The Elephant Camp is the honeymoon choice at Victoria Falls for couples who want a safari lodge feel without leaving the falls behind. It sits on a private ridge above the Wild Horizons Wildlife Sanctuary, a short drive from town, with views across the Batoka Gorge to the Victoria Falls Bridge and the spray of the falls. Every suite has its own plunge pool and viewing deck, so you can watch that plume of mist rise from the comfort of your own water.
There are 16 suites split between the main camp and the smaller Camp West. Three of the main suites have a Star Bed, a raised sleeping platform for a night under the sky. The camp is also home to a resident herd of elephants. Every stay includes an elephant conservation experience.
The rate is generous: meals, local drinks and a full program of guided activities, from a guided tour of the falls to game drives in Zambezi National Park and a sunset cruise on the river. It suits couples who want comfort, privacy and plenty to do in one package. It costs more than a town hotel, but it covers far more.
Highlights at a glance
- 16 suites, each with a private plunge pool
- Views of the Batoka Gorge and the falls' spray
- Star Bed Suites for a night under the sky
- Resident elephant herd and conservation experience
- Meals, local drinks and activities included
Why Couples Love The Elephant Camp
The setting combines two things that are usually separate: a safari camp and a view of the falls. From the ridge, you look out over teak woodland and the gorge, with the spray of the falls on the horizon. At sunset, drinks and canapés are served at the edge of the Batoka Gorge, a memorable way to end the day.
The suites are the other draw. Each has a private plunge pool and a viewing deck, which makes the hot middle of the day a pleasure. The camp feels peaceful even though Victoria Falls town is a short drive away. Staff are warm and attentive. Because so much is included, you can plan your days around what you want to do rather than what it costs.
Suites to Book
There are 16 suites in two camps.
- The main camp has 12 Luxury Suites, each with a private plunge pool and viewing deck. Three of them are Star Bed Suites with an elevated sleeping platform, the honeymoon pick.
- Camp West has four suites and can be booked for exclusive use, with a dedicated guide, private chef, host and vehicle. That suits groups or families.
For a honeymoon, book a Star Bed Suite and plan one night sleeping under the stars. If those are taken, any Luxury Suite works well, since they all share the same standard. Ask for a suite with a clear view of the spray. Wild Horizons also offers a Honeymoon Special package, so ask about it when you book.
Food, Drink and Down Time
All meals and local drinks are included. Meals are served in the main lodge, on your deck or at special spots such as the edge of the gorge. Tell the camp about any dietary needs before you arrive.
The middle of the day is for relaxing in your plunge pool, reading on the deck or napping before the afternoon activity. Sunset drinks with canapés at the Batoka Gorge are a highlight. If you want a meal in town, the Lookout Café near the gorge is a popular spot for lunch. Ask the camp whether it is included in your rate. Evenings are quiet, with dinner, a drink and the sounds of the bush.
Why guests fall for it
Things to Do
The rate includes a full range of guided activities. A guided tour of the falls takes you along the rainforest trail, though falls park fees are extra. Game drives in Zambezi National Park give you a chance to see elephants, buffalo and antelope along the river. A sunset cruise on the Zambezi Royal, a visit to the Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust and a village tour round out the program.
The camp's resident elephant herd is a big part of the experience. Every stay includes an elephant conservation experience, while a separate Elephant Encounter with the same herd costs extra. Adventurous couples can add rafting, bungee jumping or a helicopter flight over the falls. Those who prefer a slower pace can stay in camp and enjoy the view.
Getting There
Fly into Victoria Falls Airport (VFA), which has flights from Johannesburg and other regional hubs. The camp is a short drive away. Transfers can be arranged with Wild Horizons. Many couples combine the camp with a safari in Hwange, Chobe or the Lower Zambezi, flying in and out of Victoria Falls.
The falls are at their fullest from about February to June, when the spray is most dramatic. From August to December, the water is lower and the views clearer. A conservation levy applies per person per night. This is a malaria area, so talk to a travel doctor about prevention. If you're pregnant or hoping to be soon, check CDC travel health notices for Zimbabwe before you go.
Is It Worth It?
Yes, especially when you count what is included. Rates start from about $835 per person per night, so roughly $1,670 for two, plus a conservation levy. Treat that as approximate, since rates vary by season. Meals, local drinks, a falls tour, game drives and a sunset cruise are all covered.
The trade-off is distance from the falls. You cannot walk there, as you can from the Victoria Falls Hotel or Ilala Lodge, so every visit is a drive. If you want a full riverfront safari lodge, Matetsi Victoria Falls is a good alternative. For couples who want a plunge pool, a view of the spray and an easy, inclusive stay, The Elephant Camp is one of the best choices at the falls.
Insider tips
- Book a Star Bed Suite and choose a clear night for the sleep-out.
- Ask about the Wild Horizons Honeymoon Special package.
- Budget for the falls park fee, which is not in the rate.
- Do the falls tour early in the morning for the best light.
