Pioneers Lodge

The units are practical, and the afternoon turn down includes putting up mosquito nets, which was lovely. The property has an airport shuttle and a pickup spot for tours, and there's a gate keeper. It's a bit away from the shopping area. We booked it as part of a package trip and it was sensational. Staff were amazing, always smiling, helpful, and friendly. The main lodge is open and airy, with several sitting areas, a souvenir and art shop, bar, restaurant, and free afternoon tea. It opens onto lovely gardens with two pools and small private blocks of units. Though less than 10 years old, it has old charm. Meals and drinks are fairly priced. The varied ala carte menu is beautifully presented and tastes great, and the complimentary homus dip was a nice touch. Breakfast is a buffet with extra cooked options. I'd love to come back some day.

The room keys were a little tricky, and the light switches weren't easy to find. There are no TVs in the guest rooms, only in the lobby, so don't expect to fall asleep with the TV on. We flew Air Africa from Capetown to Vic Falls on a once in a lifetime bucket list trip, and stayed at Pioneers Lodge. It was lovely and welcoming, and I appreciated the open doors when we arrived. Staff were friendly and attentive, meals were good, and I liked that breakfast was included. Rooms were clean and well maintained. At our last dinner on the property, we ordered a large Cesar salad to share with a family member but received a small one. We also asked for more bread and water and got neither. I think our waiter was new or not attentive.

The location is quiet, yet just 5 to 10 minutes from town, the falls, and shops, so it's easy to get to everything Vic Falls offers. Bring US Dollars no older than 2008, as older bills can cause problems locally because banks don't accept them. Pioneers Lodge is a beautiful place with an old colonial feel. Reception, a TV room, Spa, lounges, verandahs, bar, and restaurant are in the main lodge. Everything is very well maintained and spotlessly clean, and the staff are amazing. Service is relaxed and subtle, but also intuitive and thoughtful. Rooms sit around lovely mature gardens with two pools and plenty of places to sit. I found the rooms a great mix of practicality and understated luxury. I can't recommend Pioneers Lodge highly enough.

The gardens are beautiful, and our room is clean and well equipped. Restaurant food is very good quality and well prepared. All the staff have made our stay thoroughly enjoyable. They're welcoming, friendly, and helpful, and the receptionists and waiters are fabulous. Highly recommended.