Pioneers Victoria Falls

Pioneers is a relatively recent addition at Victoria Falls, and it does a straightforward job well: old-world charm in a modern building, with the comforts you would expect of an upmarket guest lodge. It is not a bush camp and does not pretend to be. It is where you stay while you do the falls.

The main building holds a stylish lounge in classic decor and a dining room, brighter and more floral, which makes an odd but rather cheerful contrast. The communal space continues outside to a bar and a covered terrace, and a few steps down into properly established gardens full of mature indigenous trees. There are two swimming pools and a day spa.

Fifty rooms sounds large, and it is by the standards of everywhere else on this list, but the layout keeps it feeling like a smaller place. All the rooms are spacious, classically decorated, air-conditioned, and look out over the gardens.

The falls themselves are 2.5km away, with the full range of things to do: guided tours of the falls, whitewater rafting, the bungee jump from the bridge, the gorge swing, the zip line and helicopter flights. The lodge can also arrange Zambezi cruises, game viewing and the vintage steam train.

One thing to be clear on when comparing prices: no activities are included here. Everything is arranged and paid for locally through the activity desk. That is normal for Victoria Falls, but it does mean the headline rate is not the whole cost of your stay.

The rooms

Rooms

Fifty rooms in total: forty-six King rooms and four family rooms. All air-conditioned with ceiling fans, mosquito nets, hairdryer, Wi-Fi and dressing gowns, and all looking out onto the gardens.

Good to know

• 50 rooms
• 4 family rooms
• Open all year
• Family friendly
• No activities are included, all are arranged and paid for locally