LUX* Xinii Victoria Falls to Raise Zimbabwe’s Profile in Luxury Eco-Tourism

The Lux Collective has announced LUX* Xinii Victoria Falls, a high-end eco-luxury lodge estate opening in 2028 (image source)

Victoria Falls — Zimbabwe’s tourism sector is set for a major boost after The Lux Collective, backed by Chinese investors, confirmed plans to develop LUX* Xinii Victoria Falls, a high-end eco-luxury lodge estate on the banks of the Zambezi River. The property is scheduled to open in 2028, marking the group’s second major Southern African venture after LUX* Xinii Mababe in Botswana. It also forms part of the company’s accelerated global expansion, with seven new projects set to launch in 2025 and 16 properties currently under development worldwide.

The Victoria Falls estate will be rolled out in two phases. Phase One includes 12 luxury lodges featuring conical, African-inspired roofing designed for passive cooling and rainwater harvesting. The design integrates traditional vernacular architecture with modern sustainability technologies to minimise ecological impact. Phase Two will add 14 more lodges, a signature restaurant and a swimming pool, creating an intimate, secluded eco-estate with seamless access to key attractions around Victoria Falls.

Chief executive Olivier Chavy said the project aligns with The Lux Collective’s mission to “redefine the future of conscious luxury travel,” catering to travellers who want comfort without compromising on environmental responsibility. The lodges will emphasise natural materials, cultural storytelling, wellness programs and curated wildlife and river experiences.

Tourism operators say the investment is a significant milestone for Victoria Falls, which is dominated by mid-range lodges and large hotel establishments. LUX* Xinii is expected to attract higher-spending leisure and MICE travellers, expand the destination’s product offering and encourage longer stays. With its Zambezi-front location and strong sustainability credentials, the estate is poised to appeal to conservation-focused and luxury eco-tourism markets globally.

Beyond tourism appeal, the project will bring economic benefits through construction and long-term hospitality jobs, skills development, and local supply-chain opportunities. The Lux Collective has indicated plans to source locally wherever possible and to partner with communities in conservation initiatives and cultural programs.

The announcement aligns with Zimbabwe’s national strategy to diversify tourism products and position the country as a premium destination. Analysts caution, however, that the project’s success will rely on complementary improvements in transport links, visa facilitation, destination marketing and consistent service standards. Coordination between operators and authorities on infrastructure, environmental management and community engagement will be essential to maximise benefits and minimise ecological impacts.

If executed as envisioned, LUX* Xinii Victoria Falls could become a flagship model of sustainable luxury in Southern Africa — enhancing Zimbabwe’s global tourism brand and signalling renewed investor confidence in the country’s long-term tourism prospects. Planning, permitting and community consultations over the next two years will shape the path toward construction and the estate’s anticipated 2028 debut.