Crossing over the picturesque bridge that spans the Batoka Gorge, you can explore the falls at leisure from both sides of the Zambezi River.
Highlights on the Zimbabwe side include the rain forest, which is a protected sanctuary of ancient fig and mahogany trees alive with birds and small mammals; Devil's Cataract, where the formation of the next falls is slowly taking place; the Main Falls, in flow all year; Horseshoe Falls; and Rainbow Falls, suitably picturesque and a must at full moon when you can stay in the park after dark.
From the Zambia side of the falls, the Eastern Cataract, in flow during mid to peak water levels, provides a magnificent view along the gorge. Explore the falls from above at Livingstone Island and the Devil's Pools; below at the Boiling Pot; and astride at Danger Point, Chain Walk and Knife Edge.
The falls are magnificent and there's no shortage of ways to explore it all. Where to begin? Right here's a good start. A list of all the best activities and experiences. There's plenty and more. We didn't even list them all, just the ones we'd definitely recommend. Make sure you have enough time here to do as many of them as you can, especially when some can't be done elsewhere. Add them to your bucket list. Book your trip and then tick them off. Here we go.
Explore the wonder of the falls on foot from the edge within the rainforest. Zimbabwe definitely has the best views of the falls and numerous view points (16 to be exact) where you can stop and take pictures and simply stand in awe with the sound of the crashing water, in high water season even felt beneath your feet as you are drenched by the spray that easily rises 400 metres above. It's not called the 'The Smoke that Thunders' for nothing.
This is possible to do on your own but why not go with a guide? Let them unfold the mystery of this sheer curtain of water for you or do it with an audio guide if you need a foreign language translation (available at the entrance for USD 10 per person). Hire a raincoat if you need one and grab a map from a local vendor. A waterproof cover for your camera is also a good idea. Go early morning, as the sun comes up for the best light. Wear a good pair of walking shoes with good grip. Don't cross barriers (they're there for a reason).
Tour Cost: US$ 30 per person
Excluded: Park Entry Fee (Rainforest) - US$ 60
Included: Transfer
A whole new perspective of the sheer grandeur of the falls. Take a helicopter flip over the falls. This is a must experience. Grasp the extent of the Zambezi River before the water comes crashing down and the curtain of mist rises. It's a bit more pricey, but well worth every cent. Take our word for it.
Tour Cost:
12-13 minutes - US$ 150 per person
25-30 minutes - US$ 280 per person (minimum guests: 2)
Excluded: Fuel Levy & Government Fee (about US$15)
Included: Transfer
A sunset cruise on the Zambezi River is a relaxed way to enjoy the river and its surroundings as the day draws to a close. As the light softens, the river offers excellent photographic opportunities and a peaceful perspective on this iconic waterway. Birdlife is abundant, and guests may spot hippo, crocodile and, at times, elephant along the banks. The cruise includes finger snacks, beer, wine, local spirits and soft drinks and remains a popular addition to any Zambezi itinerary.
The cruise takes place on a comfortable, single-level vessel accommodating just 28 guests. Custom-built for stability, comfort and clear views, it offers a refined yet unpretentious setting in which to experience the upper Zambezi River at an easy pace.
Tour Cost: US$ 85 per person
Duration: 2 hours
Ages: All ages allowed
Included: Transfer
Excluded: Parks River Usage Fee
Minimum guests: 2
The Boma Restaurant is a surefire favourite and by far the most popular dining experience in Victoria Falls. An authentic local dining experience that will have you dressing in the cultural attire ('chitenges'), painting your face, playing drums and eating Mopani worms. Well that's if you want to. You certainly don't have to, but if you do you'll get a certificate as proof. It's all about traditional Zimbabwean cuisine. A four course meal buffet style. There's something for everyone, including those who are more daring and those who prefer to play it safe. This is quite frankly a must when in Victoria Falls. The atmosphere is amazing. Far better than the local beer you'll try and the predictions by the Sangoma (traditional healer).
Cost: US$ 75 per person
Included:
Buffet dinner
Transfer
Excluded: Drinks
The Bushtracks Express is a unique pre-dinner experience that combines classic steam train travel with a refined dining atmosphere. The restored train crosses the Victoria Falls Bridge, offering impressive views of the Falls and the Batoka Gorge below. Carefully refurbished carriages provide a comfortable, elegant setting, blending vintage character with modern service. It’s a relaxed and memorable way to experience one of the region’s most iconic landmarks before dinner.
Tour Cost: US$ 210 per person
Duration: 4 hours
Included:
Dinner
Select beverages
Transfer
Excluded: Visa fees (if guest transfers from another country)
Minimum age: 12 years
Days: Tour runs on Wednesday & Saturday
Lunch at the Lookout Café is enjoyed à la carte in a spectacular setting above the Zambezi River. Perched on the edge of the gorge, the café offers sweeping views across the river and surrounding landscape, adding a strong sense of place to the experience.
The menu features a choice of well-prepared main courses, drawing on both local flavours and international influences, followed by dessert. Combined with the relaxed atmosphere and remarkable outlook, it makes for an easy, memorable lunch in Victoria Falls.
Tour Cost: US$ 60 per person
Includes:
1x Main Meal
1x Dessert
Transfer
Excludes: Drinks
White-water rafting on the Zambezi River is one of Victoria Falls’ most iconic adventure experiences - and still one of its most rewarding. Available as a full-day trip or as a multi-day river journey of one, two or four nights, the experience begins with a steep descent into the gorge before launching onto the river, where a series of powerful rapids deliver a thrilling, physical journey through a dramatic stretch of the Zambezi.
Water levels determine the route. During low water (roughly August to December), rafting starts at Rapid 1 and runs through to Rapid 19, offering the most intense and technical experience. In higher water levels (May to July and January to March), the first section is skipped for safety reasons, with rafting starting at Rapid 11 and finishing at Rapid 23. While still exciting, low water remains the preferred option for those focused primarily on rafting.
Between rapids there are moments to regroup, take in the scenery and prepare for the next run, including several demanding Grade 5 sections. On the day trip, lunch is served after the rafting before returning to your hotel in time for another afternoon activity, energy permitting.
For those choosing the multi-day option, overnight rafting trails extend the experience with riverside camping. Guests sleep in lightweight two-man tents with roll-up foam mattresses and sleeping bags provided. Facilities are simple but well managed, including a portable toilet and bucket shower at camp. Meals are prepared on site, with limited drinks included — approximately two beers or soft drinks per person per night, and one bottle of wine shared between two guests. Any additional or imported alcoholic drinks must be supplied by guests themselves.
Tour Cost: US$ 140 per person
Duration: 6 hours 30 minutes
Minimum age: 15
Dates: all year, route changes according to water levels
Includes: Transfer
Excludes: Park River Usage Fee
There are different overnight options to chose from:
One night: US$ 265 per person
Two nights: US$ 645 per person
Four nights: US$ 1270 per person
Number of guests: 6 - 21
Dates: available 15 August to 30 November
Includes:
Transfers to/from town
Safety Gear
Limited drinks
Hearty Meals
All accommodation (camping) on a sharing basis
Excludes:
Park & River usage fees
Gratuities
Personal items for the duration of your camping/rafting trip
For the adrenaline junkies - go bungee (111 metres), bridge swing or fly. If you're in it for the adrenaline rush there's loads to do. If you're not so much a high flyer, risk taker or 'live on the edge' kind, there are options for you too. Opt rather for the zip line or do a canopy tour. Any activities on or from the bridge - you'll need your passport.
Tour Cost: US$ 55 per person
Includes:
Transfers to/from town
Safety Equipment
Excludes: Park Fees
Tour Cost:
Solo Zip Line - US$ 90 per person
Tandem Zip Line - US$ 130 per person
Includes:
Transfers to/from town
Safety Equipment
Excludes: Park Fees
Tour Cost:
Solo Gorge Swing - US$ 110 per person
Tandem Gorge Swing - US$ 165 per person
Includes:
Transfers to/from town
Safety Equipment
Excludes: Park Fees
Minimum guests: 2
Tour Cost: US$ 65 per person
Includes:
Transfers to/from town
Safety Gear
Excludes: Park Fees
Tour Cost:
15 Minutes - US$ 165 per person
30 Minutes - US$ 325 per person
Includes:
Microlight Flight
Safety Gear
Excludes:
Transfer to/from Zimbabwe/Zambia
Visa Fees
Zambian Aviation Fees
Tour Cost: US$ 165 per person
Includes: Safety gear
Excludes: Transfer to/from town
The Malachite Zambezi Dinner Cruise offers a relaxed evening on the Zambezi River, just upstream from Victoria Falls. Cruising at an unhurried pace, it’s an easy way to enjoy the river and its wildlife as day turns to night. A buffet dinner is served on board while guests take in views of the riverbanks, where hippo, elephant and birdlife are often seen. The setting is peaceful, with the changing light and open water adding to the atmosphere.
Suitable for couples, families and small groups, the dinner cruise is a comfortable and enjoyable way to end the day on the Zambezi.
Tour Cost: US$ 165 per person
Includes:
Transfers to/from town
4 course dinner (soup, starter, main & dessert)
Cocktails, imported spirits, beer, wine, water, soft drinks, coffee & tea
Excludes: River Usage Fee
Number of guests: 2 - 32
Duration: 3.5 - 4 hours
A walking safari with white rhino in Livingstone’s Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park offers a rare opportunity to observe one of Africa’s most endangered species on foot. Led by experienced guides, the walk provides an up-close yet carefully managed encounter, combining wildlife viewing with a strong conservation focus.
The experience lasts approximately three hours and is taken at a gentle pace, allowing time to quietly observe wildlife and engage with your guide. Along the way, there are regular stops to discuss rhino behaviour, the challenges facing the species and the ongoing efforts to protect them for the future.
This is a meaningful and educational activity, offering insight into conservation work while experiencing the bush in a more personal and immersive way.
Tour Cost: US$ 85 per person
Includes: Transfer to/from town
Excludes: National Park Fee
Number of guests: 3 - 24
There are loads of activities and there's so many things to do. The above as we mentioned are just the most popular, but there are also others:Museums and MarketsLocal Village ToursBike TourMicrolight FlightSteam Train TripsCanoeing SafarisSiduli HideFishingCrocodile FarmHorse Back SafarisHigh Teas Spas and Massage TherapyThere are also great package deals available for activities if you plan on doing more than one. Buy your activity ticket in advance. Combine certain activities and get discounted rates.
The above prices indicated are based on the costs of the activities from the Zimbabwean side of the falls.
Depending on whether you will stay on the Zimbabwean or Zambian side of the falls will affect the costs as indicated and you may need to get an additional visa if you will be crossing over to the other side for an activity. If you aren't sure which side of the falls to stay on, read our article Zimbabwe or Zambia? and if you wondering when is best in terms of the water levels: Victoria Falls Water Levels - When is Best?
These activities are only available as add-ons to our itineraries. We are not a registered activity bureau and cannot make independent bookings.
Most Victoria Falls activities can be booked on arrival at your lodge or hotel but we recommend you talk to our Travel Experts about what is available and what you want to do. Some options are seasonal or water-level dependent and some are best booked in advance.
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