Best places to stay:
The ‘grand old lady’ of Victoria Falls retains a loveable colonial charm, combined with a glorious location – the best on the Zimbabwean side – just a few minutes’ walk from the Falls.
The terrace and expansive gardens have picture-perfect views of the iconic Batoka Gorge bridge, and on blistering summer days you’ll be glad of the large hotel pool.
A range of bars and restaurants mean you’ll be happily fed and water without leaving – don’t miss the High Tea on Stanley’s Terrace – a classic slice of colonial cuisine, with spectacular views of the spray from the Falls.
Set on a clean quiet street on the outskirts of town, perhaps the only noise that’ll bother you is the chuffing of the luxurious Rovos Rail train arriving at the historic railway siding a few steps from the front door.
The Batoka Gorge and wide-open bushveld encircle most of the expansive grounds, so you’ll feel far removed from the bustle of tourists and tours that characterises the town centre.
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Bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
Zimbabwe[0.4 miles]
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[0.6 miles]
Paddle down the mighty Zambezi, spotting birds and big game including hippo, elephant and crocodile.
Best for ages: 12+ | £120 | 5 hours
Zimbabwe[0.9 miles]
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
Livingstone, Southern Province, Zambia[1.5 miles]
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 in this destination if you have the time or the interest, closest first
Victoria Falls Town, Matabeleland North, Central African Republic (CAR)[0.1 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
Victoria Falls Town, Matabeleland North, Zimbabwe[0.4 miles]
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
Livingstone, Southern Province, Zambia[2.7 miles]
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[2.8 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
Destination guides including or relevant to this place to stay
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.
