Accor (www.group.accor.com), the world's leading hospitality group, has announced the signature of Novotel Victoria Falls, a landmark project set within Victoria Falls.
The agreement, signed between Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) Africa, marks Akor's market entry into Zimbabwe, leverages the advantages of FirstMovers in one of Africa's most iconic destinations, highlighting the group's commitment to pioneering development in emerging markets.
The 111 Key new building property, set to open in 2028, will be developed under a management agreement with the Eagle Real Estate Investment Trust, a development REIT focusing on high-quality assets across the tourism, hospitality, health, retail and housing sectors.
Located within the precincts of Eagle Heights and overlooking the Maswe River, the hotel is blended with the beauty of nature and Novotel's contemporary family hospitality. With outdoor swimming pools, kids clubs, all-day dining restaurants and destination bars, you'll enjoy thoughtfully designed experiences in facilities designed to meet the needs of modern travelers in search of comfort, connection and local discovery.
Locally known as Moshio Atuniya or “Thunder Smoke”, Victoria Falls is not only a dramatic natural wonder, but also a world-renowned hub for adventure tourism, offering white water rafting, bungee jumping and scenic helicopter flights.
“This signature represents a bold step in the development strategy of sub-Saharan Africa,” said Maya Ziade, Chief Development Officer of Accor's Middle East, Africa & Türkiye and Midscale & Economy Division. “Victoria Falls is one of the world's most extraordinary destinations and is proud to bring the Novotel brand experience to Zimbabwe for the first time. As the first mover, we consider this project a gateway to the country's long-term sustainable growth.”
The signature shows Akor's strategic entry into destinations with growing regional and domestic tourism and a limited presence of global hotel brands.
Bevin Ngara, managing director of Eagle Asset Manager, Eagle REIT Fund Manager, added: “We are pleased to partner with Acor to bring international hospitality to Victoria Falls. This project reflects our vision to invest in transformative developments that enhance tourism and provide value to our communities and investors.”
Novotel has over 590 hotels in 68 countries and over 180 hotels in the pipeline, with the Champions balancing both business travelers and families. As Zimbabwe's first internationally branded novotel, the hotel meets the growing demand for high-quality yet accessible accommodation in Victoria Falls, supporting the evolution of the city with annual destinations for families, nature lovers and adventure seekers.
