by Conor Walsh & Jonathan Lechtman
If you’re headed to Victoria Falls for a conference or event and hunting for exhilarating activities, we have some good and not-so-good news.
The good news is: Victoria Falls is a breathtaking paradise that blends thrilling adventure, serene nature, and intriguing culture in an unforgettable mix.
The not-so-good news: you’ll wish you had more time to experience everything.
That’s where we come in. Drawing from our vast experience organizing events at Victoria Falls, we’ve compiled 17 must-try activities and day trips. Consider this your personal itinerary, and rest assured, you’ll get a taste of all Victoria Falls’ incredible experiences.
Sightseeing Tours
The sightseeing tours around Victoria Falls are nothing short of spectacular. You can take guided walks around the world-renowned waterfall, take breathtaking helicopter rides for a bird’s eye view, or step back in time at Zambia’s oldest museum.
Walking Tour of Victoria Falls
Country: both
Of course, we have to start with a tour of Victoria Falls, no doubt the first thing on your to-do list.
And don’t worry – they don’t disappoint!
While there’s much debate about which country has the better view of the Falls (we’re not revealing our favorite!), it doesn’t matter. Whether viewing them from Zambia or Zimbabwe, prepare to be left in awe.
That’s all we’ll say on this – you don’t need convincing!
On either side of the border, a walking tour of Victoria Falls takes roughly two hours. You can do it yourself in Zimbabwe, but in Zambia, you’ll need a guide.
Helicopter Flights
Country: both
Join a daily helicopter tour on either side of the falls, and you’ll truly appreciate the breadth and scale of this natural wonder.
As the helicopter sweeps over the falls, the rushing Zambezi River transforms into a spectacular curtain of water, with rainbows forming in the rising mist and the surrounding wilderness providing a stunning backdrop.
Livingstone Museum
Country: Zambia
The Livingstone Museum, Zambia’s oldest and largest museum, is a nice way to spend a few hours learning about the area’s history.
The museum covers a broad spectrum, from archaeological artifacts dating back to the Stone Age to contemporary art. You’ll also find a dedicated section to David Livingstone, the famous explorer the city is named after, showcasing his personal belongings and chronicles of his expeditions.
Evening Activities
Victoria Falls and the surrounding areas have plenty to keep you busy in the evenings. From enjoying sundowners on the Zambezi to dining on exquisite cuisine aboard a vintage train, you’ll find a diverse array of night-time activities that perfectly complement your event or conference itinerary.
Sunset River Cruise
Country: both
An evening cruise on the Zambezi is the perfect end to a day packed with events.
You’ll glide peacefully the river, drinks in hand, as the sun paints the sky with shades of amber, and the banks come alive with the local wildlife.
Witness hippos lazily submerge in the river, crocodiles bask on the banks, giraffes and elephants graze the savannah, and birds dart through the lush vegetation.
With its magical ambiance and striking scenery, any sunset cruise you pick (there are many options) is a mesmerizing way to cap off a day in Victoria Falls.
If you prefer to stay on land, the sun deck at The Royal Livingstone Hotel is the best place to watch the sunset in Livingstone. If you’re in Zimbabwe, head to the Stanley Terrace at The Victoria Falls Hotel.
Boma Dinner and Drum Show
Country: Zimbabwe
The Boma Dinner and Drum Show is an electrifying fusion of food, music, and culture a short drive from Victoria Falls town.
You’ll be treated to a sumptuous buffet of traditional Zimbabwean dishes, kitted out in local attire and face paint, and a lively drum show accompanying your meal. As the night progresses, you can join in, learning to drum and dance to traditional Zimbabwean beats.
Some people might say it’s too touristy. But embrace the novelty, and you’ll have an unforgettable evening!
Train Dinner
Country: both
The Livingstone Express Train Dinner takes place on a meticulously restored 20th-century steam train, resplendent with rich mahogany and polished brass interiors for a unique dining experience. After a quick scenic stop on Victoria Falls Bridge, you’re treated to a lavish five-course dinner, prepared using locally-sourced ingredients.
A harmonious blend of history, elegance, and food, The Train Dinner is one of the most unique culinary experiences in the world.
Note: The dinner costs $200 per person, you might be disappointed with the quality of food. If you want a fun way to spend the evening with friends and family – and don’t mind the price – it’s a memorable experience.
Elephant Cafe
Country: Zambia
The Elephant Cafe is another incredible combination of fine dining and extraordinary wildlife encounters in an enchanting riverside sanctuary.
You’ll indulge in a delightful culinary journey, featuring innovative gourmet seasonal dishes crafted from a mix of wild and farm-sourced ingredients. Over four courses, accompanied by a selection of fine wines, your hosts will introduce you to the best flavors of Zambia.
But the real showstopper is the unique opportunity to interact with the café’s resident elephant herd, who will be waiting to greet you as you arrive. Upon meeting, you’ll get to feed the elephants and spend time learning their family histories.
For the best experience, take the boat trip up the Zambezi. You’ll have an extra tour of the wildlife living along the banks.
Restaurants for an Evening Meal
Livingstone and Victoria Falls offer an impressive array of eateries for such small towns. You can savor everything from traditional African fare to inventive international cuisine, ensuring a lovely evening meal alone or with friends.
Zambia
- Olga’s The Italian Corner: A cozy spot in the heart of Livingstone serving authentic Italian dishes crafted from fresh, local ingredients.
- Cafe Zambezi: A vibrant eatery famous for its fusion of African, Caribbean, and Zambian cuisines in a tropical, open-air setting.
- Golden Leaf Restaurant: Serving up an authentic Indian culinary experience, a menu boasting a diverse selection of curries, tandoori specialties, and delightful vegetarian dishes.
- The Old Farmhouse: A short drive from town, with a cozy, rustic charm, laid-back vibe, comfy fire pit, and tasty pub grub menu.
Zimbabwe
- The Lookout Cafe: Situated on the edge of the Batoka Gorge, offers mouthwatering meals and breathtaking views of the Zambezi River and Victoria Falls Bridge.
- The Palm Restaurant at Ilala Lodge: Known for its high-end dining experience, serving exquisite dishes made with fresh, local ingredients against a backdrop of the Victoria Falls spray.
- Three Monkeys Restaurant & Bar: A vibrant eatery offering an array of dishes from pizzas to local cuisine, with an excellent cocktail menu and live music.
- The Victoria Falls Hotel Livingstone Room: Renowned for its fine dining, offers a blend of classic and contemporary dishes in an elegant, Edwardian setting.
- Pariah State: A lively social hub in the heart of Victoria Falls town, with eclectic decor, extensive drink selection, and a tasty menu.
Vic Falls Wine Experience
Country: Zimbabwe
Tucked away in a quiet corner of downtown Victoria Falls, Vic Falls Wine Experience is an elegant tasting room with an unparalleled selection of wines from renowned local vineyards.
You can book a tasting in advance (including food pairings), or stroll in and pull up a seat at the tasting table. If you’re in a rush, pick up a bottle as a unique souvenir or gift from your trip.
Safaris and Game Drives
If you’re a nature enthusiast, you’re in luck. Victoria Falls has many safaris and national parks a short drive away. You can indulge in authentic wildlife experiences, getting up close with Africa’s majestic creatures, all within a short, manageable timeframe.
Mosi-oa-tunya National Park
Country: Zambia
You’ve probably never heard of Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, but it’s well worth a visit.
The park, which runs along the Zambian banks of the Zambezi River, is home to giraffes, zebras, elephants, and a small group of white rhinos.
It’s only a short drive from every hotel in Livingstone – some are located within the park. And its smaller size means you’re guaranteed close encounters with the local wildlife (without large crowds).
You can book a 2 or 4-hour game drive in the park, most of which also include a picnic on the riverfront.
Livingstone Rhino Walking Safaris
Country: Zambia
If you miss the rhinos on your Mosi-oa-Tunya game drive or you’re short of time, you can opt for a dedicated rhino walk instead.
The tours take place in the national park, but bring you straight to the rhino, wherever they’re grazing.
Accompanied by knowledgeable guides and armed rangers, you’ll learn about these endangered creatures and the efforts to protect them. The safari offers much more than just an up-close encounter; it’s a chance to connect with nature and witness the rhinos in their natural habitat.
Hwange National Park
Country: Zimbabwe
Just a 2-hour drive from Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, the largest national park in Zimbabwe, is home to roughly 30,000 elephants (the 2nd largest population after Chobe NP in Botswana).
Roaming across its vast plains, teak forests, and seasonal wetlands, you’ll experience the dynamic landscape that makes Hwange a crown jewel of African wildlife conservation. The journey might be a bit long for a day trip, but the diversity and abundance of wildlife sightings make every moment in Hwange.
And you can also spend the night!
Chobe National Park
Country: Botswana (available as a day trip from Zimbabwe and Zambia)
A day trip to Chobe National Park in Botswana is one of the best safari experiences in Africa.
Start your day with a breathtaking river cruise, observing hippos, crocodiles, and a stunning array of birdlife. Following lunch, venture on a game drive to get up close with the park’s elephants, lions, buffalo, and so much more.
You’ll journey through one of Africa’s top wildlife destinations in an exhilarating blend of water and land that truly encapsulates the continent’s beauty.
Adventure Activities
If you need a shot of adrenaline in between conferences and meetings, Victoria Falls and the mighty Zambezi River are a hotbed of adrenaline-pumping adventure activities.
We can’t list everything, so here are the not-to-be-missed exploits!
Bungee Jump from Victoria Falls Bridge
Country: both
For the ultimate adrenaline rush, nothing beats bungee jumping from the Victoria Falls Bridge. Perched 111 meters above the Zambezi River, the bridge offers an exhilarating leap into the magnificent Batoka Gorge.
Even for those not daring enough to jump, the bridge presents a fantastic view of the surrounding scenery. You can also opt for the flying fox and zip lines, which are less scary.
White Water Rafting
Country: both
The Zambezi River is one of the best rafting rivers in the world, with everything from tranquil waters to adrenaline-pumping rapids.
Navigating through the “Boiling Pot,” “Devil’s Toilet Bowl,” or “Oblivion” offers a perfect mix of adrenaline, excitement, and raw natural beauty. And don’t worry, expert guides will be by your side to ensure you’re safe and sound.
Devil’s Pool and Livingstone Island
Country: both
Perched on the very edge of the Falls, Devil’s Pool offers heart-racing excitement as you swim at the brink of the world’s largest waterfall – you’ve seen no doubt the pictures and felt your heart skip a beat.
So, now it’s your turn to try.
Devil’s Pool is only open between mid-August and mid-January, when water levels are safe enough for a dip.
Nearby Livingstone Island, where David Livingstone first laid eyes on the Falls, is open year-round. Here, you can soak up history, enjoy a picnic, and take in the incredible panoramic views of the roaring waters.
Conclusion
If you’re visiting Victoria Falls for the first time, the area’s wealth of activities and day trips will leave you feeling both exhilarated and enchanted.
But don’t forget, you have a conference in the morning.
So, use this guide to plan your evenings and extra days off, and hopefully, you won’t leave disappointed.
Hosting an international event in Victoria Falls? Reach out to us! Our local destination experts will ensure your event planning is a breeze and a joy. We’re deeply passionate about the destinations we work in, and our on-the-ground teams across Africa are ready to help you seamlessly navigate your destination of choice.
