REFURBISHED CRESTA SPRAYVIEW HOTEL GEARS UP FOR PEAK-SEASON

On 10 April 2026, one of Victoria Falls’ most iconic landmarks will pull back the curtain on a transformative new chapter. The Cresta Sprayview Hotel is set to wow its guests with its recently completed extensive refurbishment that redefines the guest experience for the modern era,
positioned strategically to capture the surge of international travel ahead of the 2026 peak season.

EVOLUTION ROOTED IN DESIGN

At the heart of this ambitious project is the creation of an “African Contemporary” sanctuary. Far from a complete departure from its roots, the renovation serves as a modernisation of the hotel’s existing
heritage.

The design team has successfully elevated the property’s identity by blending the raw, untamed beauty of the African bush with the lush, immersive energy of the nearby Victoria Falls. The result is a light-filled, sophisticated environment that remains authentically local while meeting the high expectations of global travellers.

Returning guests who last visited five years ago will find a space that has shifted from simple comfort to an emotionally engaging, sensory-led environment.

The interior palette is firmly grounded in a “safariluxe” aesthetic, characterised by blonde natural
timbers, earthy ochre and ivory tones, and tactile finishes such as tan leather and woven textures. While subtle nods to the region’s industrial history—such as the Victoria Falls Bridge and railway heritage—are present, the dominant atmosphere is one of a warm, organic forest oasis inspired by the surrounding rainforest and bushveld.

The Cresta Sprayview Hotel’s gardens have been thoughtfully integrated into the guest experience, drawing inspiration from the lush, immersive energy of the nearby Victoria Falls rainforest.

Large-scale murals of local greenery and birdlife further echo the “Falls Forest” environment, making the gardens not just a visual extension of the hotel, but a living, sensory bridge to the rainforest itself.

REIMAGINING THE GUEST JOURNEY

The refurbishment has seen a structural reimagining of the hotel’s most popular public areas. The Sango Restaurant has been opened up to create a seamless indoor-outdoor connection, improving both the flow of movement and the overall atmosphere

The outdoor spaces—including room, patios, and eight acres of manicured gardens which have been upgraded to create clearer sight-lines and comfortable seating, allowing guests to feel closely linked
to the natural beauty of the region.

Large-scale murals of local greenery and birdlife echo the “Falls Forest” environment, while optimised seating arrangements maximise views and encourage guest interaction.

The hotel’s iconic “motel-style” layout, featuring parking directly outside rooms, has been intentionally preserved as a unique architectural differentiator.

This feature has been significantly enhanced through improved landscaping, better lighting, and increased privacy measures.

This ensures the convenience of direct room access is maintained while elevating the luxury feel of the stay.

Outdoor spaces, including room and patios, have also been upgraded with comfortable seating and clearer sightlines to better integrate the hotel’s eight acres of manicured gardens into the living space.

CATERING TO THE “BLEISURE” BOOM

Recognising the rise of Victoria Falls as a global hub for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE), Cresta has specifically tailored its Executive Suites for the growing “bleisure” market.

These suites now integrate dedicated workspaces, high-speed connectivity, and comfortable lounge areas within flexible layouts. This allows guests to transition seamlessly between business tasks and relaxation
without ever leaving their room.

The central swimming pool area has also been upgraded to serve as a lifestyle hub. With new
loungers, and shaded relaxation zones, the space functions as both a quiet retreat and a vibrant social
setting for alfresco dining.

SUSTAINABILITY AND LOCAL SOUL

In an era of conscious travel, the new Sprayview incorporates practical eco-friendly features. Beyond the shift to energy-efficient lighting, the hotel has digitised the guest journey with QR-based service access to
significantly reduce paper usage.

Zimbabwean craftsmanship is a key feature of the redesign, reflected in handmade furniture and custom
décor elements that add a strong sense of place throughout the property. The refurbishment project also contributes to the local economy through intensive staff training on new service standards.

From the careful management of the environment during construction to the integration of local artisans, the new Cresta Sprayview Hotel showcases sustainable growth in Zimbabwe’s adventure capital.

For the visitor, this exclusive destination is no longer just a place to stay; it is a curated, modern gateway to the smoke that thunders.

From Destination Zw Magazine issue 24