Victoria Falls Activities: Tried & Tested
Most visitors to Victoria Falls spend only a couple of days there, and with so many activities on offer, it’s good to know what you should be booking before you go. That’s why we sent two of our Safari Experts – Karina and Vaneshree – to check it out. Here’s what they said.
Victoria Falls – the waterfall
Who could resist a selfie with this kind of backdrop?
Vaneshree: “We decided to stay at the heart of the town and it was just a short walk from our hotel to the waterfall. Both Karina and I felt safe as we made our way there, oriented by the column of rising spray. It’s hot: a hat and sunscreen are a must-have, especially if there are queues at the ticket office. We explored and appreciated the sights, sounds and feel of the falls on our own, but others may appreciate a guided tour for the historical and ecological background.
Framed by a rainforest, Victoria Falls is undoubtedly the main attraction on the Zimbabwean side of the Zambezi River. There were 16 viewing points, and, in September, we were able to view the falls clearly. Locals say it’s the best time of the year to appreciate Victoria Falls but we think it is something special to experience anytime of the year.”
All aboard for the best views of Victoria Falls.
Vaneshree: “Then we saw Victoria Falls from the air – a helicopter flight called the Flight of Angels which is a great name as it perfectly describes this activity. Having seen Victoria Falls from ground level, and then from above, we gained a new perspective on its size and beauty – truly breath-taking. We had a 25-minute flight which took us over the falls, the Zambezi River and the Batoka Gorge; we even saw some wildlife on the move – an unforgettable experience.”
TOP TIP – Karina: “When you are done exploring Victoria Falls and feel like lunch and something refreshing to drink, cross the tar road opposite the main entrance gate to the waterfall, walk a short way up a dirt road and you are at the Lookout Café. It’s a beautiful restaurant with a stunning view over Batoka Gorge. Enjoy a meal or just have drinks while watching the more adventurous souls bungee jumping into the gorge.”
Eating Out in Victoria Falls
Boma Dinner
Karina: “A wonderful evening. We arrived at 19h00 and were presented with a colourful sarong to wear (which you hand back afterwards). The buffet was exceptional and more than one could ever eat. Starters were a variety of salads and vegetables whereas the mains featured every meat imaginable: beef, pork, chicken, fish, lamb, venison and even crocodile. Not to mention stews and stir fry.”
Mopane worms are dried caterpillars; they are an acquired taste.
“Mopane Worm Challenge! If you dare, try one of the traditional dishes … mopane worms. If you do, you are given a certificate. Not something I would eat again, but I tried one! Thankfully, desserts were fruit, chocolate mousse, malva pudding and pastries. After dinner we enjoyed a singing and dance performance by the local community. Then we were all given drums and we all had a drumming session – it was so much fun and just fantastic value for money!”
Bush Tracks Express Steam Train
Silver Service treatment in the train’s Dining Car.
Vaneshree: “What a delightful experience! We enjoyed dressing up a little to climb aboard a Victorian-era steam train. But before stepping onto the red carpet, we were welcomed with a glass of bubbly and entertained by traditional singing and drumming. As we journeyed to Victoria Falls Bridge, we were treated to canapes, an open bar and live music on board.
The train stops on the historic bridge to allow passengers to fully appreciate the spectacular views of Victoria Falls and Batoka Gorge while they sip on champagne and enjoy the sunset.
As we returned to the station, we were treated to a superb five-course meal, all of which was freshly prepared on board and served by very attentive staff.
It was a four-hour experience and is thoroughly recommended for those who enjoy the nostalgia of a bygone era and want to see Victoria Falls in a completely unique way.”
Active in Vic Falls
Victoria Falls Bicycle Tour
Easy Riders: the bicycle tour was fun & informative.
Karina: “This is a great activity, especially after a safari when you feel like some exercise. The mountain-bike rental station is at the Lookout Café and the guides are super-friendly. If you have not been on a bike for many years (like us), they will patiently explain the bike and its gears. And then off you go! The guides ensured our safety at all times and stayed with us as we cycled past Victoria Falls, along the Zambezi river and through the National Park. The tour is usually two hours long but if you are tired, you can return back to the Lookout Café at any time.”
Horseback Safari
Enjoying the new view from the saddle of a horse.
Karina: “This is a super fun way to enjoy a morning in the Victoria Falls National Park. You don’t have to be experienced as they cater for all riders, including beginners. We all headed off together but the experienced riders branched off a few times to enjoy a gallop before re-joining us. We had a guide at both the head and rear of the group and we felt we were being looked after well. When we came across elephants, for example, the guides steered us away to a safe distance. A really enjoyable, two-hour excursion for the more adventurous traveller.”
Wildlife in Vic Falls
Elephant Encounter
A jumbo-sized experience to finish the safari!
Vaneshree: “The elephant encounter allows an intimate and educational experience with these amazing animals. We were welcomed to the Elephant Sanctuary and Orphanage and hopped onto a game drive vehicle for a drive deeper into the National Park. Comfortable shoes and a sunhat were needed when we got off the vehicle for a walk of about two kilometres, our guides leading us to a family of rescued and orphaned elephants. Now we observed their individual behaviour up close and were even allowed to get photos with them. What a wonderful opportunity to interact with the elephant on a personal level!
The highlight of this experience was that we got to feed them. They knew that they were going to receive treats, so they moved on to the feeding area in the bush. Each of us could take a handful of treats and actually feed them! After the elephants got their treats, we enjoyed some drinks and snacks ourselves, and watched the video of our encounter. It was a two-hour activity and worth every minute.”
