Planning a trip to Victoria Falls from the Zimbabwean side offers an exciting opportunity to experience one of the world’s most stunning natural wonders.

Here’s a detailed guide to help you organize a trip to Victoria Falls:

Getting There for a Trip to Victoria Falls

Flights: The nearest airport is Victoria Falls Airport (VFA), located about 18 kilometers (11 miles) from the falls. Several airlines operate direct flights from major cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Nairobi.
By Road: If you’re coming from within Zimbabwe or neighboring countries, you can travel by car or bus. The road network is generally good, and there are regular bus services from Harare and Bulawayo.

Accommodation During a Trip to Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets:

Luxury Hotels:
- The Victoria Falls Hotel: Known for its colonial charm and proximity to the falls.
- Victoria Falls Safari Lodge: Offers stunning views and a chance to see wildlife.
Mid-range Hotels:
- Ilala Lodge: Located close to the falls with comfortable amenities.
- Cresta Sprayview Hotel: Offers good value and is near the town center.
Budget Options:
- Shoestrings Backpackers Lodge: Popular among budget travelers.
- N1 Hotel: Affordable and centrally located.

Activities on a Trip to Victoria Falls

Guided Tours of the Falls: Explore the falls with a knowledgeable guide who can provide insights into the history, geology, and wildlife of the area.
Helicopter Flights (“Flight of Angels”): Experience a bird’s-eye view of the falls and the surrounding area.
Devil’s Pool: During the dry season, you can swim in this natural pool at the edge of the falls. It’s a thrilling experience but only recommended for the adventurous.
Bungee Jumping: Jump off the Victoria Falls Bridge, 111 meters above the Zambezi River.
White-water Rafting: The Zambezi River below the falls offers some of the best white-water rafting in the world.
Sunset Cruises: Enjoy a serene cruise on the Zambezi River with opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy beautiful sunsets.
Game Drives and Safaris: Visit nearby national parks such as Zambezi National Park for game drives and wildlife viewing.
Cultural Tours: Visit local villages to learn about the customs and traditions of the local people.

Suggested 4 Days Trip to Victoria Falls Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Sunset Cruise

Morning: Arrive at Victoria Falls Airport and transfer to your hotel.
Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and relax.
Evening: Enjoy a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River.

Day 2: Exploring Victoria Falls

Morning: Take a guided tour of Victoria Falls.
Afternoon: Optional activities such as a helicopter flight or a visit to the Victoria Falls Rainforest.
Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant or your hotel.

Day 3: Adventure Activities

Morning: Engage in adventurous activities like bungee jumping, white-water rafting, or a swim in Devil’s Pool.
Afternoon: Visit a local market or take a short safari tour.
Evening: Enjoy a cultural performance or dine at a traditional Zimbabwean restaurant.

Day 4: Departure

Morning: Last-minute shopping or a relaxing morning at your hotel.
Afternoon: Transfer to the airport for your departure.

Practical Information

Visa Requirements: Check if you need a visa for Zimbabwe. A KAZA Univisa might be beneficial if you plan to visit both Zimbabwe and Zambia.
Health Precautions: Ensure you have the necessary vaccinations and take precautions against malaria.
Currency: The US dollar is widely accepted in Zimbabwe. ATMs and currency exchange services are available in Victoria Falls town.

Tips on a Trip to Victoria Falls

Best Time to Visit: The falls are most impressive from February to May, following the rainy season. For swimming in Devil’s Pool, visit during the dry season (September to December).
Packing Essentials: Comfortable walking shoes, rain gear for the spray from the falls, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Local Guides: Hiring local guides can enhance your experience with their knowledge and insights.

Conclusion

A trip to Victoria Falls from the Zimbabwean side is a memorable adventure filled with natural beauty, thrilling activities, and cultural experiences. With careful planning, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to one of the world’s most spectacular destinations.

INQUIRE NOW

GENERAL INFORMATION ON A TRIP TO VICTORIA FALLS

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: All visitors to Zimbabwe must have a valid passport with at least 4 consecutive blanks pages. Any applicable visa and/or relevant documentation are the responsibility of the traveller. For further information on Visa requirements visitors are advised to contact their nearest Zimbabwe Embassy or Consulate.

LANGUAGE: English

TIME: GMT +3

VOLTAGE: 220 Volts/AC50Hz. Sockets are UK style, 3 pin square plugs. Power is from the government in the city/major towns and generator with inverter back up in the Safari Lodges and Camps.

CURRENCY: Foreign currency must be changed at the Bank, Bureau de Change, and Hotel/Safari lodge/Camp/Resort. Major Credit Cards, Master card, Visa, American Express, are usually accepted throughout the country. Where credit cards are accepted, the payment will normally be recorded in US$ regardless of the card’s default currency.

CLOTHING: Dress is mainly informal and should be comfortable as well as practical. Something warm should be brought along for early morning and evenings. Safari clothes are available from hotels/lodges/camps.

BAGGAGE: Where possible, travel light. Baggage space on safari is limited to medium suitcase or soft bag per person plus reasonable amount of hand luggage. There is 15 Kilogram per person limit on all flights to the wildlife sanctuaries. Excess luggage must be stored in your arrival hotel.

WATER: You will find many different of opinion of what is safe and what is not. We recommend for peace of mind, to drink local Bottled Mineral water. It is important to drink plenty of water especially during the hotter months. We would recommend that guests drink at least 2 to 3 liters of water per day to limit the effects of dehydration.

HEALTH; East Africa is a safe and secure destination; however, it is a good idea to take a few precautions. Kindly consult your GP or local doctor at least 6 weeks before you travel, with regards: Malaria prophylactics. East Africa is a known malaria area and preventive measures are essential. You are advised to take one of the recommended anti-malarial drugs. Be sure to wear long sleeved shorts and trousers after sunset and spray the exposed parts of your body with a mosquito repellent spray Remember to protect yourself from direct sun rays with sunscreen cream or safari hat.

DIETARY REQUIREMENTS: For those guests with specific dietary requirement, please ensure we are notified prior to travel

GRATUITIES: As a guideline and dependent on how happy you are, we would suggest the following: The General Hotel/Lodge/Camp Staff – Approximately U$ 10.00 per person per day Driver Guides – Approximately US$ 15.00 to US$ 20.00 per person per day.

PHOTOGRAPHY: Please be careful when photographing public buildings, airports, bridges, the national flag and people in uniform. Ensure that you have sought permission before photographing local people and their villages. If in doubt, please check with your guide.