Top 10 Things to Do at Victoria Falls
Did you know that the famous waterfall has a little town tucked away close by, with the same name? In Lozi ( the local dialect ) the falls are called “The Smoke that Thunders” and thousands of people flock to admire the magnificent waterfall every year. It’s 1,708 metres wide and 108 metres high, creating a majestic sight to behold.
If you’ve travelled to Zimbabwe to admire the waterfall, and you’re staying over at one of the fantastic Victoria Falls hotels, there’s a lot of other activities to indulge in after you’ve seen (and felt) the thunderous waters. We’ve gathered the Top 10 Things to Do at Victoria Falls for you.
#1 Zambezi River White Water Rafting
Not only can you stand and admire the Victoria Falls, you can also ride the “waves” created by it. Below the falls the Zambezi River offers you top-notch white water rafting opportunities. It’s some of the best in the world. There are 24 thrilling rapids to conquer. Right after the falls lies an intense stretch of the river with a channel of high volume water. A truly unforgettable experience!
Average cost: US$ 120 p/p
Suggested companies: Wild Horizons or Shearwater
#2 Bungee Jumping
If you don’t like the idea of the water slapping you in the face on a raft, why not get your adrenaline shot from jumping off the Victoria Falls bridge? It is 111 metres high, guaranteed to give you the thrill of a lifetime.
Average Cost: US$ 160 p/p
Suggested Companies: Shearwater Bungee
#3 Swim in Devil’s Pool
Another option if you like being adventurous, but still prefer to stay on the safe side of thrill seeking. The rocky bathing pool is on the Zambian side of Victoria Falls and offers an extremely unique swimming opportunity. With the assistance of a local guide you can scoot to the edge of the pool to stand in awe of the 108m drop. But beware, the water is quite icy.
Average Cost: US$ 110 – 175 p/p
Suggested Companies: Victoria Falls Guide (official tour guide provider of Devil’s Pool swims)
#4 A Guided Tour of Victoria Falls
The waterfall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can explore on your own, but a guided tour can give you the inside scoop on interesting little-known facts, delving into the history of the Falls. There are various viewpoints along the way to admire the waterfall from different angles.
Average Cost: US$ 23 p/p (excl. US$30 National Parks fee)
Suggested Companies: Visit Victoria Falls or Shearwater
#5 Tiger Fishing on the Zambezi River
Tiger Fish are feisty little buggers, ranking among the top fighting fish in the world. Sit next to the Zambezi River, soaking up the serene surroundings, awaiting a bite, and then get ready to work hard to haul out one of these mighty fish. In the fast-flowing waters of the Zambezi, they can grow to weigh up to 10kg, with the smallest ones weighing around 2kg.
Average Cost: US$ 145 p/p
Suggested Companies: compare packages on Tiger Fishing Zambezi
#6 A Sunset Cruise
Watching the sun sink below the horizon from the leisure of a riverboat is a once in a life time experience. With the thunderous falls in the background, you can enjoy the constant flow of the river pushing you along while you soak up the vibe.
Average Cost: US$ 55 – 85
Suggested Companies: Wild Horizons or Raikane
#7 Historical Tour of the Victoria Falls Bridge
Challenge your tolerance for heights to learn more about the great architectural feat bridging the gap between the two sides of the river. The tour includes walking along the catwalks below the bridge, which were used in the construction process. The informative presentation will leave you with a greater appreciation of the formidable bridge.
Average Cost: US$ 65
Suggested Companies: Pure Africa Experiences or Shearwater
#8 High Tea at Victoria Falls Hotel
A visit to the Victoria Falls Hotel will transport you back to colonial times. Sip tea and pretend you are one of the early explorers of the country. You don’t have to stay at the hotel to indulge in the tea drinking ceremony. It’s not every day that your cup of tea is accompanied by a view of one of the most magnificent waterfalls in the world. Keep an eye out for the rainbows forming in the spray. The High Tea is hosted from 3 to 5PM.
Average Cost: dependent on menu selection
Suggested Companies: Victoria Falls Hotel
#9 Flight of Angels
Another great safe thrill-seeking option. Experience the Victoria Falls from a completely different angle, soaring about the roaring waters. David Livingstone coined the saying after writing about the area, “a sight so wonderful that Angels must have gazed down on it in flight”. The helicopters used for the aerial exploration have a special structure that offers each passenger unhindered views of the formidable falls. There are 15- and 30-minute flights available throughout the day.
Average Cost: US$ 150 – 290 (excl. US$15 National Park Fees)
Suggested Companies: Zambezi Helicopters or Wild Horizons
#10 Local Village Tour
When you are visiting a foreign country, it’s great to immerge yourself in its culture. The area around the Victoria Falls is rich with fascinating history, stories date back to over 700 years. The local guides will give you a glimpse into the daily lives of the people who call this area home. Try the local cuisine and learn more about the traditions of the communities staying close to the waterfall.
Average Cost: US$ 50
Suggested Companies: Wild Horizons or Pure Africa Experiences