Africa Albida cleans up at AZTA Awards

THE Victoria Falls Safari Collection, operated by the Africa Albida Tourism hospitality group, has once again cemented its leadership in Zimbabwe’s tourism sector with a stellar performance at the 2025 Association of Zimbabwe Travel Agents (AZTA) Awards.
The awards ceremony, held at the Hyatt Regency Harare over the past weekend, saw two of the collection’s properties receive top honours.
For an impressive 27th consecutive year, Victoria Falls Safari Lodge was voted Best Safari Lodge in Zimbabwe.
“For Victoria Falls Safari Lodge to be voted Best Safari Lodge in Zimbabwe for 27 consecutive years is a truly remarkable achievement, and it reflects the unwavering support of the travel trade as well as the loyalty of our guests.
“This long-standing recognition highlights the collection’s consistent delivery of world-class hospitality,” Victoria Falls Safari Lodge director and founder Ross Kennedy said.
Lokuthula Lodges also secured a major win after being named Best Self-Catering Facility in Zimbabwe for the 11th year. According to Kennedy, this award demonstrates the “diversity of our collection” and affirms that Lokuthula “continues to shine as Zimbabwe’s favourite self-catering facility”.
Lokuthula Lodges also earned recognition as the First Runner-Up in the Best B&B/Guesthouse category, underscoring its broad appeal to travellers. The collection’s success extended to individual honours as well, with Sales Executive Wendy Bourne receiving the Best Voluntary Service Award for the 12th time.
The organisation’s managing director Nigel Frost expressed his gratitude and pride over this achievement.
“These awards bear witness to the dedication and passion of our entire team, whose commitment to excellence ensures that our guests continue to enjoy unforgettable experiences in Victoria Falls.
“We are humbled by the trust and confidence our industry partners continue to place in us, and we are inspired to keep striving for even higher standards,” Frost said.
The awards come at a time of significant expansion for the Victoria Falls Safari Collection.
Following the successful launch of Queen Nandi Place, a multi-purpose venue for upmarket meetings and events, in April 2025, the collection is now preparing to unveil additional MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) facilities. These new additions will include two breakaway rooms and a catering area, designed for a variety of events.
Kennedy said that expanding offerings with new world-class MICE facilities, the company is expressing its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and enhancing the appeal of Victoria Falls as a destination for both leisure and business travellers.
The Victoria Falls Safari Collection encompasses a range of properties on its estate, including Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, Victoria Falls Safari Club, Victoria Falls Safari Suites, Lokuthula Lodges, and The Boma – Dinner & Drum Show.
The estate is located just 4km from the Victoria Falls.
The AZTA Awards, an annual event, are considered among Zimbabwe’s most prestigious travel industry accolades, with winners being selected through a vote by travel agents across the country.
The Victoria Falls Safari Collection’s clean sweep at this year’s awards reaffirms its position at the pinnacle of the nation’s tourism and hospitality industry.