Victoria Falls, A Thriving Tourism Hub Shining Bright on the Global Stage

By Shingirai Vambe

In a resounding endorsement of Zimbabwe’s tourism sector, Mbano Manor Hotel in Victoria Falls has been featured in TIME’s Annual List of the World’s Greatest Places 2025. This prestigious recognition is a testament to the hotel’s unwavering commitment to excellence and its role in showcasing the natural beauty and rich heritage of Victoria Falls.

Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which struck just as the hotel was opening its doors in 2020, Mbano Manor Hotel has persevered and thrived. The hotel’s team has worked tirelessly to maintain its pristine product offering, and their efforts have paid off in spectacular fashion.

Mbano Manor Hotel is a boutique gem nestled in a four-acre teak forest, just a ten-minute drive from the Victoria Falls National Park. The hotel boasts 18 luxury suites and one opulent Mutota Villa, offering guests an unforgettable experience amidst the majestic beauty of Victoria Falls.

As a proudly female-founded and managed establishment, Mbano Manor Hotel is trailblazing a path of excellence and authenticity in the tourism industry. The hotel’s mission to preserve Africa’s nature, wildlife, and rich heritage, while offering professional excellence and warm, authentic experiences, has resonated with visitors from around the world.

The TIME accolade is a shining endorsement not only of Mbano Manor Hotel but also of Destination Victoria Falls and Zimbabwe as a whole. As the hotel’s team extends its gratitude to guests, travel trade partners, friends, colleagues, and the community for their unwavering support, they also look forward to welcoming new visitors to their boutique sanctuary gem.

Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, continues to captivate the hearts of travelers from around the globe. As Mbano Manor Hotel basks in the glory of its TIME recognition, the tourism sector in Victoria Falls is poised for even greater heights, cementing its position as a premier destination for travelers seeking unforgettable experiences amidst breathtaking natural beauty.

The resort town of Victoria Falls recently played host to the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson, who arrived in town to experience the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the 7th Wonder of the World. As part of his visit, Ferguson’s delegation embarked on an exploration of the breathtaking Victoria Falls Rainforest on Monday morning.

Ferguson’s visit adds to the impressive list of A-list celebrities who have been drawn to the majestic Falls. In recent times, Victoria Falls has hosted a string of high-profile visitors, including Aston Villa captain John McGinn, former Springboks captain Siya Kolisi, and US celebrity chef Carla Hall.

These high-profile visits are a boon for Zimbabwe’s tourism industry, providing a vital platform for showcasing the country’s natural beauty and hospitality to a global audience. As the world watches, Victoria Falls is cementing its reputation as a premier tourist destination, attracting visitors from all walks of life, from sports personalities to celebrities and influencers.

The impact of these celebrity visits cannot be overstated. They not only bring attention to Victoria Falls and Zimbabwe but also help to boost the local economy, create jobs, and promote cultural exchange. As the world’s attention turns to Victoria Falls, the town is poised to reap the benefits of its newfound status as a celebrity magnet.