Victoria Falls is one of Africa’s key travel regions, positioned along the Zambezi River at the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia. The destination offers a wide range of activities within a short travel radius, making it suitable for short stays or as part of a broader Southern Africa itinerary. Below is a structured overview of the main activities, including their locations and what clients can expect.
Play Golf at Victoria Falls
Clients can play golf at any of the nearby golf courses. They are easily accessible for visitors staying in town and provides an opportunity for a relaxed game surrounded by wildlife and natural scenery. The courses cater to golfers of all levels and is a key option for those combining golf with adventure or leisure activities.
White-Water Rafting on the Zambezi River
White-water rafting takes place below Victoria Falls in the Batoka Gorge section of the Zambezi River, accessed from the Zimbabwe side near the town of Victoria Falls. This stretch of river is known for its steep gorge walls and consistent rapids, typically classified between Grade IV and V. The activity runs seasonally, with lower water levels between August and December offering the best conditions. Access involves a hike into and out of the gorge, making it physically demanding but well suited to clients seeking a high-adrenaline experience.
Bungee Jumping from Victoria Falls Bridge
Bungee jumping is operated from the Victoria Falls Bridge, which connects Zimbabwe and Zambia directly above the Zambezi River. The jump is 111 metres, with views of the gorge and the falls in the background. The activity is centrally located, within minutes of Victoria Falls town, and can be combined with other bridge-based activities. It is one of the most established adrenaline activities in the region.
Gorge Swing and Zipline
The gorge swing and zipline are also located at the Victoria Falls Bridge and within the Batoka Gorge area. The gorge swing involves a controlled free-fall before a pendulum motion across the gorge, while the zipline runs horizontally above the river, connecting the Zimbabwe and Zambia sides. Both activities operate close to the bridge and are easily accessible from Victoria Falls town, often sold as combination packages.
Helicopter Flights over Victoria Falls
Helicopter flights depart from helipads located just outside Victoria Falls town on the Zimbabwe side. Known as the “Flight of Angels,” these flights provide an aerial view of Victoria Falls, the Zambezi River, and the surrounding national park areas. Flight durations typically range from 12 to 25 minutes. This activity requires no physical effort and is suitable for most clients, offering a clear overview of the destination’s geography.
Microlight Flights (Zambia Side)
Microlight flights operate from Livingstone in Zambia, across the border from Victoria Falls. This experience provides an open-air flight over the Zambezi River and the falls, offering a different perspective compared to helicopters. Transfers from Victoria Falls town to Livingstone are required, including border formalities. The activity is weather-dependent and typically runs in the morning when conditions are stable.
Canoeing on the Zambezi River
Canoeing takes place on the upper Zambezi River, above Victoria Falls, where the water is calmer. Launch points are located upstream within Zimbabwe’s national park areas. These guided trips focus on wildlife viewing along the riverbanks, with sightings of hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife common. The activity is low impact but still active, suitable for clients looking for an outdoor experience without high intensity.
Rhino Walking Safaris
Rhino walking safaris are conducted within private concessions near Victoria Falls, typically on the Zimbabwe side. These guided experiences take place in protected areas where white rhino have been reintroduced. The activity involves walking with trained guides and trackers, focusing on conservation and wildlife tracking. Locations are within a short drive from Victoria Falls town, making it an easy add-on to most itineraries.
Quad Biking and Off-Road Trails
Quad biking operates on private land concessions on the outskirts of Victoria Falls town in Zimbabwe. The routes follow bush tracks and open terrain, offering a controlled off-road driving experience. This activity does not take place inside national parks, but still provides exposure to the surrounding landscape. It is accessible year-round and suitable for clients looking for light adventure.
Guided Tour of Victoria Falls Rainforest
Guided walking tours take place within Victoria Falls National Park, which protects the rainforest directly opposite the falls. The network of paths runs along multiple viewpoints, each offering different angles of the waterfall. The location is within walking distance or a short drive from most hotels in Victoria Falls town. This is a core activity and typically included in all itineraries.
Zambezi River Cruises
River cruises operate on the upper Zambezi River, above the falls, departing from lodges and jetties located within a 10–20 minute drive from Victoria Falls town. Options include sunset cruises, dinner cruises, and private charters. The experience focuses on wildlife viewing, with elephants, hippos, and crocodiles frequently seen along the banks. This is a low-effort activity suited to arrival or late afternoon scheduling.
Cultural Village Visits
Cultural tours are conducted in rural villages located outside Victoria Falls town in Zimbabwe. These visits provide insight into local traditions, daily life, and community structures. The locations are typically within a 20–30 minute drive from the town centre. The experience is guided and structured, making it suitable for clients interested in cultural context alongside wildlife and scenery.
Chobe National Park Day Trips
Day trips to Chobe National Park depart from Victoria Falls town and involve crossing into Botswana. The park is located approximately 80 kilometres away, with road transfers taking around 1.5 to 2 hours including border procedures. The experience usually combines a game drive and a river safari on the Chobe River. This is a full-day activity and a strong wildlife add-on to a Victoria Falls stay.
Game Drives and Walking Safaris
Game drives and walking safaris are available in private reserves and national park areas surrounding Victoria Falls, primarily on the Zimbabwe side. Locations include concessions along the Zambezi National Park boundary. These activities focus on general plains game and birdlife rather than Big Five density. They are easily accessible from Victoria Falls town and can be scheduled as half-day experiences.
Devil’s Pool (Seasonal)
Devil’s Pool is located on the edge of Victoria Falls on the Zambia side, accessible via Livingstone Island. The activity is only available during the low-water season, typically between August and December. Access involves a boat transfer from Livingstone, followed by a guided walk across the rocks to the pool. The experience allows clients to sit at the edge of the falls under controlled conditions.