Victoria Falls is rapidly becoming the โadrenaline capitalโ of Africa as it increases its array of activities on land, sky and water, and the Zambezi River has so much to offer to visitors of all ages, fitness levels and interests.
We have put together our top five activities to truly experience the Zambezi River. From peaceful and relaxing, to adventurous and thrilling, there is something for everyone to add onto their 2018 bucket list.
1. Ra-Ikane River Cruises
As far as Victoria Falls experiences go, a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River is one of the most popular family-friendly activities in Victoria Falls. The Ra-Ikane fleet offers a variety of luxury cruises, including breakfast, lunch, sunset and birdwatching cruises.
The boats represent a bygone era and honours the rich history of Victoria Falls and its explorers. Expect to see elephants, hippos, crocodiles, exotic birds and more during your cruise. With personalized service, comfortable private seating area, and delicious snacks and premium drinks, there is no better way to experience the Zambezi River in style.
2. White Water Rafting
Well known for having some of the wildest whitewater rapids in the world, rafting in Victoria Falls is a must-do activity, if you are looking to be active and enjoy an adrenaline rush. You will be given two choices between an oar boat or a paddle boat, for your whitewater rafting trip.
The paddle boat provides you with the opportunity to actively take part in the rafting and under guided instruction, you will paddle furiously through the rapids, relaxing on the calmer river stretches. The oar boat provides you with a slightly easier rafting experience, where a professional rafting guide will do the paddling for you, maneuvering the boat whilst you sit tight and enjoy the ride.
Whitewater rafting is available all year round in both high and low water levels dictating if you can do a half or full day raft. In the low water season, from August to December, full day rafting is open, whilst in the high-water season, from December to August, only a half day trip can be booked.
No matter the season, knowing you have conquered this mighty river will be the best reward you can leave Victoria Falls with.
3. Upper Zambezi Canoe Safari
Accompanied by a knowledgeable and experienced guide, you can now connect with nature in a unique way, by paddling in your very own canoe along the upper Zambezi River, whilst listening to the birdlife that surrounds you and keeping a keen eye out for wildlife on the banks.
This safari activity is rated as one of the best activities to do in Victoria Falls as it combines a thrilling adventure with peaceful reflection. The canoe safari starts in the Victoria Falls National Park where you will paddle 15 kilometers downstream, through gentle grade one and two rapids, exploring different river channels.
After two hours of canoeing, you will then dis-embankment for a delicious, well-deserved luncheon and a refreshing drink or two before returning to your hotel.
This activity is fun for the whole family and with no previous canoeing experience required. A life jacket and safety instructions are provided, and we recommend talking along a hat, sun cream and to wear quick-dry clothing.
4. Zambezi Speedboat
For this activity, all you need to do is sit back, hold on tight and soak in the views that surround you, whilst you spend a thrilling afternoon flying over the Zambezi River rapids below the Victoria Falls. Looking up at the Batoka Gorge with its vast black stone walls are a remarkable sight to see and a unique way to look up at the Falls from its base.
On a hot summers day, this is the perfect activity to cool off in Victoria Falls so expect to get wet from the river whilst you cruise over the rapids at 100km/hour!
The drive to the speedboat often includes a short safari and a trip through an authentic African village which is an added bonus.
5. The Gorge and Boiling Point Hike
You now have a clear idea of what it is like to experience the Zambezi River from below and above the Victoria Falls and this picturesque hike is the cherry on top with its combination of Hiking + Rafting + Swimming.
You will begin you hike traversing down the 110-meter Batoka Gorge. At its base you will be required to raft along the river, passing under the famous Victoria Falls Bridge, and continue until you have reached the base of the mighty Falls themselves. The incredible roar, spray and majesty of the Falls alone will be sure to impress even the most discerning traveler. You can now enjoy a cooling dip in one of the pools and capture an iconic photograph of looking up at this natural wonder.
The Gorge and Boiling Point Hike is physical activity and not recommended for the faint-hearted. It is also a seasonal activity that can be done both in the morning or afternoon during low water season, from August to December.
As you can see, there are various exciting and memorable ways to enjoy the Zambezi River during your stay with us at Ilala Lodge Hotel and our Tours Desk are available all year round to ensure you experience the best it has to offer!
Contact us today to book your bucket list Victoria Falls experiences at raikane@ilalalodge.co.zw
