New Novotel Hotel in Vic Falls Set for Completion ...

New Novotel Hotel in Vic Falls Set for Completion in 2028

Oscar J Jeke - Zim Now Reporter

French hospitality company, Accor has officially entered the Zimbabwean market, with construction underway on a new Novotel hotel scheduled to open in 2028 at the world-famous Victoria Falls. The 111-key hotel will form part of a broader US$42.4 million mixed-use development in the Eagle Heights precinct, which also includes shops, residential units, and a hospital.

The project, which was announced at the Future Hospitality Summit Africa, marks Accor’s first venture in Zimbabwe and is being developed in partnership with Fidelity Life Assurance’s Eagle Real Estate Investment Trust. Civil works for Phase 1 have already commenced, led by local contractor RadX.

Strategically positioned overlooking the Masuwe River, the Novotel Victoria Falls will blend natural beauty with modern, family-friendly amenities. The hotel will feature an outdoor swimming pool, a kids' club, an all-day dining restaurant, and a destination bar designed to cater to leisure and business travelers alike.

“This signing represents a bold step forward in our development strategy for Sub-Saharan Africa,” said Maya Ziade, Chief Development Officer at Accor. “Victoria Falls is one of the world’s most extraordinary destinations, and we are proud to bring the Novotel brand experience to Zimbabwe for the very first time.”

Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, is a major hub for adventure tourism, attracting thousands of visitors each year for white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and scenic helicopter flights. Known locally as “The Smoke That Thunders,” the destination is increasingly being positioned as a year-round tourism and investment hotspot.

Bevin Ngara, Managing Director of Eagle Asset Managers, which manages the Eagle REIT, said the partnership with Accor is aimed at delivering transformative value. “This project reflects our vision of investing in developments that elevate tourism and deliver value to local communities and investors alike,” he said.

With over 590 hotels across 68 countries, Novotel is known for providing quality accommodation for both business and family travel. The new Victoria Falls property is expected to meet growing demand for international-standard, midscale lodging in one of Africa’s top tourist destinations.