Victoria Falls Overnight Rafting, Camping, Fishing on the Zambezi

If you’re after an adventure that combines thrill, nature, and a touch of wilderness, the Victoria Falls Overnight Rafting, Camping, and Fishing tour might just be your next must-do. Although I haven’t personally joined this trip, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of what awaits, making it clear why this experience has earned a perfect 5-star rating from travelers.

What really drew us in are three standout elements: the chance to raft through the dramatic Batoka Gorge, the opportunity to fish on the pristine sands of the Zambezi, and the magic of spending a night under a canopy of stars. Add to that the promise of delicious campfire dinners featuring freshly caught fish, and you’ve got an adventure that’s both adrenaline-pumping and profoundly relaxing.

A possible consideration is the moderate physical effort involved, especially since reviewers mention a 2 km descent to water and a 30-minute climb back up. This might be less suitable for those with mobility issues or who prefer a more leisurely pace.

This tour is best suited for adventurers and nature lovers craving a unique experience, but it’s also appealing to those who enjoy outdoor camping and fishing in a stunning setting. If you’re prepared for some physical activity and love the idea of unplugging in the wild, this trip could be your perfect escape.

Key Points

• Unique overnight experience in the Batoka Gorge on the Zambezi River.
• Includes rafting, fishing, camping, and meals, offering a well-rounded adventure.
• Stunning star gazing and campfire dinners add magic to the nights.
• Moderate physical activity involved, including a 2 km descent to water.
• Price of $350 offers good value considering all inclusions and the exclusive nature of the experience.
• Limited group size (max 32 travelers) ensures a more personal experience.

What to Expect from the Tour

Starting Your Adventure: Early Morning Pickup

Your day begins at 8:30 am, with pickup offered to streamline the start. Expect a comfortable transfer to the Batoka Gorge area, where the adventure kicks off. The tour is organized by Mpala Guest & Adventure Farm & Try Rafting Company, known for their professionalism and attentive service.

Rafting in the Batoka Gorge

Once on site, you’ll gear up with all necessary equipment and receive a safety briefing. The highlight here is tackling the exciting rapids of the Zambezi River, which are famous for their action-packed waves. An authentic, adrenaline-filled experience, as one reviewer describes, “The waves had incredible action,” giving a real sense of the river’s power.

While the rafting is exhilarating, it’s also worth noting that you’ll need to leave the raft to go down a 2 km slope to reach the water and then climb back up after. Some reviewers mention this as a minor downside, but most agree that the thrill outweighs the effort.

Fishing on White Sands

Following the rafting, you’ll have time to relax and try your hand at fishing. The white sands along the river provide a peaceful backdrop, perfect for casting lines and enjoying the serenity. Many guests find the fishing rewarding, especially if they manage to catch their dinner.

The Campsite Experience

As sunset paints the sky with vibrant colors, you’ll settle into your camping spot along the riverbank. The provided camping equipment makes setting up straightforward. The atmosphere is intimate and unpretentious, with the natural sounds of flowing water and bird calls topping off the experience.

An Evening Under the Stars

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the stunning star gazing — far from city lights, the night sky reveals a dazzling display. A campfire meal follows, featuring grilled fish (if caught), chicken, beef, or vegetarian options. Reviewers love the food, describing it as “delicious” and highlighting the local Sadza as a standout. Cold drinks, including beer, wine, or juice, round out the evening.

Sunrise and Breakfast

The next morning, you’ll wake up to the natural beauty of the gorge. A hearty breakfast awaits, giving you energy for the day’s return journey or further exploration.

Inclusions and Extras

What’s Included

• Dinner and breakfast, prepared on-site, making the experience feel authentic and fresh.
• Camping equipment for a comfortable night outdoors.
• Pickup service, simplifying logistics.

What’s Not Included

• Personal items like sunscreen, insect repellent, or medications. It’s wise to bring these along.
• A $10 National Park Fee applies, which is standard for protected areas and supports conservation efforts.

Practical Details and Tips

Duration and Group Size

The entire experience lasts around one day, but with overnight camping, it feels like a true getaway. The group size is capped at 32 travelers, allowing for a more personal, less crowded atmosphere.

Physical Fitness Needed

The activity involves moderate physical effort, due to the descent and ascent related to water access. Reviewers mention that this might be a consideration if mobility is limited but note that most find the effort worthwhile.

Timing

You’ll start at 8:30 am, and the activities are scheduled to maximize daylight and sunset views. The tour ends the following morning, making it an easy add-on to broader Zimbabwe or Victoria Falls itineraries.

Authentic Experiences from Past Travelers

One reviewer enthusiastically states, “Incredible trip with a great crew,” noting the professionalism and friendliness of the guides. The rafting is praised as “well-organized,” with some guests mentioning they received photos and videos of their adventure, adding to the overall value.

Another reviewer highlights the action-packed rapids and describes it as “not for the faint of heart,” emphasizing the thrilling nature of the river but also suggesting that the adventure is suited for those looking for excitement.

A common theme across reviews is the beauty of the setting — the gorge, the sands, and the starry night sky — making this more than just a water sport, but a full sensory experience.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Given the cost of $350 per person, the experience offers impressive value. It combines adventure, comfort, and natural beauty in a way that’s hard to match. The inclusions of meals, camping gear, and the personalized feel of a smaller group elevate its appeal.

If you’re after a thrilling yet relaxed overnight experience, with opportunities for fishing, star gazing, and bonding over campfire dinners, this tour delivers. It’s especially ideal for outdoor lovers who don’t mind a bit of physical activity and want to see the river from a different perspective.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers wanting a mix of adrenaline and tranquility. It’s suitable for those comfortable with outdoor camping and moderate physical exertion. If you love nature, fishing, or simply unplugging, you’ll find this trip rewarding.

On the other hand, if you prefer luxury accommodations or minimal physical activity, this might not be your best fit. However, for those seeking authentic, raw experiences in one of Africa’s most stunning landscapes, this trip hits all the right notes.

FAQ

Do I need prior rafting experience?
No, the tour includes safety briefings, and guides are experienced. It’s suitable for beginners who are comfortable with water activities.

What should I bring?
Bring personal items like sunscreen, insect repellent, Medications, and a hat. The tour provides camping gear, but you might want your own sleeping bag or pillow for added comfort.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The physical aspects suggest it’s best for travelers with moderate fitness levels, so children or those with mobility issues might need to assess their comfort level.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the campfire dinner includes cold beer, wine, or juice, and breakfast is also provided.

What if it rains?
The tour runs rain or shine. Be prepared with weather-appropriate clothing to stay comfortable.

How many people are in a group?
The tour caps at 32 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Can I cancel if needed?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included, making logistics hassle-free.

How physically demanding is the activity?
Moderate effort is required, especially for descending and ascending to water access points.

What makes this tour special?
The combination of rafting in wild rapids, peaceful fishing, camping under the stars, and the scenic beauty of the Batoka Gorge creates a truly unique adventure.

Final Thoughts

The Victoria Falls Overnight Rafting, Camping, and Fishing tour offers a rare chance to combine high-energy water sports with peaceful nights in nature. The setting along the Zambezi River, with its breathtaking views and star-filled skies, makes for unforgettable memories. It’s a great pick for those who crave adventure but also want the chance to relax and soak in the scenery.

The experience’s thoughtful inclusions — from meals to camping gear — and the positive reviews about organization and guides suggest it’s a well-run adventure. Its moderate physical challenge adds an extra layer of authenticity, making it perfect for travelers who want more than just sightseeing.

If you’re eager to explore the wild side of Victoria Falls and the Batoka Gorge, this tour deserves a spot on your itinerary.

Note: Always check the latest tour details and booking policies before planning your trip, especially for weather considerations or specific health requirements.