and attention to detail. All the rooms are fitted with attractive railway (tie) sleeper furniture adding a magical touch of Africa.

It is situated within walking distance of the mighty Victoria Falls and the town centre.

Location highlights

• 3 minutes walk to Victoria Falls
• Closest hotel to the town markets
• See the spray of the Victoria Falls from the hotel

At this luxury Victoria Falls accommodation establishment, the 73 rooms are designed to create a feeling of privacy. The rooms on the upper tier open out onto a private balcony, while the lower floor rooms open onto the lush manicured gardens where you can watch the warthogs graze from the hotel lawn. You may even be lucky enough to have a visit from an elephant.

Guests can choose rooms in the Deluxe Wing, the Garden Wing or the Pool Wing. The Deluxe Wing and the Pool Wing boast splendid views of the mesmerizing spray from Victoria Falls as well as the spectacular gardens that Ilala Lodge Hotel is famous for. The Garden Wing gives guests access to the lush and flourishing lawns where the animals visit.

The teak furnishings in all the rooms are made from local Zimbabwean railway sleepers, enhancing the African ambiance and laid-back atmosphere of the hotel. All the rooms in the hotel have high-quality cotton linens and luxurious pillows for your ultimate comfort. Take your pick of a room here and indulge in the world-class service at Ilala Lodge Hotel.

Standard Rooms

The Twin Standard Rooms at Ilala Lodge Hotel are complete with two comfortable ¾ beds set within an expansive space, and an en-suite bathroom with a separate shower. The Double Standard Rooms are ideal for couples, as they have one cosy king-size bed and an en-suite bathroom with a separate shower.

Both room types are decorated with railway teak furnishings, allowing you to experience the grandeur of days gone by. With air conditioning units installed in all Standard Rooms, guests are treated to a cool sanctuary from the African heat.

Sliding doors open onto a luscious communal garden, providing you with a gateway to nature. Make yourself at home by unpacking your belongings and lock away your valuables in an in-room, secure safe.

Amenities

• Air-conditioning

• Overhead Fans

• Satellite Television

• Free Wi-Fi

• Room Fridge

• Complimentary Toiletries

• Laundry Service

• Tea & Coffee Facilities

• Hairdryers

• Room Safe

Standard Suites

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

Amenities

• Air-conditioning

• Overhead Fans

• Satellite Television

• Free Wi-Fi

• Room Fridge

• Complimentary Toiletries

• Laundry Service

• Tea & Coffee Facilities

• Hairdryers

• Room Safe

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.

The Twin Deluxe Rooms at this Vic Falls lodge have two three-quarter beds and an en-suite bathroom with a walk-in shower. The bathrooms have his and her basins. The Double Deluxe Rooms have one King-size bed and an en-suite bathroom with a walk-in shower. The bathrooms have his and her basins.

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

Amenities

• Air-conditioning

• Free Wi-Fi

• Room Fridge

• Overhead Fans

• Satellite Television

• Complimentary Toiletries

• Laundry Service

• Tea and Coffee Facilities

• Hairdryers

• Room Safe

Executive Suites

The Executive Suites in our West Wing have a lounge and a separate bedroom. The bedroom contains a luxurious King-size 4-poster bed and the bathroom is an en-suite bathroom with a walk-in shower, his & her basins and a separate bathtub.

Visitors in the Executive Suites have a private patio that opens off the bedroom where guests can enjoy the magnificent sunrise over the mighty Victoria Falls.

Amenities

• Air-conditioning

• Free Wi-Fi

• Room Fridge

• Espresso Machine

• Robe & Slippers

• Overhead Fans

• Satellite Television

• Complimentary Toiletries

• Laundry Service

• Tea & Coffee Facilities

• Hairdryers

• Room Safe

Strathearn Suite

The all-new Strathearn Suite, is named after hotel founder, Strathearn Brown, who opened Ilala Lodge Hotel in 1989. Fashioned with modern and sophisticated décor, the Strathearn Suite delivers a tranquil haven of relaxation and luxury.

The suite comes complete with a private lounge, kitchen, en-suite bathroom with double vanity basins, walk-in shower and an indulgent bathtub. There is a private balcony, where guests can indulge in a large spa bath while enjoying world-class views of the spray rising above the mighty Victoria Falls waterfall.

Accommodation Summary at Ilala Lodge

• 32 standard rooms - 26 twin (three-quarter beds) and 6 double rooms (king beds)
• 36 Deluxe rooms - 23 double rooms (king size beds), 13 twin (three-quarter beds)
• 2 Standard suites - King size beds
• 3 Executive suites - 1 king bed
• 1 Strathearn suite - 1 king bed. The Strathearn Family Suite for up to 6 guests is made up of the Strathearn suite, plus one Executive suite (king bed), plus a twin Deluxe room (2 three-quarter beds).

All rooms have:
• En-suite Bathrooms
• Air Conditioning
• Satellite TV
• Overhead Fan
• Balcony
• Safe
• Tea/Coffee making facility
• Wireless internet access

Dining

Palm Restaurant - located on the terrace is an elegant restaurant offering an a la carte menu which includes some local dishes.

They have a piano player to entertain guests and the atmosphere with the sound of the mighty Victoria Falls in the background is lovely.

Breakfast is full English buffets, or continental depending on your mood. Light snacks are also served for lunch from the a la carte menu.

As a safari and adventure destination, in the heart of authentic Africa, the Victoria Falls Zimbabwe offers the enticing added-dimension of several water-based activities on the legendary Zambezi River. There’s something for all ages and tastes, from the high adrenalin of the world’s wildest one-day white water rafting to a gentle sunset cruise on a luxury boat.

Water based activities

• Canoeing:The Zambezi above the falls is an idyllic way to experience this mighty river and to enjoy the birds and wildlife close-up. Canoeing is best described as "drifting" at walking pace with the flow of the river.
• White Water Rafting: Acclaimed as the finest one-day rafting trip in the world this takes place in the gorges below the Falls – for real adventurers only as there are some Grade 5 rapids and the steep climb out is extreme! Half-day and overnight trips are also available. 
• Sunset Cruises: Enjoy the beauty of the river and majestic sunsets on the Zambezi River above the falls. A gin and tonic never tasted so good.
• Fishing : Go and catch the fighting Tigerfish. The Zambezi River is home to many species of fish, the most sought-after for avid fishermen being the fighting Tigerfish, Africa’s most famous and flamboyant game fish and one of the world’s most powerful fresh-water species. It has a ferocious set of razor-teeth! Anglers also love the Zambezi for catching the delectable Bream for the pot and many use fly-fishing techniques. Go fishing with a qualified guide who supplies all necessary equipment.
• Devil's Pool: Livingstone Island one of world’s most unique adventures. Step onto Livingstone Island (easily accessed from Livingstone, Zambia side across the bridge) and be witness to history – stand at the spot where, in November 1855, Scottish missionary and explorer, David Livingstone, first set eyes on the falls and named them for his Queen. Its a few short steps (only at certain times of the year) to plunge into Devil’s Pool, surely one of the most truly unique adventures the planet can offer. You’ll be at the very edge of the world’s mightiest waterfall. Spellbinding!

Victoria Falls Bridge-Based

Now here’s some REAL adrenalin off a famous bridge!
With one of the seven natural Wonders of the World as your unique backdrop you can experience some of the biggest adrenalin-thrills of your lifetime!

• Bungee-jumping / bungee swing: Fling yourself off, either solo or tandem. It’s a breathtaking 111m drop with the Falls as an awesome backdrop.
• Gorge-swing: A huge swing over the gorge. Exhilarating!
• Flying Fox / Cable Slide: Described as "mildly adventurous", it is the cheapest activity that provides spectacular experiences of the gorge and river.
• Abseiling / rappelling: Descend in to the spectacular gorge.
• Tram Bridge Tour: The old tram carriage experience has been brought back to life to give tourists a slow trundle, from The Victoria Falls Hotel Railway Station down to the bridge.

Air -based activities

Go aerial for some awe-inspiring views

It’s impossible not to exclaim WOW when you gaze down at Nature’s Masterpiece from the air. This is a must-do activity that always transcends all expectations.

• Helicopter Flip: The perfect way to experience the Falls and to fully appreciate their size and majesty. Spend 15 minutes on this “Flight of Angels” and marvel at the sights.
• Microlight flights over the gorge: At present this is possible from the Zambia side only.

Land based activities

Experience Safaris, Arts & Culture, Nature at its finest
Our Activities Stations in the hotel foyer can BOOK any activity of your choosing. There’s a very wide selection to appeal to all ages.

• Walking tour of Victoria Falls: There are several vantage points to enjoy the sight, sound, the spray. An experience beyond your imagination.
• Cultural Tours: Visit traditional mud-hut and remote villages, schools and clinics.
• Elephant-back Safaris: Saddle up and go on a unique safari in the wild on the back of one of Africa’s most majestic beasts
• Walking with Lions: Set out in the early morning to walk with these young lions in the wilds. An enriching and sensational experience.
• Arts & Crafts: Zimbabwe’s stone and wood carvers are famous for their spiritual and other works. Visit the vibrant craft market and be astonished at the vast array of offerings of carvings and ethnic jewellery.
• 4 x 4 Safaris: Venture into the nearby Chamabonda or Zambezi National Parks and keep a sharp lookout for the wildlife, especially elephants, lions, buffalo and more.
• Golf: Just a 10-minute drive away from The Victoria Falls Hotel you’ll find one of the world’s most unique golf courses where wildlife roam free. The 18-hole Elephant Hills Resort championship course was designed by Gary Player and, on some holes, you’ll be within earshot of the thunder of the Falls. 
• Elephant Interaction: Up close and personal in trunk-touching distance. Savour the pure delight and surprise of inter-acting with the domesticated elephants and enriching your knowledge about these majestic beasts.

Arts, Crafts & Culture

This is authentic Africa that will enrich your life

Visit vibrant and colourful local markets for an African shopping experience. Or learn about the world acclaimed stone carvers whose pieces emerge from the spiritual world. Visit an authentic mud-hut village and meet the people.

RATING

4 Star

TYPE

Lodge

NO. ROOMS

73

CHECK-IN TIME

14h00 PM

CHECK-OUT TIME

11h00 AM

AVAILABLE SERVICES

Airport Shuttle (Available)

ATM

Babysitting Service

Credit Card

Room Service

Travel Desk

SPOKEN LANGUAGES

English

SPECIAL INTERESTS

Adventure, Birding, Fishing, Flora, Gourmet, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Wildlife, Wine

Welcome to the Cassia Restaurant

Breakfast:  7:00am – 9:30am
Lunch:  12:00pm – 2:00pm
Dinner:  7:00pm – 9:30pm

Snack Menu available 10:00am – 8:00pm

Experience fine dining in Victoria Falls at the top-rated Cassia Restaurant. Centrally located only minutes away from the Victoria Falls at Ilala Lodge Hotel, the newly-renamed restaurant offers a delicious breakfast buffet, lunch and al fresco evening dining under the stary African sky.

The Cassia Restaurant delivers an unmatched menu, paired with an extensive wine list comprised of carefully selected wines from South Africa’s top vineyards. The calming and tranquil ambience is further complemented by the gentle rumble of Victoria Falls in the background. A truly unforgettable dining experience not to be missed.

In January 2022 we welcomed announced of the re-naming of our highly acclaimed fine-dining restaurant, previously known as the Palm Restaurant. The new name – The Cassia Restaurant – derives from a duo of bold and beautiful Cassia Fistula trees poised in front of the hotel, facing the direction of the mighty Victoria Falls. The trees – also known as an Indian Laburnum or Golden Shower trees – are a common feature by which the restaurant is fondly recognised and remembered.

In full bloom, the trees become decorated with a golden crown. Along each branch blossom beautiful flower clusters attached to a central stem – known as pendulous racemes. Hundreds of plump golden pendulums hang from the branches of the tall trees, casting a sheltering shadow over the restaurant’s al fresco dining area.

The Cassia Restaurant will continue to serve an unparalleled fine-dining experience in Victoria Falls, where guests can enjoy a delicious á la carte menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

The idyllic location of the Cassia Restaurant makes the restaurant a favourite among visitors with its close proximity to Victoria Falls. Guests can start their day with a delicious continental buffet and order off the breakfast menu while enjoying the morning sunshine.

The popular lunch menu can be enjoyed under the shade of the Cassia Trees or while relaxing nearby the pool-side bar. The lunch menu includes a wide range of delicious options from succulent signature burgers to lighter lunchtime bites. Compliment your meal with a selection of local and imported beers, wine, gins, cocktails and more available.

For a gourmet al-fresco dining experience, the Cassia Restaurant offers a calming evening ambience where guests can enjoy fine-dining under the stary African skies while listening to the rumble of the Falls in the background. An extensive range of South Africa’s best wines is also available to accompany your meal.

The calming ambience of the restaurant, superb cuisine and attentive world-class service allows for an unforgettable dining experience at the Cassia Restaurant. If you’re looking for Victoria Falls restaurants, we look forward to welcoming you to this elegant eatery.

• Location close to the Falls and walking distance to town centre

• Romantic and intimate

• Suitable for the more mature traveller

• Elephant and other wild animal are sometimes seen in the gardens