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Bucket list experience:

Last updated: 11 May, 2022
Expert travel writer: Richard Holmes

The tiger fish is regarded as the finest freshwater fighting fish in the world, and the Zambezi is arguably the best place to catch them.

Daily fishing safaris set off into the calm waters above the Falls (or amid the rapids of the Batoka Gorge), and expert local guides induct you into the wily ways of hooking this fearsome predator. Even if you’re not a fisherperson, it’s a pleasure being out on the water.

Price from: £85
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 8+
When: All year around
Duration: 5+ hours

Getting there & doing it

Trips depart from launch points upstream of the Falls, with about half a day spent on the river. Rates usually include transfers from your hotel. All tackle and equipment are provided along with refreshments. A high-factor sunscreen and hat are essential. No prior fishing experience is necessary. Most operators follow a catch-and-release policy.

When to do it

Tours run all year round, seven days a week, with departures either early morning or early afternoon.

Tiger fish are most active – and easier to catch – in the warm summer months between October and March.

Recommended itineraries by our writers that include this experience

Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first

Tongabezi Lodge

Livingstone, Southern Province, Zambia[6.9 miles]

Charming riverside lodge with romantic thatched open-plan villas, personal service and top-notch activities.

Official star rating:

Matetsi Victoria Falls

Matetsi Private Game Reserve, Matabeleland North, Zimbabwe[15.2 miles]

Set 45-minutes’ drive upstream from the Falls in 50,000-hectare private wilderness concession, on the Zambezi, Matetsi Victoria Falls offers a perfect mix of aquatic adventure and safari escapism.

Official star rating:

Victoria Falls River Lodge

Zambezi National Park, Matabeleland North, Central African Republic (CAR)[16.5 miles]

A contemporary, luxury lodge in an enviable location on the banks of the Zambezi River, a short way upstream from the Victoria Falls.

Official star rating:

Victoria Falls Safari Lodge

Victoria Falls Town, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe[21.2 miles]

Modern safari-themed lodge offering easy access to the falls, and plenty of peace and quiet.

Official star rating:

Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

Victoria Falls

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.

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Our writer’s recommendations of other bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first

Cruise on the Zambezi

Victoria Falls Town, Matabeleland North, Zimbabwe[20.7 miles]

Scenic cruises and game spotting on one of Africa’s greatest rivers, just made for sundowners.

Best for ages: 4+ | £35 | 1+ hours

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Royal Livingstone Express

Livingstone, Southern Province, Zambia[23 miles]

Fine-dining aboard a lovely colonial-era steam train as it chuffs for 15km through the game-rich Zambian bush.

Best for ages: 13+ | £150 | 4 hours

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Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..

Golf course next to the Zambezi river with hippos in the water
Experience

Golf at Elephant Hills

Victoria Falls Town, Matabeleland North, Zimbabwe[21.9 miles]

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

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The outside of the David Livingstone Museum
Experience

David Livingstone Museum

Livingstone, Southern Province, Zambia[22.8 miles]

There’s not much to recommend the town of Livingstone, but Zambia’s largest and oldest museum is certainly worth a visit for its collection of original David Livingstone artefacts, including tools, journals and maps.

Best for ages: 18+ | £5

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Traditional African wooden masks
Experience

Dambwa Market

Livingstone, Southern Province, Zambia[23.2 miles]

Enjoy a taste of local living at the Dambwa market in Livingstone. This is where locals come to shop, and you’ll find everything from fresh produce to wooden carvings. Guided tours are available if you’re unsure about exploring on your own.

Best for ages: 13+ | Free

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The famous afternoon tea stand with sweet treats
Experience

Afternoon tea at the Victoria Falls Hotel

Victoria Falls Town, Matabeleland North, Central African Republic (CAR)[24.1 miles]

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: 13+ | £15 | 1-2 hours

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