A zoom lens includes, in order from an object side thereof: a first lens group having a negative optical power and comprising a reflection optical element; a second lens group having a positive optical power; a third lens group having a negative optical power; a fourth lens group having a positive optical power; and, a fifth lens group. The first lens group and the fourth lens group are positioned at a fixed distance and at least the second lens group, the third lens group and the fifth lens group move along an optical axis, for varying a power of the zoom lens from a wide-angle end to a telephoto end. The zoom lens satisfies a predetermined expression relating to a focal length of the first lens group, and a focal length of the zoom lens at the wide-angle end.