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Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe - Things to Do in Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe - Complete Travel Guide

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, stands as one of the world's most spectacular natural wonders, where the mighty Zambezi River plunges 108 meters into a narrow gorge, creating the largest curtain of falling water on Earth. Known locally as 'Mosi-oa-Tunya' (The Smoke That Thunders), this UNESCO World Heritage Site attracts adventurers and nature lovers from around the globe with its thunderous roar and misty spray that can be seen from kilometers away. The town of Victoria Falls has evolved into southern Africa's adventure capital, offering everything from bungee jumping off the iconic Victoria Falls Bridge to white-water rafting through the Zambezi's turbulent rapids. Beyond the adrenaline activities, visitors can enjoy sunset cruises on the upper Zambezi, explore local markets, and experience authentic Zimbabwean culture while using the town as a base to explore both the Zimbabwean and Zambian sides of the falls.

Top Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls Viewpoints

Experience the falls from multiple viewing points along the Zimbabwean side, including the famous Devil's Pool overlook and Danger Point. The rainforest walk offers 16 different viewpoints, each providing unique perspectives of the cascading water and rainbow formations.

Booking Tip: Entry costs around $30 USD for international visitors. Visit early morning (7-9 AM) for the best light and fewer crowds. Bring waterproof clothing during high water season (March-July) as the spray can be intense.

Zambezi River Sunset Cruise

Drift along the peaceful upper Zambezi River on a sunset cruise, watching elephants, hippos, and crocodiles along the banks while enjoying drinks and snacks. The golden hour light creates perfect photography conditions with the African sunset reflecting off the water.

Booking Tip: Prices range from $45-80 USD depending on the operator and inclusions. Book with reputable companies like Wild Horizons or Shearwater Adventures. Cruises typically last 2-3 hours and include transfers from hotels.

Bungee Jump from Victoria Falls Bridge

Take the ultimate leap of faith with a 111-meter bungee jump from the historic Victoria Falls Bridge, suspended between Zimbabwe and Zambia. This iconic jump offers impressive views of the falls and gorge during the heart-stopping 4-second freefall.

Booking Tip: Costs around $160 USD including photos and certificate. Book directly with Shearwater Adventures for safety assurance. Weight limits apply (35-140kg), and medical conditions may restrict participation. No age restrictions for healthy individuals.

White Water Rafting

Navigate the Zambezi's legendary Grade 5 rapids below Victoria Falls, considered some of the best white-water rafting in the world. Full-day trips tackle up to 19 rapids with names like 'The Washing Machine' and 'Oblivion,' offering an adrenaline-pumping adventure through the dramatic gorge.

Booking Tip: Full-day rafting costs $120-150 USD including lunch and transfers. Best from August to December when water levels are optimal. Minimum age is usually 15 years. Choose operators like Shearwater or Safari Par Excellence for safety and experience.

Helicopter Flight over the Falls

Soar above Victoria Falls on a helicopter flight for the ultimate aerial perspective of this natural wonder. The 'Flight of Angels' offers unparalleled views of the falls, gorge, and surrounding landscape, providing photo opportunities impossible from ground level.

Booking Tip: 15-minute flights cost around $150-180 USD per person, while 25-minute flights are $250-300 USD. Book early morning or late afternoon for best lighting. Weight restrictions may apply, and flights can be cancelled due to weather conditions.

Getting There

Victoria Falls Airport (VFA) is just 20 kilometers from town and receives direct flights from Johannesburg, South Africa, and regional destinations. International visitors often fly into Johannesburg and connect to Victoria Falls, with the journey taking about 2 hours. Alternatively, you can cross from Livingstone, Zambia (15 minutes by taxi), which has more international flight options. Overland travel is possible via bus from Harare (8-10 hours) or self-drive, though road conditions can be challenging during rainy season.

Getting Around

Victoria Falls town is compact and walkable, with most hotels, restaurants, and the falls entrance within easy walking distance. Taxis are readily available and affordable for short distances, while hotel shuttles often provide free transfers to the falls and town center. For exploring wider areas or crossing to Zambia, organized tours with transfers are most convenient. Bicycle rentals are available for adventurous travelers, and some hotels provide complimentary bikes for guest use.

Where to Stay

Victoria Falls Town Center
Falls View Area
Elephant Hills Resort Area
Zambezi Drive
Airport Road
Chinotimba Township

Food & Dining

Victoria Falls offers a surprising variety of dining options, from upscale restaurants serving game meat and international cuisine to local establishments offering traditional Zimbabwean dishes like sadza and nyama. The Lookout Cafe provides spectacular gorge views with meals, while The Palm Restaurant offers fine dining with African fusion cuisine. For authentic local experience, try street food at the craft markets or visit local pubs like Shoestrings Backpackers. Many restaurants accept US dollars, and hotel restaurants often provide reliable international fare, though venturing into town reveals more affordable and authentic options.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Zimbabwe

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

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The Lookout Cafe - Wild Horizons

4.6 /5
(2048 reviews) 2
bar cafe store

Dusty Road Township Experience

4.6 /5
(313 reviews) 2

KwaTerry The traditional restaurant

4.6 /5
(297 reviews)

Baines Restaurant

4.8 /5
(261 reviews)
bar cafe

MaKuwa-Kuwa Restaurant

4.6 /5
(252 reviews)

Khaya Nyama Wombles

4.7 /5
(210 reviews)

Looking for specific cuisines?

Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The best time to visit Victoria Falls depends on your priorities. For maximum water flow and dramatic spray, visit during high water season (March-July), though viewpoints may be obscured by mist. The dry season (August-December) offers clearer views, better wildlife sighting on river cruises, and optimal conditions for white-water rafting, though the falls may appear less impressive. April-May provides a good compromise with substantial water flow and clearer skies. Avoid January-February due to heavy rains, though this period offers lush landscapes and fewer crowds.

Insider Tips

Bring waterproof protection for cameras and phones when visiting the falls during high water season - the spray can damage electronics even from viewing platforms
Cross to the Zambian side (Livingstone) for different perspectives and the famous Devil's Pool experience, but factor in visa costs and border crossing time
Book accommodation well in advance during peak season (July-October) as the town has limited quality options and prices increase significantly during busy periods

Activities in Victoria Falls