I actually don't recommend anyone going on a typical wildlife focused trip to stay at a Marriot or Avani. Unless using Marriott points expands your budget for the animal viewing portion of your trip, there are much better properties with a real sense of "place" or charm. Avani was previously owned by a hotel casino chain. And, yes, Royal Livingstone is their more upscale neighbor. I think the current investor is a Thai based private equity firm. Both are right at the Falls and easy walking distance from the park entrance. Why not stay at Tongabezi, River Club, Sindabezi Island or somewhere else with a bit more authenticity? Or, if you can cross the border, Old Drift, Victoria Falls River Lodge or Ilala or the Vic Falls Hotel?

Craig Beal - owner - Travel Beyond