Hyatt to open Grand Hyatt Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe with 245 rooms and luxury upgrade
Landmark hotel sits minutes from UNESCO-listed natural attraction
DUBAI – Hyatt has announced plans to introduce the Grand Hyatt brand to Zimbabwe with the opening of Grand Hyatt Victoria Falls The Kingdom in late 2027 following an extensive refurbishment of one of the country's best-known hospitality landmarks.
The move follows the signing of a management agreement between a Hyatt affiliate and an affiliate of Albwardy Investments LLC. Once complete, the property will become Hyatt's second branded hotel in Zimbabwe, further strengthening the global hospitality group's presence across Africa.
Originally built in 1966 before being redeveloped in 1999, the hotel is set to undergo a comprehensive renovation and design transformation to align with Grand Hyatt's luxury brand standards. The redevelopment aims to create a destination that blends modern hospitality with the heritage and character of Victoria Falls while expanding travel options for World of Hyatt members, who will also be able to earn and redeem loyalty benefits at the property after it opens.
Prime location
The future Grand Hyatt Victoria Falls The Kingdom occupies a prominent location in the heart of Victoria Falls, one of Africa's most celebrated tourism destinations. The area is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the same name, locally known as Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning "The Smoke That Thunders".
Guests staying at the hotel will be only a five-minute walk from the Victoria Falls rainforest, placing them close to one of the world's most famous natural attractions. The property will also provide convenient access to safari experiences, guided excursions, restaurants and cultural attractions within the compact tourism hub. Victoria Falls International Airport is around a 20-minute drive away, making the hotel easily accessible for leisure, business and event travellers.
Hyatt said the signing marks another important milestone in its strategy to expand its footprint across Africa while offering travellers a wider choice of destinations through its portfolio.
Luxury upgrade
Following the refurbishment, the hotel is expected to feature 245 guestrooms alongside a broad range of premium facilities designed for both leisure and corporate guests.
Plans include 1,800 square metres of meeting and event space, three dining venues, a spa, fitness centre and a spacious lobby lounge. Hyatt said the hotel will combine culinary, wellness and leisure experiences with the service standards associated with the Grand Hyatt brand.
Its location is expected to remain one of its strongest advantages. Hyatt described the property as the closest hotel to the entrance of the Victoria Falls National Park on the Zimbabwean side, placing guests within easy reach of one of the world's leading natural attractions.
Africa growth
Albwardy Investments, Hyatt's partner on the project, said the property has served as one of Victoria Falls' best-known hotels for more than six decades and holds significant historical importance within Zimbabwe's tourism sector.
The company said the redevelopment will preserve the landmark's legacy while delivering an upgraded hospitality experience that reflects the culture and energy of Victoria Falls. The reopening is also expected to reinforce Albwardy Investments' long-term commitment to Africa's hospitality industry.
Hyatt, headquartered in Chicago, continues to expand its international portfolio across major cities and resort destinations. As of March 31, 2026, the company operated a portfolio of more than 1,500 hotels and all-inclusive properties across 83 countries spanning six continents.