Zimbabwe’s tourism sector is poised for a significant lift after global hospitality giant The Lux Collective, backed by Chinese investment, confirmed plans to build a large-scale 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 is set to become one of the most high-end developments in the region, strengthening Zimbabwe’s position in the competitive global luxury travel market.
The forthcoming estate marks The Lux Collective’s second major venture in Southern Africa following its Botswana project, LUX Xinii Mababe*, which has already attracted attention for its sustainability-led design. The Zimbabwe expansion underscores the company’s growing interest in the region’s safari and adventure tourism circuit, long dominated by neighbouring countries such as Zambia, Botswana and South Africa.
According to the company, construction of the Victoria Falls estate will unfold in two phases. The first phase will introduce 12 eco-luxury lodges, each designed with a conical, African-inspired roofline crafted to maximise natural airflow, reduce energy consumption, and harvest rainwater. The design blends traditional architectural forms with modern sustainability principles, aiming to create a retreat that is both culturally reflective and environmentally responsible.
The second phase of the project will extend the development with 14 additional lodges, a signature restaurant, and a swimming pool area overlooking the Zambezi landscape. Once completed, LUX* Xinii Victoria Falls will offer a secluded, premium escape within a short distance of one of the world’s most revered natural wonders—Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its dramatic scenery, wildlife, and adventure activities.
Victoria Falls Set for New High-End Riverside Lodges Backed by Chinese Developers
The investment arrives at a time when Zimbabwe has been working to revitalise its tourism sector through infrastructure renewal, destination marketing, and initiatives aimed at attracting high-value travellers. Industry players say the presence of a globally recognised brand such as The Lux Collective could elevate the country’s profile significantly, encouraging more international airlines, tour operators, and investors to consider Zimbabwe as a preferred destination for high-end, environmentally conscious tourism.
The Lux Collective has framed its Victoria Falls project as part of a far broader expansion strategy. The group recently announced seven new hotel signings for 2025, widening its footprint across the Indian Ocean, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. Its development model blends luxury with sustainability, a combination increasingly sought after by affluent travellers.
Chief executive Olivier Chavy said the company aims to “redefine the future of conscious luxury travel” by integrating conservation, culture, and community into its projects. “We want to create meaningful experiences that resonate with travellers who value both comfort and environmental responsibility,” he said, highlighting a shift in global tourism where demand for eco-sensitive destinations continues to rise.
China remains a central pillar of The Lux Collective’s expansion efforts. The company is scheduled to launch LUX Tea Horse Road Mount Tiantai* in early 2027 in Sichuan province, where guests will be able to stay both within a historic town and on high-elevation tea plantations near Chengdu. The property aims to blend heritage, nature, and wellness—three themes that the group has been threading through its new developments.
Another flagship Chinese project, LUX On The Bund Shanghai*, will open in the first quarter of 2027. It promises a blend of urban luxury and waterfront tranquillity, featuring views of the Huangpu River, a private marina, rooftop entertainment spaces, fine-dining outlets, and a state-of-the-art wellness centre. These additions signal the brand’s ambition to appeal to both international and domestic travellers in one of China’s most dynamic tourism markets.
Beyond China and Southern Africa, The Lux Collective currently has 16 properties under development worldwide, including new sites in Vietnam, Bali, Dubai, Oman, Mauritius, and several other major Chinese cities. The company is also expanding its three core brands—LUX*, SALT, and SOCIO—designed to cater to different segments of the modern, sustainability-driven traveller.
For Zimbabwe, the arrival of LUX* Xinii Victoria Falls represents more than just a new luxury lodge. Tourism analysts say it signals renewed confidence in the country’s long-term tourism potential, especially at a time when global travellers are increasingly choosing destinations that prioritise conservation, cultural authenticity, and eco-friendly architecture. With its combination of natural splendour and strategic investment, the project is expected to attract higher-spending visitors, stimulate job creation, and generate momentum across Zimbabwe’s broader hospitality value chain.
As excitement builds ahead of its anticipated 2028 opening, the LUX* Xinii Victoria Falls estate is being hailed as a transformative development—one that could reposition Zimbabwe on the world map as a premier destination for conscious, luxury-focused travel.
Source- Byo24
