The renowned Victoria Falls Safari Lodge in Zimbabwe is getting a fresh new look, with new furniture, soft furnishings and décor across its 72 rooms and central area, which includes the Buffalo Bar and MaKuwa-Kuwa Restaurant.
Africa Albida Tourism (AAT) CEO, Ross Kennedy, said the refurbishment, which should be completed by the end of June, was part of the hospitality group's continual reinvestment in properties and products to ensure its offerings remained world class.
"We are constantly enhancing our offerings, and this refurbishment exercise comes just six months after we opened Victoria Falls Safari Spa, the destination's largest and first purpose-built spa.
"In a very competitive destination in an equally competitive market and region, it is important to listen to your trade partners and your guests, and keep the offerings and products fresh, alive and vibrant,” he said.
"At the same time, we watch and listen to trends and tastes and always seek to not only keep pace with, but keep ahead of our competition. Innovation, review, upgrades and new products such as our Victoria Falls Safari Spa, all support these plans for growth. At 74,6% occupancy, our April 2023 compares with the peak years of 2017 to 2019."
To minimise disruption to guests, much of the work in central areas, such as painting, is being done at night, so guests will wake up to new colours, pictures and baskets on walls, and new chairs in the restaurant over the coming weeks.
Interior designer Belinda Jones said the main theme of the refurbishments had always been Ndebele. "Large canvases will pick out elements of the Ndebele art and traditions. With views over the waterhole, and small game on the property, we are spoilt with so many animals around. They too will be celebrated in the hotel, photographically and in the artifacts."
Victoria Falls Safari Lodge's new look will also feature furniture and fixtures in rich and contrasting pale timbers with repurposed woven details and vibrant fabrics, while decorations and lighting will be traditional utilitarian basketry and objects.
The lodge is AAT's flagship accommodation offering. The hospitality group's portfolio also includes Victoria Falls Safari Club, Victoria Falls Safari Suites, Lokuthula Lodges and The Boma – Dinner & Drum Show.
