Victoria Falls & Safari Adventure: Both Sides Tour + Rhino Walk

Travelers looking for a full-day immersion into the natural wonders and wildlife of Livingstone will find this tour offers a compelling mix of scenic beauty and authentic animal encounters. With a combination of guided Victoria Falls visits, game drives, and a rare white rhino walking safari, it promises a well-rounded adventure.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see Victoria Falls from both the Zambian and Zimbabwean sides, offering vastly different perspectives of this iconic site. The white rhino walking safari is also a major highlight, giving a rare, up-close experience with one of Africa’s most endangered species. Plus, the expert local guides seem to make a real difference, providing insightful commentary and enhancing the overall enjoyment.

A potential drawback? The price of $232.50 per person might seem steep for some, but when you consider the combination of activities, transportation, and guided insights, it offers good value. Travelers should also note the moderate physical activity involved, especially during the walking safari and exploring the falls.

This tour suits travelers who crave an active, comprehensive day in nature—whether wildlife enthusiasts, photography buffs, or those simply eager to tick off the UNESCO-listed Victoria Falls from their bucket list.

Key Points

• Multifaceted Experience: Combines Victoria Falls from both sides, a game drive, and a rare white rhino walk.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable local guides enrich the tour with history, wildlife info, and cultural insights.
• Wildlife Encounter: Close-up with endangered white rhinos, contributing to conservation efforts.
• Seamless Border Crossing: Hassle-free immigration support makes this cross-border experience smooth.
• Ideal for Active Travelers: Moderate physical activity and walking safaris suit those with a good fitness level.
• Value for Money: Includes transportation, snacks, and water, making it a convenient all-in-one day trip.

An In-Depth Look at the Victoria Falls & Safari Adventure

Starting the Day: Early Morning Pickup and Transport

The tour begins promptly at 7:00 am, with a pick-up from your hotel around 7:30 am. Transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is crucial given the heat and likely crowds. The journey to Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park sets the tone for the day—expect comfortable, if somewhat basic, transport, as some reviews mention older vehicles with less-than-pristine conditions. This is a minor point, but worth noting if you’re particular about vehicle cleanliness; it’s also clear that the guides focus more on the experience than on luxury transit.

Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park: Safari and Rhino Encounter

The first stop is a 3-hour game drive and walking safari in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. Here’s where the truly special moments happen. You’ll explore the park’s varied landscapes—likely open plains, riverbanks, and bush areas—hoping to catch sight of elephants, giraffes, zebras, and possibly other wildlife.

The white rhino walk is a significant highlight. Multiple reviews praise the guides’ ability to explain each animal’s behavior and conservation status—one reviewer mentioning how the guides stop to explain every detail, making the experience not just fun but educational. You get close enough to appreciate the rhinos’ size and presence, which is rare given how endangered they are. The walk also feels intimate, offering a perspective you simply don’t get from a vehicle.

Victoria Falls: Both Sides, Different Perspectives

After the wildlife adventure, the tour shifts to the Victoria Falls visits from both Zambia and Zimbabwe. The first stop is the Zambian side, where you can expect roughly 2 hours of guided exploration. You’ll learn about the falls’ local name, “Mosi-oa-Tunya” (The Smoke That Thunders), and discover intriguing historical tidbits that add color to the scenery.

The Zimbabwean side follow-up offers another 2 hours of sightseeing, giving a broader context of the falls’ grandeur. Travelers generally find that viewing from both sides enhances the experience—each offers distinct angles, lush rainforest corridors, and different vantage points for photography. Reviews mention that guides provide historical insight and practical tips, which help you get the most out of your time there.

Practical Tips for Visiting Victoria Falls

• Timing: Tours start early, allowing you to beat some of the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
• Self-guided options: The tour provides free admission tickets to the falls, but you’ll need to budget separately for lunch, as it isn’t included.
• Photography: The falls offer spectacular photo opportunities—bring your camera or smartphone with a good zoom lens or wide-angle for capturing the spray and rainbows.

The Seamless Border Crossing

One of the most appreciated aspects—based on reviews—is the help with immigration and border crossing. Moving between Zambia and Zimbabwe can be tricky, but the tour’s inclusion of hassle-free immigration assistance means you won’t be left scrambling or stuck in long lines. This convenience is a real boon, especially when trying to maximize your sightseeing time.

Lunch Break and Additional Suggestions

Lunch is not included, giving you the flexibility to choose a local restaurant. The guide can recommend options and even drop you off, which makes this part of the day quite flexible. Expect about an hour for lunch, which is enough to refuel before the afternoon activities.

Final Stops and Returning to Livingstone

The tour wraps up with the return journey around 5:30 pm, arriving back at your hotel around 6 pm. The entire day’s schedule—from early start to finish—is designed to give you a comprehensive, balanced experience, though some travelers note the long duration (about 10 hours 30 minutes) can be tiring but rewarding.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

While many reviews praise the guides’ professionalism and the stunning scenery, a couple of comments highlight areas for improvement. One reviewer pointed out poor vehicle cleanliness and logistics, affecting their comfort—an aspect worth considering if you have sensitivities or prefer more luxurious transport. Conversely, others mention the guides’ detailed explanations and friendly attitude, which seem to significantly enhance the experience.

Comments from visitors also reveal that the wildlife encounters are not only scenic but also educational—guides will patiently explain animal behaviors and conservation efforts, adding depth to the adventure.

The Sum Up

This tour offers an intense, memorable look at some of Africa’s most iconic sights—Victoria Falls from both sides and the rare chance to walk among white rhinos. It is well-suited for active travelers eager to see wildlife firsthand and capture incredible photos of the falls. The inclusion of expert guides and seamless border crossing support makes it a practical choice for those unfamiliar with the logistics of multi-country visits.

While the overall value is high, especially considering the combination of activities and transport, travelers should be prepared for a full day of activity and keep expectations realistic regarding vehicle conditions. The tour’s structure is flexible enough to allow for personal lunch choices, and the short, focused stops mean you can enjoy each moment without feeling rushed.

If you’re after a balanced mix of wildlife, nature, and iconic scenery—without the fuss of arranging individual activities—this tour delivers a solid, well-rounded experience for your Livingstone adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour involves moderate physical activity, including walking safaris and exploring the falls’ viewpoints. Travelers should be comfortable with some walking and standing for periods.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring water, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, a hat, and your camera. Since there’s a walking safari, appropriate clothing for outdoor wildlife viewing is recommended.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll have the chance to choose your own restaurant during the break, and the guide can assist with recommendations and drop-offs.

How is the border crossing handled?
The tour includes assistance with immigration, making the crossing between Zambia and Zimbabwe hassle-free, so you won’t need to worry about paperwork or queues.

What wildlife might I see during the game drive?
You can expect to see elephants, giraffes, zebras, and possibly other native animals. The focus is on the white rhino encounter, which is the centerpiece of the safari.

Is the tour private or shared?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, ensuring a more personalized and flexible experience.

What is the best time of day to do this tour?
Starting early around 7 am helps you avoid crowds and enjoy cooler weather, especially for walking safaris and wildlife viewing.

In essence, this tour offers a thoughtfully curated day that balances breathtaking scenery with impactful wildlife encounters. Perfect for travelers who want a rich, authentic experience in the heart of Africa’s natural beauty.