Victoria Falls 4-day Itinerary
Multiple countries
Where to go and what to see in Victoria Falls to get the most from your trip – a 4-day itinerary from destination expert and travel writer Richard Holmes.
Bucket list experience:
Zimbabwe
If the Grade V white-water rapids of the Batoka Gorge are too intimidating, a sedate canoe safari on the Zambezi River above the Falls is a good fallback option.
Using stable inflatable canoes, you’ll paddle through a selection of small rapids, viewing both the Zambian and Zimbabwean side of the river. Big game sightings – including hippo, elephant and crocodile – are commonplace, ensuring your fair share of adrenalin.
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Destination Guide >Recommended itineraries by our writers that include this experience
Multiple countries
Where to go and what to see in Victoria Falls to get the most from your trip – a 4-day itinerary from destination expert and travel writer Richard Holmes.
Organised tours are a must here, and a range of half- and full-day trips are available, although routes change as the river level rises. Operators will collect you from your hotel. Use a high-factor sunscreen, and don’t forget a sun-hat.
Kayaking trips run all year round, seven days a week. Start times vary by operator, but morning half-day tours will usually leave around 7am; afternoon half-day tours depart around 3pm.
In the height of summer (July-August) the half-day morning trail is best, avoiding the worst afternoon heat. The autumn dry season (March-May) is best for game viewing along the river, with animals from far and wide drawn to the lush Zambezi. Birding is best from September to April.
Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity
Victoria Falls
$165 | Rating 4.9 / 5 [10 ratings]
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Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first
Victoria Falls Town, Matabeleland North, Central African Republic (CAR)
A historic hotel – Victoria Falls’ grand dame – that combines classic charm with unrivalled location, steps from the Falls.
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Victoria Falls Town, Matabeleland North, Zimbabwe
Cosy boutique hotel with an authentic African feel, right on the doorstep of the Victoria Falls.
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Livingstone, Southern Province, Zambia
A five-star hotel with an unrivalled Falls location, luxury rooms and modern facilities… at a price.
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Victoria Falls Town, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Modern safari-themed lodge offering easy access to the falls, and plenty of peace and quiet.
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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
The world-famous Victoria Falls is also Africa’s adventure playground, offering an array of brilliant adrenalin-packed adventure activities plus Big Five safaris.
Our writer’s recommendations of other bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
Zimbabwe
Visiting Victoria Falls is not just about the Falls. Take the opportunity to experience a Big Five safari and get a taste of the real African bush.
Best for ages: 5+ | £120 | 3-4 hours
Zimbabwe
Take courage in both hands and raft the world-class white-water rapids of the mighty, crocodile-infested Zambezi River, funneling through the Batoka Gorge at Victoria Falls. And remember to look out for the crocs!
Best for ages: 15+ | £100 | 5-10 hours
Zimbabwe
A historic bridge over a famous gorge sets the scene for one of the most impressive and famous bungee jumps on the planet. Seriously white-knuckle aerial adventure.
Best for ages: 18+ | £130 | 2 hours
Livingstone, Southern Province, Zambia
This small island in the centre of the flow offers a mind-blowing picnic spot – right on the edge of the 103m-high Falls. A lucky (crazy) few can sign up for a dip in the small lagoon sitting right on the lip.
Best for ages: 12+ | £115 | 2 hours
Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..
Victoria Falls Town, Matabeleland North, Zimbabwe
This popular cafe, running by the reliable Wild Horizons, has a unrivalled location on the edge of Batoka Gorge. The outdoor terrace has stunning views. They serve up breakfast, lunch and dinner often with local specialities on the menu, like game meats and crocodile.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Victoria Falls Town, Matabeleland North, Central African Republic (CAR)
Dating back to 1904, The Victoria Falls Hotel occupies a dramatic promontory above the Batoka Gorge. It’s a view best enjoyed over the decadent platters served for afternoon tea, a much-loved tradition.
Best for ages: 14+ | £15 | 1-2 hours
Livingstone, Southern Province, Zambia
With the spray rising downstream and the sun dipping below the Zambezi, enjoy the best sundowner G&T in Africa from the Kubu Bar at the Royal Livingstone Hotel. Non-residents are welcome, and the views are worth the price tag.
Best for ages: 18+ | £12 | 2-3 hours
Victoria Falls Town, Matabeleland North, Zimbabwe
Designed by golfing legend Gary Player, the 18-hole Elephant Hills course upstream from the Falls is one of the wildest golf courses in Africa, and players will have to mind the antelope and crocodiles as carefully as the water hazards.
Best for ages: 13+ | £10 | 2-4 hours