48 Hours in Victoria Falls
More than just a waterfall
To visit Victoria Falls and only see the main event is to miss out. You can easily lose two days – if not more – in this unforgettable area.
As the world’s largest waterfall, it’s only right that Victoria Falls appears on lots of bucket lists.
When the river is in full flood and the roar of the water is at its most intense, the power of nature here is like nowhere else on earth. But beyond the Falls, even more experiences and adventures await.
First, do the Falls twice
We recommend seeing the Falls from the land and the air. Thanks to strategically placed viewing points along the way, you can walk the National Park with or without a guide. Just be sure to wear clothes that dry quickly and take a waterproof bag as the chances are you’ll get drenched. Afternoons tend to be much quieter. Visit at night and, if there’s a full moon, you might be lucky enough to see a moonbow, when the water catches the light reflected from the surface of the moon.
By air, there’s the ‘Flight of Angels’ or you can transfer to your lodge by helicopter over the Falls and the Mighty Zambezi. (Katherine, our senior travel specialist, still talks about her flight from Royal Chundu as one of the greatest experiences of her life.)
Pulse-racing pursuits
A dip in Devil’s Pool, nature’s most thrilling infinity pool, isn’t to be missed (it’s seasonal, so speak to us first). There are gorge swings and zip lines – we heartily recommend white water rafting on the grade-five rapids. Our managing director, Liz, tried it recently and loved it, despite not being a natural water baby!
Laid-back and leisurely
Take an art safari at the local elephant sanctuary and indulge your inner Picasso. Prepare a local meal and enjoy a guided canoe or raft trip on the river while it slowly cooks in a traditional ‘Potjie’. And don’t leave without taking a sunset or sunrise cruise.
Zimbabwe or Zambia?
If you prefer a buzz, Zimbabwe is your better bet. The Victoria Falls Hotel is the most famous place to stay and is currently undergoing an extensive makeover, due to be completed by July 2021. The historic Edwardian architecture of the original building remains intact as will most of the central guest areas but the majority of the bedrooms will receive an exciting contemporary refurbishment - we can't wait to see more about this loved 'Grande Dame'!
The Stanley & Livingstone Boutique Hotel is close to town, but removed from the noise and bustle. Prefer a riverside location? Matetsi River Lodge and Mpala Jena Tented Camp are both right on the banks and offer game drives in their private reserves.
In Zambia, the Royal Livingstone has its own private path to the Falls. We love the quirkiness of Tongabezi’s riverfront cottages. And for seclusion, Royal Chundu and Thorntree River Lodge are two of our favourites.
Double-up your destinations
With a joint visa you can visit Zimbabwe and Zambia. You can also combine Victoria Falls with lots of other destinations: South Africa, Namibia, Botswana’s Okavango Delta and Chobe. It’s easy to tick off the Great Migration thanks to a direct flight from Nairobi – and of course there are countless safari experiences in Zimbabwe and Zambia themselves.
Looking for more Inspiration?
Check out the other blogs in our 48 hours in… series:
Contact Us
Call us for some creative itinerary planning.
Give our knowledgeable team a call on 01904 866 033 or email: africa@knightonreeve.co.uk.