The spotlight on Zimbabwe’s tourism offering has reached new heights, thanks in part to the stewardship of seasoned hotel executive Dionne Mutsonziwa, Hotel Manager at the Anantara Stanley & Livingstone Victoria Falls Hotel, located just outside the iconic Victoria Falls.

Ms Mutsonziwa’s LinkedIn announcement of the hotel’s inclusion in the renowned travel authority Condé Nast Traveler’s “Best Places to Visit This January” list marks a significant achievement for Zimbabwe’s upscale hospitality sector and underlines the country’s readiness for discerning international travellers.

The inclusion in Condé Nast Traveler’s list does more than add a badge of prestige—it signals to high-end travellers that Zimbabwe is not just a scenic stop-over, but a top-tier destination in its own right.

• Luxury assurance: The hotel offers world-class amenities and exclusive experiences that meet international traveller expectations.
• Wildlife immersion: Game drives, bush dinners and the proximity to big-game reserves make it more than just a standard stay.
• Experiential appeal: With Victoria Falls itself as a backdrop, the setting reinforces the destination’s unique value proposition.
• Female leadership: Ms Mutsonziwa’s role as hotel manager highlights local talent steering global-calibre hospitality in Zimbabwe.

For Zimbabwe tourism, this isn’t just a win for one property—it’s an opportunity to deepen the narrative of Zimbabwe as a luxury destination. A few implications:

• Attracting premium travellers: Readers of Condé Nast Traveler often plan ahead and look for distinctive stays. The recognition could boost the type of tourism that brings higher (and longer) spend.
• Strengthening brand Zimbabwe: When one property leads the way, it raises the benchmark for others, prompting a ripple effect in service quality and experiences.
• Highlighting niche experiences: Promise of game drives, boutique accommodation and intimate nature connecting drive the trend toward personalised travel – not just mass tours.
• Local leadership & empowerment: With a Zimbabwean woman at the management helm, the story speaks volumes about skills development and empowerment in the hospitality sector.

Ms Mutsonziwa emphasised the timing of the recognition:

“There’s no better time to plan your journey and experience the magic of Victoria Falls.”

Given Zimbabwe’s climate and tourism rhythms, January presents strong value—lush landscapes from the rainy season, fewer crowds than peak southern-hemisphere winter, and the spectacle of the falls in full flow.

For Zimbabwe tourism stakeholders, the next step is to build on this momentum—packaging not only the hotel stay but curated experiences (heritage tours, local community engagement, adventure activities) that will enable guests to stay longer and explore deeper.

In a her LinkedIn post, Ms Mutsonziwa reminded the industry of the human heart behind the luxury:

“Honoured to be featured … We can’t wait to welcome you.”

Located inside a private game reserve just minutes from the falls, the Anantara Stanley & Livingstone Hotel perfectly blends safari splendour with luxury comfort. According to the property’s own description:

“Immerse yourself in the magic of Zimbabwe’s wilderness with Big Five game drives, guided nature walks and intimate encounters with the local wildlife.”

Only 16 suites are available, making it a highly intimate retreat. Guests can dine under the stars, enjoy a chef’s table with wine-pairing and take in the thunder of the falls from one of Africa’s most celebrated natural wonders.