Chinese to build luxury riverfront lodges in Victoria Falls

Zimbabwe's tourism sector is set for a major boost following confirmation that The Lux Collective, a global hospitality group with Chinese backing, will develop a high-end eco-luxury lodge estate along the Zambezi River near Victoria Falls. The project, named LUX* Xinii Victoria Falls, is expected to open in 2028 and marks the group's second major investment in Southern Africa after its Botswana venture, LUX* Xinii Mababe.

The new estate will be constructed in two phases, beginning with 12 luxury lodges designed with conical, African-inspired roofs that allow for natural cooling and rainwater harvesting. A second phase will expand the development with 14 additional lodges, as well as a restaurant and swimming pool, creating an exclusive retreat within reach of one of the world's most iconic natural attractions.

The development comes as part of The Lux Collective's wider global expansion, with the company announcing seven new hotel signings for 2025. Its pipeline of projects now stretches across Asia, the Indian Ocean, the Middle East and Africa, reflecting an ambitious growth strategy anchored in sustainable design and culturally grounded hospitality.

Chief executive Olivier Chavy said the company's goal is to "redefine the future of conscious luxury travel" by creating experiences that resonate deeply with modern travellers who value both comfort and environmental responsibility.

China remains a key focus of the group's expansion. In early 2027, it will launch LUX* Tea Horse Road Mount Tiantai in Sichuan province, offering accommodation both within a historic town and on nearby high-altitude tea plantations outside Chengdu. Another luxury development, LUX* On The Bund Shanghai, will open in the first quarter of 2027, featuring waterfront views, a private marina, fine-dining venues, a rooftop bar and an advanced wellness centre.

Beyond China and Southern Africa, The Lux Collective now has 16 properties under development worldwide, including new luxury projects in Vietnam, Bali, Dubai, Oman, Mauritius and several more cities in China. The company continues to grow its LUX*, SALT and SOCIO brands, drawing increasing international confidence in its eco-friendly, design-centred approach to hospitality.

The introduction of LUX* Xinii Victoria Falls is expected to significantly elevate Zimbabwe's visibility in the global high-end tourism market. Tourism experts say the investment reflects growing international interest in Victoria Falls as a destination for sustainability-driven luxury travel, potentially drawing in higher-spending visitors and injecting fresh momentum into the country's hospitality sector.