Changing Zimbabwe, The Victoria Falls.

Over the last decade, Zimbabwe has been passed by as an Incentive destination due to its political views. Some of my first incentives with international clients took place up at the Victoria Falls more than 10 years ago. This magical place will always hold fond memories. The irony is that some of the best hotels for incentives and large conference groups were sadly put to one side for all these years, however, things are starting to change.
Wedgewood has continued to host top class incentives at the Victoria Falls, but this has taken place on the Zambian side of the Falls, in some of the most luxurious and well appointed properties such as the Royal Livingstone Hotel, Zambia

On a recent trip to the area, I took time off to re-explore the Zimbabwean side of the Victoria Falls. The first thing that struck my mind was that it was far busier than expected. I noted that there was a mix of both small group travel and FIT’s from a mixed background of markets such as UK, USA, Asian, and East European.
Rates are very good as some hotels can be on average 40% cheaper than in Zambia, and this goes for food and drink too.
I was fortunate enough to spend a few nights at the Victoria Falls Hotel, the real Grande Dame of the hotels at Victoria Falls. This 5 star hotel was built during the colonial period and was meant for the true purpose of rest and relaxation on a large scale. Perfectly located next to the old Victorian station where one can arrive on the Famous Rovos Rail from Pretoria South Africa, then with sweeping views over rolling perfectly manicured lawns down to the gorge with the mighty Zambezi River.

As far as location goes, the more sort after hotels, are closely situated to the small town of Victoria Falls, and is within easy walk. The town has some interesting stores and curio markets to keep one busy. When one sticks to the main roads, it is safe to walk around.
Beyond this, there is so much that one can do in the area and the tourism infrastructure has not only been well maintained, but even in the difficult 10 years that local companies have gone through, they have pulled through and expended on local product.
One can enjoy lazy trips on river boats, watching the sun set over the Zambezi River with cocktails and canapés, breathtaking helicopter trips over the falls, while spotting elephants and hippos at the same time. To step up the pace, one can enjoy an elephant back safari, or simply interact with these graceful creatures. Wild Life Safari drives can be done in the nearby state park. Those who are fearless may think of taking the plunge over the gorge on a bungee rope!



For more information, contact us at rolf@wedgewood.co.za