6 days - Victoria Falls, by air, river and gorge

Six days above and below the falls on the Zambezi

Six days based at Victoria Falls: a sunset cruise on the Zambezi, a helicopter flight over the falls, a Boma dinner, and rafting, bungee and a jet boat in the gorge.

1 Country
1 Stop
5 Nights
Medium Service level
  • The storyThe headline tells the journey in a few lines, one after another.
  • At a glanceThe figures beneath it are the essential facts of the trip.

The journey

When to go

Victoria Falls water
Zambezi rafting
Devil’s Pool and Angel’s Pool
Heat and rain
Victoria Falls water Zambezi rafting Devil’s Pool and Angel’s Pool Heat and rain Avoid
August Primary window

Flow is falling and the gorge opens up to view. Rafting runs, and Devil’s Pool opens when the river level allows. Dry and clear, with cool mornings and warm afternoons.

Falling water Devil’s Pool opens Cool mornings

The route

Victoria Falls
01

Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls, with the falls from the air, the Zambezi and the gorge.

Transfer Victoria Falls Airport to the hotel. 15:50 - Pick up from your hotel for Sunset Cruise Zambezi River. A sunset cruise on the Zambezi is the only way to end the day in Victoria Falls. On River Song, you can enjoy the scenery and the wildlife of the Zambezi in the lap of luxury. Relax on one of our sofas or comfortable chairs as the sunsets on one of the world's most beautiful and picturesque rivers. Sightings of hippos, elephants, and crocodiles are standard on the river. With a bar on each deck and attentive waiting staff, you will never have to wait for a drink. Our staff will also serve you a selection of delicious hor d’oeuvres throughout the cruise.
Guided Tour of Falls • 12 & 13 min Angels Flight over Victoria Falls. -Breakfast -Guided Tour of Victoria Falls app 2h30 min -Flight of Angels–12& 13 min Flight over Victoria Falls There is no better way to see the scale, magnificence, and beauty of Victoria Falls than in the air. A helicopter flight over the Falls is a rare opportunity to view one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. As well as the Falls, you get spectacular views of the Batoka Gorge, Victoria Falls Bridge, and the Zambezi River. We also fly over the Zambezi National Park so you will have the opportunity to spot game from the air. Our helicopters have specially developed bubble windows to give you the best view. We also don’t sell the middle seat, so all guests are guaranteed an uninterrupted view. Our helipad is only five minutes from town (the closest in Victoria Falls) and you can see the spray from the helipad. You’ll be over the Falls almost immediately after take-off. Flight of Angels 12-13 minutes: The Flight of the Angels, so named after David Livingstone’s famous quote- “Scenes so lovely they must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight”- takes off and heads straight for the Falls, here it does a left and right turn over the Falls, allowing passengers the best views of the Falls. From the Falls, the helicopter will head upstream and fly over the Zambezi National Park.
Adventure Boat Our 465 horsepower specially made Adventure Jet Boat will take you up the rapids and into the boiling pot, right under the falls. The true power and intensity of the waterfalls can only be appreciated as you view them from below, covered in their spray. Leaving the boiling pot, the Adventure Jet Boat will take you on a fast-paced thrilling experience like no other, down and up rapids and through sharp turns as you speed down and back up the Batoka Gorge. Your safety is paramount - our jet boat was purpose-built for the Zambezi and our captains have grown up on the river. They will ensure you have an exciting, thrilling but safe ride. Bungee Jump Pick up for the bungee jump With Victoria Falls as the backdrop, the 114-year-old Victoria Falls Bridge as the starting point, and the Zambezi River rushing below adrenalin activities off the bridge are some of the most scenic, exciting, and picturesque in the world. Our partners are the pioneers of bridge activities and pride themselves on their world-class offering. They’ve been offering commercial bungee jumps since 1994 and have safely jumped over 300,000 people. They’ve operated the swing and the slide since 2007, making them one of the most experienced operators in the world. Bungee offers undoubtedly the most scenic bungee jump in the world. They offer 111m of bungee, resulting in a 4-second, adrenalin-fuelled, free fall. It will be the most exciting 4 seconds of your life. The Bridge Swing The Bridge Swing offers you an opportunity for an amazing big-air experience and sheer adrenalin in front of Victoria Falls. That is without a doubt one of the most spectacular swings in the world! The 115-year “Grand ol’ Dame” Bridge is suspended between 2 countries and the only place in the world that you get to swing in no-man’s land. Just walk off the edge of the platform. The swing is done using two 65-metre static line climbing ropes attached to a 10-tonne safe working load cable by a steel clamp. A 1m-bungee cord is positioned on the clamp to provide the swinger with a smoother ride and more comfortable swing. Swingers remain in a seated position throughout the recovery and can enjoy the view of both the Falls and the bridge. The swinger is recovered to the winch platform and then walks out in the same manner as the bungee jumpers and comes out on the Zambian side of the bridge (still in no man’s land!) Bridge Slide/Zipline “The Longest slide in Victoria Falls…” The Bridge Slide offers you a remarkable opportunity for sheer fun in front of the falls. The slide begins on the Zambian bank of the gorge and ends on the Zimbabwean side of the bridge. As the client slides from the gorge towards the bridge, they get an incredible view of the falls and the bridge during this amazing big-air experience. The 115-year “Grand ol’ Dame” Bridge is suspended between 2 countries and the only place in the world where you get to slide into no-man’s land. Just step off the edge of the gorge and slide towards the bridge. The slide platform consists of two areas, one of which is available for viewing purposes and the other is restricted solely for the slider/s and the crew. The clients are attached to the cable using a twin-bearing inbound pulley that can take up to 1.5 tons. Due to the nature of the catenary (the slack in the cable), the slider will come to a slow stop on the upper part of the cable. Before the slider begins to slide backward a recovery operator on a separate slider will meet the client and attach himself to the slider of the client/s. The recovery operator is then retrieved along with the client back towards the bridge platform. Once the client has been detached from the slider, he/she is assisted over the railing and joins both the swingers and jumpers on the walkout. Notes: Guests are required to make their way to the Bridge. Sufficient time must be allowed to get from Victoria Falls / Livingstone town to the border, through Customs & Immigration then down to the bridge and up to the registration check-in. Clients are recommended to leave town 1 hour before the appointed swing time. Certificates will be issued to all clients who swing. (We arrange the transfer for you).
Devil’s Pool – Zambia Side of Victoria Falls – from August to February. Devil’s Pool is a natural pool of water that’s situated atop Victoria Falls, renowned for being among the largest waterfalls in the world. Right on the edge of this massive waterfall, a calm pool of water forms. This is known as the Devil’s Pool Victoria Falls. And daring visitors can swim in this pool straddling the edge of Victoria Falls! Devil’s Pool Victoria Falls is located in the Zambezi River, along the Zambia-Zimbabwe border. Devil’s Pool is a death-defying feat that even the most casual of thrill seekers should not miss. When visiting Devil’s Pool, it’s even possible to lean over the edge of Africa’s Victoria Falls! This spectacular experience in Devil’s Pool is every bit as mind-boggling as it looks. Visitors can get right up to the edge of what amounts to more than a 100-metre waterfall drop. Angel’s Pool – From February to August Similar to Devil’s Pool, Angel’s Pool was slowly eroded into existence, over thousands of years, due to the over 500 000 metric tonnes of water passing over the falls every minute. Situated a little further back from the falls at 15 metres from the sheer 100-metre drop – Angel’s Pool is still a must-see but offers visitors a bit more confidence, comfort, and safety while still experiencing the epic view and thunderous roars of the falls. Open during the rainy season when water levels are higher, Angel’s Pool is the alternative option when the water is too high to experience the famous Devil’s Pool. This means that you can experience at least one of the pools almost year-round.
Rafting The Zambezi needs no introduction, no white water compares to the grade-five rapids of this incredible river. That is the most exciting, electrifying, and adrenaline-fuelled rafting trip in the world. The Falls and the Batoka gorge provide a fitting backdrop for such an experience. This is an African adventure you will never forget. As well as the renowned one-day trip. Boma dinner That is not just another ethnic restaurant, but a unique cultural experience. Excellent cuisine, including a variety of game meats and traditional Zimbabwean dishes, is accompanied by entertainment throughout your meal from traditional dancers, the Sangoma (storyteller), and a local fortune teller who is available for fortune telling. The Boma is open for dinner from 7.00 pm until late 365 days of the year. The Boma sits in Gusu Forest and is partly open to the spectacular African night skies. A feast of nightly entertainment incorporates Shangaan dancers and singers and a local fortune teller. Guests are welcomed with a traditional greeting in Shona and Ndebele, the local languages. They are invited to take part in a hand-washing ceremony before sampling traditional beer and snacks as a prelude to dinner. After dinner, guests are invited to wile away the evening with the restaurant’s very own Sangoma–a traditional storyteller to learn more about the country’s folklore, culture, and heritage.
Transfer from your lodge to Victoria Falls Airport. End of our services.

Choose your activities

Bungee jump · Day 3, from the Victoria Falls BridgeA 111 m bungee jump with the falls as the backdrop.

The detail

About this trip

Victoria Falls is the largest waterfall in the world. Locals call it Mosi-oa-Tunya "the Smoke Which Thunders,” or Chongue “The Place of the Rainbow”. When this waterfall was discovered by explorer David Livingstone, he said it was the most beautiful sight in Africa and named it after the Queen of England. Although most of the waterfall is located in Zambia, it has the best view from Zimbabwe. On 6-Day Victoria Falls, you will see the waterfall from the ground, from a bird's-eye view, and meet the sunset on the Zambezi River. In addition, the waterfall gives you the opportunity to experience extreme sports. Here you can go rafting, bungee jumping, and take the most spectacular flight over the falls on a zipline.

What is included

  • 5 nights accommodation as per programme
  • 5 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 1 dinner
  • Luggage porterage
  • Local taxes as VAT or bed levy are included at the rate applicable at the time the costing is done and can change
    without notice.

What is not included

  • International flights
  • Tips and personal expenses
  • Unless otherwise indicated, our rates do not include the entrance fees for parks or game reserves. They are to be settled by the clients directly at the entrance. Unless otherwise indicated, our rates do not include the meals.

Good to know

Frequently asked questions

What is the capacity of the Adventure Jet Boat?
The Adventure Jet Boat can carry 12 passengers.
Is there a minimum number of passengers?
The boat will run with a minimum of 2 passengers.
How do i get to the jet boat?
We will pick you up from your hotel in Victoria Falls. Hotels outside of Victoria Falls will attract an additional fee. Our guides will then walk you down the gorge.
Is there an age limit?
Children must be above 12 years of age and able to fit in the smallest life jacket.
Is there a weight limit?
As long as you are fit enough to walk in and out of the gorge and can fit in our largest life jacket and helmet, we can accommodate you in the Adventure Jet Boat
What should I bring?
Sunscreen, clothes you don’t mind getting wet, a hat and a waterproof camera. Comfortable shoes you can walk in and out of the gorge in.
What to leave behind?
Anything you don’t want to get wet, any valuables.
What are the hours of operation?
The Adventure Jet Boat starts operation at 8am with the last boat leaving at 1500, all trips leave on the hour.
How fit do I have to be?
You have to be fit enough to walk in and out of the gorge. The walk in and out of the gorge is steep and, in places, rocky.
What safety equipment do you use?
All clients are provided with a lifejacket and helmet.
What is the time commitment?
The Adventure Jet Boat is on the water for between 45-50 minutes. The total turnaround time is around 3 hours. This includes: • 20 minute transfer each way. • 10 minute safety briefing. • 30-60 minutes getting in and out of the gorge. • 45-50 minute adventure jet boat ride.
Does the jet boat operate all year?
The Adventure Jet Boat is usually out of operation in April and May for 60 days due to high water and 30 days at very low water in October and November.
Can I get photo and videos?
Photos and videos of the trip can be purchased for an additional fee.
Are there any health restrictions for bungee jump?
People with high blood pressure, bad backs or heart issues are not advised to do the bungee or swing.
What is included in the price of bungee jump?
Included in the price is a certificate to prove you’ve done the activity.
What is excluded?
Videos, photos and merchandise are available for an extra fee
Can I do bungee jump in any weather?
We stop jumping during rain to protect the cords. Luckily the rain showers in Zimbabwe are normally over very quickly.
Can I get photos and videos of my jump/swing/slide?
We have a media team capturing your activity from start to finish and videos and photos can be purchased for an additional fee
What should I bring?
Our jump takes place between Zimbabwe and Zambia, so you do need to bring your passport. Entry rules depend on your nationality and change, so check the official government source before you travel.
What should I leave behind?
Any valuables and anything that might fall out of your pockets.
What “TO” bring for the Bridge Swing?
Your passport. Entry rules depend on your nationality and change, so check the official government source before you travel. Some cash if you would like to buy DVDs or merchandise. No special clothing, equipment or experience is necessary.
What “NOT” to bring for the Bridge Swing?:
Swingers are advised to remove any Jewellery and Accessories or CLOTHING that may fall off.
Are there age restrictions for Bridge Swing?
Minimum age – 14 years. 18yrs and under must have written consent of parent or guardian.
Are there weight restrictions?
Minimum – 40 kilograms, Maximum – 160 kilograms.
What are the rafting seasons?
Low water normally runs between August and December. High Water normally runs between January and April. The river is normally closed for rafting between April and August. Multi-day trips generally only run between August and December.
Where does the trips start?
During low water you start your rafting trip in the spray of Victoria Falls, right in the boiling pot. You get an unrivalled view of the Falls and the Bridge. You will navigate rapids 1-19 in some of the most intense grade 5 rapids known to man. During high water your rafting will start at rapid 11, 10km downstream from the mighty Falls. You will continue on to rapid 23. Please note dates do vary due to rainfall and river levels.
Are food and drinks included?
Lunch, cold beers and soft drinks are served at the end of the trip. Water is available throughout the trip.
Do i need to be able to swim?
No. We provide life jackets. If you can’t swim we ask clients to inform the trip leader.
Can I get photos and video of my trip?
Yes. Photos and videos of each rafting trip are produced. These are available for an additional fee.
What should I bring with me?
Swimming costume, t shirt, sunscreen, any medication needed, national parks fees. Additional dry clothes can be left with the team and retrieved at the top of the gorge.
What shouldn't I bring?
All valuables should be left in your hotel safe. Anything that isn’t waterproof.
What insurance do you have in place?
Shearwater has public liability insurance in place for all activities, underwritten by Lloyds of London. Insurance advice depends on your trip and is covered in your quote.
What are the timings of your trips?
You will meet at 07:30 for a safety briefing and be back at your hotel around 15:00. The multi-day trips have different timings depending on the trip.
What are the fitness requirements?
A reasonable level of fitness is required to walk in and out of the gorge. The walk out is equivalent to climbing a 70-story building, there are rest stops and drink breaks on the way and rafters can go at their own pace. Clients need to declare any health issues and medication before they raft.
How do the activities connect on the 6-day Victoria Falls trip?
Everything is based around Victoria Falls. Day 1 starts with a transfer from Victoria Falls Airport to your hotel, then a 15:50 pick-up for the Zambezi sunset cruise. Bridge activities on day 3 involve crossing between Zimbabwe and Zambia, so allow time for customs and immigration and leave town one hour before your appointed time. The transfer is arranged for you. On day 6 you transfer back to the airport.
When is the best time for this Victoria Falls itinerary?
August to October score highest, when falling or low water means rafting, the jet boat and Devil’s Pool all run, though the falls are thinner. March to May are the fullest, with heavy spray, but rafting is normally closed and pool access can be restricted, so days four and five may need to change. November to February are hot, with rising water and rafting by river level.
What does a typical day look like on this itinerary?
Day 2 is the classic falls day: breakfast, a guided tour of the falls of about two and a half hours, then the Flight of Angels helicopter flight of 12 to 13 minutes. Day 5 is a white-water rafting day, followed by dinner at the Boma, which opens from 7 pm and includes traditional dancing and a storyteller.
What can be chosen or changed on the Victoria Falls trip?
On day 3 you choose between the Adventure Jet Boat and a bridge activity: bungee jump, bridge swing or zip line. Day 4 depends on the season, with Devil’s Pool from August to February and Angel’s Pool from February to August. Rafting on day 5 depends on the river level and may need to change in high water. Dates are confirmed in your proposal.
Can you combine more than one country in a single trip?
Yes. Many of our journeys cross borders, for example Botswana with Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, or Cape Town with a safari and the Falls. Tell us the places you have in mind through the enquiry form and we will plan the route and transfers as one itinerary.
What meals are included on safari?
Meals depend on the camp or lodge and are set out in your itinerary. On safari they are usually taken at camp, with a picnic or packed meal on some days. Tell us about any dietary needs when you enquire.
Do I need vaccinations or medication before an African safari?
Health requirements depend on where you are travelling from and where you are going, and they change. Check your country's official travel health advice or TravelHealthPro (travelhealthpro.org.uk), and see a travel clinic well before you depart. Ask about malaria prevention early.
What should I pack for an African safari?
Lightweight, breathable clothing that covers your arms and legs helps against sun and insects, in neutral colours. Bring comfortable closed shoes (boots if you will walk), a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars and a camera with spare batteries and memory cards. Your itinerary lists any luggage limits for charter flights.
How do I stay safe on safari?
Your guides brief you on how to behave around wildlife. Follow their instructions, stay in the vehicle or camp area as told, and never approach or disturb animals. Conditions differ by country and change over time, so check your government's current travel advice before you book and again before you travel.

Book it in this order

Work down the list. Each step depends on the one above it.

Field notes

The practical detail that decides whether a trip runs smoothly.

Spray at the falls

From about March to June the spray soaks you at the viewpoints. Wear quick-drying clothes, bring a light rain jacket and carry a dry bag for phones and cameras. From about September the paths stay dry and the views open up, but the falls are thinner.

Rafting day

The Zambezi has grade-five rapids. Operators set age, health and weight limits and ask you to sign a waiver, so tell us about any back, heart or pregnancy concerns when you book. Rafting normally closes from about March to May at high water, sometimes into June.

Devil’s Pool and Angel’s Pool

Devil’s Pool, on the Zambian side, runs from about August to February, subject to the river level. When the water is higher the swim moves to Angel’s Pool, set further back from the edge, which runs from about February to August. Confident swimmers only.

Helicopter flight

The Flight of Angels lasts 12 to 13 minutes and depends on weather and weight. Wear light, close-fitting clothes and secure hats and loose items. The middle seat is not sold, so every guest has a clear view.

Bridge activities

Bungee (111 m), the bridge swing and the bridge slide start from the Victoria Falls Bridge, between Zimbabwe and Zambia. Carry your passport, and allow about an hour to leave town, clear the border and check in; we arrange the transfer. Everyone who jumps or swings receives a certificate.

Cameras and spray

Bring a waterproof or splash-proof case, a microfibre cloth for the lens and a dry bag for the jet boat and raft. A wide-angle lens suits the falls and the gorge. Leave valuables at the hotel on river days.

Tipping

Tipping is customary for activity crews, drivers and restaurant and hotel staff. Your final documents include a general guide, and amounts are at your discretion.


Plan this journey

Make this trip your own

Every journey is planned around your dates and your party. Tell us who is travelling and when, and a specialist will come back with a tailored itinerary and a quote. Payment is by invoice.