Dr. Terika L. Haynes shares her experience traveling to Victoria Falls in this three-part article series. Read on to learn about activities in the area, and click here to read about three hotels to stay in. Keep an eye out for a future article on dining options.

Things to Do: Iconic Adventures With a Luxurious Twist

Tour of Victoria Falls

No visit to Zimbabwe is complete without witnessing the power and beauty of Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. For the ultimate experience, opt for a private guided tour that explores both the Zimbabwean and Zambian sides of the falls. Each perspective offers a unique vantage point: Zimbabwe delivers sweeping panoramic views, while Zambia allows you to feel the mist and marvel at the geological formations from within the gorge itself.

This enriching, cross-border experience can be arranged through Intondolo Safaris and Tours, a trusted, locally based company known for its personalized service and knowledgeable guides, with some having over 30 years of guiding experience. From hotel pick-up to expert guided commentary, Intondolo ensures a stress-free and immersive experience that caters to travelers who value depth, context and comfort.

Pro Tip: Expect to experience more spray and water on the Zambia side. Wear appropriate clothing and shoes to stay as dry as possible.

Zambezi River Dinner Cruise

There’s nothing quite like watching the African sun dip below the horizon while cruising the mighty Zambezi River. Enjoy premium drinks, gourmet hors d’oeuvres, and wildlife sightings in a tranquil, upscale setting in Zimbabwe with a touch of elegance aboard Pure Africa’s Dinner Cruise on the Zambezi Breeze — a signature 2 in 1 experience that blends culinary sophistication with breathtaking views at sunset. This refined outing is far more than a scenic boat ride — it’s an immersive journey that captures the essence of African luxury.

At the onset of the experience, guests are welcomed onto one of Pure Africa’s beautiful vessels, which are sleek, multi-deck boats outfitted with comfortable seating, sophisticated decor and panoramic river views. As the golden hues of sunset reflect on the water and wildlife emerges along the riverbanks, guests are treated to a gourmet four-course dinner, thoughtfully prepared with fresh, locally inspired ingredients. The dinner includes pairing options of South African wines or handcrafted cocktails.

Wildlife sightings can be experienced on the sailing, which may include hippos surfacing near the boat, elephants quenching their thirst at the water’s edge or birdlife gliding overhead. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply savoring the moment, Pure Africa’s Dinner Cruise delivers an unforgettable sensory experience that epitomizes riverside romance and refined adventure.

Pro Tip: The upper deck offers great vantage points, where sweeping views and a peaceful atmosphere elevate the entire experience.

Intimate and Immersive Eco-Tourism Experiences, Zimbabwe and Botswana

For travelers seeking an intimate (or small group) and authentic connection with Zimbabwe's wilderness, Rukoko Safaris offers bespoke eco-tourism adventures led by seasoned guides with over 50 years of combined experience. Based in Victoria Falls, Rukoko specializes in personalized journeys through Zimbabwe and Southern Africa, emphasizing sustainability and cultural immersion. Their offerings include game drives and walking safaris in the Zambezi National Park, birding excursions and day trips to Hwange and Chobe National Parks. Guests can expect intimate wildlife encounters, educational insights and the comfort of air-conditioned transport. Rukoko's commitment to empowering local communities and preserving wildlife heritage makes it a standout choice for conscious luxury travelers. ​

Pro Tip: Lean into the expertise. Don’t be afraid to ask these experienced guides anything and everything related to the wildlife that you see.

Day Trip to Chobe National Park, Botswana

Spend your third day on a cross-border safari adventure with a private day trip to Chobe National Park in Botswana, just over an hour from Victoria Falls. Known for its massive elephant population and river-based wildlife viewing, this excursion includes a game drive and a Chobe River cruise, offering an intimate look at Southern Africa’s remarkable biodiversity.

Embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of Botswana's premier wildlife sanctuary with a Chobe Day Trip Excursion arranged by Hornbill Treks and Safaris, an African-owned tour company that specializes in tailor-made experiences that give back in the continent’s conservation projects and local communities. This meticulously curated experience combines the tranquility of a river safari with the thrill of a land-based game drive, offering a comprehensive exploration of Chobe National Park's diverse ecosystems. This experience includes a river and land safari.

Morning River Safari

First, your adventure begins with a morning cruise along the Chobe River, renowned for its high concentration of wildlife. As you glide through the serene waters, you may witness large herds of elephants, pods of hippos, crocodiles basking on the banks and a plethora of bird species in their natural habitat. After the river safari, a buffet lunch is held at a riverside lodge, where you can savor local and international cuisine while enjoying panoramic views of the Chobe River.

Afternoon Game Drive

After lunch you transition to an open 4x4 safari vehicle for an exciting afternoon game drive through the diverse landscapes of Chobe National Park. Traverse through lush floodplains and dense woodlands, accompanied by a guide who will share insights into the park's rich biodiversity. Animals that you may encounter include elephants, giraffes, baboons, buffalo and various bird species, all thriving in this protected environment.

Pro Tip: Pack water, snacks, sunscreen and other necessities as this is a long day trip.

Simunye: The Spirit of Africa – A Theatrical Celebration of Unity

Looking to enhance your cultural experience in Victoria Falls? Consider a night at Simunye: The Spirit of Africa, a mesmerizing theatrical production by the Victoria Falls Theatre Company. Held in an intimate 195-seat open-air venue at the Elephant's Walk Shopping Mall, this performance combines puppetry, dance, music and stunning visuals to narrate the journey of Bomani and his elephant companion, Ndlovu. Directed by acclaimed puppeteer Mongiwekhaya, Simunye delivers a powerful message of love, community and the universal spirit of togetherness. This show offers an unforgettable evening that resonates with audiences of all ages. 

Pro Tip: Arrive early to secure good seats (close to the stage).