Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, offers an impressive natural spectacle as one of the world's largest waterfalls, drawing visitors to witness its immense power and beauty. The destination provides a diverse range of activities, catering to both thrill-seekers and those seeking more relaxed experiences in a natural setting.
Victoria Falls town offers various venues for socializing. Establishments like The River Brewing Company, The Three Monkeys, and Shearwater Café provide lively atmospheres with food and drinks. Shoestrings Backpackers also transforms into a nightclub, serving as a hub for younger travelers. Cultural shows, such as the Boma Dinner & Drum Show, offer interactive evenings with traditional music and dance.
Top 7 Things to do in Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, offers a dynamic array of experiences, from awe-inspiring natural views to thrilling adventures, immersive cultural encounters, and opportunities for wildlife observation.
1. Guided Tour of Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe Side)
Walking through the Victoria Falls Rainforest on the Zimbabwean side offers the most comprehensive ground-level views of the falls. You will experience the immense power of the water, witness multiple cascades, and feel the constant spray, often creating rainbows. Essential for appreciating the scale of this natural wonder, especially during high-water season. Consider bringing a raincoat or waterproof cover for electronics due to the heavy mist.
Cost: International entry fee: Approximately US$50 per person. A guided tour typically costs around US$25-US$26 in addition to the park fee.
Transport: The Victoria Falls entrance is generally within walking distance from most central accommodations in Victoria Falls town. Taxis within town are typically US$5-US$10.
2. Helicopter Flight (Flight of the Angels)
A helicopter flight provides an unparalleled aerial perspective of Victoria Falls, the winding Zambezi River, and the Batoka Gorge. Seeing the 'Smoke That Thunders' from above highlights its vastness and geological context. This experience offers incredible photo opportunities and is a memorable way to grasp the full panorama of the falls, a view not possible from the ground. It is particularly recommended to combine this with a walking tour for a complete understanding.
Cost: Prices range from approximately US$150-US$200 per person for a 12-15 minute flight and US$280-US$350 for a 25-30 minute flight. These prices often include hotel pick-up and drop-off.
Transport: Most helicopter tour operators provide return transfers from hotels in Victoria Falls town.
3. Zambezi Sunset Cruise
Embarking on a sunset cruise along the tranquil Zambezi River, just above the falls, is a relaxing experience. As the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant colors, you can spot wildlife such as hippos, crocodiles, elephants along the riverbanks, and a variety of birdlife. Complimentary drinks and snacks are typically included, offering a serene end to the day with breathtaking views.
Cost: Standard sunset cruises typically cost between US$40-US$92 per person, excluding a national park fee of approximately US$10 per person. Private cruises are also available at a higher cost.
Transport: Return transfers from Victoria Falls accommodations are generally included in the tour price.
4. White Water Rafting on the Zambezi River
Considered one of the world's best Grade IV and V white water rafting experiences, navigating the rapids of the Batoka Gorge below Victoria Falls is an adrenaline-pumping activity. Depending on the season (low water vs. high water), the intensity of the rapids varies, with low water (August-December) offering more challenging Class V rapids. Professional guides lead the rafts, ensuring safety while providing an exhilarating journey through a stunning gorge.
Cost: Prices typically start from US$133-US$150 per person, often including lunch, refreshments, and hotel transfers, but may exclude a US$10 national park fee.
Transport: Most rafting tours include return transfers from hotels in Victoria Falls town.
5. Victoria Falls Bridge Adventures (Bungee, Swing, Zipline)
For thrill-seekers, the Victoria Falls Bridge offers a range of high-wire activities with the falls as a dramatic backdrop. Bungee jumping involves a 111-meter plunge into the Batoka Gorge, while the bridge swing creates a large pendulum arc over the Zambezi River. The zipline allows you to soar across the gorge, offering incredible views. These activities provide a unique adrenaline rush and a different perspective of the falls and gorge. Participants often require a passport for bridge access, though a visa is not always necessary for the activity itself.
Cost: Bungee Jump: Approximately US$160-US$168. Bridge Swing: US$113 solo, US$166 tandem. Zipline: US$48 solo, US$68 tandem. Combo deals for multiple activities (e.g., bungee, swing, zipline) are available for around US$210-US$230. Transfers may be an additional US$10.
Transport: The Victoria Falls Bridge is a 20-minute walk from Victoria Falls town. Transfers can be arranged by tour operators, sometimes at an additional cost.
6. Game Drive in Zambezi National Park
Located just a short drive from Victoria Falls town, the Zambezi National Park offers a classic safari experience. Embark on a morning or afternoon game drive in an open 4x4 vehicle with an expert guide, increasing your chances of spotting diverse wildlife including elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species. Predators like lions and leopards are also present. The park's proximity to the falls makes it an accessible way to combine the wonder of the waterfall with an African wildlife encounter.
Cost: Game drives typically cost US$70-US$100 per person, which usually includes hotel transfers, refreshments, and snacks, but excludes a US$15 per person national park entrance fee.
Transport: Return transfers from Victoria Falls hotels are usually included in the game drive price.
7. The Boma Dinner & Drum Show
Immerse yourself in an evening of vibrant Zimbabwean culture at The Boma. This popular experience offers a four-course buffet dinner featuring local delicacies and international dishes, alongside traditional beer tasting. The highlight is the lively entertainment, including traditional dancers and an interactive drumming session where guests are encouraged to participate. It's an engaging and festive way to experience local music, dance, and cuisine.
Cost: Approximately US$50-US$90 per person, typically including the buffet dinner and show, but drinks are often extra. Reservations are generally required.
Transport: The Boma is located within the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge property. Many tours include hotel pick-up and drop-off from Victoria Falls town accommodations.
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
