Off-grid accommodations in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, offer a unique experience for travelers looking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse themselves in nature. These lodges and camps focus on sustainability, self-sufficiency, and minimal environmental impact. Here are some notable off-grid accommodations:

1. Gorges Lodge

• Location: Batoka Gorge, overlooking the Zambezi River.

• Architecture: Natural materials like stone and wood, blending with the rugged landscape.

• Features:

  • Solar-powered energy systems for electricity and hot water.

  • Rainwater harvesting and eco-friendly waste management systems.

  • Open-plan designs with large verandas to maximize natural ventilation and views.

• Activities: Gorge walks, bird watching, cultural village tours, and visits to Victoria Falls.

2. Chundu Island

• Location: Private island on the Zambezi River, upstream from Victoria Falls.

• Architecture: Eco-friendly structures built with local materials.

• Features:

  • Solar power for lighting and hot water.

  • Eco-friendly waste management and water conservation practices.

  • Tented rooms and thatched chalets with private decks.

• Activities: Canoeing, fishing, guided walks, bird watching, and river safaris.

3. Ursula’s Homestead

• Location: Stanley & Livingstone Private Game Reserve.

• Architecture: Simple, elegant structures with a focus on sustainability.

• Features:

  • Solar energy for electricity and heating.

  • Rainwater harvesting and efficient water usage systems.

  • Organic vegetable garden and locally sourced food.

• Activities: Game drives, bush walks, bird watching, and tours of Victoria Falls.

4. Imbabala Zambezi Safari Lodge

• Location: Along the Zambezi River, near the Botswana border.

• Architecture: Thatched chalets with an emphasis on blending with the natural surroundings.

• Features:

  • Solar power and energy-efficient systems.

  • Eco-friendly waste management and water conservation.

  • Open-air designs to take advantage of natural light and ventilation.

• Activities: Game drives, river safaris, bird watching, fishing, and cultural tours.

5. Elephant’s Eye, Hwange

• Location: Near Hwange National Park, a short drive from Victoria Falls.

• Architecture: Tented chalets with eco-friendly designs.

• Features:

  • Solar power for electricity and hot water.

  • Sustainable building materials and construction practices.

  • Natural cooling and heating solutions, minimizing the need for artificial climate control.

• Activities: Game drives in Hwange National Park, guided walks, bird watching, and community visits.

6. Zambezi Sands River Camp

• Location: Zambezi National Park, upstream from Victoria Falls.

• Architecture: Luxury tented suites with eco-friendly design elements.

• Features:

  • Solar power and energy-efficient lighting.

  • Water-saving fixtures and eco-friendly waste management.

  • Tented suites with private plunge pools and decks overlooking the river.

• Activities: Game drives, canoeing, fishing, bird watching, and bush walks.

Common Features of Off-Grid Accommodations:

• Sustainability: Focus on using renewable energy sources, such as solar power, and implementing water conservation and waste management practices.

• Natural Materials: Use of locally sourced materials like wood, stone, and thatch to minimize environmental impact and blend with the surroundings.

• Minimal Footprint: Design and construction practices aimed at reducing the environmental footprint of the accommodation.

• Immersive Experience: Emphasis on connecting guests with nature through outdoor activities and open-plan designs that maximize views and natural ventilation.

• Self-Sufficiency: Many off-grid lodges grow their own food, use rainwater harvesting systems, and implement eco-friendly practices to reduce reliance on external resources.

These off-grid accommodations in Victoria Falls provide a unique and eco-friendly way to experience the natural beauty of the area, offering guests the chance to disconnect and enjoy sustainable luxury.