My Ultimate Vic Falls Itinerary
Where to Stay The accommodation you choose will significantly impact your Victoria Falls experience. There are options on both the Zimbabwean and Zambian sides of the falls.
Zimbabwe Side
Victoria Falls Hotel: This colonial-era luxury hotel offers stunning views and is just a short walk from the falls. The afternoon high tea on the terrace overlooking the Victoria Falls Bridge is a must and is a recommended must do regardless of where you choose to stay.
Ilala Lodge: A boutique hotel within walking distance of the falls, offering excellent dining and comfortable rooms.
Victoria Falls Safari Lodge: Set on a plateau overlooking the Zambezi National Park, this lodge provides a more immersive wildlife experience while still being close to the falls.
Zambia Side
Royal Livingstone Hotel: A 5-star hotel with direct access to the falls and resident zebras and giraffes wandering the grounds.
David Livingstone Safari Lodge and Hotel: A 4 star river bank based lodge that is a fantastic alternative to the Royal Livingstone Hotel. Situated approximately 10km from the falls on a beautiful stretch of the Zambezi River, the hotel offers complimentary shuttles to the Falls and back. We stayed here and absolutely LOVED it - from it's riverside situation to the incredibly comfortable beds, friendly staff and epic situation for photo opportunities along the Zambezi. The hotel offers complimentary shuttles to the falls.
Suggested Day-by-Day Itinerary Day 1: Arrival & First Glimpse
Morning/Afternoon: Arrive and check into your accommodation Afternoon: Free time to explore your surroundings and relax. Late afternoon/Evening: Enjoy a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River, complete with drinks and snacks while spotting hippos, crocodiles, and elephants
Day 2: Victoria Falls Day
Morning: Head out for a guided tour of the Falls and make the most of your time by crossing the bridge (don't forget your passport and visa) to view the falls from the other side. At high water season, the view is often less obscured from the Zambian side so well worth checking out. Afternoon: Visit the Victoria Falls Bridge for bungee jumping or the swing (if you're daring). Or just to observe the craziness. Late afternoon: Dust yourself off and indulge in the decadent afternoon high tea on offer at the Victoria Falls Hotel
Day 3: Wildlife Encounters
Full day: Add a third country stamp to your passport with either a full day or half day excursion to nearby Chobe National Park in Botswana. These tours pick up guests from hotels in both Victoria Falls as well as Livingstone and the full day tour includes a river cruise on the Chobe River, lunch and an afternoon game drive. Evening: Enjoy a relaxed dinner at your accommodation or try one of the local restaurants in town
Day 4: Cultural Immersion and further exploration
Morning: Visit local craft markets for souvenirs, we hopped into Livingstone, Zambia for this experience, again enjoying the complimentary use of the hotel shuttle. Afternoon: Take a guided tour of a nearby village to learn about local culture and traditions or take a helicopter flight over the falls (the "Flight of Angels") for breathtaking aerial views (if your budget stretches to this, I can highly highly recommend it). Evening: Splurge on a fine dining experience at one of the luxury hotels for your final night or try a boma dinner for a continuation of your cultural experience.
Must-Do Activities
Viewing the Falls The falls can be viewed from numerous vantage points. The Zimbabwean side offers more comprehensive views with about 16 viewing points, while the Zambian side allows you to get closer to the thundering water, especially at the Knife-Edge Bridge. Tip: Visit during different times of day for varied experiences. Early morning offers rainbows in the mist, while sunset paints the spray golden.
The Devil's Pool (Seasonal) When water levels are lower (typically August to January), brave visitors can swim to the edge of the falls in this natural infinity pool on the Zambian side. It's perfectly safe when guided but certainly not for the faint-hearted!
Wildlife Experiences Elephant Encounters: Interact with rescued elephants at sanctuaries near the falls River Safaris: Spot wildlife along the Zambezi from a boat Birding Tours: The area is home to over 400 bird species
Practical Tips
Best Time to Visit High-water season (February to July): Spectacular volume but prepare to get soaked! Some activities like Devil's Pool and white-water rafting may be unavailable when water levels are extremely high. Low-water season (August to January): Better for adventure activities and photography, though the falls aren't quite as thunderous.
Border Crossing If you're staying on one side but want to visit the other, plan for border crossings, take your passport and remember to apply for your visas and complete your online immigration forms before you travel.
What to Pack Quick-dry clothing Waterproof camera/phone case Comfortable walking shoes Sun protection Cash for park fees and small purchases (small denomination US$ are the most practical).
Health Precautions The area is in a malaria zone, so take appropriate precautions Keep hydrated, especially if participating in adventure activities
Victoria Falls offers an incredible blend of natural wonder, adventure, wildlife, and cultural experiences. With proper planning, your 4-night stay will give you a taste of everything this magnificent destination has to offer, leaving you with memories to last a lifetime—and likely planning your return visit before you've even left!
